An Introduction to Flying

An Introduction to Flying By Jonathan Ng

To become a visual flight rules (VFR) pilot, one must be physically fit and be of sound mind, hold a current medical and valid license and be confident enough to take to the skies. Knowing the regulations and relevant flying knowledge goes a long way in your own flying as well as improving aviation safety.

VFR flights can be categorized in a few types: traffic pattern (circuits), general flying and cross country training (navigation). They can also be carried out for commercial purposes, such as aerial work (surveying, photography, etc), charters or the transport of people and cargo from places to places, etc.

It is good to start flying on a simple single-engined aircraft, such as the Cessna 152 or 172, or the Piper Warrior before progressing to twin-engined aircraft and thereafter to jet-engined aircrafts. One should sign up with a established flying club for flying lessons with a qualified instructor before attempting to fly solo (by oneself).

While flying, there are many rules to adhere to, for example:

1) One should not, at all times, fly into cloud and always remain in VMC (visual meterological conditions).

2) When in danger of head-on collision with another aircraft, both aircraft should turn to the right.

3) One should not overstress the structural integrity of the aircraft by attempting dangerous maneuvers and speeds that are beyond the safe limits of the aircraft.

4) The pilot must at all times keep a good lookout for other aircraft and know where he is.

These are just a few simple rules among the many more but following these few basic rules could save your life one day.