Mistakes are part of the learning process. Expect to make some as you learn to fly, or when you pursue additional certificates and/or ratings. Be careful where you get your information from—when you are beginning the journey, you don’t know what you don’t know. And sometimes myths and rumors abound from fellow learners. But we’re here to help: We’ve put together a list of some of the most common mistakes that fledgling pilots make.
1. Trying to steer with the yoke on the ground
With the exception of the two-axis Ercoupe, you steer an airplane on the ground with rudder pedals and differential braking. If you know how to drive, you may try to steer with the yoke on the ground, using it like a steering wheel. Break this habit by folding your arms on your chest and steering with your feet while the CFI controls the power.
