Eating before flight training

[777Pilot]

In initial flight training for the Private license, when considering meals for breakfast and lunch, what are the best types of foods to consume to increase concentration level and physical stamina - particularly during the early morning and late afternoon flight schedules?

Also, is there a rule of thumb as to how soon one should go up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

 

[Chief Captain]

Before my very first flight, I was told not to have a heavy meal. Just a bagel, or some fries. Anything like that - not too much and not too heavy. I actually can't fly light aircraft on an empty stomach, or I'll want to puke- big jets are fine though.

In general, complex acrbohydrates (like potatoes and other starchy foods) are great for long term energy release- like a slow flame. Simple sugars (like chocolate bars and energy drinks) are great for short term energy supply- like a small explosion.

 

[PGT]

I didn't really follow a schedule of eating, I just flew. The summer heat and instruction just wore me out, I took naps after every single lesson.

 

[Mad Doggy Dog]

In initial flight training for the Private license, when considering meals for breakfast and lunch, what are the best types of foods to consume to increase concentration level and physical stamina - particularly during the early morning and late afternoon flight schedules?

Also, is there a rule of thumb as to how soon one should go up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

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I would recommend eating the following:

bananas
3 cups of expresso
high fiber cereal
haggis
fried tofu
sausage
onions
lutefisk
protien shake
jalapenos
slimfast
refried beans
metamucil


And whatever you do, absolutely positively do not light a match in the cockpit due to explosion hazard. And wear depends undergarments.

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OK,

I am joking.

The above meal would be very.........farty.



Besides, if you are going to become a pro pilot, get used to not eating.

Unless you have a strong union at your carrier..............strong enough so you can confidently tell the cheif pilot to pound sand when you delay the flight to eat in the interest of safety.

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Try complex carbs like oatmeal. Maybe some protien too, like eggs.

But bananas are real easy to barf out.............if you have to.

 

[My Flight Surgeon]

Like any other time, eat what you want in moderation.

 

[ZachH]

This is what i drink before a lot of training flights, really helps for 3 or 4 hours. I notice improved flying and learning.

 

[777Pilot]

In initial flight training for the Private license, when considering meals for breakfast and lunch, what are the best types of foods to consume to increase concentration level and physical stamina - particularly during the early morning and late afternoon flight schedules?

Also, is there a rule of thumb as to how soon one should go up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

Is there a rule of thumb as to how long one should wait before going up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

 

[My Flight Surgeon]

It is individual. Depends on how you tolerate a little turbulence and food.

 

[Maurus]

It isn't like swimming where you will cramp up if you go flying too early. The amount of time to wait changes with each person. Depending on what I eat, I may have to a wait a while. Greasy foods are so good, but don't tend to sit well...