Guard Aviation : Learn To Fly
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why would I want to learn to fly?
Some fly professionally, some fly for fun, and many fly for both. William Langewiesche
put it the best when he said: "How can you not fly when you live in a time in
history when you can fly?"
How high can I fly?
Most general aviation aircraft (GA) are capable of attaining a maximum altitude
of 13 to 20 thousand feet. Due to oxygen requirements, most GA pilots fly between
3 and 12 thousand feet.
How long can I fly?
The average general aviation plane has a fuel capacity of 5 hours. Non-powered
aircraft such as gliders, hang gliders, and paragliders are limited by atmospheric
conditions and pilot skill; it is possible to fly for more than 10 hours in such
aircraft.
Is there an age requirement?
The FAA requires that you are at least 16 years old to fly solo in an airplane and
at least 17 years old to obtain your private pilot certificate. You may begin flying lessons
if you are younger than 16. There is no upper age limit.
Do you wear parachutes?
No. Parachutes are not required and are not used for ordinary flight in airplanes.
Parachutes are worn, and required, for aerobatic flying. Hang glider and paraglider
pilots fly with reserve parachutes.
Can I fly into clouds?
No. As a private pilot, you may not fly into or near clouds. If
you are interested in learning how to fly in clouds, you should seek
additional training and add an instrument rating to your private pilot
certificate.
Your instrument training and rating will significantly add to your confidence,
skill, and safety as a private pilot. Your insurance rates will probably decrease and
your enjoyment and flexibility will increase because you will be able to fly in a
wider variety of weather conditions.
I wear glasses. Is that ok?
Wearing glasses does not normally interfere with a pilot's ability to
obtain the FAA medical certificate required to fly airplanes.
The FAA grants medical certificates with limitations or waivers depending on
the condition. Color blindness is a common example. Other examples are
deafness, missing a limb, and loss of an eye. If you are concerned about your
eligibility, obtain your aviation medical before you begin flying lessons.
What if I get motion sick? Can I still learn to fly airplanes?
There are several factors which influence motion sickness. Familiarity and
comfort with your surroundings is just one of them. In the beginning,
your lessons will be short. If you begin to feel as if you are not having
fun anymore, cut the lesson short and stop for that day. Your comfort
will grow with your experience.
How will the airplane fly if the engine stops working?
Catastrophic engine failure is a rare occurrence in a well
maintained aircraft. However, training for this unlikely event will be an important part
of your safety training and you will practice the "power off glide" and "forced landing"
maneuvers until you are proficient and confident with them.