Learning To Fly

Tom Petty sang a great song called "Learning to Fly," which actually wasn't meant to be particularly about aviation, but really a metaphor for achieving goals that you never thought were possible. Still, for some pilots, the song is still a valid anthem that takes us all back to those days when we were, quite literally, learning to fly; however, for as exciting as those early days might have been, we are seeing fewer and fewer individuals seeking aviation either as a career or simply a hobby. Why?

Perhaps it is because they DO see aviation as a goal that is not possible and there are generally a few reasons why that is often true.

1. Money. Especially in today's economic climate and astronomical inflation, funding a pilot's license can be a lot to ask. Earning a pilot's license often costs as much as $10,000, assuming you earn your certificate in about 60 hours in a modestly equipped aircraft. The good news is that a number of flight training schools are allied with lending institutions or offer pay-as-you-go options. However, if you are able, prepayment is often a good way to cut some of the costs up front. While there is no way around the financial investment of a pilot's license, those who fly will tell you it is absolutely one of the best investments you can make for both enjoyment and convenience.
2. Time. Certainly, flight lessons are a commitment in time and can cut into existing obligations, jobs, or personal pursuits. Generally, you should aim for flying at least twice a week, understanding that the less frequently you fly, the more hours it may take to become proficient. With the busy lives that many of us live now, it means that we must first question any excuse we make of not having time and honestly answer whether it's more a factor of not wanting to MAKE the time—and that is distinctly different. We make time for the things we decide are important and learning new skills is always a worthy investment of time, which is often far more valuable than money.
3. Confidence. Many people assume that flying takes an increased intellectual talent for aerodynamics, engine mechanics, meteorology, and the dreaded and often confusing FAA regulations. While the FAA part is very real, the truth is that most ground schools will spoon feed you everything you need to know and, if you have a basic idea of how your car engine works, you can certainly relate to the rudimentary systems of an airplane. In fact, quite often first-time students end up saying "That wasn't nearly as hard as I thought it would be. I can do this!"

Aviation as either a career or a hobby can sometimes be a hard sell to the average person based on not only those three reasons, but others such as medical issues, age concerns, or even a lack of confidence in their own motor skills. All of these concerns are valid, but certainly not ones that cannot be overcome with some encouragement and dedication. As ambassadors for the world of business aviation, all current pilots must continue to spread the word, encourage others, and serve as examples of the joy and freedom we know come with the privilege of flying.