The rewards are many

Even now, decades later, I recall vividly mixed feelings of apprehension, excitement, and opportunity when soloing a Waco UPF–7, an open-cockpit World War II trainer, which for me was a huge step up from the Aeronca 7AC Champion in my presolo training and my time in a 90-horsepower PA–18 Super Cub that resulted in certification as a private pilot. Aloft, tense but marveling at the view and impressed by the smoothness of the aircraft’s big radial engine, I was struck by the reality that only I could return the biplane taildragger safety to the ramp. No one would magically arrive to save my bacon. I alone needed to perform. Following what my CFI had taught and dealing with each element of the flight sequentially, I completed the solo successfully. That basic approach—using past knowledge and developed skills to face new challenges in a logical fashion—served me well through the years, aloft and on the ground.

Self-awareness is one of many dimensions of fulfillment learning to fly provides. The fledgling aviator finds satisfaction from learning how to control a vehicle that initially seemed unruly. Flying challenges an individual’s hand-eye coordination in ways as demanding—possibly even more so—than other physical endeavors, thus accomplishing precision maneuvers to FAA standards produces a special feeling of wellness. Developing the smooth stick-hand of a good pilot is an accomplishment worth pursuing, yet there are additional, potentially more profound benefits. Achieving the realistic self-confidence that a difficult task can be mastered is particularly valuable for the psyche.

For those who crave clearing cognitive hurtles, flying rewards pilots who cultivate an organized, well-disciplined mental approach to problem solving. Developing the knowledge, skill, and ability to make sound decisions needed for safe and productive flight is immensely rewarding, especially when you realize that safety for you and your passengers rests in your hands, not the actions of others such as drivers of cars in the adjacent lane. More significant than accepting the responsibility of being pilot in command, however, is an attitude of personal accountability that applies to all of life’s endeavors. It is a most valuable mindset—one that learning to fly nurtures.

Becoming an aviator expands the mind and body for life beyond the cockpit. It prepares individuals to consider possible outcomes and contemplate alternatives. Aviators plan for the unexpected and learn to be prepared—valuable traits for life in general.

Aviation is an honest activity. Learning to fly embraces that honesty. Being a preceptive student of flight sharpens an individual’s approach to life’s challenges and provides confidence that success is achievable.

In somewhat of a paradox, aviation offers something to those individuals who seek predictability as well as those who crave the excitement of new experiences. Regarding predictability, gravity is always present; it is agnostic and effects all pilots in a similar fashion. The laws of aerodynamics are consistent, even though the factors affecting key parameters such as density altitude are many. Adherence to standard operating procedures produces desired results, as does a robust disciple to use checklists. Yet the atmosphere in which aircraft operate often changes rapidly and in ways that seem unpredictable. Thus, the need to consider variables, contemplate alternatives, and make wise decisions regarding how to apply physical skill and cognitive knowledge to achieve successful flight.

Flying always presents a challenge. Planning for possible outcomes is a technique pilots develop through flight training.

Techniques developed to become pilot-in-command apply to life outside the aircraft.Learning to fly is a broad and rewarding opportunity that encompasses more than becoming a certificated pilot. Pilots live in an environment where knowledge, skill, and decision-making determine success—a world where ongoing education and continuous improvement is rewarded. Aviation is not the only field where such attributes yield favorable results.

Succeeding in aviation cultivates mental and physical skills that are broadly applicable to many of life’s challenges.

Making the most of flight training

Students entering flight training are encouraged to embrace a holistic approach to their learning experience. Look for parallels between becoming a certificated pilot and being successful when tackling the terrestrial challenges of learning something new and potentially life expanding. Aviation training is much more than simply holding altitude during steep 360-degree turns or making a smooth landing. It’s about cultivating the inner resources to expand personal horizons. Techniques developed to become pilot-in-command apply to life outside the aircraft.

Flying is managing a vehicle to achieve productivity—be that productivity a trip to meet a friend or client in the next state or a local flight on a ceiling and visibility unlimited day to see spectacular vistas. It develops the self-confidence and self-discipline to know when to proceed, when to deviate, and when not to depart. It is developing the process of making good decisions based upon knowledge, demonstrated skills, and prudence. No rationalizations allowed.

Learning to fly is learning a lot about who you are and how you respond to challenges. It is about using your education and experience to be in control of yourself as well as the aircraft.

Enjoy your journey, student pilots. You are entering an arena that extends well beyond the aircraft and can be the start of a lifelong philosophy of time well spent.

John W. Olcott is an airline transport pilot, CFII, and remote pilot, as well as former president of the National Business Aviation Association.