Is Private Pilot Burnout a Real Thing?

Here's a tip for getting over the postcertificate wall.

Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at 11:46 AM ET

Verified

Weather delays, instructor turnover, practicing, and studying for the check ride can all lead to pilot burnout. [Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Private pilot burnout is a real and common experience for new pilots, often stemming from the stressful and challenging process of obtaining the license.
Despite significant time and financial investment, it's normal for flying to feel like a chore after the check ride, leading to potential guilt.
To overcome burnout, new pilots are encouraged to seek out other aviators, engage in "fun flying," and participate in social aviation events like EAA chapter activities or fly-ins to rekindle their passion.

See a mistake? Contact us.

Question: Is private pilot burnout a real thing? I passed the check ride, but flying isn’t as much fun as it used to be. I don’t want to give it up, as I spent months studying and practicing and thousands of dollars on this. I even bought my own airplane, but the idea of going out flying has become a chore, like having to mow the lawn. I have a feeling if I walk away from it altogether, I will regret it. How do I get past this?

Answer: Congratulations on passing the check ride. And no, you’re definitely not the only pilot to experience burnout like this. The combination of weather delays, possible instructor turnover, challenges of finding a designated pilot examiner (DPE), practicing, and studying for the check ride will definitely take their toll. After spending so much time and money to achieve your goal, you almost feel guilty when you even consider hanging it up.

READ MORE: Is AIRMET Being Phased Out?

Before you make that choice, go out and find other pilots and do some fun flying. If you haven’t already done so, join the local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association and see what activities it has coming up. Also, check social media in your area for aviation events such as fly-ins and pancake breakfasts. It’s not about the food at these events; it’s about the camaraderie.