Solo

Pre-Solo Requirements

1. Complete a written examination

  • Administered, graded, and reviewed by your instructor

  • Covers applicable regulations, airspace rules, procedures for the solo airport, and aircraft characteristics and limitations

2. Understand right-of-way and minimum altitude rules

3. Know the limitations of your student pilot certificate

Solo Flight Requirements

  1. Ensure you have all required documents

  • Logbook with instructor's endorsement

  • Photo ID

  • Student pilot certificate

  • Medical certificate

  1. Logbook endorsements

  • Endorsement is valid for 90 days

  • You must have received flight instruction in the specific make and model within the preceding 90 days

  • Endorsement is specific to make and model of aircraft

→ To solo a different make or model

  • Receive additional flight instruction

  • Complete another pre-solo written examination

3. Adhere to instructor-imposed limitations:

  • Do not fly solo if conditions exceed limitations (e.g., wind speed, ceiling, visibility) set by your instructor.

Student Pilot Limitations

1. You may not:

  • Carry passengers.

  • Fly an aircraft carrying property for compensation or hire.

  • Act as pilot-in-command on an international flight (except specific instances in Alaska).

  • Be a pilot flight crew member of an aircraft requiring two pilots.

  • Fly for compensation or hire or in furtherance of a business.

Solo Flight Limitations:

1. Visibility requirements

  • At least 3 statute miles during daylight hours

  • At least 5 statute miles at night

2. Flight conditions:

  • Must maintain visual reference to the surface

  • Cannot fly beyond a 25 nautical mile radius without a specific endorsement

  • All solo landings must be made at the takeoff airport unless endorsed for cross-country flight

  • With instructor authorization, you may make takeoffs and landings at an airport within 25 nautical miles of your training airport under certain circumstances

Increased Responsibilities:

1. Accountability:

  • You are responsible for complying with federal aviation regulations

  • Your safety and the safety of others are now your responsibility

2. Transition from dual instruction:

  • Previously, your instructor ensured compliance and safety

  • Now, these responsibilities are transferred to you during solo flights

The Solo Experience

1. Overcoming the learning plateau

  • It's normal to experience a slump after initial training

  • Progress improves as takeoffs, landings, and airmanship develop

2. First solo flight

  • Your instructor may inform you after a session to make solo takeoffs and landings

  • Traditionally, students perform three takeoffs and landings.

  • The aircraft may feel different without the instructor (e.g., climbs faster, descends slower).

  • The cabin will be noticeably quieter.

3. Emotional aspects

  • Solo flight is a major milestone and an exciting experience.

  • You'll feel a great sense of achievement and freedom.

Moving Forward

1. Next steps:

  • If pursuing a sport or recreational certificate, you're close to completion

  • If aiming for a private pilot certificate, you'll soon begin cross-country flights

2. Becoming pilot-in-command:

  • The novelty of solo flight will fade as you take on full PIC responsibilities

  • You are responsible for assessing the success of each solo lesson and reporting progress to your instructor

The joy and memories of your solo flight will last a lifetime