Private Pilot Ground School
This course will prepare students for the FAA Private Pilot written exam in addition to providing the key elements needed to begin flight training. Students will obtain a working knowledge of aerodynamics, radio communications, flight controls, aircraft systems, weight and balance and flight planning. Students will also become familiar with applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and National Weather Service products such as forecasts and pre-flight weather briefings and be able to recognize weather systems. Students will have the chance to plan a cross-country flight utilizing navigational skills, weather information, communication procedures, aircraft performance and aeronautical decision making. The FAA areas of emphasis will be discussed throughout the semester.
(A requirement that must be completed before taking this course.)
Upon successful completion of the course, the student should be able to:
- Utilize entire course content to pass the Private Pilot Written Knowledge exam administered by any Federal Aviation Administration authorized learning center.
- Investigate applicable portions of the Federal Aviation regulations including how they relate to private pilot privileges, limitations, and continuing education and flight operations including NTSB Part 830.
- Explore the applicable portions of the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM) and federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advisory circulars.
- Analyze all types of Visual Flight Rules (VFR) navigation charts including the following: pilotage, dead reckoning, navigation systems from original instruments to advanced electronics.
- Simulate proper radio communication procedures.
- Explore weather phenomena indicative to private pilots including: recognition of critical weather situations from the ground and in flight.
- Illustrate the use of aeronautical weather reports and forecasts.
- Explain operations including situational awareness, recognition and avoidance of wake turbulence and collision avoidance.
- Explore the effects of density altitude on takeoff/climb performance.
- Examine weight/balance calculations as they pertain to flight planning operations.
- Analyze principles of aerodynamics, powerplants, and aircraft systems.
- Examine thoroughly characteristics of stall awareness and spins including entry and recovery techniques.
- Examine aeronautical decision-making and judgement.
- Examine preflight duties including: runway lengths, takeoff and landing distance data, weather reports, required fuel for different types of flights and alternate planning if the flight cannot proceed as originally planned.
Currently no sections of this class are being offered.