Cross Country Flying
After you solo, the next phase of your training will involve learning how to plan and execute cross country flights.
Weather
- ADDS - metars, TAFs, radar, etc
- Weather depiction chart
- ASOS phone numbers
- AviationWeather.gov
- Flight Service
- TFRs
- ForeFlight, etc
Preflight Planning
- VFR sectionals
- Plotting a course
- TC +/- WCA = TH +/- Var = MH +/- Dev = CH
- Fuel planning and reserves
- Runway lengths and performance li>VFR altitudes
- Checkpoint discussion
- Flight plan / Nav log forms
- EFB flight planning
Flight Content
- Student performs cross country flight using pilotage and dead reckoning
- Instructor aids in learning through simulated failures and quizzing student
- Malfunctions and diversions
Common Mistakes
- Improper VFR altitude
- Improper engine management (mixture, RPM, etc)
- Failure to use checklists
- Failure to divide attention and detect simulated failures
- Misidentification of checkpoints
- Improper pattern entry at destination airport
ACS Test Objections
The pilot exhibits knowledge of cross country planning and flying and handles airplane during simulated failures in a satisfactory, safe manner.
- Altitude +/- 200 ft
- Properly identifies checkpoints
- Computed time and fuel requirements reasonably accurate
- Diversion heading and altitude determined appropriately
- Follows appropriate checklists