Being able to pilot a plane is an incredibly useful skill. There are plenty of reasons to want to learn. Maybe you simply enjoy the idea of flying, or perhaps you work in the aviation or transportation industry.
In any case, you can’t just jump into a plane and hope for the best. You have to be prepared for each flight, and here are a few tips to help you get there.
A Pilot’s License
If you can’t drive a car without a license, it stands to reason that you can’t pilot a plane either. Piloting a plane is an incredibly complex skill, and one error can result in disaster. So, your first step is to get a proper license.
The type of license you get might change depending on where you are and what kind of plane you intend to fly. As you’d expect, there’s a huge difference between a small crop dusting plane and a commercial jet.
As well as the initial license, you may need additional training to keep your skills up to date. Always check with the local authorities so you know what qualifications you need.
The Right Plane
As mentioned above, planes differ wildly depending on their age, size, and how they’re used. You need an appropriate plane for your needs.
The make and model of your plane will also inform how much it costs, and what parts and equipment it needs.
If you’re buying a second hand plane, make sure it’s flight-worthy and safe when in the air. It’s often worth getting it checked over before your first flight, and if possible, go on a test flight before you buy.
The Right Equipment
Speaking of which, you will need different parts and equipment to keep your plane going. Suppliers like Pilot John International can get you everything you need to keep your plane flying.
This includes a license, test equipment, and parts for repairs.
Fuel and Engine Oil
Much like any other vehicle, planes rely on fuel to keep them going. Running out of fuel is much more dangerous in the air than it is on the road, so make sure you have plenty for each trip.
Aviation engine oil is also necessary to keep your engine healthy and running properly. While a sudden stop in a car is bad enough, a sudden stop in the air is incredibly dangerous.
Pre-Flight Checks and Route
You can often get into a car and just drive and, other than getting lost, you’ll be okay. This isn’t true for a plane. Some planes need a flight programmed in, but even if this isn’t the case, you need to plan a route and pay attention to flight paths and maps. This keeps you safe and makes sure that you have enough fuel for the journey.
You also need to perform pre-flight checks every time you want to take off. This should be part of your training, but you can have an aviation mechanic do the checks for you.
Article and permission to publish here provided as Contributed Content. Originally written for Supply Chain Game Changer and published on September 27, 2024.
Cover photo by Randy Fath on Unsplash.