Private Pilot Syllabus

The private pilot syllabus is broken into 6 parts:

1. Basics of aircraft control: This includes take off, straight and level flight, turns, climbs, descents, power adjustments with a large emphasis on using the aircraft trim system to make the flight smooth for the pilot and passengers.
   
2. Ground reference maneuvers and maximum performance maneuvers: These include S turns over a road, turns about a point. These maneuvers demonstrate your ability to control the aircraft with reference to the ground while adjusting for the winds aloft. Steep turns and both power on and power off stalls are mastered in preparation for learning how to land the airplane. A brief introduction to instrument flying is included at this point.
   
3. Next we start on the landings. This will be one of the most challenging tasks in the process of learning to fly. All of the previous tasks will come together allowing you to land safely in any situation, culminating with your first Solo Flight.
   
4. The remainder of instrument training will give you an introduction into the world of flying with reference to the onboard instruments. While this does not allow you to fly in instrument conditions, it will give you the necessary training in the event you momentarily find yourself in instrument metrological conditions.
   
5. Cross Country, night flying and tower controlled airports. This is one of the most enjoyable parts of the training. We will visit other airports to familiarize you with different pattern procedures and multiple runway airports. A portion of this training is done at night, and will teach you night procedures, night navigation, and the additional emergency procedures required for safe night flying. Also you will enjoy approximately 3 or 4 solo cross country flights, one of which will cover over 150 miles. In addition, we will start working with Air Traffic Control both at tower controlled airports and with the various radar facilities.
   
6. Finally in the Pre-test instruction we will review all phases of the training in preparation for the FAA check ride.