Flying is a great way to see new places and explore different cultures. However, if you’re new to flying lessons or have never done it before, there are likely some challenges that you haven’t considered.
Here are five of the most common ones:
5 Common Challenges With Flying Lessons
Anxiety about flying:
Anxiety about flying can be a big deterrent. If you’re struggling with anxiety in general, flying may be even more difficult for you. You’ll probably feel on edge the entire time and won’t enjoy your experience at all.
Many people become afraid to fly after experiencing one or more frightening incidents while on board an airplane. This fear can prevent them from ever learning how to fly safely. It is our anticipation of fear that causes us to feel anxious. You’ll be tricked by anxiety into believing you’re in danger even though you’re completely safe. Even though your instincts will constantly tell you to stay away from these situations, doing so will only make your anxiety worse.
Navigation challenges:
When you are looking to take your flying skills to the next level, it is important that you have a clear plan for navigating difficult situations. Flying lessons can teach you how to fly in all directions, but they won’t prepare you for every possible emergency.
Here are a few common navigation challenges that students may not expect:
- Being low on fuel
- Stranded in bad weather
- Lost or damaged aircraft
- Emergencies during flight
Difficult to find a reputable instructor:
It can be difficult to find a good instructor who meets all of our requirements – but it’s even harder to find one who we can trust. That’s why it’s important to do some research before signing up for any flying lessons.
Here are 4 ways to help you find a reputable and safe flying instructor:
- Check their training and certification credentials.
- Ask for references.
- Do an online search first.
- Get involved with online forums devoted specifically to piloting topics.
Disruptive weather conditions:
Flying during disruptive weather conditions can be a challenging task. However, with the right preparations and awareness, you can make it through any storm unscathed! Here are some tips to help you stay safe during severe weather:
- Stay up-to-date on the latest forecast information. Know what type of weather is expected and plan your route accordingly. Update your flight plan if necessary.
- Make sure all equipment is in working order and properly packed. Bring enough supplies for the duration of your trip, including food and water for emergencies.
- Dress appropriately for the temperature conditions. Wear layers so that you can adjust clothing as needed, and prepare for wind chill factors below freezing degrees Fahrenheit.
- Allow time for unexpected delays or cancellations due to extreme weather conditions. Plan ahead by packing an emergency bag with essentials like medication, money, ID, transportation, maps, etc. If forced to land outside of scheduled airspace or in uncharted territory (that happens occasionally), seek local advice before continuing to your destination.
Financial challenges:
The cost of flying lessons has been on the rise for a few years now, and it looks like there is no end in sight. In fact, recent reports suggest that the price of private pilot licenses will increase by as much as 50 percent over the next five years.
What accounts for this sudden uptick in prices?
There are many factors at play here, but one major factor is the soaring costs associated with aviation technology.
For example, fuel prices have increased dramatically over the past several years due to global shortages. This means that not only do flying lessons require more money upfront (to cover expenses such as airport parking and rentals), but they also come with an ongoing fee every time you fly – even if you don’t use your license!
Moreover, airlines have begun charging higher rates for larger aircraft. This means that smaller operators who rely on smaller aircraft are facing increasing competition from bigger companies who can afford to pay higher fees.
How to overcome these challenges and feel confident when flying
Flying is an amazing experience, but with the right preparation and attitude, it can be exciting too!
Here are some tips to help make flying less of a challenge and more of an enjoyable experience:
- Make sure you have all the required documents ready. This includes your passport, visa, boarding pass, and any other relevant documentation.
- Be prepared for unexpected situations. Don’t panic and always ask for clarification if you aren’t certain about something.
- Practice deep breathing exercises before takeoff and during turbulence (this will help calm anxiety).
Flying should never feel like a trial or obstacle course. Instead, it should be an opportunity to enjoy views unobstructed by clouds or buildings.
Bottom Line
Flying lessons can be a great way to learn how to fly, and they’re also an affordable way to get started. However, there are several challenges that may crop up during the flight training that you may not have considered.
Above mentioned were a few common fly lesson challenges that every candidate undergoes.