I'm finally a private pilot!

ItsJames2011

ItsJames2011

Well-Known Member
From the day that I took my first scenic flight as a child, I knew I wanted to be a private pilot. 27 years, $10,000 and 43.6 hours later I passed my private pilot checkride today! I know that's probably not big news around here but I'm just itching to share it with somebody who knows what it's like.

With that said, I am looking for some advice as to what pitfalls to avoid to continue to be a good safe pilot that lives to a ripe old age.

Thanks!
James
 
27 years....that's some serious persistence. Congrats!

It may be cliche, but never stop learning. Education will go a long way to avoiding pitfalls. Take time to review things you've already learned.
 
ItsJames2011 said:
I know that's probably not big news around here but I'm just itching to share it with somebody who knows what it's like.

With that said, I am looking for some advice as to what pitfalls to avoid to continue to be a good safe pilot that lives to a ripe old age.

Thanks!
James
Click to expand...

Don't be ridiculous. It is always huge news when someone crosses such a huge milestone! Congratulations.

As far as pitfalls go, fly as much as you can, since that will keep your skills sharp. Don't be afraid to stretch your limits, so you gain experience, but you have to do so within reason, especially early on. Don't fly into IMC until you get an instrument ticket!
 
Congrats!

Just as they say "fitness is not a destination, it's a way of life", the same can be said for aviation.

Being an aviator (private pilot) is not a destination, it's a way of life. Continue to sharpen your skills, stay up-to-date on regulations and the latest safety trends. Continually seek out the advice, training, and expertise of a current and competent CFI to hone in your skills. Challenge yourself to add additional ratings down the road.

Have fun.
 
Yes exactly as Houston said! I might embarrass myself by saying this but every milestone in this profession is a worth posting about here. Be it your first hour, first solo, first bust first NJC first whatever (with in legal reason of course).

Oh for those that roll their eyes thinking that it's some guy that passed. Well there is this wonderful place for peeps like you. It's called APC.

Second this is NOT a hobby. Read books, go to a few FAA meetings and build those flight skills in short stay thirsty.
 
Got my ticket March 24, 1999. It is still a huge day for me. As time and money allow, add your ifr, then your commercial. Just to keep learning. Every CFI will give you valuable perspective. Then you can pick and choose your style from a lot of options. To stop learning now and just going with what you know would be a very bad idea.
 
Congrats! It certainly is a big event for any pilot. Hope to be posting that within the next couple of years too after I am done with this law school, passing the bar, finding a job thing. :bang:
 
Thanks for all of the advice and warm welcomes! First thing Monday I start my insturment training at the local 141 school. My ultimate goal is to have my CFI in the next 12 - 18 months.
 
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