Becoming a Private Pilot

These resources will help you progress in your journey to become a private pilot. If you feel stuck, confused, or discouraged, I’m happy to help. Reach out any time.

Books

• Cleared for the Option: A Year Learning to Fly The journey of a midlife student pilot from his first discovery flight through his checkride.
• Skyfaring: A Journey with a Pilot An inspirational memoir of seeing the world from a pilot’s perspective.
• Say Again, Please: A Pilot’s Guide to Radio Communications Great introduction to radio communications in controlled airspace.

Podcasts

• Opposing Bases An airline pilot and an air traffic controller talk about real-world events and advice for being successful in controlled airspace.
• Midlife Pilot Podcast Three friends discuss how to be a successful pilot, from your first lessons to planning cross-country trips.
• VSL Aviation Lessons about aviation including checkride preparation from DPE Seth Lake.

Online Courses

• The Finer Points Jason Miller’s well-known online ground school covers private pilot, instrument rating, and advanced training.