As pilots flying general aviation airplanes, there can be times when we have a lot on our plates — sometimes more than it seems like we can handle. And unlike many corporate pilots and all airline crews, we usually have to do everything ourselves, without a helping hand from a second crewmember. That can lead to stress and anxiety, especially when things start to get busy in the cockpit.
But becoming stressed out or overly frustrated will rarely help make a tough situation easier, and it can often make things tougher. This goes double for student pilots who are digesting so much new material and learning so many new maneuvers that they can easily become overwhelmed.
Flying can be tough and it takes practice. But it should also be fun. Learn to sit back, enjoy the view, and tell yourself, “I’m flying an airplane, this is awesome.”
All of us should be thankful for that.
