E XC L U S IVE F EAT U RE
Ground lessons must be completed
before you are allowed to start practical
lessons in the air. Students must
complete at least 20 hours of assisted
flight and 20 hours of solo flight before
taking an exam and being issued their
pilot license.
Whichever type of flying you choose
to do, know that a pilot doesn’t just
fly the aircraft. A pilot has to perform
pre-flight inspections and check the
flight logs before take-off. They also
have to confirm flight plans and check
the weather before departing. Pilots
are also responsible for the safety of
all crew and passengers on board,
which is why you would hear them
make announcements requesting air
crew to take their seats before taking
off and landing.
So how do I become
a pilot?
1.
Take an
introductory flight
You may have your mind
set on being a pilot but you may not
have an idea of what it’s like. Some
academies offer short, introductory
flights where you can experience what
it feels like being at the cockpit. This
will give you an idea of what your
career will be like for, hopefully, many
years. If there aren’t any introductory
flights available, you could look for a
place with flight stimulators.
2.
Find a flight school
3.
Select a private
license type
Some airlines have their own
flight academies; a portion of
the studies may be subsidised but there
will be a bond to serve with the airlines
upon c