The Aviation Instructor section is developed to help beginning instructors understand and apply the fundamentals of instruction. Following posts provide aviation instructors with upto-date information on learning and teaching, and how to relate this information to the task of teaching aeronautical knowledge and skills to learners. Experienced aviation instructors will also find the updated information … Read more
Since learners look to aviation instructors as role models, it is important that instructors not only know how to teach, but that they project a knowledgeable and professional image. This section addresses the responsibilities of aviation instructors as trainers and as safety advocates. It explains how aviation instructors can enhance their professional image, and offers … Read more
Pilot:________________________________ Date Revised:_________________________ Reviewed with:________________________, (if applicable) Your Personal Minimums Checklist— Is an easy-to-use, personal tool tailored to your level of skill, knowledge, and ability. Helps you control and manage risk by identifying even subtle risk factors. Allows you to fly with less stress and less risk. Practice “Conservatism Without Guilt.” Each item provides you … Read more
Flight Instructor Endorsements The authority and responsibility for flight instructors to endorse initial learner certificates, logbooks for solo and solo cross-country, additional aircraft ratings, and flight privileges are outlined in Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61. In addition, Advisory Circular (AC) 61-65, Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors, … Read more
Developing a bank of test questions is difficult and time consuming. This task demands a mastery of the subject, an ability to write clearly, and an ability to visualize realistic situations for use in developing problems. Because it is so difficult to develop good test items, many instructors rely on commercially-prepared test materials. However, there … Read more
Instructors know the need to manage risk during flight instruction. The risk management techniques are the same as taught to learners, however, there are a few hazards that are unique to flight instruction. The resulting risk can be identified, assessed, and mitigated. For example: Ask the learner to fly specific maneuvers after giving appropriate training. … Read more
Instructors should teach risk management using a building block approach. This method will be effective with both new pilots as well as existing pilots who have not previously been exposed to formal risk management training. Risk Management Training through the Private Pilot Level A new learner’s exposure to risk management should begin before the first … Read more
Traditional Accident Investigation Taxonomy Aviation accidents are investigated by both the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The role of the NTSB is to determine the probable cause of accidents and make recommendations, while the FAA seeks to determine if the accident revealed deficiencies in pilot training, aircraft certification, air … Read more
Examination of accident data leads to the inevitable conclusion that many aviation accidents involve poor risk management decisions. Therefore, effective risk management is one of the most important skills a pilot needs to learn, understand, and practice as a habit. Since flight instructors continually deal with risk, they quickly become subject matter experts. Instructors know … Read more
Assessment is an essential component of the teaching process and determines how, what, and how well a learner is learning. A well-designed assessment provides a learner with something constructive upon which he or she can work or build. An assessment should provide direction and guidance to raise the level of performance. Learners must understand the … Read more