I paused, thought of my own background, and proceeded to share some insights that seemed to register with the higher-time pilots in attendance. First, this student had it made compared to the way many of us learned to fly. He was a full-time student, attending a first-class university, combining flight training with a college degree. There isn't a much better place in the United States than Arizona to schedule flight training, since weather is rarely a factor. And, the spectacular scenery makes even a practice flight to a nearby airport a breathtaking experience. But the student was still very concerned about gaps of a week or two between lessons.
Recalling my days of learning to fly, I told him that many of us had stops and starts because we couldn't afford to fly regularly. I would max out my credit cards, take a month or two off, and then begin again. This cycle continued right through my instrument rating. But, in spite of this jerky training schedule, made worse by weather or CFI scheduling conflicts, I found great fulfillment in nonflying activities that continue to benefit me today. I went on to explain some of these to the student, who seemed to appreciate the advice.
Each of us wants to sound like the most professional airline pilot when we are using the radio, and somehow, when we key the microphone, every one of us finds our voice dropping an octave as we give our impression of a senior airline captain. But more important than our tone of voice is what we say and how we say it. Sure, the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) gives suggested phraseology, but in my off-flying times, listening to a handheld radio was my best instructor. One can spend hours listening to the best and the worst radio communications, and noting those that sound professional, match the AIM, and get the job done efficiently. Practice out loud, catch the mistakes, anticipate the controller's next instructions-there is absolutely no need to be in an airplane to do this. Today, with the Internet, there are Web sites that allow you to listen to busy approach controls and towers. There is a tremendous amount to be gained by listening to professionals communicating in a busy environment.
Flight planning can also be a beneficial nonflying activity. I have probably planned triple the flights that I have actually made, and none was a waste of time. A 1970 photograph shows a string of taped-together sectionals hanging from the drapery rod of my living room, depicting a flight from California to Alaska. I finally made that trip 22 years later, and the prior planning was useful. Get the weather for these fantasy trips, figure the winds, and develop techniques for planning flights in areas that are unfamiliar to you. The preflight planning process has become almost as rewarding to me as the flight itself.
From the most inexpensive flight simulation software to high-end products, the personal computer provides hours of training opportunities. Learning navigation, using VOR radials, cross-checking positions, and other tasks are all made easier at your computer. You can practice without having to fly the airplane at the same time. That's why these part-task training devices have become so popular. I have found that there is no better way than running these simulations to work out questions I have after a flight or procedures that I might use on an upcoming flight.
Don't overlook the academic learning required to advance as a pilot. Let's say you've passed the private pilot written exam but haven't taken the oral and practical tests. There's no reason you can't use nonflying time to study for the instrument written. Even if you don't plan to earn this rating, the knowledge you will gain is applicable to all flying.
AOPA Online (www.aopa.org ) contains a wealth of information that will help you pass the time when you are unable to fly. Should questions arise, members have access to our technical specialists with a toll-free telephone call (800/USA-AOPA).
The next time weather scrubs a lesson, your CFI cancels, or you just can't afford to fly, there are many ways to continue to learn and build for the next left-seat experience.
