Recurrent Training

Spring is imminent, and that means more folks out flying, strong winds, bumpy rides, and lots of fun. If its been awhile since you’ve flown, it would be a good idea to do some recurrent training first. There are many places online to take part in some education that is both interesting and relevant to you. Grab a cup of coffee and attend a Wings seminar or two. Then find your favorite CFI and challenge yourself to a fun recurrent flight program. So many pilots think its gotta be boring and consist of the same old stuff. It doesn’t. Make it fun, do something new, create specific challenges.

Consider adding ATC services to your recurrent flights. Use the opportunity to practice flight following, file a PIREP with FSS, use a VFR flight plan. Knock the rust off those skills! Add a precision element to your flight. Hold altitude within 50 feet – that should keep you busy. Pull up an advisory circular and read it, you might be surprised at all the stuff you can find in those. Take the cowling off and have your CFI quiz you on the engine. I’m sure you and your CFI can be creative and devise a fun training plan. Follow some Wings guidance, complete your Wings credits, and it can move your flight review date as well as possibly get you a break on your insurance. Then the money you save can be used for more 100LL – brilliant!

Recurrent training is mandatory for many organizations, you should make it mandatory for you as well. A little extra training doesn’t hurt and it might just make you a better pilot. And it doesn’t have to be boring. Other good ways to brush up your flight skills include getting a new certificate or rating. Who wouldn’t want to do a little float plane flying, or take a glider up and see if you can master thermalling. Or get a new endorsement! Tailwheel, high performance, and complex are all fun additions and will push your aviating skills to new levels. Find new airports or new airplanes to keep you growing as an aviator and push your skills to remain sharp. Happy flying!