You First Solo Flight

Steps to Solo

Student pilots must obtain a Medical Certificate before being able to solo. See more here.

Flying with your CFI you will learn:

• Stick-and-rudder skills like taxiing, basic airwork (turns, climbs, slow flight), stall recovery, and emergency procedures.

• Pattern work which takes place in the airport traffic pattern. You must master normal takeoffs, crosswind landings, and know how to safely abort a bad approach by performing a go-around.

The Pre-Solo Test: Before flying alone, you must pass a written exam that is written and graded directly by your CFI, covering local airspace rules and the limitations of the specific aircraft they will fly.

• *This is different than the FAA Knowledge Test. You must pass the pre-solo test before your first solo flight. You can take the FAA Knowledge Test at any point (within 2 years) before your final checkride.

The Sign-Off: Once you demonstrate consistent, safe landings, your CFI will issue the necessary endorsements in the student's logbook.

The First Solo Flight: On the day of the solo, you will fly a few practice laps in the traffic pattern with the instructor aboard. If everything goes smoothly, the instructor steps out, and you complete three solo takeoffs and full-stop landings on your own.