![For the private pilot candidate, the first solo roughly marks the halfway point of their training. [Shutterstock]](https://flyingmag1.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2023/02/shutterstock_2205340307-scaled-e1676992584900-1.jpg?width=1200&height=800)
Question: How do you deal with fatigue while flying as a single pilot?
Answer: One of the first things a pilot learns during training is not to fly tired. Fatigue is the “F” in the IMSAFE checklist that pilots use to self-certify before each flight.
If you are tired, don’t fly. For general aviation pilots, if you become fatigued during a flight, land as soon as practicable. Fatigue is often linked to poor decision making. “Get-there-itis” is a well-known killer of pilots.
- READ MORE: Is a GPS Update Considered Maintenance?
One of the challenges is identifying fatigue in oneself during flight. An experienced flight instructor can help you identify your “tells.” For example, at the end of an instructional flight you may be a little slow to respond to a radio call or need to be reminded to use the checklist. Once you know this about yourself, it can help you identify fatigue.
Another means of addressing fatigue is the consumption of water, because often dehydration is mistaken for fatigue. Carry a bottle of water with you in the aircraft and take a few sips periodically and especially before entering the pattern or attempting an instrument approach.
Ask us anything you’ve ever wanted to know about aviation. Our experts in general aviation, flight training, aircraft, avionics, and more may attempt to answer in a future article. Email your questions here.
