What a CFI Wants You to Know Archives | Page 9 of 10

Three Hours of Just-in-Case Training Is Required

It’s always best to not get caught out at night or IFR without the proper preparation.

Fly as Many Different Aircraft as You Can

The experience of flying a variety of aircraft is worth more than the hours and offers a host of opportunities.

The Learning Plateau Is Always Challenging

Learning plateaus are as much a part of becoming a pilot as making mistakes.

Put as much effort into learning on the ground as you do flight. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Making the Most of a Ground Lesson

Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can learn today.

As long as the learner can pass a third-class medical exam, there is no maximum age limit for flight training. [Shutterstock]

Age Is Just a Number When It Comes to Flight Training

With some caveats, there really is no such thing as being ‘too old’ to be a pilot.

Weather is one of the most common reasons to divert.

Is It OK to Divert?

The ability to divert safely, meaning to a suitable airport with acceptable weather and sufficient fuel is a skill you will be demonstrating during your pilot career, both in training and on a check ride.

Using the checklist during the preflight inspection, learning to access and interpret weather, NOTAMs, and determining weight and balance and aircraft performance are vital to mastering flight. [Credit: Shutterstock]

Knowing What’s ‘Normal’ Is a Big Part of Preflight Inspections

The learner pilot–with checklist in hand—should never be afraid to ask questions.

There’s Risk in Failing to Brief Your Passengers Before Flight

Authority and responsibility for the operation and safety of the flight means you’re the one responsible for the passenger safety briefing.

An instructor and a student preflight a Cessna 152 before a lesson. [Credit: Richard Steiger]

The Great CFI Lesson Plan Debate

Is it OK for flight instructors to buy lesson plans? Or should they come up with their own?

Situational Awareness Is Key Inside, Outside the Cockpit

A certified flight instructor offers tips for staying ahead of the aircraft.