AS I REFLECT ON 2024, I AM AMAZED BY HOW QUICKLY TIME HAS PASSED.
The days seem to fly by, making me wonder where the time has gone. It’s often said that as we grow older, time seems to speed up, and I find this especially true. While I wish I could slow down the ticking clock, I know time waits for no one. The key is to make the most of the time we have.
At this point in the year, I like to reflect on the goals I set for myself. Some of these goals are personal, while others are related to flying. Flying is a passion that requires dedication and continuous improvement. Simply obtaining a pilot’s license is not enough to maintain proficiency. As we know, a good pilot is always learning and striving to enhance their skills. A key part of staying sharp as a pilot is staying current, which involves much more than simply completing an annual flight review.
If you own your own airplane, staying current is easy—you can simply schedule time to work on critical pilot skills. One of the best ways to do this is by flying with an instructor. An instructor is a good idea because they can help you identify any bad habits you may have developed. If you don’t own an aircraft, there are various ways to access planes. Joining a local flying club is a great option, as it provides access to a fleet of aircraft without the responsibility of ownership. By paying an hourly rate and completing a check-out process, you can gain access to airplanes for personal use.
For pilots with an instrument rating, maintaining proficiency is essential. Regular simulator sessions with a flight instructor help keep skills sharp and ensure readiness for challenging conditions. In addition to in-person practice, desktop simulators offer a convenient way to improve instrument flying skills from the comfort of home or the office.
Effective time management is crucial to maintaining pilot proficiency. Scheduling flying sessions in advance ensures enough time is dedicated to training and practice. By setting aside time on the calendar for flying activities, you can prioritize skill development while staying engaged in what you love.
Don’t wait to set your goals—start now and challenge yourself to be the best pilot you can be. By staying current, seeking practice opportunities, and managing your time effectively, you can maintain a high level of proficiency as a pilot. As the year comes to a close, I’m grateful for the experiences and challenges that have shaped me as a pilot and look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead in the coming year. I hope you share the same sentiment.
If you need assistance with any of your aviation goals, please contact us at 1-800-362-0808 or visit us online at, www.AmericanFlyers.com. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of American Flyers—we appreciate you! Have a wonderful and happy new year.
Andrew F. Henley
President, American Flyers