✈️ Things Our Instructors Wish They Knew Before Starting Flight School

Starting flight school is one of the most exciting — and challenging — adventures you can take on. But as any pilot will tell you, there are a few things they wish they’d known before taking off on day one. To help you get a head start, we asked our instructors what advice they’d give their younger selves before beginning their aviation journey. Here’s what they said:

1. Get Your Writtens Done Early

Every instructor agreed on this one: don’t put off your written exams. Getting your FAA writtens out of the way early saves a huge amount of stress later on. When you’re deep in flight training, juggling ground lessons, maneuvers, and check ride prep, the last thing you’ll want to do is cram for a test. Pro tip: Schedule your written as soon as you start ground school — or even before you take your first flight lesson.

2. It Takes More Effort Than You Think

Flight school isn’t just fun rides above the clouds. It’s hard work — both mentally and physically. You’ll have early mornings, weather delays, and times when progress feels slow. But the payoff is worth it.Our instructors say consistency is key: show up prepared, study between flights, and ask questions constantly. Aviation rewards those who stay determined.

3. Prepare for a Huge Knowledge Intake

From aerodynamics and weather to navigation and airspace, you’ll be learning a lot. It’s like drinking from a firehose at first, but it gets easier as concepts start connecting.Don’t be discouraged if you don’t understand everything immediately — no one does. Building aviation knowledge is a marathon, not a sprint.

4. Understand the Process of Flight School

Many new students underestimate how structured the training process is. You’ll move through specific stages: pre-solo, cross-country, instrument, and beyond — each with its own milestones and check rides. Knowing what to expect helps you stay focused and track your progress. Talk with your instructor early about your training timeline and set realistic goals.

5. The Aviation Community Is Tight-Knit

One of the best parts about flight training? The people. Pilots tend to stick together — and that’s a good thing. Networking, mentorship, and camaraderie are huge in aviation.The friends you make during training might become your colleagues, copilots, or lifelong supporters down the line. Get involved, ask for advice, and pay it forward when you can.

🛫 Final Thoughts

Flight school will challenge you, inspire you, and teach you lessons that go far beyond flying. It’s not always easy — but it’s always worth it.If you’re just starting out, take this advice to heart, stay curious, and remember: every pilot started where you are now.