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EAA Learn To Fly Week | Presented by Sporty's

EAA Learn to Fly Week

May 15 – 20, 2023

Presented by Sporty’s

Join us on May 15 - 20 for the inaugural EAA Learn to Fly Week! Expert flight instructors and representatives from aviation organizations will present free and interactive webinars to help jumpstart your flight training journey.

Topics covered include how to get started in flight training, tips for saving time and money in flight training, preparing for the FAA written exam, examiner tips for passing the check ride, and much more!

This six-day event concludes with chapter hosted Flying Start events on May 20, 2023. These events welcome, encourage, and educate aspiring pilots to a flight training pathway at their local airport. Flying Start events are capped with the FREE introductory Eagle Flight!

Schedule


May 15, 2023

Time

Title

Presenter(s)

12 p.m. CST

Stop Dreaming and Start Flying – Flight Training First Steps

EAA Staff

So, you’re ready to jump in and begin your flight training, but where do you start? Join EAA staff members as they cover all you need to know to jump-start your flight training journey. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.

7:00 p.m. CST

Flight Simulators 101 - Leveraging a Home Simulator for Flight Training

Chris McGonegle

Flight simulators have exploded in popularity recently. With new software options, impressive flight controls, and EFB app integration, it has never been easier to use a home flight simulator for real training (in addition to fun). In this fast-paced webinar, Chris McGonegle, a commercial pilot and Sporty's flight simulator expert, will discuss how to use simulators effectively and how to avoid making mistakes that will degrade your flying skills. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


May 16, 2023

Time

Title

Presenter(s)

12 p.m. CST

How to Pass the Private Pilot FAA Written Test in Less Time

Bret Koebbe

It's something all pilots have to do during training for a private pilot certificate — pass the FAA Knowledge Test. While this test has gotten a bad rap over the years from some, the reality is it's a non-event when you approach it with the proper mindset and use the right study tools. In this webinar, we'll show how to use tried-and-true study methods using Sporty's Learn to Fly Course to make the process an engaging and meaningful learning experience, and not just another exercise in rote memorization. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


2:00 p.m. CST

How to Save Time and Money in Flight Training

Larry Bothe

Learn what it really takes to learn to fly. Is it difficult? Do I have to deal with higher math? How much testing must I undergo? What is the real total cost of learning to fly? Are there “hidden costs”? How can I save money along the way? All this and more in this comprehensive look at flight training.


May 17, 2023

Time

Title

Presenter(s)

12 p.m. CST

Getting Back into the Left Seat – No Matter How Long It’s Been

Jamie Beckett

Falling out of currency is a common risk for general aviation pilots. Fortunately, getting that currency back is often easier than you might think. This webinar explores the FAA requirements for currency and explains how most pilots can get current and back in the left seat no matter how long it has been since they flew last. From medical requirements to flight training options, and even a few hints on how to contain costs, the webinar is the perfect place to begin planning your next flight review, whether you're current now or haven't been in the left seat in decades. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


2:00 p.m. CST

Getting Started in Ultralights

Timm Bogenhagen

Ultralight vehicles have long been an affordable way to experience the 3-dimensional freedom and exhilaration of the sky. Join EAA staff member and ultralight and light-plane guru Timm Bogenhagen as he discusses the simple rules of Part 103 and tips for getting started. Topics covered include types of vehicles, regulations, costs, training, comparison to sport pilot and light sport aircraft. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


7:00 p.m. CST

Pass Your Checkride (Part 1 of 2) – The Oral

Larry Bothe

Get your paperwork right so the examiner is happy. Do your homework. Bring everything you need. Learn the common errors in the oral quizzing portion, and how to avoid them. You have more control over your practical test than you think. Take advantage of these things, and pass the first time. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


May 18, 2023

Time

Title

Presenter(s)

12 p.m. CST

Preparing to Attend a Flying Start Event

David Leiting

EAA’s Flying Start program will get you out to the local airport, where you will learn all about your local aviation community and how your EAA chapter can support your interest in learning to fly. EAA staffer David Leiting will help you prepare for this event so you get the most out of this experience.


7:00 p.m. CST

Pass Your Checkride (Part 2 of 2) – The Practical Exam

Larry Bothe

Do the flight portion of your checkride like a pro. Perform maneuvers in ways that always work. Learn to correct maneuvers that aren’t working out. What will the DPE accept, and what is just flat bad? All this and more, in this detailed flight portion guidance. Includes a quick (5-minute) review of the paperwork & oral quizzing presentation. Fly well, and pass the first time. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


May 19, 2023

Time

Title

Presenter(s)

12 p.m. CST

FAA Medical Certification and You

Tom Charpentier

Join EAA Government Relations Director Tom Charpentier as he covers all things aeromedical-related and addresses all your burning FAA medical questions. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


2:00 p.m. CST

Conquer the Checkride: Strategies for a Successful Practical Test

Larry Bothe

In this session we’ll discuss the structure of a checkride (practical test), and share examiner, instructor, and student perspectives on the process. We will talk thru some strategies to help you, or your student prepare for and conquer any FAA Practical Test. The session will include interactive Q&A following the presentation. Qualifies for FAA WINGS credit.


May 20, 2023

More Information Coming Soon!


Sporty's Learn To Fly

Looking to host a Flying Start event at your chapter? Register your chapter today!

Check out these local events designed to educate you about your aviation community, and take a free introductory flight!

EAA Learn To Fly Resources

Check out all of EAA's year-round Learn to Fly resources, including scholarships, best practices, and more.

Learn To Fly Center at AirVenture

Visit the EAA Learn to Fly Center at EAA Oshkosh. Check out forums, flight simulators, and get your student pilot certificate on site.

Join EAA

Join the world's most passionate aviation family and gain access to exclusive member programs, resources, and benefits.

Checkout Other EAA Learn to Fly Resources


  • EAA Earning Wings Series – Follow along with the entire flight training process, as Brady Lane video blogs each step. You’ll get a front seat view to the instructor selection process, the ups and downs of flight training, and the check ride.

  • Sporty’s Learn to Fly Series - Sporty’s has curated more than 80 Learn to Fly video tips that are great for those who are just getting started, knocking off some rust, or looking for a refresher. Available to EAA members only.

  • Choosing Your Certificate – Learn about the differences between becoming a private pilot, sport pilot, or an ultralight pilot, and review a step-by-step to taking flight.

Can't wait until May to start learning? Watch these videos to get started!

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