Jon Kotwicki - FLY8MA Online Flight Training

Corporate Pilot Life

1 Comment / Commercial Pilot, Uncategorized / By Jon Kotwicki

How to Become a Corporate Pilot There are two ways to fly on expensive and exclusive private jets. You can work and earn a big pile of money to buy one. Or the simple, cheaper option. Become a corporate pilot. Corporate pilots are commercial pilots who fly business aircraft around the world. Airplanes like Gulfstreams, Cessna Citations, Dassault Falcons, and Kingair turboprops. Unlike airline pilots, corporate pilots only deal with a few passengers and are not limited to large commercial airports. They typically fly airplanes smaller than airliners and work for companies or private individuals. Corporate aviation, also called business aviation, is an exciting career path with excellent pay, benefits, and the ultimate perk, flying fast jets and exploring the world! This article will describe the day in the life of a corporate pilot. It will cover job opportunities, the salary, and how to become a corporate pilot. Corporate Pilot Jobs Corporate pilots fly privately owned aircraft for private and public companies, private individuals, or private jet companies. Many people assume corporate pilots are private pilots for rich folks and celebrities. There are some private jet pilots for these celebrities, but this only represents a small fraction of the available corporate pilot jobs. Most business jets require two pilots to fly them. There is a captain and first officer, sometimes called a “co-pilot.” In larger flight departments, there is also a chief pilot and director of operations. These are positions that require more experience, flight hours, and sometimes higher education. They are also paid more than the other pilots. Business Aviation Jobs Corporate pilots that fly for companies are also called business aviation pilots. Many publicly traded companies and private companies operate a fleet of aircraft, called a flight department. Flight departments exist to serve the company. They do not sell seats on their airplanes. Only employees of the company are allowed to ride on these jets. Despite the high cost of private airplanes, it is often cheaper for the company than buying airline tickets. Plus, they save valuable time by avoiding security lines, extra transportation, and airline delays. It is common for corporate pilots to know the CEOs and other top executives on a first-name basis. Professionalism and safety is a top skill for all corporate pilots. Private flight department pilots are responsible for nearly everything, from catering, fueling, flight-planning, and even acting as the flight attendant on the plane. Charter Pilot Jobs Usually, when people talk about flying on a private airplane, they are thinking of a charter. The cost of owning and operating a private jet is too expensive for most people and small companies. For those who infrequently travel, chartering an aircraft is a cost-effective option. Charter pilots are commercial pilots that work for a company that owns the airplanes. These jobs are more similar to airline pilots. Since anyone from the public can charter an aircraft, it is highly regulated. Charter pilot jobs may be easier to find than other corporate pilot jobs. Some charter companies employ hundreds of pilots and are run similarly to an airline. Wheels Up is an example of a charter airplane company. Private Pilot Jobs In the world of aviation, a private pilot is anyone who holds a private pilot license. This license allows them to fly themselves and others without compensation. However, when discussing “private pilots” most are referring to an individual owning a plane and hiring personal pilots. Some high net-worth people will purchase an airplane and hire a management team to operate it. That will include personal pilots that only work for that individual. If you want to get a “private pilot license” so that you can fly private jets, you may be disappointed to find out you’ll need a very different license. To see all of the pilot license types explained, check out this article here. Corporate Pilot Life A wonderful part of aviation is that no day is the same. There are always new views, challenges, and excitement. A corporate pilot may be gone for a single day or weeks at a time when traveling around the world. Below is an example of a corporate pilot that works for a company operating a day trip. It is a corporate pilot’s job to operate the aircraft safely and maximize efficiency. Every minute counts. Day in the Life of a Corporate Pilot Let’s take a look at a corporate pilot named Steve, working for a Fortune 500 company’s flight department. Two days before the trip starts, Steve receives an email and phone notification with details about the trip. He starts preparations the next day. Steve chooses the best airports, negotiates fuel prices, and gets the airplane stocked for the flight. The morning of the trip, Steve arrives two hours before departure, or “wheels up.” He checks the weather with his first officer and files the flight plan. They perform a thorough preflight of the airplane. About 30 minutes before their flight, they start up the aircraft to have it ready the moment the passengers arrive. Steve greets the passengers. Today the company’s CEO and some managers are heading to Chicago for a client meeting. As soon as they sit down, Steve starts the engines and begins taxiing out for takeoff. Unlike airline flights, there is no security or waiting. A passenger can be dropped off at the airport and take off within minutes. For these people, time equals money. It is the pilot’s job to keep the operation running efficiently and quickly. Steve flies the first flight. En route, his first officer assists and prepares breakfast for the passengers. Before landing, Steve calls ahead on radio to the airport to confirm their car to meet them at the plane. After landing and taxiing to the private terminal, the passengers get out and drive to their business meeting. Steve and his first officer stay with the plane to prepare it for their flight home. Their business meeting is scheduled to last three hours. Once Steve and his

Low Time Pilot Jobs

Leave a Comment / Commercial Pilot, Flight Training / By Jon Kotwicki

You’ve done it! You’ve studied, you’ve trained, and you have flown your butt off to get that ‘golden’ commercial pilot certificate that finally allows you to be hired for compensation. But now what? Your new hurdle to climb is to find a job as a newly minted commercial, low time pilot. Sounds tough, but you are in luck as aviation has numerous possibilities when it comes to low time pilot jobs. Here you will find a list of low time pilot opportunities that will finally allow you to put that commercial pilot certificate to use. Banner Towing I can guarantee you have seen these planes buzzing around football stadiums, concert venues, and even pulling the occasional ‘Will you marry me?’ banner. This type of flying is a great way to start out your professional pilot career as you will most likely be flying numerous hours in a row- slow, low, and in VFR conditions. To become a banner tow pilot, you will need an endorsement that states you have gained proper instruction to ensure the safety of flight as you are hooking the banner onto your aircraft, close to the ground while already airborne. You will also need a tailwheel endorsement to fly the aircraft required to pull these banners. New to tailwheel flying? No need to stress, as Fly8MA has great resources to get you prepared for that tailwheel endorsement. What to expect Expect to find a banner towing job in large cities near stadiums or in popular tourist areas. Banner towing pilots will be flying their advertisements over large crowds of people, for numerous hours in a row, which means this type of flying position will more than likely be paid hourly. Also expect this type of flying to be done on weekends, which provides a great opportunity to have another flying position in conjunction with banner towing. Glider Towing Gliders are light aircraft that maintain flight without an engine. For these aircraft to become airborne, they utilize a powered aircraft to tow them into flight. Much like banner towing, this happens with utilization from a tailwheel aircraft. Unlike the other jobs in this article, glider towing is the only ‘job’ that you can maintain without receiving a commercial certificate, with the condition being you will not be compensated for your time. Although you may not be getting paid when you begin glider towing, this is a great way to get your foot in the door and gain experience that will lead you towards higher-paying positions. What to expect Glider flying is done in rural areas and mostly on weekends, as this is more of a sport hobby for the glider pilot. If you are being paid as a glider tower, you will more likely than be paid for a day’s worth of work, per flight, or hourly. Also like banner towing, this is another great opportunity to have another flying job in conjunction with glider towing. Aerial Photography Aerial photography is utilized to get the ‘big picture’ from above. This includes photos of real estate, construction, property, you name it, it can be photographed! As an aerial photography pilot, your job is to fly an aircraft with either a camera mounted to the plane itself or with a photographer that will be in charge of getting ‘that’ photo. You might be asking yourself, can’t a drone just do that? Yes! A drone can absolutely do that. But with the 400 ft. restriction that is placed on drone operations, drones are not capable of getting the same photograph that an aircraft can get at say, 1,500 ft.. This means that aerial photography is still absolutely in demand and a great job for a low time pilot. What to Expect Aerial photography flying jobs can be found all over as the possibilities are endless when it comes to aerial photographs. As an aerial photography pilot, expect to be paid either hourly or salary, depending on how large the aerial photography company is. Having your multi-engine rating is also a great way to make your resume stand out and bump up the pay as some aerial photography companies only fly multi engine aircraft. Flight Instructor By now you have heard it once, and you are going to hear it again. Get that flight instructor certificate! A Certified Flight Instructor’s job is of course to teach students to fly, but there is so much more to being a flight instructor than just this. In obtaining your Certified Flight Instructor certificate, you are solidifying the aviation knowledge you have already gained so far. This certificate will really take you places as you can of course become a CFI with low time, but you can utilize this certificate in many different ways well into your flying future. Have your sites on flying for the airlines? You could be an instructor for them! Ever thought of running a flight school? Every flight school needs a chief pilot, also known as ‘chief flight instructor.’ Have dreams of creating your own schedule, flying when you want, where you want, with aspiring pilots? Sounds like you would be a great career long flight instructor! This is just a few examples of where this certificate will take you, and by investing in this certificate you are really making a great investment in yourself as a low time pilot. What to Expect As a low time pilot, you will most likely find yourself in a traditional flight school setting starting out. Flight schools can really be found anywhere, and flight instructors are always in demand meaning the opportunity to find a position is in your favor. Expect to be paid hourly, although there are opportunities for salary positions depending on the school. Some flight school settings even have opportunities for additional flying depending on the services that the flight school provides. Still unsure that the effort of becoming a flight instructor is right for you? Fly8MA has plenty of

Tailwheel

2 Comments / Flight Training / By Jon Kotwicki

Ready for your tailwheel endorsement? Tailwheel flying is some of the most challenging and rewarding flying you can do. Of course the beginning of it all is earning your tailwheel endorsement. How many hours does a tailwheel endorsement take? Typically a tailwheel endorsement takes 4-10 hours of flight training. The range is due to how proficient you are when you begin your tailwheel training and what your prior flight experience is. Someone with 1,000 hours of seaplane time will generally catch on to flying a tailwheel airplane much quicker than someone who just earned their private pilot license in a Piper Cherokee. FLY8MA Tailwheel Training Fly8MA has offers an online tailwheel training ground school that has been used by over 5,000 students to help them earn their tailwheel endorsement. The online tailwheel ground school covers: Normal and Crosswind Takeoffs and Landings Wheel Landings 3 point Landings Go-around procedures Slow Flight, Power on and off Stalls Power-off 180 degree approached and landings Forward Slips Soft field operations Name Your Price Flight Training Tailwheel training is not only fun, it will make you a better, and safer pilot. At FLY8MA, we believe in this simple fact so much that we want to see as many pilots earn their tailwheel endorsement as possible. That is why we have started this tailwheel training initiative. To explore a different business model for flight training we will be offering up to 5 hours of tailwheel training at the 1L8 (Hurricane, UT) airport Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays starting on February 19th. It’s time to kill the killer… There are many people out there that believe loss of control accidents in flight while maneuvering or during take off and landing will always be a part of aviation. We simply do not agree. At FLY8MA we believe that with better airmanship skills make safer pilots. With the proper training made available to all pilots, we really can prevent loss of control accidents from occurring. Of course, one big barrier for all pilots to receive this type of training is money. So here’s the good part, we’re ready to put our $$$ where our mouth is. We believe this training is incredibly valuable and every pilot should receive it, and we think you’ll agree once you complete it. So take the challenge, get started below, complete this ground and flight training, and it might just save your life one day. Here’s how it all works: Register for and Complete the Tailwheel Airmanship Training Course at FLY8MA.com. After the completion of the course, you will be able to schedule your first flight lesson for tailwheel and basic airmanship. You will pay what you feel your training is worth (for up to 5 hours of airplane time and up to 7.5 hours instructor time). Eligibility: Anyone holding an FAA Private Pilot Certificate or higher with current flight review. Must complete the Online Tailwheel Course at FLY8MA in its entirety prior to scheduling. Canceling a lesson with less than 48hrs notice will make you ineligible to continue in the program. Max 6’2″ height and 190lbs for the student. Up to one lesson per day. Any student may be denied at any point during the program. If the instructor feels you are not putting forth the expected effort before, during, and after your lessons, or if there is any safety concern, you may not be eligible for the program. Payment: After each flight lesson, you will be provided with a bill for the full rate of airplane and instructor time. You may be eligible for up to 5 hours of airplane time and 7.5 hours CFI time with optional payments. This program is funded with an initial $10,000 from FLY8MA. When you pay for your training that goes back into the bank account to continue the program (paying for maintenance, instructors, insurance, etc.) Once the bank account reaches zero the program will end. Additional Instructor time is $100/hr and airplane time is $120/hr Other Details The program will continue until the $10,000 is gone. Some think this will be a short-lived program. I’d like to think it will never be used up as I think you will see how valuable this training is, and pay for what you feel this training is worth to you. What is becoming a better pilot worth? What are skills that can save a life worth? When you successfully complete both the ground and flight training portion of this program you’ll have your smiling face added to our Student AIRMANSHIP page and receive 25% off any other FLY8MA online training course. Tailwheel Endorsement Completing the online ground school course and showing up for training does not guarantee a tailwheel endorsement. Endorsements are always earned. While a reasonably proficient and experienced private pilot can generally be safe enough to earn a tailwheel endorsement in as little as 5 hours, many students may take longer than that. Basic Videos If you’d like to see what your training could look like, take a look at some of our basic tailwheel training videos available for free on YouTube: Takeoff Wheel Landing High Speed Taxiing Tailwheel Syllabus How to Schedule a Flight Lesson Obviously getting to name your price for flight training is not a difficult sell for most pilots (let’s be honest, most pilots are fairly cheap). Given that what we want is for pilots to earn a tailwheel endorsement, priority will be given to those on a first come first serve basis, with consideration given to those who actually have the ability to study and time to commit to showing up to flight lessons. You can submit the form below to schedule your time slot via phone (all lessons must be scheduled via phone). After submitting the form below, one of our CFIs will contact you to schedule. First Name * Last Name * Have you already completed the FLY8MA Online Tailwheel Ground School? * NoYesIn progress now Phone * Email * Submit

Required Reports When Flying IFR

4 Comments / Uncategorized / By Jon Kotwicki

IFR Reporting Points There are two types of mandatory reporting points when flying under instrument flight rules (IFR). Reporting points in RADAR contact and reporting points when not in RADAR contact. We’ll go over all of the reporting points broken down into the two categories below. 37% of failed IFR checkrides is due to applicants not knowing the required reporting points, or failing to apply them properly in-flight or during discussion on in-flight scenarios. Mandatory IFR Reporting Points (RADAR Contact) Reporting points specifically requested by ATC (91.183) Any unforecast weather conditions encountered (91.183) Any other information relating to the safety of flight (91.183) and (AIM 5-3-3) When vacating any previously assigned altitude or flight level. (AIM 5-3-3) When an altitude change will be made if operating on a clearance specifying VFR−on−top. When unable to climb/descend at a rate of a least 500 feet per minute. When approach has been missed. (Request clearance for specific action; i.e., to alternative airport, another approach, etc.) Change in the average true airspeed (at cruising altitude) when it varies by 5 percent or 10 knots (whichever is greater) from that filed in the flight plan. The time and altitude or flight level upon reaching a holding fix or point to which cleared. When leaving any assigned holding fix or point. Any loss, in controlled airspace, of VOR, TACAN, ADF, low frequency navigation receiver capability, GPS anomalies while using installed IFR−certified GPS/GNSS receivers, complete or partial loss of ILS receiver capability or impairment of air/ground communications capability. Reports should include aircraft identification, equipment affected, degree to which the capability to operate under IFR in the ATC system is impaired, and the nature and extent of assistance desired from ATC. Take IFR Practice Tests Here Mandatory IFR Reporting Points (Not in RADAR Contact) All of the required reports when in RADAR contract PLUS these below: The time and altitude of passing each designated reporting point, or the reporting points specified by ATC (91.183) When leaving final approach fix inbound on final approach (nonprecision approach) or when leaving the outer marker or fix used in lieu of the outer marker inbound on final approach (precision approach). A corrected estimate at anytime it becomes apparent that an estimate as previously submitted is in error in excess of 2 minutes. For flights in the North Atlantic (NAT), a revised estimate is required if the error is 3 minutes or more. Pilots encountering weather conditions which have not been forecast, or hazardous conditions which have been forecast, are expected to forward a report of such weather to ATC. What you need to know Generally speaking it is difficult to remember all of these off of the top of your head. One of the easier ways to go about ensuring you know when and how you are required to make a report is to fly with an IFR kneeboard that has the required reporting points printed on it, or have them printed somewhere in your aircraft. While some examiners on IFR Checkrides will want all of these memorized, many will accept you being able to reference them in some sort of written form that would be easily accessible to you in flight. To learn more about how to actually apply these reporting points in flight and everything you need to know for your IFR checkride, check out the 2021 IFR Checkride BootCamp.

Tips on Mountain Flying

3 Comments / Flight Training / By Jon Kotwicki

FOREWORD The purpose of this series of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Aviation Safety Program publications is·to provide the aviation community with safety information that is informative. handy, and easy to review. Many of the publications in this series summarize material published in various FAA advisory circulars, handbooks, other publications, and various audiovisual products produced by the FAA and used in its Aviation Safety Program. Some of the ideas and materials in this series were developed by the aviation industry. FAA acknowledges the support of the aviation industry and its various trade and membership groups in the production of this series. Comments regarding these publications should be directed to the National Aviation Safety Program Manager, Federal Aviation Administration, Flight Standards Service, General Aviation and Commercial Division, Aviation Safety Program Branch, AFS-803, 800 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington. DC 20591. Preface We wish to thank all those who have contributed to this publication. including the Denver Flight Standards District Office; the Colorado Pilots Association; and, Denver Automated Flight Service Station. This publication is limited in scope and should not be considered a complete mountain flying course. To complete your mountain training, it is essential that you take a recognized mountain flying course that includes both ground and flight training. Only then should you consider yourself qualified to safely enjoy the unique beauty and challenge mountain flying can offer. Introduction Safety Window Mountain flying opens up new opportunities for the general aviation pilot for unique and interesting destinations, plus a view of spectacular scenery. However, mountain flying, even more so than flight in the flatlands, is very unforgiving of poor training and planning. There is a narrow window of safety that an untrained pilot can easily stray out of without the experience and knowledge gained from a recognized training program and a mountain checkout by a qualified mountain flight instructor. This publication is not intended to be a complete mountain flying training course. Instead, it can be used as an overview before you take recognized training or a review afterward. Recognized training for this type of flying is a must and you are encouraged to attend a recognized mountain flying course that includes adequate mountain ground and flight training. What is Mountain Flying? Rather than offer a definition of “mountain” flying, it should be pointed out that many of the subjects discussed in this publication can be found in nonmountainous areas or at low altitudes. For example, density altitudes over 8.500 feet can be found regularly on the eastern plains of Colorado in the summer. Also, dangerous mechanical turbulence and even mountain wave can be found in areas that aren’t usually considered mountainous. Of course, places like the Rocky Mountains are-where all of these concepts can be experienced first hand and you should have mastered them before you attempt a flight through these areas. Pilot Requirements Because of the more demanding nature of mountain flying, you should carefully consider your experience and background before beginning a flight into mountainous terrain. First, it is essential that you consider attending a recognized mountain flying course to give you the knowledge and skills you will need to be safe. There are numerous recognized courses taught, usually in the summer months. and you can contact an FAA Flight Standards District Office in mountainous areas for references. Second, itis usually a good idea to wait until you have at least 150 hours of pilot in command time logged before taking mountain training. Pilots with this amount of time have usually had time to become more familiar and comfortable with the airplane and with planning flying trips. Mountain flying in many areas will stretch your abilities to fly the airplane proficiently, navigate, and deal with weather. Aircraft Requirements Mountain flying presents demands on both the pilot and the airplane that may require more performance than light training aircraft have to offer. There are, of course, stories that are told during hangar flying about flying very low power airplanes into high mountain airports. 160 horsepower should be considered minimum for the airplane with a pilot with minimum mountain experience. Even that, however, will greatly limit your ability to react to strong winds and the up and down drafts they may cause. The aircraft gross weight and its affect on performance should be carefully considered. A minimum of 60 horsepower per occupant should be considered minimum. Read AC 91-15 here for a more in-depth look at real terrain flying. Last revised in 1967 “Terrain FLYING” AC 91-15 is one of the best publications the FAA has put together, and is still very relevant today. Weather Requirements Ceiling Requirements It is suggested that you cross mountain passes at an altitude at least 1,000 feet above the pass elevation. Since this altitude will usually put you over 10,000 MSL, the cloud clearance requirement is at least 1,000 feet below the clouds. Hence, you should make sure that you have at least a 2,000 foot ceiling over the highest pass you will cross. Determining the actual ceiling in the mountains, however, can present some problems. There simply aren’t very many mountain weather reporting stations. Also, those that do exist are almost exclusively in valleys. Reported ceilings at a mountain valley airport may have to be 8,000 feet or higher to give 2,000 feet ceilings at the passes. Visibility Requirements Many experienced mountain pilots recommend having at least 15 miles of visibility before attempting mountain flights. Since your navigating will be primarily by pilotage and dead reckoning, good visibility will help keep you oriented in a sometimes confusing array of geographical cues. Winds Strong winds can cause some of the most dangerous A conditions you’ll have to contend with in the mountains. To minimize the chance. of encountering dangerous turbulence, mountain flying should not be attempted if the winds aloft forecast at mountain top levels are greater than 25 knots. Above this level, potentially dangerous turbulence, as well as very strong up and down drafts are likely. IFR and Night Mountain Flights Experienced mountain pilots

Top 10 Most Difficult Private Pilot Test Questions

Leave a Comment / Flight Training, Private Pilot / By Jon Kotwicki

The most failed Private Pilot Written Test Questions Ever wonder what the toughest questions are that you will see on your FAA Private Pilot written exam? In this article we will go over each of the questions we have seen to be the most difficult for students. If you want to see where you stand and try your luck on the quiz before we get started, click on “Start Quiz” below! Use the Discount Code DONTMISS10 and get 10% OFF either your first subscription payment or course HERE!

Why Does the Cost of a Pilot License Vary?

Leave a Comment / Flight Training / By Jon Kotwicki

Private Pilot Training Costs Why is it that depending on who you talk to the price to get your pilot license varies so much? Is it that no one knows, the price always changes, or they just want to see how much money you’ve got to spend? There are a number of reasons why the cost of flight training can vary so much, and we will explain them here, as well as show you how to save real $$$ on your flight training costs. Note: there is no such thing as a “Private Pilot License” or a “Pilot License”, the correct terminology you will hear is Pilot Certificate. Variables that affect flight training costs Cost of aircraft used Cost of instructional time Total flight time and instructor time paid Flight Training Accessories Variable Fees Hidden Costs Cost of Aircraft Used The aircraft you choose to train in will play a large role in the final cost of your pilot license. Student pilots choose different aircraft for different reasons. Some folks like the idea of training in a newer, more modern aircraft (that costs a lot more to rent). While other flight training students simply want to get into the air and to earn their license as affordably as possible. We could spend many hours debating the pros and cons of renting a new vs old airplane for flight training. Ultimately, here is what matters. Whatever airplane you choose to train in, you will earn the same exact Private Pilot Certificate at the end of your training. No one will care what airplane you learned to fly in except you. And in all honesty, older airplanes typically make you a better pilot in the long run given less automation and more tasks for the pilot to handle. How to cut this cost There are several ways to save money on your flight training here. The different ways to save include: Find a cheaper plane to rent Join a flying club with cheaper rates Pay for “block time” or prepay for hours for a discount Ask for a discount for paying in cash Purchase your own airplane (this only works if you plan to fly it often to offset fixed costs) Minimize the number of hours you need to rent the plane (studying hard will allow you to learn quicker and save you on extra training time) Cost of Flight Instructor Time When you begin flight training in an airplane, you will pay not only for the rental cost of the plane, but also for the time your CFI (certified flight instructor) spends with you. If you schedule a 2-hour long flight lesson, you will likely be with your CFI for 2 hours, but only fly the plane for 1.3 hours. The extra 0.7 is the time used to brief and debrief you for the lesson. If you are not prepared for the lesson, that 0.7 can easily become 1.2 or 1.5 hours, and you will have to pay your CFI for the extra time they spend with you on the ground. Assuming you are paying $75/hr for your instructor’s time, you would have to pay an extra $60 just for the extra time they spend explaining to you what you could have studied on your own. The problem lies in the fact that many CFIs do not assign homework for you to study, and without guidance, you will not be sure how to show up prepared for your lesson. Using the Free Private Pilot Ground School on FLY8MA.com can help you become familiar with the concepts your CFI will present to you. For a more thorough course to prepare you and help you plan your studying and success in flight training, check out the Premium Private Pilot Course. How to cut costs on flight instruction The best way to cut costs here is to be prepared for your lessons which will save you on both aircraft rental time and ground time with your CFI. You can also shop around to different schools to find who might be the most affordable flight instructor in your area. You typically get what you pay for, but that doesn’t mean that the CFI charging $90/hr is any better than the instructor charging $65/hr. To determine which instructor will be the best fit for you, see “choosing the right CFI“. Total Flight Time and Instructional Time Like anything, the longer it takes, the longer it will take. What I mean by that is if you experience delays in flight training, you will begin forgetting things, other commitments you try to put on hold outside of flight training can only be put on hold for so long. Ultimately, as you begin to take more and more time between flight lessons, it will only be natural for that gap to continue expanding. Another key factor here is that if you do not devote the time to studying and accomplishing the Private Pilot Written exam PRIOR to beginning flight training, your lack of study time before beginning flying the plane will start to manifest itself in difficulty during lessons, lessons needing to be repeated, and drastically increasing your total aircraft and instructor time required to train you to proficiency. If you want to earn a license closer to the minimum hour requirements (and minimum costs as well), proactively studying PRIOR to beginning flight training will allow you to spend far less time in the aircraft and on the ground discussing topics with your flight instructor (and getting charged for all of it). Your best bet it to absorb as much information before you go to a flight school, and continue your studying (allocating sufficient time) while you are in flight training. Getting set up with a plan to follow will help you stay on track and make the whole process of learning to fly much easier. You can download our free guide to saving money on your flight training here. Flight Training Accessories First, Let’s talk about all

How to Become a Part 107 Drone Pilot

1 Comment / UAS / By Jon Kotwicki

The future is here, drones are flying around and they are getting cheaper and easier to operate. If you are interested in becoming a drone pilot, this article will cover everything you need to know to obtain a drone operator license. Since drones travel fast and could cause lots of harm to property and people, the Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA has created rules that all operators must follow. If you are interested in flying drones commercially or for hire, you must also obtain a remote pilot certificate. This article will detail how to earn your part 107 remote pilot certificate from the FAA. What Are the Part 107 Drone requirements? The Federal Aviation Administration, or FAA, created rules and regulations for the safe operation of drones. They are also called small-UAS, or unmanned aircraft systems. Part 107 refers to the section of the code of federal regulations about drone operation. Commercial operators require a remote pilot certificate from the FAA. The process is simple. This article will cover how to obtain your drone pilot license. Who Needs a Commercial Drone Operator License? If you are flying your drone for recreational or private use, you do not require a license. If you are using the drone to make money or commercially, it requires a part 107 drone operator license. If you are unsure if you need a license for flying your drone, ask these questions. Am I making money from flying this drone? Is someone paying me for the photos or videos provided? The primary difference is whether money is exchanging hands. Regardless of the type of operation, all drone owners are responsible for their drones and following the law. Just like all drivers must follow the rules of the road, even if not driving for hire, all drone pilots must operate within part 107 rules. FLY8MA offers a comprehensive course to help you master everything you need to know to fly drones safely. What Are the Requirements To Be a Licensed Drone Pilot? To obtain your remote pilot certificate, you must: Be 16 years of age or older Speak, read, and write English Be in a mental and physical condition for safe drone operation Study for and pass the aeronautical knowledge exam If you are not currently a pilot, follow the guide below to start obtaining your remote pilot certificate. How to Become a Drone Pilot? Follow this simple guide if you are using a drone for photography, business, commercial-use, or any other reason which requires a license. Follow along with this video for help. How to Get Your Remote Pilot Certificate Online Step 1:Obtain an FTN, or flight tracking number from the FAA. You do this online, using IACRA. Step 2: Study for the aeronautical knowledge exam. It is a 60 question test that covers these subjects: Applicable regulations relating to small unmanned aircraft system rating privileges, limitations, and flight operation Airspace classification and operating requirements, and flight restrictions affecting small unmanned aircraft operation Weather and its effect on drones Small unmanned aircraft loading and performance Radio communication procedures performance of small unmanned aircraft Aeronautical decision-making Airport operations Maintenance and preflight FLY8MA has a comprehensive course to help you study and ace your test (our students have a 100% pass rating, and we guarantee you will pass on your first try too). Get started today to earn your remote pilot certificate. You can try the practice test here to see how much you already know! Step 3: Register at one of 800 plus testing centers to take your remote pilot aeronautical knowledge exam. Step 4: Log in to IACRA again to complete FAA Form 8710-13 for a remote pilot certificate (FAA Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application). You will enter your 17-digit knowledge test exam ID and sign the form. This proves you have completed the test and passed. Step 5: A TSA background check is conducted, and you will receive instructions to print out your temporary remote pilot certificate. Step 6: Your permanent remote pilot certificate is sent in the mail. It may take 6-8 weeks. Step 7: Register your drone with the FAA. It is a quick process and costs $5. The registration is valid for three years. Congratulations! You are now a remote pilot. However, you may have noticed, none of these steps involved actually flying a drone. Throughout this process, you should learn and study the best practices for drone operation. There are many videos on youtube and guides online to help you with the type of drone flying you will do. If you are getting paid to fly a drone you want to be a professional and not crash the drone or miss the photo because you don’t know what you are doing! How to Obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate if You Are a Pilot If you are an already licensed part 61 pilot, the process is slightly easier. You do not need to take a part 107 test, just an online course. If you possess a part 61 pilot certificate and have completed a flight review within the 24 calendar months you are eligible. Step 1: Log in, or create an account on the FAAFAASTeam website. Step 2: Take the online training called: “Part 107 small Unmanned Aircraft Systems ALC-451.” The course covers all knowledge areas necessary for safe drone operation Step 3: Log into IACRA Step 4: Complete Form 8710-13 in IACRA. Start a new pilot certificate. Select remote pilot and follow the instructions. Step 5: Take your completed Form 8710-13, a photo ID, proof of your current flight review, and your FAAFAASTeam course certificate to one of these representatives: FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO) With an FAA-designated pilot examiner (DPE) An airman certification representative (ACR) Any certificated flight instructor (CFI)* Step 6: The representative will review your application and make you a temporary airman certificate. Your permanent certificate will arrive in the mail after a few weeks. Make sure to always carry your certificate anytime you are operating

Instrument Rating Requirements

7 Comments / Flight Training / By Jon Kotwicki

Your IFR Ticket An instrument rating makes every pilot a more knowledgeable, safer pilot. Instrument rated pilots will also be equipped with the aeronautical decision skills to stop and think before you get into a situation where you need to use your instrument flying skills. Attempting VFR flight in IMC is one of the most consistently deadly decisions or mistakes in all of aviation. History has shown us that weather-related general aviation accidents are often fatal. When pilots cannot see the horizon, spatial disorientation can onset rapidly. When John F. Kennedy, Jr. crashed his Piper Saratoga into the Atlantic Ocean near Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, on July 16, 1999, he did not have an instrument rating. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) stated that Kennedy’s failure to maintain control of the airplane was the result of spatial disorientation, with haze and the dark night being factors. There really is no downside to getting an instrument rating – just the money and time spent to get it. However, if you are pursuing any career in aviation, an instrument rating is a necessary milestone. If you will be regularly renting an aircraft, or plan to purchase one, you will most likely enjoy lowered insurance rates once you get an instrument rating. What You Can Do With An Instrument Rating An instrument rating will allow you to legally fly without the visual reference of the ground or a horizon. In other words, you’ll be able to fly from Point A to Point B without ever looking out your window (except for your take-off and touch-down). You will learn to stay ahead of the aircraft while managing tasks like changing radio frequencies, programming navigation equipment, and briefing and flying approaches, all while continually scanning your instrument panel. Flight Training Requirements for Instrument Rating Before you can take an instrument rating checkride, you must meet certain requirements and have logged certain training. One of the first questions that may come up on your instrument rating checkride may be about flight training requirements. The examiner will want to know that you met the requirements and that you understand them. IFR rating requirements can be found in 14 CFR § 61.65 §. To summarize, to apply for an instrument rating, you must: (1) Already have a private pilot certificate, or be concurrently applying for a private pilot certificate with your instrument rating. (2) Be able to read, speak, write, and understand the English language. (3) Complete and log ground training with an authorized instructor – Instrument Ground Instructor (IGI) or Certified Flight Instructor – Instrument (CFII) – or accomplish a ground school home study course. (4) Have a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor (IGI or CFII) certifying that you are prepared to take the knowledge test (5) Receive and log required training in an aircraft, full flight simulator, or flight training device, including: 50 hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command Forty hours of actual or simulated instrument time, including 15 hours must have been received from an authorized instructor Three hours of instrument flight training within two calendar months before the check ride A cross country flight of 250 nautical miles, that includes an instrument approach at each airport, and three different kinds of approaches (for example, VOR, ILS, GPS) (6) Receive a logbook endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that you are prepared to take the required practical test; (7) Pass the knowledge test (unless you already have an instrument rating in another category (helicopter or powered-lift) (8) Pass the required practical test. Which is Harder: Private Pilot Certificate or Instrument Rating? Talk to a few veteran instructors, airline, or corporate pilots, and some will tell you getting their instrument rating was the hardest part of their flight training. Others will tell you it was the easiest. Instrument flying takes a unique set of skills, including multitasking, problem-solving, and time management. Pilots must be able to make decisions quickly and with confidence. Some people adapt and learn instrument flying skills more easily than others. Instrument flying is more about intellectual skills and systems management, VFR flying is more about the kinesthetic skill of flying the plane. Instrument Rating Ground School Instrument Rating ground school will get you ready for flight training and help you understand the tools and equipment you will be using to plan your flights and actually fly: Approach Plates: These are official procedures for transitioning from a flight to land at an airport when operating a flight under instrument flight rules (IFR). they may include things such as airport lighting to look for, headings to fly, equipment to use, and speeds, and depict topographic features, hazards, and obstructions. Ground school will help you learn how to read and review approach plates. Departures & Arrival Procedures: Standard Instrument Departures (SIDs) and Standard Terminal Arrival Routes (STARs) are published. Part of a clearance may include a SID or a STAR, and pilots must be comfortable finding, briefing, and flying them. En Route Charts: After you spent so much time learning VFR sectional charts for your private pilot checkride, you will now be tasked with learning, understanding, and explaining IFR en route charts. These charts depict point-to-point distances on the airway system and altitudes like minimum en route altitude (MEA), minimum obstruction clearance altitude (MOCA), and minimum crossing altitude (MCA). Tip: IFR En-route charts are revised every 56 days, so make sure yours are current. Flight Instruments: You will learn the specific instruments your aircraft must have to be IFR legal (91.205 (d)), and how they work. You’ll also learn what to do if one of several of them fail in flight. Flight Planning: You will learn the considerations you’ll make for IFR flight, such as selecting altitudes, and how you’ll determine if the weather will be good for your flight. You will also learn about AIRMETS (Zulu=Icing, Tango=Turbulence, and Sierra=Mountain Obscuration). You’ll learn about SIGMETS (convective and non-convective) and how things like dust storms and volcanic ash can be extremely dangerous.

How Much Does a Pilot License Cost

15 Comments / Flight Training, Private Pilot / By Jon Kotwicki

How Much Does it Cost to Become a Pilot? Student Pilot License Free Sport Pilot License $4,000 – $6,000 Private Pilot License $8,300 – $12,300 Commercial Pilot License $28,000 to $90,000 Flight Instructor License $32,000 -$95,000 Airline Transport Pilot License $35,000+ The cost to get your pilot license ultimately depends on what type of pilot license you want to obtain. The level of license you need is determined by what type of flying you’re looking to do. For example, a Sport Pilot license may be the best fit if you are looking to fly for fun, whereas a Commercial Pilot license would be the first big step in an aviation career. Different licenses require different levels of ground and flight instruction and have different testing requirements. It can be complicated to understand, so we’ll make it simple with our friend “Jim” who wants to become a pilot. Let’s follow “Jim” along as he works his way towards becoming an airline pilot. At the end of this article you’ll understand not only how much it costs for each type of pilot’s license, but also why it cost that much, and how to save serious $$$ on your flight training. By the way, there is actually no such thing as a pilot license, the correct term in aviation is a Pilot Certificate, but hey, almost everyone calls it a license so we’ll just go with that for our purposes explaining this today. If you’re interested in the cheapest aviation certifications you can obtain, you can click here to view our article on the cheapest aviation certifications you can obtain. Step #1 to Becoming a Pilot A private pilot license costs $8,000-$12,000….great…why is that? What kind of pilot license should you get? Actually, it doesn’t matter, if you want to just fly for fun, or be a commercial pilot, everyone starts at the bottom with a Private Pilot License (we’ll save talking about the sport pilot licenses until the end of the article). It’s January 1st and Jim made a New Year’s resolution to become a pilot. He begins his flight training right away. His journey will consist of several different certificates or “pilot license levels”. The progression of becoming an airline pilot looks like this: Private Pilot License (VFR) Instrument Rating (IFR) Commercial Pilot License Flight Instructor License (CFI) Airline Transport Pilot License (ATPL) Now we know Jim has to get his Private Pilot License first before his instrument rating or commercial pilot license. So, what does that cost Jim? Private Pilot License Cost Cost to Become a Private Pilot Private Pilot Requirements Costs Pilot Ground School $350 FAA Private Pilot Written Test $175 FAA Medical Certificate $125 40 Flight Training Hours $7,000-$11,000 FAA Checkride $650 Total Cost $8,300-$12,300 Jim will need to do a couple of things to get his Private Pilot License. He’ll need: Pilot Ground School (an online course works great for this) ~ $350 Pass the FAA Private Pilot Written Test ~ $175 Get an FAA Medical Certificate ~ $125 Flight Training in the Plane ~ $7,000-$11,000 (why is it a range and not a set price?) FAA Checkride (your flight test, kind of like a driving test for your Driver’s license) ~ $650 Total: $8,300-$12,300 Learn about how our Private Pilot Ground School can help you save money getting your private pilot certificate. So Jim begins his online ground school on January 1st, and that helps him prepare for both his flight training and the FAA Private Pilot Written Exam (60 questions, multiple-choice test). He signed up for ground school at FLY8MA.com and completed it in 2 weeks, spending about 50 hours of total study time on the courses. Since Jim completed his ground school at FLY8MA.com, he had a great foundation of knowledge and easily passed his FAA written exam. Jim has spent about $500 so far. He then went to his local flight school (he chose his flight school using our guide here) and took his first flight lesson. The flight lessons vary in cost depending on how long each lesson lasts, but he planned accurately that each lesson would be $300-$450. After his first lesson, Jim asked his Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) for a recommendation on which doctor to use to get his Medical Certificate. Jim goes to the recommended AME (Aviation Medical Examiner) and gets his FAA Medical for $125. Jim studies hard, flies at least 5 days per week, and earns his Private Pilot License on February 15th after completing his Private Pilot Checkride with the FAA for $650. All together, Jim spent about 6 weeks learning to fly and earned his pilot’s license for $8,527. Jim has also logged a total of 44.2 flight hours which is just over the FAA minimum requirement of 40 flight hours to become a private pilot, but well under the national average in 2020 of 73.1 hours. What did the 40 flight training hours consist of? While we do explain this in a lot more detail in another article here. We’ll explain here briefly what you are getting in your 40 hours of flight training. Assume you are paying $100/hr to rent a plane and paying a flight instructor $60/hr for the time they spend training you both in the air and on the ground in your briefing sessions. Pilot Time Certificate Cost (From zero experience) 40 hours total to include: This is the minimum 20 hours flight training Jim spent 32.3 hours with his CFI 3 hours night training Jim had 3.1 hours of night training 3 hours cross country training Jim had 3.2 hours of “cross-country” training 10 hours solo Jim had 11.9 hours of solo flight 10 hours used towards either training or solo Jim spent that extra time with his CFI This is how Jim racked up a bill of $7,425 from the flight school, plus his other fees came to his total of $8,527 for his Private Pilot License. Instrument Rating Cost You’ve probably heard things about pilots