15 Things to do as a Private Pilot

Being a private pilot is a fun and exciting experience. It can open up a world of possibilities and give you the opportunity to explore new places!

To help you get the most out of your experience as a private pilot, here are 15 things to do. From discovering new flying spots to learning new skills, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy and having fun. So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to explore the skies!

1. Getting checked out in new airplanes is a great way to learn a new skill as a pilot and even as an individual! Getting checked out in new airplanes can be an exciting, yet an intimidating experience. It is important to be familiar with the aircraft’s systems and components, as well as its operating procedures and limitations. In fact, some airplanes are basically the same but some will be challenging.

2. Get your complex endorsement! It opens up the world of a bunch of different airplanes and new systems such as learning to use a landing gear, retractable flaps and constant speed propeller. An airplane must have 3 of those things to be considered as complex training. With a complex endorsement, you’ll demonstrate that you have the skills and expertise to tackle more complicated techniques and you’ll be more likely to be considered for higher-level positions. 

3. Getting your high-performance endorsement, this allows you to fly an airplaine with 201 horse power and more! Which means you get to fly faster and higher and even fly wider patterns. You will learn the specifics of high-performance aircraft operations, from speed, stall speed, and takeoff and landing performance. You will also learn about the various safety considerations that come with flying these aircraft, such as G-forces, weather conditions, and emergency procedures. With this endorsement, you can take your flying skills to the next level and enjoy the thrill of high-performance flight.

4. Getting your tailwheel endorsement is a great way to enhance your flying skills! Especially when landing and taking off a tailwheel airplane, as it is quite different from other planes. Pushing the nose forward when taking off and then pulling back feels like your hitting your propeller on the ground. When it comes to landing it, there’s different ways to land it, there’s wheel landing and a normal landing with all three points on the ground at the same time. Most people don’t really use a rudder, but in a tailwheel, if you don’t use it, your going to ground loop. Overall, getting your tailwheel endorsement increases your stick and rudder skills to the max!

5. Getting your multi-engine rating is a great way to advance your piloting career. It allows you to fly larger, more complex aircraft and opens up a whole new realm of possibilities. It also increases your safety margins and reduces the chances of single-engine failure. It’s a great way to expand your knowledge and experience, and a multi-engine rating can be just what you need to take your flying to the next level.

6. Getting your seaplane rating is the exact opposite of what you think an airplane can do. It’s basically learning how to swim using a plane. The first time you will learn to land in water is scary because your thinking airplanes don’t go on water, they go on land and only in emergency situations does a plane go on water. Once your seaplane lands on the water, it feels like your floating in a boat and that is such an exhelerating experience. Getting your seaplane rating is phenemonal and you should get one soon!

7. Getting your instrument rating is the most important rating you should get as a private pilot, it is highly recommended and most rewarding. It’s learning to fly without relying on your vision but more on your technical skills. In situations where the weather is bad or clouds are covering your vision, learning instrument rating will help you maneuveur in bad weather conditions. It will help you make a safer, better and more technical pilot.

8. Going to brand new airports for a new experience, such as landing in a new airport or getting to meet new people and FBOs. It is a great opportunity to network with others from another airport. From the hustle and bustle of the airport itself, to the sights and sounds of the surrounding area, each new airport offers a unique and memorable experience.

9. Getting the hundred dollar hamburger is a term which means flying to different airports to eat in restaurants. Every pilot has its own mission when going to different airports, it could be for training, landing practice or sightseeing with friends and family but if you’re someone who loves food then getting the hundred dollar hamburger with your friends and family is a great experience that you as a private pilot should try!

10. Joining your local EAA chapter, getting involved in your community is a path to high levels of success in your career, especially if you’re aiming to get into the airlines. 

Pilot networking is an important part of a pilot’s job. It involves building relationships with other pilots, air traffic controllers, and other personnel in the aviation industry. This helps pilots stay up to date on the latest regulations and any changes in the industry. It also helps them stay connected to the aviation community, allowing them to share information and experiences with each other. Pilot networking also offers a way for pilots to find new job opportunities. By connecting with other experienced professionals, pilots can stay informed about open positions and other opportunities.

11. Airplane camping is a unique activity that combines the thrill of camping in the outdoors with the convenience of travelling by air. It is a great way to see the world from a different perspective and explore new places without having to worry about the logistics of finding a place to stay. It can also be a great way to save money, as flights can be much cheaper than staying in hotels or renting a car. The experience of camping in an airplane is unlike anything else and offers an incredible opportunity to explore the world in a unique and exciting way.

12. Angel Flights is volunteering your time and airplane for people who needs medical attention that can’t afford the expense of flying for urgent stuff such as surgery, medical checkups or bringing families together in emergency situations. 

13. Pilot ‘n Paws is a non-profit organization that provides transportation to our rescued, sheltered and fostered furry friends to people who wants to adopt them. If you are a pilot who has a sweet spot for our furry friends, volunteer now!

14. Buying an airplane can be a cool experience, but before getting one, make sure you know someone who has professional experience to help you with the process, such as a broker or someone who has done it a few times before. Owning an airplane has it perks and one of it is you can use it anytime and as many times as you want too, downside is its expensive and sometimes maintenance can kill you! So before you decide to get one, make sure you are financially ready and have done research on what you’re planning to buy.

15. Building an airplane is a great goal and a very rewarding experience as a private pilot! Many of you won’t agree with it but you can actually build one! If you’ve been to airventure, you can see someone building an airplane in a week and it will surely change your perspective in not being able to, to being able to do it! I understand that some may not have the patience to do it but a lot of people that are a member of the EAA has tons of experimental airplane.It’s very inspiring and a great hobby to begin with.

Overall, these 15 things to do as a private pilot can help give you an advantage as you pursue your aviation career. From getting your private pilot license to planning your next adventure, there’s plenty you can do to prepare for a safe and successful journey. With the right knowledge, skills and dedication, you can confidently take to the skies and enjoy the freedom that comes with being a private pilot.