It was reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) that newly hired pilots at major airlines typically have about 4,000 hours of flight experience. Flight experience is very important for pilots to be comfortable and prepare for the different types of risks they encounter.
Pilots learn how to deal with the mental stresses of being responsible for an aircraft and how to be alert and quick to react to situations when things may go wrong. The takeoff and landing are the most crucial parts of flying a plane. In flight school, pilots learn how to consider the altitude of the airport, the weight and size of the aircraft and certain elements of weather such as temperature and wind direction. They also learn about air traffic control, terrain, obstacles and other unpredictable elements that may occur while in flight. Pilots know that at any moment, situations can change and by learning about common situations, they better prepare themselves.
The mental and emotional state of a pilot is also something not to be overlooked. Pilots learn how to assess their level of fatigue, health, mental state and other variables so that can act in a safe manner.
Helicopter pilots are subject to different hazards than airline pilots because many helicopters are involved in search and rescue, military operations and for law enforcement. There are certain
helicopter pilot lessons that are tailored for specific purposes, such as turbine transition courses, external load courses and mountain flying courses. Turbine transition courses cover things like turbine theory and power management. External load
helicopter training courses teach pilots how to fight fires and mountain flying courses will help pilots prepare for a variety of flight conditions and learn how to avoid dangerous situations that mountainous areas may present.
Learning to fly is exceptionally challenging. Flight schools continue to maintain high standards and teachers provide high quality instruction so that students are prepared and ready for the unexpected when they are in flight.