Here are some key aspects worth keeping in mind.
Eligibility
You must be at least 16 years old to solo as a student pilot (14 for gliders), and at least 17 years old to receive your sport pilot certificate (16 for gliders) in order to become a sport pilot. You must also be able to read, write, and understand English. You also need to possess a current U.S. driver’s licence.
First Flight Is Free
If you haven’t already, get in touch with your neighbourhood EAA chapter and schedule your free introductory trip to experience the convenience and fun of private flying.
Enter a Chapter
EAA chapters are fantastic resources for advice and mentorship that may help you with every step of your road towards becoming a pilot, in addition to assisting with the planning of your first flight and not to mention the enjoyment and camaraderie of spending time with individuals who love to fly. The nearby chapters are listed here.
Finances
Although it costs money to learn to fly, we can assist. EAA provides financial aid for flight training both directly and through your neighbourhood EAA chapter. Additionally, while though the majority of aspiring pilots rent aircraft during their training, in rare circumstances, purchasing or even building a plane can be a more affordable method to get started. One of the finest ways to obtain inexpensive access to an aircraft is by becoming a member of or founding a flying club.
Paperwork
You require an FAA student pilot certificate before you can conduct solo flights as part of your training. You will be guided by your instructor or the flight school through the process of getting one.
Health Check-up
Sport pilots are exempt from obtaining a medical certificate, unlike private pilots. You’re good to go as long as you have a current U.S. driver’s licence and, more importantly, have never had an FAA medical certificate denied, cancelled, or suspended.
Research and Practise
After the papers and physical are completed, it’s time to begin the learning process. Naturally, you’ll practise flying in an aircraft as your teacher will have you take the wheel on your very first lesson. As you hit the books and get ready for the written test, you’ll also spend a lot of time studying on the ground, both with your flight instructor and on your own. If you’re receiving your training at an official flight school, they’ll probably also provide ground school, where you’ll study the material in a conventional classroom setting.
Writing Exam
When you have finished ground school, whether on your own or in a group setting, it is time to take the written exam. The test must be done by appointment at an FAA-approved testing facility and you need your instructor or the course provider’s endorsement. Generally speaking, it’s up to you to decide when to take the FAA written exam for your sport pilot certificate, but we advise doing it as soon as possible. Here are some pointers to assist you in comprehending the requirements for passing the test.
First Solo
The first time you fly an aeroplane fully by yourself will go down in history as one of the most unforgettable days of your life. Even though you are still a student pilot at this point, your instructor will send you up alone after just eight to ten hours of training.
Final exam
You’ve completed the necessary amount of flying hours, passed the written test, and your instructor has given you the all-clear. Here, everything comes together. You’ll actually take two exams with an examiner recognised by the FAA on the day of your final exam, known as a check ride: first, an oral examination in which you’ll be thoroughly tested on your knowledge of everything from aircraft systems to laws and regulations. You will board the aircraft as soon as you have completed that section.