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Self checklist on how to get started on becoming a pilotStep 1: Preflight - You have come to the right place We offer online flight training for anyone that once to make a dream a reality and current pilots. Whether you’re looking to become a pilot and earn your Private Pilot License, or you’re already an experienced pilot and want to learn a bit more or just refresh your knowledge, we are here to help. Step 2: Taxi - Introductory Flight Taking an introductory flight is the best way for you to experience hands-on training and actually taking control of the airplane for the first time. Take a look at the quality of the aircraft you will be training in, the flight school itself and the instructors at the school. Step 3: Run Up - Get a Medical/Student pilot certificate Do some research on finding an FAA Aviation Medical Examiner (AME), don't just go with the first one you see. Compare prices with a few AME's in your area before choosing an examiner, prices can range from $85 - $200. If the examiner charges $200, that is to much money for what the exam actually entails, look for some one else. It's required for all student pilots and experienced pilots to carry a medical certificate at all times. It shows that you meet the medical requirements required by the FAA. The Student Pilot Certificate is will be separate from your medical certificate. Not all AME's are pilots nor are they required. The point is saving money, we as pilots are already spending thousands of dollars on flight training. Ask the flight school you plan on attending for recommendations on medical examiners. To see a list of all FAA certified Aviation Medical Examiner's (AME), click on the link below to see how find an examiner in your area. How to Find an AME Step 4: Takeoff - Start flight training Once you have completed the first few steps, it is time to takeoff on your flight training and work towards the aviation goal you are after, from a Sport or Recreational Pilot, Private Pilot to the airlines as an Air Transport Pilot (ATP). Let's Get Started!
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How to Get an FAA Medical Certificate?FAA Airman Medical Certificate is required for all pilots including student pilots to carry a medical certificate at all times, which allows the pilot to act as pilot in command (PIC) of an airplane. First step is to find an FAA aviation medical examiner (AME). Do some research on finding an AME; do not just go with the first one you see. Compare prices with a few AME's in your area before choosing an examiner, prices can range from $85 - $200. Let’s be honest, If the examiner charges $200 or more, that is too much money for what the exam actually entails. The point is to save money. During the medical examination, the AME is an FAA approved medical physician, which will test your vision, hearing, general health, cardiovascular, and have the applicate do a drug test. In addition, the AME will determine if the pilot applicate has any other conditions that will make the pilot incapacitated during flight. If a pilot wants to maintain his/her flying privileges, they must continue to see an AME at regular intervals. There is no need to stress out; the medical exam is straightforward and rather easy. Step 1 - Finding an AME: Simple go in to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) website www.faa.gov follow the steps below. Click on "Pilots & Airmen" tab. In the drop down click "Find an Aviation Medical Examiner." Click on the blue highlighted "Search for an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME)." On the right side of the page "Looking for a Designee in your area? Click Here." In the drop down box and click on AME (Aviation Medical Examiner). Click on “Location Search”, then select State, City, Zip and much more. Once you have selected a couple of medical examiners, inquire by calling or going on there website and ask what there price is for an FAA medical student pilot certificate. Step 2 - Filling out Form 8500-8: After you have found a local doctor in your area. Create an account on the MedXPress website by clicking the link or go directly to www.medxpress.faa.gov. Note: Save your login information, you will need it in the future. For first time student pilots click on "Request an Account ". Once you have created an account login to MedXPress. Then fill out the medical certificate Form 8500-8 online. Begin answering the questions on the form. Here is some help with answering certain questions: First Question - Why are you applying for a Medical Certificate or Clearance?: Click on – All Other #1 Application For: Click on - Airman Medical & Student Pilot Certificate #2 Class of Medical Certificate Applied For: Click on – 3rd Class #10 Type of Airmen Certificate You Hold: Students will click on – Student box #16 Date of Last FAA Medical Application: Students will click on – No Prior Application box All other question should be self-explanatory. Remember to save your conformation number, you will need that when you check in at your appointment.
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PART 61 vs. 141 Flight SchoolsPart 61 Flight School Are the parts of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR) that set the minimum standards for flight training schools. These schools are local flight schools used to train students on a one-on-one basis, and maybe be customized to the student’s schedule. Reasonable, cheap training prices with the same or better results of a part 141 school. Self-paced and flexible International students (legal permanent resident or working) see: more information Total flight hours Minimum 40 flight hours or more for a Private Pilot License Minimum 250 flight hours or more for a Commercial Pilot License Part 141 Flight School Schools must seek approval from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to be certified. The school must also use an approved training curriculum, syllabus and training lessons, which creates a structured flight training school and career path. Even University/colleges with pilot programs are Part 141 certified. Cost double the price or more than that of a part 61 school. Accelerated flight training. International students (non-resident, not working) see: more information Total flight hours Minimum 35 flight hours or more for a Private Pilot License Minimum 190 flight hours or more for a Commercial Pilot License More information: International Student Visa Information link: https://www.aopa.org/advocacy/pilots/alien-flight-training-program/visa-information Things to Consider At times, you may begin your training at one flight school and then switch to another due to work-related issues, school closure, or other unforeseen circumstances. It's important to note that transferring between Part 141 schools can pose some challenges. According to AC 141-1B and FAR 141.77, the FAA permits Part 141 schools to grant a maximum of 25% credit for flight hours to students moving from a Part 61 school to a Part 141 school. Additionally, the FAA allows up to 50% credit for flight hours to be transferred between two Part 141 schools. For an example if you are a student at a Part 61 flight school with 25 hours of flight time and you transfer to a Part 141 school, that school will only credit 25% of that flight time, which will be 6.25 hours. The main advantage of Part 141 schools is their more rigorous training program, which is authorized by the FAA for each school. Transitioning from a Part 141 school to Part 61 is simpler and does not result in any loss of credit or time.
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Getting a Private or Commercial Certificate in a Light-Sport AircraftIf you aspire to become a pilot in a Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) and are interested in obtaining a pilot certificate for an LSA, it's important to note that LSAs can be utilized for training and testing for various ratings such as Private Pilot ASEL, Commercial ASEL, CFI, and CFII. This article aims to equip you with the necessary details for pursuing a pilot certificate in an LSA. Explore the prerequisites and opportunities that lie ahead in the aviation realm. Private Pilot Training Achieving both a Sport and Private Pilot certificate in a Light-Sport Aircraft Single Engine Land (ASEL) is a common choice among new pilots. Many individuals pursuing Private pilot training in a Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) opt for this route due to its efficiency in terms of time and cost savings. Training in an LSA enables pilots to operate a more affordable and easily accessible aircraft, which can expedite the process of obtaining a private pilot license. LSAs are valued for their user-friendly and straightforward nature, making them a practical and economical option for novice pilots. Those aiming for a Private Pilot certificate must also secure an FAA medical certificate. Commercial Pilot Training As technology advances, many things are evolving to stay current. In 2018, the FAA updated its Commercial Pilot Requirements. Now, applicants for a single-engine airplane rating must also have 10 hours of training in a complex airplane, a turbine-powered airplane, or a Technically Advanced Airplane (TAA) according to Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) 61.129 of the commercial pilot requirements. What does complex and Technically Advanced Airplane mean? Complex airplane - is an airplane that has a retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, including airplanes equipped with digital engine control systems and more. Technically Advanced Airplane – is an airplane equipped with an electronically advanced avionics system that includes an. Electronic Primary Flight Display (PFD) Electronic Multifunction Display (MFD) Two axis autopilot integrated with the navigation and heading guidance system. The display elements described in paragraphs (j)(1) and (2) of FAR 61.129. Training in Light-Sport Aircraft like Tecnam P2008, P2010, Sling LSA, Sling NGT, or other models with advanced avionics is ideal for training purposes. Reference: FAR 61.129
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It is Time for Your First SoloYou arrive at the flight school and meet with your certified flight instructor (CFI); he or she asks you “are you read for your first solo flight today?” Of course, you are! What to expect: When your CFI feels you are ready and you have completed the required task per the Federal Aeronautical Regulation) FAR, he or she will pick a good weather day for your solo flight. Depending on your location, you may do your first solo at a towered or non-towered airport. You begin your flight lesson like any other flight lesson, by going out to the airplane and completing your preflight inspection. You and your instructor takeoff and do a couple rounds in the traffic pattern to get you warmed up. You well taxi back to the flight school or place on the ramp, shut down the airplane. At this time, your CFI will sign your logbook, student pilot certificate, along with all required endorsements. This makes you legal with the FAA to do your solo flight. During takeoff you will notice a difference in the airplanes’ climb and performance, without your instructor next to you. You will probably reach pattern altitude a lot faster than you are used to. It is a weird feeling being in the airplane by yourself, at first. This is a confidence builder. If something happens, you do not have your CFI next to you to help you out. You may make mistakes, and that is okay. Mistakes is how you learn as a pilot and in anything you do, and make decisions further builds your confidence as a pilot and as pilot in command (PIC) of the airplane. After a successful first solo flight: After your first solo you taxi back to the ramp or flight school, you are no doughty exceeded with a big smile. Your instructor will be waiting to congratulate you and ask how you did. Some schools still do the old tradition of cutting off the student’s shirttail, so you can draw on sign, date and hang in on the wall. Other schools may pour water on your head. A student’s first solo flight is one they will always remember! TIPS: Being nervous is one thing, but if you do not feel comfort doing your first solo flight talk to your CFI about it. If you are doing your solo flight at a towered airport, it does not hurt to let air traffic control (ATC) know you are a student. ATC has no problem helping you out with anything. If the approach to land does not look right or you as the pilot, feels uncomfortable with something about the approach. It is ALWAYS, ALWAYS safest to Go Around, even if it takes a couple of times. Take your time with everything you do i.e. going over the checklists, taxiing, and the flight portion; there is no need to rush. Lastly, take your time, relax and fly the airplane like you have been in previous lessons and enjoy it.
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