Is This For Me?

I think this is a pretty common question to ask when starting out with a mix of excitement and at the same time apprehension

Why did you start?

Once you think you may have caught the flying bug, it could bring a mix of questions and hesitations with the biggest question being, should you continue down this path. There is a lot of analysis of hard facts and feasibility that can be done, but, maybe more importantly what does this mean to you? Is it just something that sounds cool to do or does it fill a need for passion or excitement that will mean a richer and fuller life for you? Some things are harder than others to assign a price to.

Do you have the means?

Aviation is expensive and time consuming. There are many ways to find time and reduce costs, but, at some point, even at the most basic level, to be successful, requires a level of commitment. The best way to find out is to try it out. Take a couple of flights and start reading the study materials.

Are you ready to study weather, aerodynamics, legal documents and acronyms?

Aviation requires studying, a lot of studying. Gaining my PPL I spent many more hours studying than actually flying. I actually studied far more intensely to become I pilot than I ever had to earn a college degree in tech. I can’t think of any other activity that requires such a wide understanding of topics. When you fly you are literally “in the weather” so a solid grasp of fronts, winds, precipitation, pressure systems are essential for a safe flight. You will also need to know why a plane is able to fly as well as all of the legal do’s and don’ts of the national airspace. And of course, aviation is filled with handy acronyms to remember everything, like A TOMATO FLAMES, AV1ATES, ARROWED and many others.

Are you in good physical shape?

A major requirement of aviation is being able to pass an aviation medical exam. Your entire medical history will be scrutinized along with any current or past conditions and prescription drug use. Recreational drug use is strictly prohibited as well as alcohol consumption within 8 hours of flying. If you cannot pass an aviation medical exam you are not eligible to fly solo making it impossible to earn a private pilot certificate.

Do you have support from family and friends?

Flight training is very demanding mentally and physically as well as time consuming. Having the support of family and friends is a tremendous help to getting you through the process. If the opposite is true it will be a tough road.

Are you ready to have amazing experiences that words can’t describe?

There is no greater feeling than sitting in the pilot’s seat of an aircraft taking off into the skies and exploring the world in a way that very few people have the privilege to do so. Flying is a truly magical experience that captivates both your body and mind. If there is even the smallest part of you that thinks you have what it takes I encourage you to start exploring and see where you might end up. Only the sky is the limit!