Things I Wish I Knew BEFORE My Private Pilots License

In this video I go over the top things I wish I knew before I started training. Jumping into something only to find out later that there was a different, better, or in our case cheaper, way is always frustrating. Hope this one can help a bunch of you out and make sure to tell us some of the things you wish you knew before you started your pilot training down in the comments.
► SUPPORT US : bit.ly/3qHGiMu
► AFFILIATES & SPONSORS: bit.ly/3t6kITy
🚀 J3 RED ROCKET PARTS LIST: bit.ly/3RcDgLI
Flying Eyes Optics - bit.ly/43EYlFg
Save 10% with our code "FLYWITHTHEGUYS"
🖤 I fly with my Lightspeed Zulu 3 Headset! Get yours - bit.ly/3aWm10J 🖤
LINKS
---------------------------------------------------
NOW OFFERING GROUND SCHOOL! - bit.ly/33OvqVc
Study on your own! - • Books, Tools, and Mate...
Pay LESS MONEY for your Private Pilot License - • CHEAPEST And FASTEST W...
Take Charge of your training - • Take Charge Of Your Pi...
Choosing a Good Flight Instructor - • Finding The Right Flig...
Books, Tools, and Materials for Your Private Pilot License - • Books, Tools, and Mate...
Private Pilot Medical Exam - • Medical Exam for your ...
FOLLOW US ELSEWHERE
---------------------------------------------------
Website: flywiththeguys.com
Facebook: / flywiththeguys
Instagram: / flywiththeguys
Purchases made through some links may provide some compensation to Fly With The Guys.
#flying #aviation #pilot
CHAPTERS
---------------------------------------------------
0:00 Opening
0:07 I Was Wrong
0:18 Learning To Fly Is HARD
0:33 It Takes Time and Commitment
0:48 You Don't Need A Flight School
1:05 FLYINGS EXPENSIVE
1:24 Takes 65-70 Flight Hours
1:44 More Studying Than Flying
2:03 Instructors Don't Know Everything
2:18 Ground School Online
2:33 Don't Buy Lots Of CRAP
2:59 You Don't Need Perfect Eyesight
3:20 You Can Fly With Medical Conditions
3:48 Flight Training Can Be Boring
4:07 HELP OTHERS
4:16 Outro

[@pilotrserra]

As a flight instructor for 30 years, this information is exactly correct. I wish everyone would watch this video before they start training

[@flywiththeguys]

Agreed. And some of our other videos on flight instructors, flight schools, and taking charge of your training. It's kind of crazy how many people jump into training completely blind.

[@albradley5527]

Here’s a sign that I wish I had seen before I learned to fly. I lived by these words while flying for 50 years with no accidents or violations. “Aviation, in itself, is not dangerous, but is terribly unforgiving of any carelessness, incapacity or neglect.”

[@flywiththeguys]

I like that. Thanks for sharing.

[@ITIRICI]

It's exactly what I say in another way The world is not complicated. People complicate the world.

[@scottfranco1962]

I am legally blind in one eye. Been flying for 40 years. When I was a student, one of my first questions was if I could fly with only one eye. They answered that question by pairing me up with an instructor who was also blind in one eye. End of issue.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing that!

[@albradley5527]

My instrument instructor was a one legged Cobra pilot who took a 50 cal bullet in the hip in Vietnam, got gangrene and lost his leg. So people asked him how he could use both rudder peddles with only one leg? He got a one legged instructor to teach him. And got a wood leg.

[@russbell6418]

You are in good company. Wiley Post was, as well. (First to solo around the world.)

[@scottfranco1962]

@@russbell6418 Yea, I think I recall that (eye patch guy). It actually makes surprisingly little difference. Your binocular sight is only good to about a dozen yards in any case. Past that everything looks flat. Mostly it is a factor in landings. I recall I was never good at baseball because I thought I could catch a fly ball, but it would land a yard behind me. Anyways, you learn to compensate.

[@Habu71]

lol. Love that. good for you.

[@grantcarver7057]

I am 17 y/o and just passed my checkride last Friday! It took me 3 months and 60 hours of training. I highly recommend getting into aviation. I love every minute of it!

[@flywiththeguys]

I totally agree! And CONGRADULATIONS on passing your checkride!

[@every_thing_wood1251]

Do you need to have ever flying from when you were a kid? I'm 17 and really want to do this, but money and a fear I wont be able to do it along with school is kinda holding me back

[@captainn1420]

Hello how are you I hope you are well tell me how the learning and flight practices are going ✈️

[@captainn1420]

@@every_thing_wood1251 Hello, I see that you have two obstacles and that is money and other responsibilities, but despite your age, you can learn very quickly, as we have all done, you just have to continue studying aviation and there are several ways and methods to do it from home until have the possibility of being able to go to the internships without any problem being able to already have very good information and a base in the area

[@every_thing_wood1251]

@@captainn1420 like online ground schools? That is something that I can see me being able to pay for at the moment

[@jamespieper9606]

Every once in a while, step aside from the training pressures and just go fly for fun. Plan to sight see, eat a meal or attend a fly-in and ask the CFI if you can bring the spouse. Training is tough especially if you are trying to fit it in with work and "life" Remember to Have FUN!

[@markkirkland934]

My PPL instructor told me just that while I was a student pilot; go take a short cross country close by (

[@0rcsapo_]

What I wish I knew? No one, literally no one, is a natural pilot. My dad was a fighter pilot and later an airline pilot. I flew a plane before I got my learner’s permit in a car. Then life happened and I stopped flying at about 10 hrs, but I was always around airplanes, and I even went to fly in the simulators with my dad at work. I knew all about how airplanes worked, and the things that made them work, and man did I love flying video games. All that said- when I was 27 and actually started flying by myself towards my private pilot, I had to learn to fly just like everyone else. Aviation may have been in my blood, but it wasn’t in my hands, yet. Neither was the airmanship that only comes with actually comes from flying a real airplane. It takes actual hard work, but don’t be disheartened by the challenge. It’s worth the effort you put into it. I fly jets now, and I’m so glad I put in the effort to make it through my private pilot certificate in a C172 with a local CFI. It’s been quite the journey, but it’s totally worth it.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you for sharing that!

[@sinfulcoin]

How old are you now?

[@ethan.amosberg835]

I am currently a student pilot. Something I wish I had know before starting training is to pick a reliable instructor with a reliable airplane

[@flywiththeguys]

YES! This is a big one. We actually have a whole video on this over on the channel page. Wish it got more traction.

[@suzukirider9030]

If it's really bad - go ahead and switch. Schools, instructors, and/or aircraft. I've switched 4 CFIs and tried 5 flight schools prior to getting my PPL in a total of about 70 hours. About 10 of those hours were non-training flying which also went to the logbook and was essential. Don't feel locked in. Combine training with some kind of utility during the flights. If I started at Sling Academy and powered it straight to the PPL without daddling around exploring other schools, aircraft and flying cross-country for the heck if it - I'd probably knock out the PPL within the 40 hours. But, the overall experience would've been more limited, as well.

[@damirzanne]

there is almost no reliable CFI , they are almost all just building their hours instructing , and they will move up to a flying job as soon as they can … don’t get attached to your instructor , focus on your goals and needs

[@ethan.amosberg835]

@@damirzanne The thing that really sucks is when there retired and still don't want to make time and they're one of the 3 instructors withing a 2 hour radius of your home/school

[@suzukirider9030]

@@ethan.amosberg835 ...if it's that bad - might consider planning things out much further ahead, taking a couple weeks off work and doing your PPL at a place in another city or state. Say, two weeks, 14 days - 100% dedicated to this. Instead of trying to fit it bit by bit into your normal life.

[@Maine_Prepper]

FYI - I’m a pilot for a major airline (737 Ca). I have 20/100 vision, a color vision waver and a minor heart issue. I also hold a 1st class FAA medical. If it’s your dream to fly then for all means go for it!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing that!

[@christianfrancis3435]

I took my 1st class med today and I struggled on the color vision test so they are sending me to a optometrist tomorrow to confirm. I don’t have a problem distinguishing red/green/blue lights but the ishihara I struggle with. Any recommendations on how to get around it to obtain my 1st class med?

[@Maine_Prepper]

@@christianfrancis3435 initially I was given a restriction (no night flying) but that was removed after I demonstrated to the FAA that I could see light signals from the tower. That covered 2nd and 3rd class medical. For the 1st class, I had to do a flight test at dusk. Barely passed that one. 😳 That was 35 years ago so it may have changed. Good luck!

[@christianfrancis3435]

@@Maine_Prepper awesome, thanks for your help!

[@branonlamphere9624]

Minor heart issue🧐😳😳, this isn’t going to end well, job security for me I guess🤷🏻‍♂️

[@billkeenan1085]

I have been flying privately and professionally for over 40 years. I will never know it all. It takes all of us to have all of the knowledge. Many ratings and 18,000 hours later: to this day my private pilot certificate is one of the biggest and best accomplishments of my entire life. It would be for you as well. Keep the windshield clean and have some fun.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing that. Love hearing from people who have been in the industry for a while.

[@edjarrett3164]

I agree. Go fly to places that have good food. Go challenge yourself to fly to strange fields because they have unique characteristics and terrain. Enjoy the flying world with optimism and mindfulness. It makes flying special.

[@stefeniedavidmusic]

Flying the plane is the easy part. It's all the other stuff you have to know. Also, as an former instructor, i was always up front about what the training would actually cost, not what the minimum hours cost. People told me that they really appreciated that.

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad you were up front. WAY too many misleading instructors out there. They may think they can get you done in 40, but sticking to the averages is much more realistic. Then shoot for the 40. If it happens, its a bigger win!

[@millenialmuscle8254]

So what would be the cost?

[@captainn1420]

@@millenialmuscle8254 flying an airplane is simply easy the most complicated and difficult thing for a student to carry out and know what the theory is I have known many students that the instructors saturate them and annoy them with so much information that they cannot easily retain, however they exist other very dynamic current mechanisms from which you can learn quietly and then take from theory to practice without any problem

[@familyhearingcenterofidaho5973]

Yes, you can even teach a monkey to wiggle sticks, but all that knowledge is the "sticky stuff" to flying! lol

[@Tamsetki]

Fun fact: it takes me 3 hours for 1 hour flight. I always spend additional 2 hours to get airplane from hangar, do the preflight check, cleaning it afterwards etc.

[@TheMarketingShowChannel]

Yes! 2 hours booked on the calendar usually equals 1.3 Hobbs for me!

[@flywiththeguys]

GAH! I should have put that one in there. GOOD CALL! With the ground, preflight, securing, and debrief it can take more physical time than flight time.

[@TheMarketingShowChannel]

@@flywiththeguys for sure

[@shevetlevi2821]

All of this is dead on. I'm a low time (~160 hours) private pilot and I've since given it up because of the cost. It's the kind of thing that either do it alot or not at all. It's not easy, you do have to plan and commit to the training. Regarding training with a free lance instructor vs. FAA approved school I definitely recommend a school. Flying has too many seemingly disparate subjects. You will be more sure to learn all of them if you train under an organized methodical curriculum. I started learning under a free lance instructor, soloed, and then my training seemed to be less directed and I didn't really see the direction I was going. When I switched to an approved school it suddenly felt like I had an organized road map to my goals. Regarding the didactic/ academic part of the training. I agree that you should get your medical certificate out of the way at the beginning. I'd say the same for the didactic. This way you'll understand the what and why of flying as you're actually doing the flying part. I started with the Gleim course that he mentioned. It's as dry as eating sawdust. I highly recommend Rod Machado's "Private Pilot Handbook". It's completely comprehensive, readable and written with a sense of humor that will keep you going. It also has the best explanation of theoretical weather that I've ever seen. Also, you will run up against some things that will discourage you. Even after soloing when we started crosswind landings I thought, "Okay, this will be the thing that keeps me from being a pilot." After a couple of hours I had it figured out. Then flying by instruments (this was in the mid 1980s with all analog dials, no glass cockpits) I'd be 3-400 feet off my assigned altitude, 15 kts. off my airspeed, and 60 degrees off my assigned heading. After a few hours I was flying to the FAA standard. There's very little that's intuitive about flying and it's a definite challenge. We're not birds and planes don't fly in the same way that birds do. But it's worth it and amazing to be up at 8500 feet and instead of looking out to the side through the little porthole sized window of an airliner to have a G-d's eye view of everything around you. You won't regret it.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing all that!

[@encryptexglen9382]

Thanks for all the Great Videos! Real appreciate the tips & tricks. I'm a Canadian learning to fly in Vancouver Canada, as well as flying out of Deer Valley as well! I'm hoping to get my license after starting originally 35 years ago! Getting very close now! Maybe we'll see you around Deer Valley Airport! Jim is my instructor out of Hanger A6! Come say Hi if you are around! :-)

[@camsmeltzer9388]

I'm in the middle of self study ground school - thanks for the video!! Looking forward to flying!!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Awesome! GOOD LUCK!

[@CascadiaAviation]

Yep, took me precisely 65 hours. I would recommend combining some flights. Need night flight time, foggle time, and cross country time? Do a night XC flight with the foggles! However at the same time be honest with yourself and don’t skimp on training! Most important by far, remember to have fun!

[@speedomars3869]

You will be a low time risk until you learn than how many hours you have, what your scores are on tests, and how many ratings you have matter ZERO.

[@suzukirider9030]

Oh, definitely! Combine the hours required - if you need "hours" for whatever (night, or simulated instrument) - make it a cross-country flight as well. Otherwise you'd have to later $hell out for the "cross-country" hour$ separately

[@TheMarketingShowChannel]

Just subbed. Sitting at just over 20 hours pre solo and have come across bunches of your very well done videos. Thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Welcome aboard! Glad you're here. Let us know if you need anything specific!

[@stevenrobson765]

Excellent tips, thanks for taking the time

[@flywiththeguys]

You bet!

[@craigpaske9351]

Additionally, I would highly recommend you continue in your training and become instrument rated. It can save your life and the lives of any precious cargo. Besides, being able to fly in IMC greatly increases your flying experience.

[@flywiththeguys]

Great tip!

[@russbell6418]

And just makes you way more comfortable with flight decisions.

[@harry2928]

Thank you so much for answering me. That was very kind. I'm impressed. Thank you.

[@flywiththeguys]

We try to answer all questions and comments. =)

[@DJNateSheer]

Thank you very much! I’m looking at it and this is some great advice and things to really think about.

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it was helpful!

[@paulchristensen7515]

I earned my PPL back in 1996 flying a Piper Tomahawk and C172. It took about 45 hours and the total cost was $4444.44. I got my PPL through a flight school and I wouldn't recommend it. In my opinion, the Airline Pilot wannabees that work there are more interested in logging hours toward their ATP than they are in teaching. For my instrument rating I found a CFII through a flying club that had a solid day job and instructed on weekends because he sincerely wanted to teach. If I had to do my PPL all over again, that is the way I would go...a flight instructor through a flying club who wasn't trying to be an ATP.

[@flywiththeguys]

WHOLE heartedly agree! Thank yo for sharing this!

[@user-uo4dq5zi7d]

But have you seen flying club initiation and membership fees lately? They've gone the way of everything else related to aviation.

[@HeyIFoundACamera]

I completed about 30 hours of my flight training before I had an injury that grounded me. I am planning to restart training once I recover, but even if I have to do those 30 hours over, IT IS NEVER BORING! The time I spend in in the air is the closest I've ever been to bliss, and I can't imagine it ever becoming "boring."

[@flywiththeguys]

I agree that it’s never boring! Love getting up in the air for no other reason than it’s the air.

[@rpcraighead]

Glad you enjoy every minute. But... (not to be Johnny Raincloud here) you haven't had to meet standards under pressure yet. Don't get so addicted to the bliss that it bursts your bubble when things get challenging.

[@captainn1420]

you have a lot of enthusiasm but if you are in recovery and you need a little time to be able to resume the practices it is not too much you should occasionally read some good updated lessons from this year and which would be very useful if you need to know something else write me

[@crazyloveseries]

Great quick video filled with important information

[@flywiththeguys]

Yep! Thats what we were aiming for.

[@Jdrew27]

Thank you for putting it out there that instuctors don't know everything. It's one of the hardest things for me to deal with as Instructor I hate that I don't know everything but it is what it is avation is too vast for one to know everything that's what makes it awesome!

[@flywiththeguys]

You’re welcome. I had a jab at Drs in there too but edited it out in the end. I would rather someone tell me they don’t know but know where to find it and we look it up together.

[@speedomars3869]

As with all things you may choose to learn about...it is ALWAYS up to you to find the answers....even in a classroom environment trust no one and nothing unless you verify for yourself what you think you are learning is the truth.

[@providencejaskar49]

Going from I get to go flying to have to ... Is exactly how I feel right now... he hit the nail on the head on so much... I was really thinking about quiting bc I thought I wasn't getting it...good video, I feel more encouraged to keep at it now

[@flywiththeguys]

You got this! Keep at it. I promise it will be worth it.

[@jayarnold9640]

did you get your PPL?

[@BroAnarchy]

Very informative video! The many things you mentioned in this video remind me so much of getting a Class A CDL for driving a truck (especially the Medical Certificate which we have to get, and the rules and regulations of the DOT) keep up the videos man, love your stuff.

[@dancahill9122]

WOW ! A trucker that flies ! There are very, very few of us ! Getting my PPL, or at least my sport pilot, is on my bucket list !

[@flywiththeguys]

I've heard this from a few people. Kind of funny the similarities.

[@jljohns2155]

The medical exam Blood Pressure limitations are more strict for CDL than for FAA Class III. I recommend Mayo Clinic RST. If you need a special Issuance. I am ASL VFR And CLASS A Tier 1 Interstate Tanker. So is my A&P

[@royturbodiesel]

Thank you for your videos. While sitting and handling C19 here in Norway, I noticed a C172 in the sky (We have a small air field only 7 km from my home), and the thought dropped into my head: YOU HAVE TO DO IT NOW... So, 1 month later, I’m 20% into the «book» and have had my first lession in the air. I’m aiming to finish the theory exams before christmas, so I’m on a full throttle study here. But, my youngest daughter is 19, so it’s actually no problem using 2-3 hours daily for this. Watching a few videos like yours, are also very encouraging for me. Thank you, and keep up the good word. God bless.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks! And good luck with your studies. I'm digging into my next rating so I'm right there with you!

[@OmarKnowCars]

As always. Great content. Thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks! And thank you for watching.

[@johnreed8872]

Great video and topic! One thing that kinda surprised me was that the vast majority of my flying is Solo. I somehow had the image in my mind that everyone I know would be clamoring to have me take them flying!! Not so. Not everyone is nearly as excited about aviation as I am. That being said, I greatly enjoy ANY time in the air, Solo or otherwise! Thanks again for the great content! Blue Skies!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing! I found that to be true for me too. So much, that I would consider a 2 place plane instead of 4 for 90% of how I fly. Great points!

[@vk2ig]

That was the experience of a colleague of mine. We'd both graduated from university, and our first jobs were with the same organisation. He decided he was going to move on after 6 months, and decided to spend that time getting his PPL. The day after he solo'ed, he asked if I wanted to fly with him: "Yep, no worries!" It was a great flight, and I still savour the fact that I was his first passenger.

[@nevadahamaker7149]

1:12 One of the best representations of the four primary forces I've seen. When I got my PPL back in the early 2000s, the iPad didn't exist yet, and I don't recall online ground school being available yet. I never had my BFR... until last November. Now I own my own plane and I can't imagine flying without the situational awareness I get with my ADS-B in receiver and iPad.

[@flywiththeguys]

I know right! I feel so spoiled and wonder why the FAA is so slow to adopt such amazing technologies.

[@Averagedude764]

Sometimes I feel like I’m cheating by using the GPS and iPad in the cockpit.

[@cessna177flyer3]

Yep. With the iPad/ADS-B combo in my Cardinal, I have more SA than in the 777 I fly for work.

[@josephrasberry961]

Thank you. Just had quad bypass but in excellent shape now. No heart damage etc. We will see. Thank you again

[@flywiththeguys]

Good to hear! If you're just looking for recreation check out the Sport Pilot Certificate! No medical requried!

[@SimonTekConley]

I laughed at the training material part. I have books and other stuff from other classes I've taken, and have barely cracked them open again since taking the training that required them

[@flywiththeguys]

I know right. I do a lot of research before videos so I probably crack open the old books more than most…. And it’s still not that often.

[@SimonTekConley]

@@flywiththeguys I was thinking IT and firefighter/EMS books for me. I would love to get a sports pilot general aviation license one day, but as a hobby.

[@alangarrett1181]

Good and accurate run down of the true challenges especially the cost factor. GA costs have tripled in the last 20 years and insurance costs are through the roof for pilots with less than 500 hours who think they might venture into aircraft ownership. It borders on ridiculous.

[@flywiththeguys]

I agree. I need to make a video on how to pay for pilot training.

[@jamesajanda]

Great information! I'm considering getting my license in the near future. Thanks!

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it was helpful! I obviously encourage it!

[@petrjanec6961]

Thank You for this video.I have just started PPL.

[@flywiththeguys]

Best of luck!

[@youngbloodalan]

My childhood experience flying with my father made me realize you can't really count on anything unless you have a instrument rating. We flew from Salinas, California to Lake Wales florida one Christmas Piper Cherokee Arrow II. We were stuck in Florida for over a month after Christmas because the weather somewhere across the country was bad. I think my parents didn't want to get stuck somewhere like midland Texas cooped up with a couple kids for a couple days while the weather cooperated. So, I'm working on my PPL now and will continue on. On a seperate note, I will agree despite flying in the back seat of a single engine plane for tons of time, riding on every lesson with my dad and flying in a variety of aircraft with my job, Being in the PIC seat is a completely different experience. Its a good brain drain, so fun.

[@WolfPilot]

Wow, Spot on advice Carl. I was at 67 hours before I did my check ride. I also agree with the get an Ipad and foreflight.

[@flywiththeguys]

Yep. I didn’t call out foreflight. Should have…

[@user-uo4dq5zi7d]

Every instructor I've talked to has said to leave the iPad and ForeFlight home until after you get your license.

[@edsilco2113]

Excelent information!!. Thank you!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Glad it was helpful!

[@dutchygirl]

Great information! This will help others for sure!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Hopefully. It’s info I wish every knew before starting.

[@dutchygirl]

@@flywiththeguys You have so much vids that are truly really helpful and you have a great personality!! That's why I started following you and still do!! I like to help others too. Just recently I had a good conversation with a guy that is saving to start his journey. I had to correct quite some things, as the school only mentioned the minimum hours and left out some other important stuff for the finances list. It can be crazy out there, but I know you (and hopefully me too) can make the difference :-) Keep 'm coming, Carl!

[@eman331]

I did my discovery flight on September 17 and had a blast! I drop off my daughter at school in the morning and I work in the afternoon. I am planning on using that morning free time to take the plunge and go to flight school to get that PPL. Thanks for being a resource.

[@flywiththeguys]

That is awesome! Good luck and let us know if there is anything we can do to help!

[@suzukirider9030]

Look into getting a "Sport pilot" license. It's about 60% of the time and $$$ of a PPL. Main drawback is aircraft availability - you can ONLY fly LSA-category with it. But, having a Sport Pilot license lets you get a lot of the PPL hours done while actually utilizing it

[@captainn1420]

It is super interesting as you depend on a short time it is not too much to read you a little about this year's pilots manual if you want to know more about this write me and so you can study and improve a lot quietly at home knowing does not take up space or space a hug for you

[@stefanviljoen572]

I know this information now before becoming a pilot,so this was very helpfull.

[@flywiththeguys]

GREAT!

[@Averagedude764]

If I had to do it over again, I’d buy an airplane like a 172/182. Owning your own plane really makes you aware of the systems if you take care of it. The only down side is not learning different systems jumping from plane to plane.

[@wootle]

A great video and well presented! I have my PPL (MC single engine) and training for both of those was fun - but also it did get boring too , we are all after all human and not droids! But the result makes all of that pale. There is no feeling like getting that white slip and suddenly you can control a flying machine - all by yourself! Two things will add (from experience) for new students: (1.) Do NOT be afraid to change CFIs. YOU are the PAYING customer and if a certain CFI is just not working out just call it quits (politely of course) and go to another. (2.) You will get those (rare) moments during a training flight when you are just not "feeling it" , all enthusiasm for that day has evaporated. Dont hesitate. Speak up "I'd like to return to the airfield now, I've burnt out for today and just getting frustrated" You will have these days and its nothing to be concerned about. Perhaps you are still doing carrier landings or perhaps your chandelles are not within limits. Dont worry, they will come in time! Land the plane, get a coffee and just unwind. Get a good nights sleep. Every tomorrow is a new day!

[@flywiththeguys]

Great advice! Thanks for sharing it. I tell people all the time to make sure to go on fun flights to break things up. It's not as easy when your at a 141 flight school, but it's for sure worth it to keep people inspired IMO.

[@Brave_Aviator]

This is sooo true lol. Lots of time commitment and studying indeed. I am a current student pilot and the studying portion has gotten boring a lot…..

[@MikiDawn577]

Systems is a ton of fun when you get into commercial, don't know if all flight schools go into depth, but my flight school does!

[@speedomars3869]

Do not cram or make yourself crazy with the ground school portion. Pick at it a little at a time and then get your passing score on the test...do not try to ace the test, just pass it. No one, not even you will care what your scores were a year after you get your ticket.

[@hudiscool4186]

You made it cristal clear!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks!

[@sheldonnolt6426]

thanks! keep up the good work

[@flywiththeguys]

Will do! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@feliperodriguez196]

What a great video, definitely true, thanks for sharing such important information. I have learned the hard way, attempted twice in a period of 6 years to obtain my pilots license, had to stop both times due to running out of money. Believe it or not, having a flight simulator at home setup with proper tools, like yoke, rudder pedals, will help to stay proficient, and will help you save tons of money. The airplane is “not” the place to learn everything, it can get expensive!! If you can learn before you jump on the plane, please do so!

[@flywiththeguys]

You hear that all the time. The Plane isn't a good classroom. There are a lot of great training tools you can use outside the flight deck that can really help. We're working on using a flight simulator to help you become a better pilot right now.

[@user-uo4dq5zi7d]

I started on MS Flight Simulator with the first one, back in the mid-1980s and have been using it since then. I finally switched to X-Plane due to the catastrophe that was MSFS 2020; it was the best move I ever made. As for flying real planes, I've yet to find anything difficult or challenging--I've been doing all of that on the sims for years. The only surprise was how sudden wind gusts, updrafts, and downdrafts make you feel like you are being violently thrown around. But I'm used to that now.

[@erichenderson8311]

Those were all good facts. People often budget well below what they need.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks! It's hard to get actual numbers these days. But we have a few videos on that too!

[@jeffohmart7053]

Great video. I'm one of the people that bought a plane to learn to fly. Great friend is a CFII and we had trouble renting a plane (schedules, weather, mostly though broke planes awaiting parts). Found out that there's a lot to owning a plane that could be a course on its own. I recommend that if you don't have a friend who owns a plane it might be better to rent. However, it sure is nice to be able to go anytime our schedules and the weather line up.

[@flywiththeguys]

It's that last line that gets me. Plus, knowing the plane is in the condition I left it in last.

[@jeffohmart7053]

@@flywiththeguys that's what my CFI said. I only know it from other people's horror stories. I'm lucky to be able to buy one, but not counting maintenance, its cheaper than a new vehicle.

[@Helspar06]

This is one of the better videos I've seen on this subject that new pilots should know. A small thing: Lots of flying schools call themselves clubs, so make sure you know what one you're actually signing up with. Its also possible to buy an airplane on your own and hire an instructor.

[@flywiththeguys]

Yep! We have a whole video on investigating flight schools too, to help people pick a good one.

[@chrisschoelzel3414]

I had a discovery flight January 22, I am now looking to set-up my PPL course (need financing and scheduling figured out first) and I hope to become an airline pilot one day. Thank Yall!

[@flywiththeguys]

Best of luck!

[@gorgly123]

I agree, have your medical/student pilot certificate in hand before proceeding past the introductory flight. I had to wait for the FAA to approve it and send it back to me which caused a delay before I could solo.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing that! I didn’t get mine first but didn’t have much of a problem thankfully.

[@dromaker]

Thanks for the insight, as I go to the flight school today to start...

[@flywiththeguys]

Have fun and good luck!

[@fortdolan]

Nicely done. 👍

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you!

[@fortdolan]

@@flywiththeguys I’ll add to the comments… GEEZER ALERT! In 1976, at the age of 16 I borrowed $1,100 from a credit union with my dad co-signing and started flying lessons. Ground school at the local community college. Got my Private SEL certificate in 1977. A C-150 was $13/hr wet! It’s sad that flying has become far too expensive for the average Joe/Jill. If you truly live to fly, it can be a very rewarding career but getting and keeping a flying job always has and most likely always will be a challenge.

[@kencochrane8795]

Dont be afraid to switch flight instructors if you feel you are not getting good communication from the one you started with.

[@michaelb.8953]

That is probably one of the most important comments as a bad instructor can make or break your training.

[@flywiththeguys]

It's funny because I say that in one video, and say how it can cost you in another. BUT, it's VERY important to have a good instructor and a lot of flight school students don't realize they can ask for another instructor if they don't like theres.

[@jonesyisdabest]

Great video and great advice! I would add that you should finish your ground test before you start flying. This goes for the PPL but also all follow on ratings, you must pass that first before you can even take the flying checkride so why not focus on the written, don't fly until you passed it, then fly a lot right before the checkride. It could save you some time and money along your path to becoming a pilot. Good luck to everyone in pursuit of their dreams. 🛫

[@flywiththeguys]

Great tip! We recommend this in several other videos actually. =)

[@MiamiTabor]

Yes. I’m an airline captain now but I started by going to my local airport and taking lessons. A great feeling is the first time you take by yourself and it only gets better.

[@flywiththeguys]

AGREED! Every time I fly now I'm like a kid in a candy store.

[@scottb.6725]

The 1st take-off is a natural high!

[@jackgerke525]

Ground school was offered as an elective class my junior year of high school. I did real well and could have pass the test but I weighed the options. I didn’t want to do that for a living and figured it would be a very expensive hobby. I can see why someone would want to go all the way and that’s ok, no jealousy. It’s nice to know why airplanes can fly, makes you feel safe when you travel.

[@flywiththeguys]

I agree. I'm less terrified of turbulence because of my knowledge.

[@hamidja1537]

Thanks for sharing

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem!

[@irishpilotguy]

great channel learning a lot

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks! And thank you for watching our content!

[@readmore3634]

My late Uncle COL. GLENN KRUGGEL U.S. Air Force, born in 1926, Beaumont, Calif. Piloting nine different military aircraft (from the P-51 Mustang to the F-4 Phantom), flying in three wars with almost 300 missions and serving our country for over 33 years. His last flight Jan. 24, 2012. After retiring he took me golfing and flying once a week (in his Decathlon, later his Inverted RV-4 he built, I was 22). His influence (and giving rides) generated many pilots in our circle of family and friends. I had about 200 hrs of stick time (much of it doing acrobatic) before he & my aunt moved to Vegas. I had been raising my 4 kids and just couldn't immerse myself into flight so I never pursued a license until I was 54.... After solo-ing I found myself doing T&G's for hours at a time....especially in crosswind conditions (fun). Level flight was not a practical way to travel for a plumbing contractor so I put it on the back-burner. I'm 62 now, kids are out....Flying is fun...I was never afraid to fly.... my uncle once said "just don't be a douchebag and bring it in on it's nose, you'll be fine". ...I said " If you ever pass-out while were up here I'll put it on the ground in one piece". Common sense, discipline and practice goes a long way in staying alive....but if flying scares you...you may want to re-think your priorities.

[@ktgunsmith5751]

Excellent video. For me, learning how to land was the most time-consuming and exhausting part of the whole process.

[@flywiththeguys]

Very true! We spend a lot of time doing that. My number of landings is crazy high. Love doing them though.

[@jamesburns2232]

Keep practicing landings and do at least 100 landing circuits. The practice will give you muscle memory and you will be able to use that memory the rest of your flying career! 😉

[@timothystone4998]

Always fly the airplane and always maintain the integrity of the cabin, so between the objects leave the wings with a few behind you slowing you down

[@Shiloh8548]

It’s always been a dream of mine to become a pilot. Well now that I’m nearly 50 I plan to make that dream come true. Came here for pointers and definitely had to subscribe!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for joining us! We're only going to get crazier as time progresses. =)

[@BigBrain08]

thanks for the help. now i am sure to be a pilot😀

[@flywiththeguys]

Love it!

[@angussmith1156]

Thank you for sharing this. Infp

[@flywiththeguys]

Our pleasure!

[@yoyojoe9240]

10/10/21As a current Commercial S/E, M/E Land, Intrument rated pilot (began flying in 1983). Spent 68G's, (including "a couple of "Block flight hrs".),...never wanted to Fly for the "Big A'lines" but it opened other "doors" that were and still are.....Fun..fun!! (and proffitable). What I wish I would've known then is that Flight Instructors "take OFF" when they find a "Real Job"...so You go thru quite a few of them during initial and Mid range learning period.

[@flywiththeguys]

Good point there. Should have included that one.

[@tamasdombi2122]

If like me you only had the time and budget to fly once a week: -Expect the flight training to go on for over a year. -Flight school schedules are very full and you need to book well in advanced. -There are a lot of weather cancelations and with little time on the schedule you might not fly for several weeks in a row, this means that you don't retain or progress as quickly and it will take more hours of training. -Plan to study and restudy a lot. Make extensive & organized notes that you revisit frequently. -If you are older it tends to take a bit longer to learn/retain flying skills and the requisite knowledge. -It is a very expensive hobby to learn and maintain. -It's all worth it in the end!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for your comments! All good and valuable information. I went the long route myself, flying once a week... or less. Took a few years, TOTALLY WORTH IT!

[@Sabotage_Labs]

Personally... I recommend a flight school over a private instructor. Few reasons. You can get a school loan to train. I got one through the old Sallie May, now Navient, I believe. It was a 15 yr load for $12k just for my PPL. In 2004! Flight schools have more resources like, typically several planes to fly. Got to experience a Cessna 152 which was a trip lol. Also go to do ride alongs with instructor and his commercial students in twin engine planes. Shooting approaches and things like that. Just observing but it was great experience. You also can get progress check rides with different instructors which I thought really helped. Almost like practice for the scary FAA check ride. Schools just have better resources, people to talk to and learn from, very stuck training and... it's just cool hanging out with other pilots in the room pre and post flight briefings. Being a weekend warrior is tough. I was always a bit jealous of the young commercial students flying every day. Try and fly as much as possible and as often as possible! Get some comfortable shoes that you can feel the peddles with I started out flying in Doc Martin Boots and... my landings and rudder work got so much better when I switched to tennies and could FEEL the peddles. I know.,,seems like a simple thing bit... an airline pilot with 10k hours taught me that. 😉 Try and fly a sim with ATC if you can. It gets busy up there and you have to have good comms. Especially for that first class B transition. You don't wanna get VFR'ed around q major airport when you're paying for the Hobbs! Find a pen/pencil that you can use for 10 or 20 mile increments on a flight chart. That was a huge trick I learned for my check ride. When you have to reroute and grab the chart and old wiz wheel...getting that first estimate on miles to new dest makes life easier! Learning to fly is a huge commitment. I was a PC Sim guy who thought it would be a peice of cake. That changes very quickly. Start bouncing around on a warm day, be at a busy air like DVT a Saturday and you're #11 in the pattern...lol. your instructor chirping AIRSPEED, ALTITUDE, HEADING...do you have that traffic! It gets busy fast and.., its only your life on the line. Make the commitment! But.... the best day of your pilot career is when that instructor is outta the cockpit, you got ur ticket in ur pocket and it's just you, the plane and open blue sky's ahead. And all the sayings are pretty cool too. Aviate, navigate, communicate 24 hours bottle to throttle There are old pilots. There are bold pilots. There are NO old bold pilots. RRRRRoger that (if tower still let's you do that. One dick at DVT would complain when I did that. The ENTIRE reason I wanted to fly! 😛.

[@MikiDawn577]

Sometimes you need to take a break, it took taking a week off to figure out how to stick a landing properly! Now I can land first try (minus straight crosswind, but that's never really fun to deal with) when landing, whether doing short field, soft field or obstacle landings or a mix of all 4.

[@flywiththeguys]

I can't stress this enough. Taking a break to think or even chair fly really helps. Also taking a break from the training and going on fun flights really recharges the batteries.

[@MikiDawn577]

@@flywiththeguys I 100% agree!

[@Forbtowbx]

Thanks😊

[@gerardmoran9560]

Great video! One thing stuck out- the notion that you won't need training resources after you become a pilot is way off. I've been flying for decades and as a captain for a major airline I still find myself reviewing training manuals all of the time. If you don't, you'll regret it.

[@flywiththeguys]

For sure you never stop learning, but how and what you learn will change. I'm just talking about the basic training materials used for the PPL. The only time I busted out my E6B since training was for other videos I made, so why buy a nice metal one? And the flying handbooks can be found online, and are even in foreflight. I've just seen a lot of guys who blow tons of money on nice training books and materials only to have it sit on a shelf for a decade and then give it way.

[@dr.greggwareham571]

All true. Working on my PPL now.

[@flywiththeguys]

Good luck with it! Let us know if you have any questions!

[@theminutebible873]

It's good to have a flight instructor who is willing to put you through the paces (and even through the wringer) sometimes. I had a wonderful flight instructor. We got along well, he was knowledgeable, engaging, laid back and quite helpful. That was all well and good until I got to my check ride; a VERY stressful experience under the best of circumstances. I had only flown with my laid back CFI and even though I knew the 'stuff' I wasn't in the right mindset for the additional stress of a check ride. I actually got my light sport first, then proceeded on to my Private. The examiner for my private was just plain MEAN. I understand they are supposed to create a certain level of stress, but he was just plain MEAN. Took me two tries, but the second time I was more mentally prepared for his attitude and I did it. Flying was always a lot more stressful for me after that.

[@flywiththeguys]

Good instructors really help make the learning experience better. I put the plane into an incipient spin once. Remember looking over at him. He looks back at me just smiling.

[@jamesburns2232]

Examiners are supposed to wear the "Black Hats" and be mean to you so that you will realize how serious what you are doing really is. What you don't know or can't demonstrate can kill you. You have your life and the lives of others in your hands and examiners want to put you through the ringer before they certify you. 🧐

[@theminutebible873]

@@jamesburns2232 I get that they are supposed to test new pilots mettle, but this guy was yelling at me the whole time... and oh yeah, I had to pay him TWICE, how convenient. On my first attempt, when we landed (early) someone was there yelling at him for being 30 minutes late for a meeting. On the attempt that I did pass, HE made two errors, one of which got him yelled at by the ATC.

[@steampunklimbo]

im so commited to become a pilot someday, ill do whatever it takes!

[@flywiththeguys]

Love the attitude!

[@salomon3343]

I recommend trainning in a part 141 Faa program. I started my trainning for my PPL private Pilot and the problem was I had diferent instructors and also, delayed my learning.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thats what I hear about 141 programs too. They cycle through CFI's because as soon as the get their ATP they're gone! I think it comes down to the instructor and what their priorities are, a good question to ask them before you start your training.

[@justicegusting2476]

My first cross country flight, after I got my license, was to go to Lake Isabella from San Diego with a buddy to go fishing. Over the San Onofre Nuclear power plant I experienced a stuck exhaust valve in the C150. We ended-up dead-sticking onto Camp Pendleton runway. Silver suited firemen lined the runway next to their fire trucks. I talked to one of them later who told me they wished we would have crashed so they’d have something to do. When I tried to explain to the commanding officer why we were there, he was not amused.

[@flywiththeguys]

LOL. Nothing like someone so board they wished an airplane would crash. Seriously though, glad the situation worked out.

[@dalestephan6777]

Agreed some flying can be repetitious. But be advised watch out for instructors padding their own log books. Yes they are out there. Hint flying the pattern , where you only do 3 touch and goes in an hour. I soloed 3 months after 16th Bd. I'm 68 now lol.

[@flywiththeguys]

Instructors are worse today than ever, especially with 1500 hour requirements for ATP.

[@henrychinaski846]

I'm learning to fly in Germany on a Scheibe Falke 25 C touring motor glider. Last autumn I began ground school, more than 100 hours, and passed the theoretical exam 03/23. As you say: I think commitment is extremely important! Our SF25C has a central wheel, a tailwheel and auxiliary wheels attached to the wings. Taking off was difficult in the beginning. Took me over 27 h and 120 landings till I soloed last week. Don't underestimate the dedication and time!! In our flying club, approx. 75 percent of all students who started, quit. We have excellent teachers! They just underestimate the time and commitment!!!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you for sharing that! It'll help someone for sure!

[@Gunner53-OK]

Yeah, on one of my early flights my instructor had me flying into on coming traffic on my down-wind section of my landing - be careful!

[@flywiththeguys]

Sounds like they weren't paying attention.

[@bettigio]

Even if you’re not planning to become a professional pilot, I still recommend you go for an IFR rating. It is expensive, but the knowledge and experience you’ll get it’s priceless. Cavok skies on your flights👍

[@flywiththeguys]

I hear that from a lot of people. I does help you become a more precise pilot for sure.

[@bettigio]

@@flywiththeguys Where the VFR flight ends, the IFR begins! Not to mention, IFR save lives.

[@speedomars3869]

No one needs to get an IFR rating unless they plan to fly in IMC. And even then, if they can avoid IMC they never need one. The rating requires a LOT of expense, time and effort to get and then to keep it current...and without currency you will lose the rating and possible your life.

[@bettigio]

@@speedomars3869 Sorry but I disagree. Thousands of VFR pilots lost their lives due to spatial disorientation. IFR is expensive indeed, but it's never a waste of money. Recurrent? Once you start flying IFR, 6 approaches, holdings and navigation in 6 months is easy to reach. If a person needs to fly a lot for work or other cross country reasons, it's the best solution since you don't depend too much on weather. But if you just want to fly around the city, then yes, you don't need IFR.

[@speedomars3869]

@@bettigio Absolutely wrong. All pilots are at risk in IMC (I assume your statement is about that and not just a silly idea that non-instrument rated pilots are somehow more prone to crashing). Just having an instrument rating is no shield of protection in aviation. To assume such a thing is not just faulty logic, but reveals an attitude of "invincibility" that as a pilot will lead to real trouble.

[@Mooney201er]

Starting out, I wish I knew that the majority of primary flight instructors are newbs themselves. 300 hours may sound like a lot when you have 3. But in retrospect, they were barely experienced enough to fly themselves. Makes me realize why it took so many hours to get a certificate under their instruction. That's because they were learning how to fly and how to instruct on my time and dollar.

[@flywiththeguys]

That is a good point, and VERY true. Especially if they never left the flight school that they are now training at. There is a lot to learn beyond the flight school.

[@suzukirider9030]

True. The flight training process is very bootstrapped. You get your PPL - next thing to do is to help the next guy get it. But, an 5'000+ hours ATP or military pilot has long forgotten how to fly a C-172 or what kind of BS is asked on the initial PPL exam, so he'd be LESS helpful to a student than a 200 hour instructor who's ONLY ever flown the C-172s (or whatever the school uses for training)

[@cessna177flyer3]

@@suzukirider9030 I’m in the category you describe and disagree slightly. While a 5000+ hour military pilot may not be familiar with the 172, they can come up to speed very quickly. More importantly, they have the “big picture” and years of experience and can teach a student WHY they need to learn something, opposed to “just memorize this”. But I don’t think there are many of us in the average flight school.

[@samj1185]

Pretty good vid. By the time you've absorbed the recommended reading material you'll certainly know if you still care to become a licensed pilot.

[@flywiththeguys]

Kind of true. It's a lot.

[@samj1185]

@@flywiththeguys the details serve well as a weed out.

[@mongoose33353818]

All good comments about knowing things before learning to fly. I'd include this: make sure your instructor is following a syllabus and you should have a copy so you can track your progress. I wish I'd known this before I started; I figure it cost me between 10 and 15 hours because it wasn't clear what and when we were doing certain things. If there's not a plan, look somewhere else....

[@flywiththeguys]

Well said! A lot of students fail because their instructor fails to plan. We acutally have a whole video on how to make sure your not relying on your instructor to guide you through the process - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fXiYn2ZrZtBkaq8

[@xplanereviewer]

I am actually totally knew to flying and got into watching Jeff Favigano's X-Plane videos about 3-2 years ago and spent hours watching X-Plane from other channels. I live in Las Vegas "awesome place to learn to fly with military restrictions and bunch of other stuff" and I'm lower-middle class so need to get my license AS-CHEAP-AS-POSSIBLE and I'm sure there are other people "who can't afford to pay what ever it takes to get their license" that needs to get it as cheap as possible too so I"ve created my channel "using X-Plane as my MAIN learning too" and hopefully this speeds me through ground school, familiarity with the cockpit, gauges, instruments, procedures, etc. and I will be documenting the whole journey. I know it'll be a boring channel but if at least one person learns to get their license from it that otherwise wouldn't have even thought about it then the work of running the channel was worth it in my opinion.

[@flywiththeguys]

Check out our channel page, we have a video on the cheapest way to do it over on the channel page. Make sure to check it out.

[@JC-fz2pv]

Good video! Going forward I will be stealing something from your 4 forces of flight graphic. I will be telling all my students that there are actually 5 forces of flight, money being the 5th lol.

[@flywiththeguys]

LOL. Money and Magic is really what makes planes fly so...

[@RPM_GODSPEED]

Thank you for the tip because I want to become a pilot

[@flywiththeguys]

No problem!

[@frankdonaldson6210]

I am about to start the process of obtaining my pilots license. I am actually taking practice exams and studying before I even begin. Medically I should be good enough to get my certificate. Have not been sick or to the doctor in 36 years. except for occasional cold symptoms which happens to everybody. Otherwise I believe I’m fit. Looking forward to the process. This video was very informative as I watch many to get a handle on things

[@flywiththeguys]

Fantastic! Good luck in your training and make sure to check the channel page. We have lots of things to help you out along the way.

[@brockweaver8476]

I did am immersive course to get my license. I only began to like flying once I was able to fly for fun, not to constantly improve something and push myself really hard

[@flywiththeguys]

I just really enjoy it. Going couple times a week now.... because I'm training again. =)

[@thomasrudder9639]

Let’s go brandon!

[@flywiththeguys]

LOL.

[@Me-qp9yq]

Yes! I really struggled with beginning my journey to getting my PPL, because the finances that it'll take to get myself there was extremely daunting and OVERWHELMING! Even the though of ground school gave me really bad anxiety! A few months ago, I joined a facebook group called, "Lady Aviators" and finally had the guts to ask a question about financing flight training in general! Much advice was given from many experienced pilots and others who are just at the beginning of their career! I am currently 3 weeks in to my online ground school that only cost me $350 for the entire course, including resources, printables, and other free downloads, pdf documents and its very own app that allows me to study on the go AND offline! I've also reevaluated my goal and instead of focusing on becoming an Airline Pilot, to instead focus on one step at a time and strive for my PPL:'))) I know in the end this will all be worth it! I am very grateful for this video and the content you've created! Thanks much!

[@flywiththeguys]

Thank you for sharing your story! I want to create a video on what financing your PPL looks like. Congrats on starting your journey!

[@JohnSmith-rq8hw]

Becoming a pilot is my dream. I have to take two different prescriptions for pain management though that are on the FAA’s naughty list LOL. I’ll have to stick to a flight sim for now.

[@flywiththeguys]

Sorry to hear that!

[@harry2928]

Thank you for the extremely vital info I've been procrastinating about learning for 46 yrs. (personal reasons discouraged me from inquiring in detail). Wonder what the costs & stipulations were in 1978??

[@flywiththeguys]

Relative to inflation, a little cheaper but not much. But the checkride was easier. =)

[@albradley5527]

I can tell you what the cost was in 1969 when I learned. Private Pilot Course in a Cessna 150 was $700. That was 40 hours plus the ground school.

[@harry2928]

@@albradley5527 Thanks once again. Very interesting. I'm intrigued/ fixated with a strange intense fascination for the phenomenon of [time]. As a result I remember some things that are beneath trivial to others. '69 holds some content for me accordingly, including this subject of flight. Thanks for donating your personal time to contact me. I'll always be an armchair devotee (to aviation) of some sort I suppose.

[@anthonyparker8771]

GREAT INFO

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks!

[@stevegarcia1796]

Excellent !! ✈ 👀👌

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks!

[@obadiahkaemmerling1474]

I would say that the hardest part for me is just honestly learning everything for the knowledge test lol

[@flywiththeguys]

Yep. Thats why that one was in here. People don't realize it's a big part of getting your certificate.

[@coalcreeker583]

This may not be helpful but it might be interesting to some. Back in 2001 I was working in Virginia and heard about a small airport just south of Lynchburg with a number of classic airplanes. It wasn’t too far away so I drove over just to see the planes. My father (who is 94 now) and my oldest brother both learned to fly before they learned to drive. My grandfather was an FBO in western Oklahoma. My father soloed in a Taylorcraft and I think my brother soloed in a 7AC Champion. Even my sister soloed before we moved from Oklahoma to Colorado in 1965. Anyway, I’ve always had a love for classic planes. I asked the local instructor at this airport what a demo ride would cost and he asked “Do you want a demo or a lesson? Same price” So I took my first flight lesson in a Piper J4. I had never even heard of a J4. The airport owner wanted to keep costs as low as possible. The plane was only $15 an hour wet and the instructor was only another $15. $30 an hour total for flight lessons in a J4 taildragger. He had a Cessna 150 that was $30 an hour but I opted for the J4. Anyway, I booked as much time as I could but only got in 4 hours of flight time before my job finished up and I had to return home to Denver. I never did continue with flight lessons because of the cost but I will always treasure that time in Virginia taking my first lessons.

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing that story!

[@coalcreeker583]

@@flywiththeguys The old man who owned the airport has since sold the flight school operations and the cost went up significantly.

[@jamesdickman8315]

Ex-military can use their vetrans collage / on the job training benefits to learn to fly. I found this out after I used up my benefits. P.S. JAL used if not still had a training school for flying 747's in Moses Lake Washington. The benefits could be used there , although I live there back in the 80's so all may be changed since then.

[@flywiththeguys]

Truth. Depends on the flight schools program though.

[@chrism9976]

Aerospace Science IV (AFJROTC) was ground pilot school taken over the summer in high school. I was excited when I heard that we would get free flight training and a computer! I quit as soon as they passed the books, charts, E6B and learned that there was no actual flying. My naive younger self didn't want to waste the last summer sitting in a classroom. I still regret that decision 30 years later.

[@flywiththeguys]

Yea. SO much knowledge involved. It’s one of those less glorious things most of us hate…. Especially in our teenage years.

[@DragonJ-ui9gg]

I started my flight lessons on my 13th birthday when my Grandfather tricked me into thinking we was going to buy a remote control airplane but when we pulled up to corporate air charter which now is called horizon my heart dropped as I had never even been flying in my life. My first time flying ever and the second we left the ground I was hooked. Unfortunately my family life took a dramatic change and money became the issue my grandfather got cancer and unfortunately I was never able to finish. It’s on my bucket list. I will achieve my goal. Stay safe out there everyone

[@flywiththeguys]

Thanks for sharing and we hope you get to it someday!

[@cessna177flyer3]

Keep moving forward, Dragon. It’s worth it.