You’ve done your basic pilot training and are qualified to fly under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). It’s an incredible feeling having the ability to fly yourself, whether it’s a cross-country trip or just completing circuits. Nothing ruins that feeling more though, than when you get to the airstrip to find low clouds or unsatisfactory visibility. This is where Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flying comes in, allowing pilots to safely take to the skies, even in adverse weather conditions.
The key to IFR flying, as the name suggests, is the reliance on our flight instruments instead of looking out the window to conduct a safe and successful flight. Following this method, pilots can safely traverse clouds, mist, fog, smoke, and precipitation and even fly at night. Flying under Instrument Flight Rules is a liberating feeling. It’s also a key rating to obtain if you’re looking to pursue a career in aviation. So, what does Instrument Flight Training involve?
Different Ratings, Different Needs
There are actually two types of IFR rating: the Private Instrument Flight Rules (PIFR) rating and the Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR). Both allow pilots to operate under Instrument Flight Rules, with slightly different conditions depending on whether you’re intending to fly privately in a single-engine aircraft or something larger. An IFR rating will train you to operate an aircraft solely on its instruments, be it analogue or modern avionics. As you likely already know, your instruments are able to tell you your altitude, heading, speed, pitch, roll and more. This allows trained pilots to understand their position in the air, even when they cannot see. One key aspect of gaining an IFR rating is improving your ability to read and understand your instruments quickly. At Learn to Fly, this is done via classroom learning and simulator training, backed up with in-air sessions.
What Does IFR Involve?
It’s not just about quick and concise instrument readings though. In order to fly under Instrument Flight Rules, more effort needs to go into flight planning than under VFR. This includes route planning, fuel calculations, weather considerations and more to ensure that your flight is safe and that you are able to remain on course, even without the ability to see out the windows. Instrument rating training teaches pilots how to do these things to a higher level, ensuring they’re fully prepared for IFR conditions and whatever they may encounter on an IFR route. Not only is this necessary information for IFR flying, but it’s also transferrable to your VFR flying practices. IFR training makes you a better all-round pilot.
Another key aspect of gaining an IFR rating is refining communication with ATC. Get ready to practice your calls, IFR flying requires a lot of contact with ATC when in controlled airspace. ATC will provide separation guidelines from obstacles and other aircraft while flying IFR. It’s important to be adept at communicating with ATC to make the necessary adjustments to stay clear of obstacles, given that you are often unable to see these obstacles yourself.
Is IFR Flying Safe?
You may think that operating an aeroplane under Instrument Flight Rules sounds more dangerous than VFR flying. This is not necessarily the case. IFR flying is incredibly safe, as it removes an element of human error by relying on ATC to provide separation. It also forces pilots to operate more pre-planned, calculated, and therefore safer. Completing instrument rating training also has a positive impact on the general skills of a pilot. IFR training improves both flying and non-flying skills in preparation for the higher level of operation required for IFR flying.
Where Can I Learn More?
At Learn to Fly, we offer both Private Instrument Flight Rules (PIFR) and Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR) courses. You can complete either course in your choice of multiple Cessna, Diamond and Piper aircraft, depending on your needs. In-air training is complemented by theory work, as well as time in our state-of-the-art flying simulators. Our experienced instructors are friendly, knowledgeable and always ready to help you to become the best pilot you can be.
We are able to tailor a training package to suit your flying goals, offering you the best possible outcome for completing your training in a timely, cost-effective manner. No matter where you’re trying to go with your journey as a pilot, Learn to Fly will be able to get you there.
If you’re interested in learning more about our instrument flight training courses, check out our course information for Private Instrument Flight Rules (PIFR) and Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR) courses.
Pilot training courses have developed significantly over the years. There was a time when learning to become a pilot simply involved building your own aircraft and figuring out how to keep it in the air. Thankfully, these Wild West days are behind us!
Today’s flight training syllabus is highly regulated and standardised. Immense amounts of research and review have gone into creating a syllabus that equips a student pilot with all the knowledge required to safely and successfully operate an aircraft. Still, we live in a time of rapid technological advancement. Every year seems to come great leaps forward in technology, both in the aviation industry and beyond.
At Learn To Fly, we pride ourselves on staying on the cutting edge of technological advancement. Adopting and implementing modern technology is important to us. It gives our students a strong head start in their budding aviation careers. If you’re looking to become an airline pilot in Australia, you must have a strong familiarisation with the modern technology found within the industry. Let’s look at some of the groundbreaking technology we incorporate in our pilot training courses.
Flight Simulators in Pilot Training Courses
Flight simulation forms an important part of Learn To Fly’s training model. Maintaining a modern, up-to-date simulation offering is extremely beneficial in a training environment. Not only does it offer students a cost-effective training method, it allows for guaranteed training, regardless of the weather. Your training can still progress if you arrive at the airfield to find unfavourable weather conditions.
Flight simulation has come a long way in recent years. Simulators are capable of producing true-to-life simulations of real aircraft, real locations, real weather events and real scenarios. Our impressive on-site simulator fleet includes state-of-the-art Alsim AL42 (Diamond DA42) and TRC472 (Cessna 172) full cockpit synthetic trainers, as well as our fully immersive X-plane simulator with Garmin instrumentation and Virtual-Fly controls.
For airline hopefuls, Learn To Fly has partnered with Flight Experience Melbourne to offer training in their Boeing-endorsed B737-800 simulator.
Learn To Fly is proud to maintain one of the widest ranges of flight simulation offerings to student pilots. If you’re looking for a school that can offer continual training at an affordable price, you’re in the right place.
Advanced Avionics
Of course, simulation can only take a student so far. Real-world experience is vital to training competent pilots. Our fleet of aircraft are equipped with a varying range of avionics, from the traditional ‘six-pack’ to modern, full-glass configurations. Two of our aircraft, the Diamond DA40 and DA42, feature cutting-edge Garmin G1000 full-glass avionics. No matter which of our many pilot training courses you’re looking to undertake, you can be confident that you’ll be learning on a full suite of avionics, equipping you well for your flying future.
We believe in the importance of a well-rounded training experience. Training on modern avionics that a graduate would expect to see in the industry is an integral part of this. Because of this, we are continually assessing our fleet to ensure our avionics offerings are up-to-date and of a standard students would expect when working in aviation.
Continual Advancement
At Learn To Fly, we recognise the importance of continual advancement. As a result, we strive to incorporate modern technology across our flight training methods.
Aviation is an ever-evolving field, with technological advancements occurring at a rapid pace. To produce well-prepared and adaptive pilots, Learn To Fly must stay at the forefront of these changes. Embracing cutting-edge technology ensures that students are trained on the most up-to-date equipment and systems, enhancing their competence and employability.
Moreover, modern technology enhances safety in aviation. Incorporating advanced flight simulators, modern avionics, cutting-edge weather tracking, and more into the training program enables students to develop critical decision-making skills in a controlled environment, reducing the likelihood of accidents and mishaps in real flight situations.
By adopting a continually advancing approach, Learn To Fly has established itself as a beacon for aspiring pilots seeking the latest and best training methods. We are leaders in aviation education and have fostered a reputation for excellence that draws students and instructors alike.
The commitment of Learn To Fly to embracing modern technology in flight training is instrumental in ensuring the safety, competence, and competitiveness of its students. This approach not only benefits the individuals it educates but also contributes to the overall advancement of the aviation industry in Australia and beyond.
What Else Should I Know?
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career! So, please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor and your progression as a professional pilot.
Hello, I’m Coen Johnston, hailing from the small town of Swan Hill in country Victoria. Growing up with a natural curiosity and a thirst for adventure, I developed a fascination for aviation at a young age. Whether it was building model aircraft or embarking on gliding adventures, my interest in flying continually grew. My passion reached new heights when, at just 17 years old, I had the thrilling experience of flying solo in a Tecnam p2008. It was then that I knew I was destined to pursue a career in the sky.
Starting Off and Finding Learn To Fly Melbourne
At that stage of my life, financial constraints forced me to put my flying dreams on hold. Determined to continue my aviation journey, I completed Year 12 and embarked on a trade as a fitter-turner. I found work at Grizzly Engineering, where I built disc ploughs and honed my skills in manufacturing. As I saved money, my desire to take to the skies again only intensified. My persistence paid off when I discovered Learn To Fly Melbourne. At 19, I was thrilled to find that they were offering a scholarship for a Diploma in Aviation. I eagerly applied, and to my immense joy, I was awarded the scholarship. My flying dreams were once again within reach, thanks to Learn To Fly Melbourne.
Challenges, Triumphs, and The CPL Journey
With a renewed sense of purpose, I relocated to Townsville to embark on my flight training journey, piloting the Cessna 172 and working diligently towards my Private Pilot Licence (PPL) and Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) exams. Townsville became more than a training ground; it was a home where I made lasting friendships and explored some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes, including Palm Island, the Whitsundays, and Cairns.
Under the watchful eye of my instructor, Brenden Morgan, I faced rigorous tests like engine failures, partial panel flying, and navigation exercises that ranged from dirt strips to bustling international airports. These experiences not only honed my skills but prepared me for the multitude of challenging flights across Australia.
When it was time to finish my CPL, I mace the move to Melbourne, where I faced new obstacles. Transitioning to the Diamond DA40, I had to adapt to the frenetic Melbourne airspace, master the G1000-equipped aircraft, and learn from fresh faces among the instructors. My determination never wavered, and after approximately 25 hours of training in the DA40, I proudly achieved my CPL. My dream of becoming a commercial pilot was finally realized, and it was an unforgettable journey filled with growth, challenges, and triumphs.
Beyond the Licence: A Life in Aviation
My gratitude towards Learn To Fly Melbourne (LTF) is boundless. The support, mentorship, and professional training I received played an integral role in shaping my aviation career, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking to pursue their flying dreams. During my time with LTF, I not only broadened my knowledge of aviation but also learned valuable lessons about myself. My passion for flying propelled me forward, but there were undoubtedly moments when the journey became taxing. In those times, special instructors like Josh Best and David Marien were instrumental in guiding me, showing me how far I’d come and keeping my eyes on the destination.
However, as Covid-19 began to impact Australia and my financial resources dwindled after a year of intensive training, I found myself returning to my trade. Yet, the experiences and lessons I gained at Learn To Fly Melbourne remained with me, solidifying my commitment to aviation and my own personal growth.
The pull of aviation was impossible to resist, and I quickly found myself back in the cockpit, earning endorsements in Tailwheel, Low Level, and Retractable Undercarriage. My weekends were consumed with glider towing and ferrying aircraft for friends and brokers. It became an exhilarating and demanding period, filled with thousands of miles of flying, even as I continued to work full-time.
In just one year, I had the privilege of flying to every state and territory in Australia, piloting an array of aircraft ranging from the rugged Savannah bush plane to the sleek single-seat RV3. With around 380 hours under my belt, I knew it was time to take my career to the next level. I pursued and successfully obtained my multi-engine private instrument rating, a milestone that paved the way for my current role as a corporate pilot.
Today, I fly a Private G36 Bonanza for an Agricultural Engineering company in Northern NSW. My flying days are as varied as they are exciting, from delivering parts to remote farm strips for machinery repairs to transporting company directors to their desired destinations. With 560 total flight hours, I relish the experience of piloting a modern, fast aircraft and continue to sharpen my Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) skills. Every day is a new adventure, and my love for aviation continues to soar.
Future Aspirations and a Life Well Flown
Beyond aviation, I’m also passionate about mountain biking and spearfishing, my next goals include upgrading my instrument rating and pursuing my turbine endorsement. As I look to the future, I envision myself at the helm of a fast-turbine aircraft, embarking on thrilling adventures with friends to unexplored destinations.
The world of flying is a unique and rewarding pursuit, demanding a blend of diverse skills and unyielding focus. To anyone considering this path, I extend an enthusiastic encouragement. To learn how to fly is more than a mastery of an art; it is a journey of personal growth and fulfilment. Whether for a career or simply the joy of soaring through the skies, the adventure of aviation awaits, and it is an experience like no other.
Note: This blog has been created based on the personal experience of Coen Johnston, a CPL graduate from Learn To Fly Melbourne. If you’re interested in following a similar path, explore our flight training programs and apply for VET Student Loans for eligible diploma courses today.
What Else Should I Know?
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career, so please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog, we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor and your progression as a professional pilot.
There are any number of pathways a career as a pilot can take you, from private charters to commercial airlines, cargo flying, to patient transport. One key skill that all of these specialised fields have in common is clear and effective communication. No matter your career, a pilot must be able to quickly and clearly communicate with Air Traffic Control (ATC), ground operations and other pilots. Why is a strong level of English proficiency so important? Let’s find out!
Communication with ATC
As a professional pilot, you’re likely going to spend a good amount of time interacting with Air Traffic Control (ATC). In order to provide safe and efficient air traffic management, ATC relies on radio communication between controllers and pilots. It’s, therefore vitally important for pilots to have a strong grasp of both the English language and the standardised phraseology for operating in Australian airspace.
When communicating with ATC, pilots will need to provide information such as location coordinates, heading and route details and will be required to provide readbacks of important information such as:
ATC route clearance
En route holding instructions
Assigned runway altimeter settings
Radio and navigation aid frequency instructions
SSR codes
Level, direction of turn, heading and speed instructions
Adhering to the accepted standards for communicating with ATC makes Australian airspace some of the safest and most well-managed in the world. During your studies, and even as a fully qualified pilot, you should take some time to practice radio calls and readbacks. Not only will it make you a better pilot, you’ll be making the airspace a safer place.
Communication with Pilots
Being clear and concise is also vital when communicating with other pilots. During takeoff and landing procedures, it is imperative that other pilots in the area are aware of your position and your intention. This allows pilots to coordinate and maintain separation, avoiding potential collisions. In situations where confusion can lead to serious – and even fatal – accidents, it becomes paramount that your radio calls are clearly heard and easily understood.
Communication with Ground Ops
Depending on your career, communicating with additional ground operations may also play an important role in your day-to-day workload. Flying with organisations such as the Royal Flying Doctor Service will require you to communicate with various on-ground entities. At the RFDS, strong communication skills are needed to cooperate with Coordination Centres, as well as potentially communicate with people at destination sites, like farms and stations. While communication here may not be as rigid as required with ATC, a misheard word could mean the difference between a patient getting medical attention in time or not.
Understanding Nuances
Moreso than simply having a strong grasp of the English language, it is imperative that pilots understand the nuances between general English conversation and required phraseology when flying. For example, in day-to-day conversation, a person may say the number “270” as “two-seventy” or “two-seven-oh”. Pilots must say the same number as “two-seven-zero”, in order to avoid confusion. It is a rigid system that is vital for safe flying. Student pilots may feel overwhelmed when learning this specific way of speaking, but veteran pilots will tell you it becomes second nature eventually.
Undertaking a Diploma of Aviation (Commercial Pilot Licence – Aeroplane) will equip you with the vital language and phraseology skills you need. It will also teach you key piloting skills, including accurate flight planning, safe aircraft operation, operational decision making, enhanced navigation techniques and operation in complex airspace. Enjoy a flexible learning environment at our state-of-the-art training facility at Moorabbin Airport in Melbourne, and chase your aviation dreams!
What Else Should I Know?
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career, so please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor and your progression as a professional pilot.
We at Learn To Fly Melbourne are beyond excited to share a significant leap forward in our journey at Learn To Fly Melbourne. We have recently acquired a new 1,000 square meter building that will serve as both our headquarters and a dedicated Theory Centre. Located conveniently at Moorabbin Airport, Melbourne, this new building is a major stride in enhancing our flight training services in Melbourne.
Flight Training Headquarters & Theory Center
As a renowned flight training school in Melbourne, we have always emphasised creating the perfect environment for our trainees. This ranges from our specialised flight operations office to our cutting-edge simulation training facility. With the introduction of our new headquarters, we’re taking another giant leap towards enriching our comprehensive flight training program.
Our new Theory Center is designed to immerse students in a conducive learning environment, where they can delve deep into the complexities of aviation theory. It’s not just about the knowledge – it’s about understanding how it applies in the real world of aviation. Whether it’s meteorology, navigation, or the intricacies of aircraft systems, our theory classes are designed to create competent pilots who are ready to handle the unexpected.
Furthermore, this expansive building allows us room to extend our capabilities. More space means incorporating advanced technologies, diversifying resources, and optimising comfort to further improve our flight training services in Melbourne.
But we also understand that flight training isn’t just about mastering the technicalities – it’s about fostering a sense of community among aspiring pilots. Hence, our new headquarters includes spaces for relaxation, socialising, and networking, allowing our students to share their experiences, learn from each other, and build lasting bonds within the aviation community.
So, why wait? Come and join us at our newly minted headquarters and Theory Centre at Moorabbin Airport. As we continue to redefine flight training in Melbourne, we invite you to be part of the exciting journey at Learn To Fly Melbourne. Here, we are not just teaching you to fly; we are empowering you to soar. We can’t wait to welcome you to your new aviation home!
Are you ready to join the evolving world of aviation?
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career, so please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor and your progression as a professional pilot.
Do you think you need a Bachelor of Aviation to become a pilot? Think again. As an aspiring pilot, it’s your job to determine an aviation training pathway that will create the best pilot out of you. As a matter of fact, a Bachelor of Aviation is only one pathway to becoming a pilot – and most pilots will argue that there’s a better pathway. It’s also your job to take into consideration the quality of your training, the time it takes to become a pilot, and the financial cost of your pilot training. Once you’ve considered these factors, you’ll discover why you don’t need a Bachelor of Aviation to become a pilot. Let’s take a look at your options and what a better pathway might look like.
What’s Involved with a Bachelor of Aviation?
Most bachelor programs combine Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) training and Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating (MECIR) training with other university subjects. To become a pilot, you need a pilot licence, flying ratings, and endorsements. This means you can actually study the Diploma of Aviation to gain your CPL, and your Multi-Engine Command Instrument Rating. In some regards, it’s a bit like becoming a truck driver: you don’t need a Bachelor’s Degree, you just need your driver licence.
Why Not Get the Bachelor of Aviation?
A Bachelor of Aviation requires three years of aviation training due to the structure. However, a pilot licence doesn’t actually require this amount of time. After 1.5 years of training to gain your CPL and MECIR, you will still need to complete another 1.5 years of university to complete the course.
If your end goal is to be a commercial airline pilot, the big consideration for intake is not a Bachelor Degree – it’s your flying hours and experience. Airlines care about your combined hours, which aircraft you can fly, and your night and multi-engine hours. You only need to look at Qantas’ Pilots and Flight Operations webpage to see there is no requirement for a Bachelor’s Degree. There’s only a requirement for a minimum flying experience.
If you study for the Diploma of Aviation to get your CPL and MECIR, you can start looking for a job immediately. This means you’ll be building your flying experience instead of wasting an additional 1.5 years of study. After 3 years, you can be a far more appealing commercial pilot applicant by completing your Diploma in Aviation, compared to a Bachelor’s Degree.
There are better ways! This is why you don’t need a Bachelor of Aviation to become a pilot.
What If I Really Want a Bachelor’s Degree?
If you really want a Bachelor’s Degree, you should choose something other than aviation. A Bachelor’s in the fields of IT or accounting would be a smarter choice. If COVID or a significant economic downturn occurred, you would be qualified for other industries and it would protect you as a pilot.
What is the Suggested Pathway for Becoming a Pilot?
Now that we’ve covered why you don’t need a Bachelor of Aviation to become a pilot, let’s look at a better approach. There’s one clear pathway that provides the most efficient and effective aviation training. It’s an aviation pathway that many commercial airline pilots successfully followed, reducing the time it takes to become a pilot and reducing the overall cost of training. Here’s what that pathway looks like:
3. Study the Flight Instructor Rating. It is one of the easiest ways to get your first pilot job. As a flight instructor, you can build hours a lot quicker than other pilot jobs. (Optional, but highly recommended).
5. Study a Bachelor’s Degree in another field, if you really want to. However, do it once you have a job as a pilot so you can build your flying hours and study at the same time.
Are you ready to join the evolving world of aviation?
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career, so please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor and your progression as a professional pilot.
At Learn To Fly Melbourne, our Safety Management System (SMS) conducts incident analysis to identify developing trends as part of its safety risk management process.
Incident analysis carried out over the past 3 months (April to June 2023) has identified aircraft separation issues as an emerging risk.
Recorded Incidents Include:
Near collisions. Serious near collisions between aircraft, including instances where the crews of both aircraft did not see each other until moments before or after, the aircraft’s flight paths crossed.
Evasive manoeuvres. Pilots have to manoeuvre to maintain/increase separation from other aircraft not complying (or not able to comply) with traffic sequencing instructions.
Communication difficulties. Pilots are not able to comply with traffic sequencing instructions, not communicating their intentions or actions.
Operational non-compliance. Pilots inadvertently do not (or are not able) to follow/maintain traffic sequencing instructions (cutting aircraft off in the circuit).
Separation standards. Pilots not maintaining sufficient separation with preceding aircraft leading to forced go-arounds.
Frequency management errors. Pilots reporting ready on the wrong frequency leading to aircraft entering the wrong runway for take-off.
Approaches to the wrong runway. Pilots confusing Runway 13 Right (RWY 13R) for RWY 17R.
Runway incursions.
Air Traffic Control (ATC) errors. Controllers are late in passing traffic to aircraft and applying inadequate take-off and landing separation standards.
Contributing factors
The limitations of the see and avoid principle; The complexity of Moorabbin Airport’s runways and procedures; Traffic volumes at Moorabbin; Traffic density in the circuit; The pilot workload in the circuit; The number of student solo flights operating at Moorabbin with the minimum, but limited levels of experience; Human factors issues.
Countermeasures
Unless their aircraft is fitted with an ADSB transponder and traffic avoidance technology, pilots will have only the traditional collision avoidance techniques to maintain separation from and avoid other aircraft.
The following pilot skills and knowledge will reduce the risk of aircraft separation issues identified in LTF’s trend analysis.
Maintain an Effective Lookout
It’s crucial that pilots maintain an effective lookout, backed by a thorough understanding of the limitations of the “see and avoid” principle. An effective lookout involves a systematic visual scan of the surroundings, cognizant of factors that might diminish the chances of spotting and accurately interpreting visual targets.
An integral part of this is understanding the physiology of the eye. Visual acuity, for instance, which relates to how well one can see based on the size of and distance from a target, is a fundamental component. So too is one’s field of view and the limitations of peripheral vision, particularly when it comes to distinguishing between moving and stationary targets.
Adapting to shifting light levels (such as from cloud shadows) and the time it takes to refocus from internal to external cockpit references are other key considerations. This also includes understanding the impact of empty field myopia – the eye’s default focus distance when peering into a seemingly endless sky.
Keep in mind that an aircraft maintaining a constant speed on a converging flight path can appear stationary to the crew of both planes. This relative movement, or lack thereof, can skew perception. It’s also important to note that human perception can be limited due to factors like illness, medications, or fatigue.
Environmental conditions can also make visual identification challenging. This includes the clutter of visual background (like an aircraft below the horizon), light levels, sun glare, and the position and elevation of the sun compared to the visual target. Even the visibility offered by the atmosphere plays a role.
Aircraft ergonomics, such as door posts, window sizes, and frames, along with the presence of other crew members, can obstruct vision. The design of the aircraft’s airframe, including the nose’s position relative to attitude and high-wing versus low-wing designs, can also limit visibility.
Also, never underestimate the effect of more straightforward factors, like the contrast between the aircraft’s colour and its backdrop, and the cleanliness of the windscreen. Each of these aspects plays a crucial role in minimising the risk of aircraft separation issues. So, next time you’re in the cockpit, remember to incorporate these principles into your routine scanning techniques to ensure safe and effective flights.
Maintain a Listening Watch
Alerted see and avoid greatly increases the likelihood for pilots of seeing other aircraft. Accurate radio communication identifying an aircraft’s location, altitude and intentions improves the opportunity to see an aircraft by knowing where to look rather than having to scan the whole sky. Information about where to look for an aircraft and where it is going may be included in the following:
Aircraft position reports and readbacks;
Pilots are broadcasting their intentions;
ATC instructions;
ATC traffic advisories and alerts.
Effective Communication
In the dynamic environment of aviation, clear and concise communication of your actual position and intentions is paramount. However, situations may arise when things don’t go as planned – you may find yourself unable to comply with an instruction, not understanding an instruction, unable to spot the aircraft you should be following, or unable to accept an instruction. There could also be circumstances when it’s simply not safe to comply with an instruction.
In such instances, it’s essential to communicate your situation to Air Traffic Control (ATC) promptly and accurately. Whether it’s about your inability to adhere to a directive, uncertainty about an instruction, or your inability to visually locate another aircraft, clarity is key.
Do not hesitate to voice your situation. Even if you’re unsure about the standard phraseology, opt for plain English to convey your message. The goal is to ensure that ATC fully understands your situation and can provide the appropriate guidance or alternative instructions to help maintain the safety and efficiency of your flight operations. Remember, effective communication forms the backbone of aviation safety, especially when dealing with unexpected situations in the air.
Expect the Unexpected
Humans are prone to making errors, and pilots are human, so, inevitably, pilots of other aircraft will not operate their aircraft as expected on occasion. Provide a margin for safety so that errors made by pilots of other aircraft or deviations from expectations do not impact your aircraft’s safety.
Check for aircraft on approach to land when you are cleared for take-off by ATC.
Look out behind for aircraft that could turn early and cut you off on all legs of the circuit.
Be prepared to go around in case the landing aircraft ahead of you experiences difficulties.
Lookout for aircraft or vehicles along the full length of the runway.
Aircraft experiencing difficulties may not be able to operate as they normally would.
Flying predictably improves the opportunity for aircraft to see each other by improving situational awareness. Predictable flying allows other pilots to anticipate where to look to see your aircraft. Fly your aircraft using standard procedures to achieve expected performance, speeds, and the established circuit pattern.
Know Your Aerodrome Procedures
Know your aerodrome operating procedures and the procedures used by helicopters. An understanding of helicopter operating procedures will improve your ability to predict where they will be and your opportunity to see and avoid them.
Helicopter circuit operations occur on the eastern grass when runways 17/35 are operating. The helicopter circuit pattern is inside the aeroplane circuit at 700 feet and is normally close to the airport boundaries.
When runways 13/31 are in operation, helicopters conduct circuit operations from the western triangle, an area south and west of RWY 31 left. Their circuit pattern is on the inside of the aeroplane circuit at 700 feet.
Helicopters arriving from the east either overfly the landing runway threshold not below 500 feet or overfly midfield not below 700 feet for a short western circuit to the helicopter landing areas.
Know the Performance of Your Aircraft and Other Types
Helicopters arriving from the east either overfly the landing runway threshold not below 500
Knowing your aircraft’s performance capabilities compared to other aircraft will improve your ability to predict where they will be in relation to yours and improve your opportunity to see and avoid them.
Multi-engine aeroplanes practising simulated engine failures achieve degraded climb performance and may extend upwind and crosswind legs.
Discuss the performance of other types and categories of aircraft with your instructor.
Human Factors
Human performance limitations and normal human psychological predisposition make pilots prone to error. Human Factors (HF) is the broad study of the risk the human pilot human poses to aviation safety and strategies to minimise the risk. Some examples of HF that may diminish safety include:
Fixation;
Distraction;
Task saturation;
Stress and anxiety;
Hazardous personal attitudes;
Incorrect perceptions and biases;
Poor setting, poor priorities and decision-making;
Ineffective communication and relationships with others.
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASR) Part 61 (flight crew licencing) Manual of Standards (MOS) Non-Technical Standards (NTS-1 and NTS-2) describe non-technical (human or soft) skills pilots must acquire to minimise the risk of the negative implications of the human component of being a pilot. Things you can do to alleviate human error can include:
Develop your non-technical skills (situational awareness; assess situations and make decisions; set priorities and manage tasks; etc.);
Discuss HF with your instructor when planning flights;
Perform a rigorous IMSAFE assessment before flights;
Pre-flight preparation and planning help to reduce pilot workload and decrease the likelihood of errors.
Threat and Error Management
Other factors may adversely affect a pilot’s ability to operate safely in the vicinity of other aircraft. Threat and Error Management (TEM) is the process of anticipating factors that may impact the safety of a particular flight. The risk of Treats and Errors can be mitigated with careful pre-flight preparation.
The following threats can impose an additional layer of complexity and impact safety and the opportunity for errors during flight:
Fatigue;
Visibility;
Sun glare;
Light levels;
Traffic density;
Aircraft familiarity;
Recent experience;
Aircraft serviceability issues;
Feeling pressured (external and internal).
Knowing the principles and application of TEM and carefully assessing the likely TEM items that may affect your flight will decrease the likelihood of their having a negative impact on safety.
Your instructor will assist in assessing TEM as part of every solo flight authorisation.
Collision Risk in the Circuit
Collision risk increases in the circuit. The circuit funnelling aircraft to the runway threshold (a fixed point on the ground) in a common traffic pattern based on the runway. The consistency with which the circuit is flown increases the risk of collision between aircraft whose pilots have not seen each other.
Aircraft following you in the circuit likely represent the greater threat. Following aircraft, even slower ones can create a collision risk if they turn early (cut in) on a leg of the circuit. The following aircraft are difficult to maintain visual contact with due to their relative position and aircraft ergonomics. Look behind when down-wind and on base. Look for aircraft on a close or high base when established on final.
There are areas in the circuit with a higher risk of collision. On the final approach, the runway provides lateral and vertical visual cues to permit pilots to fly a more accurate and consistent flight path.
“Heat map” of Moorabbin Aerodrome showing circuit pattern traffic density for the first quarter of 2017. Note the density of aircraft concentrated on the final approaches.
On final, the opportunity to visually acquire aircraft on a converging flightpath will be diminished with the pilot’s attention being strongly focused on the runway to monitor the approach. Make a conscientious effort to look for traffic before joining the final and to scan for traffic throughout the approach to land.
Resources
Resources to assist pilots in developing knowledge to avoid aircraft separation issues.
Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) on Avoiding Collisions
Aviation theory and ground school involve your classroom time with an instructor to learn essential knowledge for flight training in Australia. Whilst you might think that theory is boring, it makes the flying part so much more fun and interesting. Throughout your aviation training, every flying lesson will begin in a classroom for a briefing on a theory application. Your time spent in the classroom will make you a better pilot in an aircraft. Let’s explore aviation theory and ground school so that you can understand how to establish essential knowledge for flight training in Australia.
What Is Aviation Theory and Ground School
Aviation theory is the science and textbook content for learning how to become a pilot. Some flight training schools separate ground schools from flight schools, but in Australia, we mostly consider them to be the same thing. In aviation ground school, you’ll study each component and milestone before undertaking practical experience in an aircraft.
The topics you’ll cover will typically include aerodynamics, air law, human factors, aviation instrumentation, weather, and so on.
The Importance of Theory in Flight Training
Every pilot decision and control input should be from the basis of the flight training. As humans, we have natural tendencies that can make us poor pilots. It’s in the theory and ground school that you’ll establish this knowledge and how to overcome these tendencies.
Whilst you might think that time in the cockpit is what builds a pilot, aviation theory and ground school is the actual foundation that pilots live upon. You build up practical experience in and around the aircraft, but this is only useful if you have the theory to apply.
Some very straightforward examples demonstrate the limitations of the human mind and how theory is fundamental to becoming a pilot. For instance, if you found yourself inverted in an aircraft, a common response is to pull back on the stick or yoke and do a half loop to recover. However, this is one of the riskiest manoeuvres you can undertake – particularly at low altitudes. The theory will teach you to turn off the autopilot, adjust power, unload the wings (push forward), roll, and recover to a climb. It sounds simple but is not naturally intuitive without theory and training, particularly in a moment of unexpected rush. Better yet, you won’t just be taught how to recover an aircraft – the theory and flight school will teach you how to prevent such things from occurring.
Yes, there are components of theory that you need to learn and not all of it will have you jumping out of your seat. However, the more you can absorb the better pilot you’ll become.
What Aspiring Pilots Can Hope to Learn
Given that aviation theory in ground, school teaches you essential knowledge for flight training in Australia, let’s take a look at the subjects. All Australian flight training and aviation licences (RPL, PPL, CPL) cover the following topics as a minimum:
Flight rules and air law
Aerodynamics
Meteorology
Navigation
Flight Planning
Power Plants
Aircraft Systems
Human Factors
That’s not all though. Within each of these subjects is a range of areas you’ll explore in your flight training course. After each major topic, you’ll then go through a review and then undertake an exam.
Aviation Theory Makes a Better Pilot
If you really want a Bachelor’s Degree, you should choose something other than aviation. A Bachelor’s in the fields of IT or accounting would be a smarter choice. If COVID or a significant economic downturn occurred, you would be qualified for other industries and it would protect you as a pilot.
What is the Suggested Pathway for Becoming a Pilot?
Learning aviation theory in ground school will make your time in the aircraft much more comprehensive and useful. That’s because you already have a fundamental understanding of what to expect and how to act before you step into the aircraft. The classroom theory and practical aircraft experience are both required to become a good pilot. You can’t be a pilot if you only complete one of them, as they work together to bond your understanding of theory and physical experience.
In a classroom environment, you don’t have the pressures of needing to fly a plane or navigate. You’re focused. That means that you are more able to comprehend and digest the information. Similarly, it means you are learning to work with your instructor and other students to master the theory behind aviation. For nearly every learning requirement in your flight training in Australia, you will first learn the fundamentals in the classroom. Following that, you’ll learn to apply the theory in the aircraft.
Considering the knowledge you cover in ground school, it’s easy to understand how it makes a better pilot. If you have never learnt about control surfaces and aircraft behaviour, do you really want to find out in the sky? Definitely not! The point is that you learn something, then apply it.
Ready To Start Ground School?
Now you know that aviation theory and ground school provide essential knowledge for flight training in Australia. It’s time to start training! Chat with one of our flight training specialists to get your pilot training off the ground. Email [email protected] or go to https://drift.me/learntofly/meeting to book a meeting and school tour.
What Else Should I Know?
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career! So, please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor and your progression as a professional pilot.
In the history of mankind, aircraft have achieved incredible engineering feats. High-speed flights, heavy payloads, and precise maneuvers are accomplished by modern aircraft with remarkable control. By capitalizing on specific forces, pilots harness the ability to propel aircraft through the sky in a controlled manner. The vast operational variety of aircraft designs today stems from their distinct aerodynamic, practical, or utility purposes, necessitating different approaches to managing flight principles. With this in mind, we can now work on our understanding of the basics of flight: how planes work and what makes them fly.
The Laws of Motion
To understand the flight of an aircraft, let’s first take a quick refresher on Newton’s three laws of motion. In short, the three laws of motion can be stated as follows:
1. If an object is not moving, it will not start moving by itself. If an object is moving, it will not stop or change direction unless something pushes it.
2. Objects will move farther and faster when they are pushed harder.
3. When an object is pushed in one direction, there is always an equal resistance in the opposite direction.
Now that we have these motion principles in mind, llet’s look at the Four Main Principles of Flight.
The Four Main Principles of Flight
To help you understand the basics of flight, let’s delve into flight principles. We can summarise airplane flight using four main principles: lift, weight, thrust, and drag. These principles represent opposing forces. Weight is the opposite of lift, while drag opposes thrust. Achieving a balance among these forces ensures successful flight. Now, let’s examine each of the four main flight principles in greater detail.
Lift
Lift is the force that pushes the aircraft upwards. The aircraft’s wings are designed to be an aerofoil, which means that the wing’s shape creates an aerodynamic reaction (lift). This component is especially important for flight, so we will cover this more in a moment.
Gravity (Weight)
Gravity is the opposing force to lift, which pushes an aircraft downwards. Gravity’s direction is not merely downward; it specifically points towards the center of the Earth. Additionally, gravity’s influence varies with an aircraft’s size or mass – larger aircraft experience a greater gravitational impact, necessitating more lift.
Thrust
Thrust propels the aircraft forward, differing from lift and gravitational pull as it involves the mechanical input of energy from an engine or turbine.
Drag
Drag opposes the aircraft’s motion, generated by frictional airflow over its surface, hindering flight. If drag has a factor of ‘1’, the aircraft requires more than a factor of ‘1’ in thrust energy to move forward. Air displacement causes the drag force, as the aircraft must push air aside, resulting in a reactionary force in accordance with Newton’s third law of motion.
Exceptions and Considerations to The Principles of Flight
Now that we’ve explained the principles and basics of flight, we know how an aircraft successfully moves through the sky. That being said, the relationship between these forces can be somewhat utilised in different ways.
Take a glider as an example. While it needs initial thrust and energy to reach altitude, it can sustain forward momentum for extended periods by employing various flight techniques to achieve a balance in the principles of flight. This involves utilizing thermals, leveraging gravitational pull for efficient lift, and minimizing drag to generate momentum. Another option is a hot air balloon, which employs thermal energy for lift and relies on wind for momentum.
Wing Design, Aerofoils & Aerodynamics
Although aerodynamics is a complex science, we can simplify the basics of flight for understanding. Aerofoils and wing designs play a crucial role. Thousands of wings, each designed as a different aerofoil, serve various purposes and adhere to distinct aerodynamic principles. Larger wings generate substantial lift, while smaller ones or those designed for high lift have higher drag. These principles are applied in STOL (short take-off or landing) aircraft.
If you can imagine a cross-section of a wing, most of them follow the same flight principle. That is, when air passes over the wing, the air above the wing travels faster and at a reduced pressure, and the air beneath at a slower pace and higher pressure. With low pressure above and high pressure beneath, naturally, there is a want for the wings of the aircraft to go up and equalise these air zones. Now, there is more than one way of explaining this – and it can become a widely-debated topic – but you can understand why the wing causes the aircraft to experience lift.
Control Surfaces and Aircraft Design
Once an aircraft has sufficient forward momentum to sustain the basics of flight, a pilot then has a variety of controls and control surfaces to enable the pilot to manipulate the aircraft’s motion. These controls involve rolls, yaw, and pitch.
1. Ailerons on the wings allow the pilot to ‘roll’ the aircraft left and right, which is useful for turning the aircraft around the front-to-back axis.
2. The rudder changes the yaw of the aircraft from side to side, which assists in rotating the aircraft around the vertical axis.
3. The elevator changes the pitch of the aircraft, up and down, around the side-to-side axis.
Aircraft also can feature additional control elements, such as flaps, to support controlled flight. Flaps, for example, increase the wings’ surface area to produce additional lift. This is useful for exercises like landing so that aircraft can touch down at slower speeds without gravitational forces overcoming flight.
And That’s How Planes Fly!
Congratulations! You now have a solid grasp of the fundamentals of flight, including how planes operate and the principles behind their ability to fly. If you desire a deeper understanding, the instructors at Learn To Fly Melbourne are eager to assist you and can even arrange a trial flight experience.
Are you ready to join the evolving world of aviation?
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career, so please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor and your progression as a professional pilot.
Transitioning from being a recreational pilot to becoming a professional pilot can be the dream for many. For some, this journey becomes apparent because they started flying purely for recreational reasons, but found it to be so exhilarating that it turned into a career aspiration. Others find themselves wanting to transition from being a recreational pilot to a professional pilot because they wanted to try recreational aviation before committing to the career move. Whatever reason you’re here, let’s talk through transitioning from recreational pilot to professional pilot.
What Type of Professional Pilots Are There?
There are two categories of professional pilots to cover here. The first professional pilot category is flying instructors. Professional flying instructors have completed their fundamental aviation training to qualify for their pilot licence. Furthermore, professional flying instructors have completed additional aviation training to become a Grade 1, Grade 2 or Grade 3 flying instructor. Each of these grades carries different privileges on what the instructor can oversee and sign-off.
If you’re looking to read more on becoming a professional flying instructor, we have put together a number of posts that tell you all about it:
The second category of professional pilots are commercial licenced pilots who are paid to fly aircraft in a variety of operations. This could include freight, passenger transport operations through a regional airline or an international airline, aerial observation pilots or more. We’ve written up a number of these career options in our post ‘A Guide To Professional Aviation Careers’.
What Are The Pathways To Transition From Recreational Pilot to Professional Pilot?
There are a number of ways you can become a professional pilot. If you’re looking to become a flying instructor, then the above posts are the best place to start. If you’re looking to become a commercial pilot who is paid for one of the many professional aviation careers that will become available to you, here are some pathways you can consider.
#1 Enjoy Commercial Aviation Training at an Aviation Flight School
If you’ve started training with a flight school, you can actually continue with the process. This can be with your current flight school or you’re able to transfer – Learn To Fly is accepting students all the time from a variety of backgrounds and experiences.
There are some significant benefits of doing it this way.Firstly, the training is usually less expensive that your other options. Secondly, your training will be based around your experience, background and competency. This means that your background and training will come directly into consideration for your aviation flight training, which saves you both time and money.
Additionally, you can have the opportunity to start working with your flight school as a flying instructor, which will help build your hours and provide an income. Many of the Learn To Fly instructors have also been students with us!
Some professional pilots may suggest that becoming a pilot through studying a diploma is a good option. This path has some positive aspects. For example, it aims to help you complete the syllabus and become a qualified commercial pilot. It also has a structured and routine approach similar to a university, which may appeal to some.
That being said, there are some downsides to consider, too. Most pilots who have gone down this path will also tell you it’s expensive. Many pilots finish with a significant debt. Secondly, there are absolutely no guarantees of employment when you’re complete. This means it might be tough paying off that debt for a while.
Depending on where you’re at with your recreational flying, you might not receive credit or Recognition for Prior Learning. This means that you might be starting again, even if you have some aviation training and experience under your belt.
With all of this in mind, there are some universities that have partnered with aviation training schools such as Learn To Fly to develop a commercial aviation training program that is very popular. For example, you can complete your Bachelor of Aviation through Learn To Fly, which is with Griffith University. This means that you’re undertaking a university course, but can have the benefits of a professional aviation training school and the potential employment opportunities and prospects that come with this.
#3 Aviation Academies
There are a number of aviation academies, largely run by airlines like Qantas. The upside is that it’s a valid and viable pathway to becoming a commercial pilot. The downsides are that it’s strictly limited for spaces and you often ‘owe’ the airlines a few years of your career. This is essentially the airline making sure they get their worth from you. A job isn’t guaranteed, either, so you can still carry a debt at the completion of your training. Similar to the university option, you’ll usually start the training from scratch and you may not receive full (or any) credits or Recognition for Prior Learning.
What Pathway Do I follow?
Only you can decide which pathway is best for you, transitioning from recreational pilot to professional pilot. However, at Learn To Fly, we have all the expertise you could need to help you answer it.
We’ve compiled a few useful posts that might help you out. Where ever you are on your aviation journey, the team at Learn To Fly Melbourne are here to help. We want you to pass your exams and have an excellent career, so please reach out if we can help support you through your course and studies!
Flight Instructor Training Endorsements – All You Need To Know In this blog we’ll outline the Flight Instructor Training Endorsements that are available. We’ll also guide you on how each of these endorsements can add value to your role as a Flight Instructor, and your progression as a professional pilot.
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