Are you interested in flying but you do not have the time and the money to make your dream of being a pilot come true? Becoming a pilot can be tough, with high instruction fees, gas prices on the rise and costly maintenance charges that lessons require. However, if you still want to be a pilot, then it is certainly not impossible. With some research and planning, you too can be a pilot!
Research
There are many web sites, text books and courses available for pilots online. It’s a good idea to learn as much as you can about the basic of flying before going for full instruction at a flight school.
Lessons & Instruction
You can do your theoretical and technical learning at home, online, the library or anywhere, but you need hands on training as well and for that you need to enroll yourself in a training session at a flight school or airport. There are many small airports in rural areas that provide you good training experience at reasonable rates. Since the cost for instruction can reach thousands of dollars, often anywhere from 8-10 thousand dollars, it’s important to save up and make sure you have enough money to finish the training that you started.
Become a Member of An Aviation Community
Become a part of the aviation world. Pay regular visits to web sites, blogs and take part in discussions. Try being a member of Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and learn about the most important matters influencing the flying community today. Get caught up with the Experimental Aviation Association (EAA), this is a superb resource for providing knowledge on home built aircraft and experimental aircraft. There may also be a local flying club around that is available to join. By meeting and talking with current pilots, fellow students and other enthusiasts, you will be able to ask them questions and learn from their experiences. When you socialize with other aviation enthusiasts you will learn more and may even get more employment opportunities.
Flight Simulators
Most flight schools and instructors will book you time with a flight simulator. These high tech computers or machines are a crucial component of any flying enthusiasts learning. With a flight simulator, you can literally practice take-off and landing, as well as flying without the danger or cost of practicing in a real plane.
Purchasing a Plane
Most people will not be able to purchase their own aircraft, least of all a new or modern one. However, there are often good deals to be had on older aircraft models. These aircraft may need some TLC or minor repairs, but this is also a good chance for you to get to know another aspect of flying, which is repair and maintenance of your own aircraft.
