How to Build Confidence Along With Hours

Here's what a learner should know about the benefits of solo cross-country flights.

Meg Godlewski

Tuesday, May 28, 2024 at 12:30 PM ET

Verified

Edited By: tccjeremy

Solo flying experience builds both skill and confidence. [Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

Many new pilots feel unprepared for solo cross-country flights due to rushed training, over-reliance on technology, and a shift in some Part 141 programs reducing post-PPL solo cross-country requirements, which hinders confidence and skill development.
The article advocates for comprehensive instruction in foundational navigation skills, including pilotage, dead reckoning, E6-B use, and VOR navigation, as these remain crucial for building pilot-in-command (PIC) abilities and adhering to Airman Certification Standards.
Flight instructors are encouraged to implement structured training, beginning with early pilotage introduction, dedicating thorough ground lessons to flight planning and decision-making, and conducting dual flights that prioritize learner independence to foster readiness for solo cross-country.
Pilots are urged to actively pursue solo cross-country opportunities to build confidence and PIC skills, emphasizing the importance of understanding endorsement limitations, utilizing flight following, and consistently closing flight plans for safety.

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It makes me sad when someone tells me how unprepared they felt during their first solo cross-country flight. More often than not, this happens because they felt rushed into their first solo, and lack confidence in their training. Some flight students have been pushed through the pipeline with minimal instruction and the boxes checked by the CFI who was also pushed through the pipeline.

I have been warned it is getting worse. Several designated pilot examiners (DPEs) I know have expressed dismay over a change in the Part 141 world where there has been a shift away from requiring solo cross-country flight once the learner has earned their private pilot certificate. Instead, the private pilot rolls right into the dual instruction for their instrument and commercial certificate flying with a CFI.