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How to pass your Private Pilot Checkride

  • February 8, 2023
Paul Wynns

Becoming a pilot is no small feat, and passing your private pilot checkride can be a nerve-wracking experience. But fear not, with the right preparation and mindset, you'll soar through the test like a pro! Here are some tips to make sure you're ready for take-off.

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  1. Study the material thoroughly: You don't want to be caught off guard by tricky questions like, "What do you do when a wing falls off?"* Make sure you have a solid understanding of the material covered in your flight training.

  2. Practice, practice, practice: Just like a stand-up comedian, the more you fly, the more comfortable and confident you'll become. Make sure you've logged the required number of flight hours before taking your checkride, and practice all of the maneuvers and procedures you'll be tested on.

  3. Review the checkride standards: The checkride is conducted in accordance with the Practical Test Standards (PTS) set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Review the PTS for your specific rating, and make sure you understand the standards you'll be held to during the checkride.

  4. Get a good night's sleep: The checkride can be a long and mentally taxing experience. Make sure you get a good night's sleep before the day of the checkride so you're well-rested and able to focus.

  5. Stay calm and focused: The checkride can be stressful, but try to stay calm and focused throughout the process. Remember that the examiner is there to evaluate your skills, not to put you through an aerial obstacle course.

  6. Be prepared for the oral exam: A significant part of the checkride is the oral exam, during which the examiner will ask you questions about your flight training, your knowledge of aerodynamics, weather and navigation, etc. Be prepared to answer those questions confidently, and be ready to explain the procedures you used during the flight.

  7. Be ready for the flight test: During the flight test, the examiner will evaluate your ability to fly the airplane safely and effectively. Make sure you're familiar with the maneuvers you'll be performing, and be prepared to demonstrate your skills as a pilot.

Flex Air's first-time checkride pass rate is above 90%, and the majority of our students are focused on landing great jobs as airline or corporate pilots through our Pilot Pathway and Department of Defense SkillBridge programs. We train like pros, and means our pilots get plenty of support for checkride preparation. Remember that becoming a great pilot isn't about having the right stuff, it's about finding the right crew to help you get there!

By following these tips, you'll be well-prepared for your private pilot checkride and on your way to earning your pilot's license. And remember, the sky's the limit!

 

* Ok that's not a fair question. But the most terrifying question you'll hear is, "Are you sure?"