The 141 Private Pilot Tutorials in English are now available for free on SkyEagle Academy’s YouTube channel. This course was presented to a group of students in January 2020.

Student pilots who are well-prepared in theoretical knowledge can grasp the practical aspects of flight training more quickly and efficiently in the USA Aviation Academy. As a result, many of our courses are designed to vary in duration, such as the Professional Pilot course ranging from 6 to 8 months and the PPL course from 5 weeks to 3 months. By being well-prepared theoretically, you’ll spend less time at the Academy, which can lead to savings on tuition, living expenses, and overall costs of the educational process.

Self-preparation for pilot training is an integral and very important part of the learning process. This is particularly true for international students who travel to the USA to obtain a pilot’s license within a limited time and with limited resources.

Fortunately, the American flight training system is fully equipped with materials, books, applications, and software to enable flight academy students to thoroughly self-study all the theory and prepare independently for both the written test and the final exam. We are often asked how much it costs to become a pilot with no prior flying experience, and we have prepared these comprehensive materials so that a prospective pilot student can self-prepare at their convenience and subsequently master the theoretical and practical aspects of flying faster than the average student and to make the overall training more affordable and cost-effective.

We will provide you with a structured distance learning framework, which will equip you with the foundational knowledge necessary to begin your education at the Aviation Academy. Some of these materials will be mandatory reading, while others will be recommended to enhance your preparedness for achieving your future objectives.

Becoming a pilot, step-by-step guid, key knowledge and resources

Let’s begin by exploring the most popular aeronautical knowledge handbooks designed for beginners.

1. Begin with Basic Knowledge

The FAA has created excellent aeronautical handbooks that offer foundational knowledge. Additionally, downloading these resources is completely free.

Pilot Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (PHAK)

The “Pilot Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge” is the most popular resource for aspiring pilots starting with Private Pilot License, providing comprehensive information on a wide range of aviation topics. Published by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), this handbook covers the fundamental principles of aerodynamics, flight controls, systems, weather, navigation, and flight planning, among other topics. It serves as a foundational text for those preparing for FAA certification and is valued for its thorough explanations of the theoretical aspects of flying.

https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak

Airplane Flying Handbook

The “Airplane Flying Handbook” is another important publication from the FAA, which focuses more on the practical aspects of flying. It delves into the techniques and procedures for operating aircraft, including detailed discussions on takeoff, landing, and maneuvering under various conditions. This handbook is particularly useful for students seeking hands-on knowledge of flight operations, including instrument flight rules, cockpit management, and safety procedures. It’s designed to assist students in transitioning from theoretical knowledge to practical application, making it an indispensable guide for practical flight training.

https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/airplane_handbook

The FAA’s “Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge” and “Airplane Flying Handbook” are essential for student pilots, offering foundational knowledge and practical flying skills. Additionally, the Jeppesen Private Pilot Manual offers a different approach with detailed, scenario-based training, beneficial for comprehensive flight education.

2. Advance with Specialized Manuals

Jeppesen Private Pilot Textbook

Use the “Jeppesen Private Pilot Manual” for scenario-based training in a structured flight school program. This book focuses on practical flight training with detailed graphics and real-world scenarios, used mainly in structured flight school programs. 

https://shop.jeppesen.com/All-Products/Training/Private-pilot/Courseware-%26-Books/Private-Pilot-Textbook/p/10001360

3. Engage with Navigational and Flight Planning Tools

Pilots have access to a plethora of tools that make planning and executing flights more convenient and efficient. Differences may exist between countries, different aviation authorities, or due to individual preferences. Student pilots often look for easy-to-use apps that help them learn to fly. Good flight apps can make flying and learning much easier.

ForeFlight

The ForeFlight app, often ranked among the best iPad apps for a flight, is an indispensable tool for pilots, offering a comprehensive suite of features that streamline cross country flight planning, weather monitoring, and document management. This app provides detailed information on airports and navigational aids, as well as facilities overseen by aviation authorities, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and safety. Additionally, ForeFlight includes an electronic logbook that allows pilots to record and track their flight time accurately. This feature is particularly valuable for maintaining precise logs that are crucial for training, certification, and regulatory compliance. With its user-friendly interface and robust functionality, ForeFlight is a trusted resource for pilots seeking to optimize their flight operations. 

https://foreflight.com/

SkyVector

SkyVector is a free online flight planning tool that offers detailed aeronautical charts and real-time weather data. It allows pilots to easily plan routes and calculate distances and fuel requirements. With its user-friendly interface, SkyVector is widely used for pre-flight briefings and route planning by both professional pilots and aviation enthusiasts.

https://skyvector.com/

FlightAware

FlightAware is the world’s largest flight-tracking platform, offering real-time and historical flight data. It provides flight tracking services across a network of over 32,000 ground stations in more than 200 countries. FlightAware’s capabilities allow users to track flights, view live maps, check airport conditions, and receive alerts on flights and airport statuses. Ideal for both aviation professionals and enthusiasts, FlightAware combines high-quality data with user-friendly interfaces to deliver a reliable and informative flight-tracking experience.

https://flightaware.com/

AirNav

AirNav is an online resource that provides detailed information about airports, aviation fuel prices, and services for pilots and aviation professionals. It includes extensive data on over 20,000 airports worldwide, featuring details on runway specifications, navigation aids, and fixed base operators (FBOs). AirNav also offers up-to-date fuel pricing and a comprehensive directory of aviation services, making it a valuable tool for flight planning and operational support. The site is designed to assist pilots in ensuring safe and efficient flight operations by providing all necessary airport and navigational data in one convenient location.

https://www.airnav.com/

SkyDemon

SkyDemon is a leading European flight planning and navigation software that simplifies the planning of VFR flights. The application provides detailed aeronautical charts, comprehensive weather information, and intuitive routing features that are accessible both online and offline. The application helps pilots visualize complex airspace, plan and modify routes with ease, and provides real-time navigational aids during flight. Its user-friendly interface and detailed in-flight information, such as NOTAMs and airspace warnings, make it an indispensable tool for both novice and experienced pilots flying in Europe.

https://www.skydemon.aero/

FlightRadar24 

Flightradar24 is a global flight tracking service that provides real-time information about thousands of aircraft around the world. It combines data from several sources including ADS-B, MLAT, and radar data to show live aircraft positions on a detailed map. Application is widely used by both aviation professionals and enthusiasts to track flights, monitor aircraft movements, and study air traffic patterns globally. The platform also offers details on individual flights, such as altitude, speed, and aircraft type, making it a comprehensive resource for real-time aviation data.

https://www.flightradar24.com/

Garmin Pilot

Garmin Pilot subscription is specializing in GPS technology for automotive, aviation, marine, outdoor, and sports activities. In the aviation sector, Garmin offers a range of products including advanced avionics, GPS navigation systems, and integrated flight decks for cockpit enhancement. Their aviation solutions are designed to improve situational awareness and flight safety, featuring user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive functionality that cater to both professional and amateur aviators. Garmin’s commitment to innovation is evident in their continuous updates and expansions in their product offerings, aiming to provide the most reliable and efficient tools for navigation and communication.

https://www.garmin.com/en-US/aviation/garminpilot/overview/

4. Understand and Monitor Aviation Weather

Accurate meteorological data is important for pilots to make well-informed decisions during both the planning and execution phases of flight. This data enables pilots to evaluate how variations in wind, temperature, and visibility could influence critical flight parameters such as speed, fuel efficiency, and passenger comfort. Access to reliable weather information underpins safe and efficient flight operations, assisting pilots in navigating the complexities of changing atmospheric conditions.

Aviation Weather Center (AWC)

The Aviation Weather Center (AWC) website is a key resource provided by the National Weather Service. It offers important weather information for pilots and those involved in flight planning. The site includes up-to-date weather forecasts, observations, and advisories to help ensure safe and efficient flight operations. Features available are graphical forecasts, radar data, satellite images, and detailed analyses of severe weather conditions that could affect flying. The AWC is very useful for pilots, flight planners, and airlines to get real-time weather data and forecasts needed for planning and navigating flights.

https://aviationweather.gov/

Accuweather

The AccuWeather website provides detailed weather forecasts that are useful for everyone, including aviation professionals planning flights. It includes current weather conditions, long-term forecasts, and weather warnings to help users prepare for all types of weather. Additionally, the site offers specialized forecasts that are particularly relevant for aviation, such as turbulence and wind forecasts, ensuring pilots can plan safe and efficient routes. AccuWeather is known for its accurate predictions and is helpful for making informed decisions about flight schedules and operations based on the weather.

https://www.accuweather.com/

Windy

The Windy website provides detailed and interactive weather maps that are easy to use. It shows real-time information on wind, temperature, cloud cover, and other weather conditions. This makes it a great tool for anyone who needs to check the weather, including pilots and those planning outdoor activities. Windy’s maps can also show forecasts for rain, storms, and other important weather events, helping users plan ahead and make informed decisions based on weather patterns. It’s particularly useful for tracking weather changes that could affect flying conditions.

https://www.windy.com/

Zoom Earth

Zoom Earth acts like a captivating magic window, offering breathtaking views of our planet from space. Through this website, users can access detailed satellite imagery of Earth, allowing them to zoom in and explore their own neighborhoods or any corner of the globe. It’s not just about geography; it’s also an excellent resource for aviation enthusiasts, providing insights into terrain, landmarks, and even weather patterns.

https://zoom.earth/maps/satellite/

NASA Worldview

“Worldview” is a powerful tool developed by NASA for capturing high-resolution images of Earth from space. This online platform provides access to a vast collection of satellite images, enabling professionals in various fields, including aviation, to analyze and monitor our planet’s dynamic features with precision. Users can explore diverse geographic areas, observing landscapes, weather patterns, and environmental changes in detail.

https://worldview.earthdata.nasa.gov/

GOES Image Viewer

The NOAA’s GOES website serves as a platform for accessing real-time satellite imagery and data from the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellites (GOES). Tailored for professionals, including those in the aviation industry, this site offers a wealth of information essential for weather forecasting, monitoring atmospheric conditions, and assessing potential hazards such as storms and fog.

https://www.star.nesdis.noaa.gov/GOES/index.php

Skybrary

Skybrary is like an online library for aviation. It’s a website where you can find lots of information about flying planes safely. Pilots, air traffic controllers, and anyone interested in aviation can use it to learn about things like flight procedures, safety rules, and aircraft technology. It’s a great resource for understanding how planes work and how to make sure flights go smoothly. So, if you’re curious about aviation or want to learn more about flying, Skybrary is the place to go!

https://www.skybrary.aero/

5. Aviation English Proficiency Resources: Books, Audio, and Video Learning Tools

For pilots, proficiency in English and practical experience are key to a successful career in aviation. Improving your English is particularly important as aviation communication features rapid speech and specialized phrases used globally. By mastering these skills and utilizing recommended educational resources effectively, you’ll be better prepared to safely flights.

ICAO Documentation

The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) provides standards for aviation English, including a proficiency rating scale and recommended language practices. For pilots seeking to improve their English proficiency in line with ICAO standards, there are a lot of resources available in the World Wide Web.

People have different preferences for learning: some enjoy reading, others prefer watching videos, and some like listening to audio. Here are some recommendations for each type: books for readers, videos for visual learners, and audio for those who like to listen.

Key Focus Areas:

  • Radiotelephony Communication: Understanding and using standard aviation phraseology for radio communications between pilots and air traffic controllers.
  • Safety Procedures: Language related to safety briefings, emergency procedures, and safety checks.
  • Aircraft and Equipment: Vocabulary related to parts of an aircraft, instruments, and navigation equipment.
  • Meteorology: Terms and phrases for discussing weather conditions, forecasts, and their impact on flights.
  • Air Traffic Control (ATC) Communication: Phrases and protocols for interacting with ATC, including taxiing, takeoff, in-flight operations, and landing.

Books

Here are some useful books for pilots aiming to improve their English proficiency in accordance with ICAO standards (can be found on Amazon):

  1. “Airspeak” by Fiona Robertson – This book covers a wide range of aviation-specific scenarios, including flight operations, air navigation, takeoffs, landings, and radio communications. It’s designed to boost the practical use of English in aviation contexts.
  2. “English for Aviation” by Sue Ellis and Terence Gerighty – This textbook focuses on all aspects of aviation English, including interactions with air traffic control, technical terminology, and grammar essential for clear communication in aviation.
  3. “Aviation English” by Henry Emery and Andy Roberts – Offers practical exercises, dialogues, and authentic examples to improve English skills specifically tailored for aviation professionals.
  4. “Say Again, Please” by Bob Gardner – A detailed guide on radio communications within aviation, explaining the ATC system, radio etiquette, and procedures for both VFR and IFR communications.

Audio

Real-Time ATC Communication (Live ATC)

It is important for you to listen to realistic communications between Air Traffic Control (ATC) and pilots. Additionally, you can utilize our location at KFXE, Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport, to enhance your English comprehension and pilot communication skills. For further immersion, websites and apps such as Live ATC stream live air traffic control audio, providing access to real-time ATC communications at airports worldwide. Engaging with these platforms will deepen your understanding of industry-specific terminology and practices.

https://www.liveatc.net/

Pilot training videos and courses 

The best approach for student training involves accessing knowledge and skills in a convenient location at any time of day. Such materials provide students with the opportunity to receive detailed explanations of complex concepts and procedures. Moreover, visualizing the material aids in better understanding and retention of information.

Popular channels that offer excellent resources for flight training and preparation for the theoretical exam include:

SkyEagle’s Private Pilot Ground School on YouTube features a diverse selection of videos in English, covering a wide array of aeronautical subjects such as instruments, aerodynamics, airspaces, aviation weather, and human factors. This provides a convenient avenue for enhancing language skills alongside technical knowledge.

Sporty’s Learn to Fly Course (Private Pilot Course), which provides flight training and prepares you for the Private Pilot Knowledge Test (written test) in the USA. 

https://www.sportys.com/learn-to-fly-course-private-pilot-test-prep-online-app-and-tv.html

Gleim Online Ground School helps pilots study for and excel in their required FAA knowledge and practical tests.

https://www.gleimaviation.com/pilots/private-pilot/

Andrey Borisevich’s YouTube channel “About Aviation” offers an engaging way to learn English with an aviation focus. His accessible and entertaining style ensures that viewers are fully immersed in the world of aviation.

Jeppesen Private Pilot Online Part 141 One-Year Subscription provides training via a combination of text, graphics, video, and audio, preparing users for the FAA written knowledge exam.

https://shop.jeppesen.com/All-Products/Training/Instrument-Commercial/Online-training/Online-Training/p/10183560_10011167_63567-63367-1846875

PilotWorkshop.com offers online training resources tailored for pilots seeking to enhance their flying skills and knowledge. Their educational materials focus on practical tips and advanced techniques, designed to improve a pilot’s decision-making, situational awareness, and overall safety. The platform features expert instructors who provide in-depth tutorials, webinars, and interactive lessons for pilots of all levels.

https://pilotworkshop.com/

Boldmethod teaches everything pilots need to know, including Class G airspace, Special Use Airspace, and Other Airspace. It is an educational aviation website offering interactive courses, quizzes, and articles to help pilots of all levels master flight concepts and procedures through engaging content.

https://www.boldmethod.com/

Aviation Movies: 

Dive into exciting films that revolve around aviation, such as “Sully”, “Six Days Seven Nights”, “American Made”, “Top Gun”, and others, to further enrich your understanding of the field.

6. Prepare for Exams and Practical Tests:

To pass the theoretical flight training course, study all the materials provided diligently. The exam process is detailed and requires preparation. Make sure to allocate enough time and resources to fully grasp the extensive topics covered in the course to prepare for the exam. This method will help you develop the necessary knowledge and skills for certification.

6.1. Oral Exam Preparation:

Books formatted as question and answer sets with references to the FAA are best suited for preparation. By studying these materials, a student can assess their readiness for the oral exam. Identifying weak areas allows them to focus on and prepare for topics that require additional attention.

Private Pilot Oral Exam Guide (Hard Copy Only, find on Amazon) serves as a complete resource for preparing candidates for the check ride in a private pilot airplane and is also useful for general proficiency enhancement.

6.2. Written Exam Preparation: 

Programs specifically designed to prepare for FAA-administered exams provide coverage of topics that may be included in the written tests for obtaining a Private Pilot License. These programs feature adaptability, allowing the difficulty level of questions to be adjusted based on the student’s success, thereby offering a personalized approach to learning.

Dauntless Software helps pilots develop their skills through flight simulators, exam preparation tests, and flight planning software.

https://www.dauntless-soft.com/products/groundschool/private.asp

Sporty’s Pilot Shop Test Prep: series of educational materials and software that include tests, questions, video lessons, interactive lessons, and other learning resources designed to help pilots prepare for exams.

https://www.sportys.com/shop.html?q=test+prep

Gleim: the application with a wide selection of study materials, designed for exam preparation and training in the field of aviation.

https://www.gleimaviation.com/product-category/courses/faatp/

7.Log Your Flight Hours 

As you prepare to fly, you need to recognize the importance of accurately logging flight time. This involves tracking various factors such as night flights, solo flights, different aircraft types, and weather conditions. By researching guidelines and utilizing electronic flight logbook apps, you will ensure meticulous record-keeping to meet regulatory requirements and enhance your proficiency as a pilot.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has specific regulations regarding pilot logbook. These regulations are outlined in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) Part 61.51. According to these regulations:

  1. Pilots must maintain a personal flight logbook to record their flight time and experience.
  2. Entries in the logbook must include the date, total flight time, aircraft type, and conditions of each flight.
  3. For pilots seeking certification or recency of experience requirements, certain types of flights must be logged, including solo flights, night flights, and cross-country flights.
  4. The logbook must be kept current and accurate, with entries made promptly after each flight.
  5. Electronic flight logbooks are acceptable as long as they meet FAA requirements for accuracy, reliability, and accessibility.

These regulations ensure that pilots maintain a record of their flight experience, which is essential for certification, training, and regulatory compliance.

Some popular flight logbook apps for pilots:

Jeppesen logbook

Product designed for pilots to record flight hours and navigation details. It’s available for purchase on Jeppesen’s online shop.

https://shop.jeppesen.com/All-Products/Pilot-Supplies/Binders-%26-Accessories/Logbooks-and-navigation-logs/Professional-Pilot-Logbook/p/10001795

ForeFlight Logbook

ForeFlight offers a flight planning and navigation app for iOS devices, including a digital logbook feature.

https://foreflight.com/products/logbook/

LogTen Pro

LogTen Pro is a professional-grade electronic logbook available for iOS, macOS, and web platforms, offering advanced features for pilots.

https://apps.apple.com/ru/app/logten-pro-6/id493426275

MyFlightbook

MyFlightbook is a free online logbook that allows pilots to log flights, track currency, and generate reports. It’s accessible via web browser and also has a mobile-friendly interface.

https://myflightbook.com/logbook/Default.aspx

Pilot Pro

Pilot Pro is a logbook app available for iOS devices, offering features such as flight logging, currency tracking, and aircraft management.

https://pilotpro.com/

FlightLogger

FlightLogger is a cloud-based logbook platform accessible via web browser, offering features like flight logging, currency tracking, and reporting.

https://flightlogger.net/

8. Stay Informed Through Professional Associations and Agencies:

Aviation authorities in different countries have roles and responsibilities, shaped by local regulations, international agreements, and specific national needs. 

They play main roles in regulating, overseeing, and enhancing the aviation sector through standards, training, and member support. Here are some of them:

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA): This agency regulates and supervises civil aviation within the United States. 

https://www.faa.gov/

European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA): Manages regulatory and supervisory functions for civil aviation across EU member states.

https://www.easa.europa.eu/en/home

International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO): A UN agency that creates international standards and recommendations for civil aviation safety and operations.

https://www.icao.int/

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA): Provides a broad range of resources and services to its members, including advocacy, training, and legal support, to foster a community and network for information exchange. 

https://www.aopa.org/

Summary

All the information mentioned above does not mean you have to master it 100%. Just choose the directions and tools that suit you best and enjoy the interesting preparation, as great victories and exciting discoveries await you ahead.

By following these steps, which combine self-study, online flying lessons, utilizing a variety of educational tools and resources, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a professional pilot. SkyEagle Aviation Academy, located near Miami, Florida, offers expert flight lessons starting with a discovery flight for your Private Pilot License (PPL) or going straight to earning your Professional Pilot License.

If you would like to learn more about pilot forums, worldwide aviation associations, and proficiency applications for pilots, please explore this article.

SkyEagle Academy does not provide individual remote training through platforms like Skype. Instead, we specialize in group-based online pilot courses delivered through webinars, and we are experienced in offering traveling school formats. These options are suitable for universities, high schools, corporate groups, and other interested organizations looking to provide structured aviation education to their members. For more information on our distance learning opportunities, please reach out to us via contact@skyeagle.aero  or visit our website at SkyEagle Courses for detailed course offerings.