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How to Be a Good Private Pilot

Once you've met the requirements and passed the exams to earn your private pilot certification, you're a pilot. And staying a pilot means meeting the Federal Aviation Regulations minimum requirements to stay current, as well as annual proficiency check rides. But to be a good pilot means going beyond what is minimally required to hone your skills, to stay sharp and knowledgeable. A good pilot is a safe pilot. And a safe pilot is much more likely to remain a live pilot.

Instructions

- 1
  Perform all pre-flight checks using a checklist. Do not trust your memory. And take your time, do not rush because it has become habit.
- 2
  Stay current on regulations by reading up. Subscribe to any of the many private pilot magazines to stay abreast of new information.
- 3
  Check the weather report with every flight, no matter how calm the day may appear at takeoff time. Weather can change, and a good pilot studies the forecast.
- 4
  Exceed minimum requirements. Federal regulations only require three full take-offs and landings within a 90-day period. Aim for at least three take-offs and landings a month and accrue at least 10 hours of flight time a month. Flight skills get rusty without frequent use. If possible, attempt to fly at least once a week.
- 5
  Advance your certification by adding on an instrument rating. Although an instrument rating is not required of a private pilot, having the skills to fly by instruments will be invaluable to any pilot and make you a better navigator. Additionally, if you should be caught in bad weather, you'll have the necessary skills to manage it.
- 6
  Further advance your certification by becoming a commercial pilot. Even if you do not wish to fly for hire, the training for a commercial certification includes mastering more difficult flight maneuvers. Learning these maneuvers will make you a better pilot by improving your control of the airplane.

Aviation