The Flying Fish

About 2 days after I passed my CPL Flight Test, I realised how bored I was; there was nothing for me to study. For the last 8 months or so, I've done some form of studying almost every day. And now, nothing... So while completing the somewhat tedious task of preparing a CV and contacting various charter companies in Botswana, I also started studying for my Instructor's Rating. There are 5 subjects, and two exams. Principles of Flight, Law, Flight training, and Applied Navigation & Meteorology. Not knowing what to expect, I spoke to some Instructor's and they said that the exams are easier than the PPL exams. Well ladies and gents, they're about the same as the PPL exams. Do yourself a favour and go to the CAA website and download the list that says what you must study for each subject. Just be warned, they don't mention anything about Flight Planning, but I was asked two questions on it (had to use loading graphs). I wrote the exam at Heli, and I upo...

I thought I’d try giving some helpful information regarding the Com and IF Flight Tests, having just completed them and all that. I’m by no means an expert, but perhaps sharing my experience will help those of you that are nervous or unsure about the test. First things first, go to the CAA website and download the testing forms, as well as the Recommended Ground Evaluation for the Instrument Flight Test. While you’re at it, download the form for the Application of a Rating or License. I’d do all of this at least 5 days before you test. There isn’t a recommended ground evaluation form for the Com test, but it’s quite similar to the PPL ground evaluation, so if you’re really worried, just download the PPL one and go through that (CATs, CARs, AIPs, AICs, NOTAMS, TAFs, METARS, etc). The testing forms outline all the exercises you are expected to do, so go through them and check to see if you’re unfamiliar with any of them. If you are, now’s your chance to ask your instructor for some...

27 August 2009 , I successfully completed my first ever solo. 24 December 2009 , I passed my Private Pilot’s License flight test. End of 2010 , I completed Matric. 3 May 2011 , I passed my Night Rating test. 10 August 2011 , I passed my Commercial Pilot’s License and Instrument Rating flight tests. When I was busy with my PPL, I considered giving up a number of times. But I pressed on, and now, less than two years since my first solo, I’ve earned the right to call myself a Commercial Pilot. While I had done all my training at Stellenbosch Flying Club, I found myself making my way to Mossel Bay to finish up my training (another 10hrs of instrument flying) and test. Wednesday, 3 August, Day 1: Stellenbosch to Mossel Bay. The last time I did this flight, I arrived after one fuel stop at Riversdale, and over 4 hours in that cramped, uncomfortable cockpit. However, the weather was kind to me this time, and I had a 20kt tailwind for most of the trip. While sitting at F...