Five Tips for Pilots Starting out in Flight Training

There are many useful things for student pilots to know when beginning their flight training. The following five tips will help lead you to success in flight training and finding a job upon training completion. 1. Show up to lessons prepared One of the best ways to save money during flight training is to show up to each lesson prepared. Most flight schools follow a strict syllabus. Chair flying and reading up on the items in the next lesson plan can save money on ground instruction and flight instruction due to less maneuvers being repeated on the flight and less time required to teach the subject matter. 2. Read the ACS Each checkride follows a strict syllabus, the Airman Certification Standards (ACS). There is an ACS for each pilot certification and rating. The ACS is the framework for how each checkride will be conducted, what topics are quizzed, the grading rubric and what maneuvers are tested. There should be no surprises on checkride day if the student puts in the work by reading and learning the items in the ACS. 3. Take the written tests seriously All pilots must score 70% or higher on written tests. FAA written tests do get easier once you get the hang of how the questions are worded. There are multiple test preparation companies, such as Sheppard Air, Gleim and Kings School. These services cost a fee, but this fee is well worth it. A failure on a written test is not the end of the world; however, it is one of the easier tests pilots take in their careers and it is important not to overlook it because it still requires that you get your head in the books. 4. Join cadet programs Most airlines have a cadet pathway program. This is one of the best ways a student pilot can set themselves up with a job once meeting the hiring requirements. Many cadet programs do require an interview. Additionally, the more programs a student is a part of, the better their chances are of moving to an airliner upon reaching their airline transport pilot (ATP) minimums. The current hiring market has been stagnant. Pathway programs are one of the best ways to get your foot in the door and the sooner you join your flight training, the better. 5. Network There are many options for pilots to network in aviation. Career fairs, conferences, and air shows are just a few ways pilots can meet potential employers and mentors in the industry. It is also crucial to keep in contact with prior flight instructors as they can be key mentors throughout your career. A successful career as a pilot starts in the early phases of flight training. It is crucial to study hard, go to lessons prepared, get your name out there, and network early on. These key steps can make or break securing a future career.