Top Tips for Student Pilots

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Try Not To Crash, my journey into the aviation work as a 55 year novice pilot. Join me, as I humorously recount my journey through the world of general aviation in the UK. From the whims of weather to the quirks of my trusty Cessna, flying isn't as straightforward as it might seem.  I'm not your go-to for aviation news or crash analyses, but I promise a genuine account of the highs and lows of my aviation adventures.If you've ever wondered what it’s like to learn to fly through the eyes of a n older pilot, this podcast will be your backstage pass.  Whether you're curious about aviation or just enjoy a good chuckle, I invite you along for the ride. And remember, while my landings might not always be on point, the stories are sure to be entertaining. Buckle up, stay safe, and let's embark on this airborne escapade together!If you want ot see me in the flesh so to speak, then https://www.youtube.com/@whiskeyalphapilot is the place to find meI'm a UK based private pilot (PPL(A)), who started to learn to fly in my early 50s. I passed (just), but every flight is a learning experience.  I currently own 1/5 of a Cessna 172 - but I am not sure which bit is mine.Follow me on Social Media Website https://whiskeyalphapilot.com/Twitter/X https://twitter.com/wayneallenpilotInstagram https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyalphapilot/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyAlphaPilotYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WhiskeyAlphaPilot

Send us Fan MailWhat if the thrill of soaring through the skies is occasionally shadowed by the turbulence of criticism and life’s obligations? Join me, Wayne, as I take you on a journey through the highs and lows of my adventures as a private pilot on the Try Not To Crash podcast. On this special episode, marking three years since I earned my Private Pilot License, I get candid about the challenges and rewards of flying. From the unpredictable UK weather that often grounds my plans to the balancing act between my career, family, and the cockpit, I share it all. Plus, I reveal how the pressure of maintaining my YouTube channel has impacted my confidence and passion for aviation.Despite these clouds, the silver linings have been the friendships and experiences that have enriched my life. Flying has opened doors to a vibrant community of fellow enthusiasts, where swapping tales of sky-high adventures and technical mishaps becomes a bonding experience like no other. Through laughter and learning, it's these connections that have made the journey worthwhile. Tune in to hear about the joys and trials of a private pilot's life and the invaluable lessons learned over three years of navigating the skies.I'm a UK based private pilot (PPL(A)), who started to learn to fly in my early 50s. I passed (just), but every flight is a learning experience.  I currently own 1/5 of a Cessna 172 - but I am not sure which bit is mine.Follow me on Social Media Website https://whiskeyalphapilot.com/Twitter/X https://twitter.com/wayneallenpilotInstagram https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyalphapilot/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyAlphaPilotYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WhiskeyAlphaPilot

Send us Fan MailHave you ever had those days when the universe seems to conspire against you, grounding your plans and testing your patience? Well, strap in and tune in, because that's been the theme of my life recently! I'm Wayne from Whiskey Alpha Pilot, and it's high time we caught up. I've been dodging business curveballs and wrestling with the British weather gods, which sadly means my trusty C172, and I have been spending more time apart than I'd like. Guess what happens when you post a video titled "How Not To Land"? You get a viral sensation and an avalanche of colorful commentary! I'll share the unexpected journey one of my YouTube flights took—from a few thousand views to causing quite the stir online. It's a wild mix of armchair critics, genuine concern, and a few good laughs. But here's the kicker: through it all, it's about staying true to the joy of flying and the community it creates. Flying is a case of ups and downs - lefts just not hit the ground on the downsI'm a UK based private pilot (PPL(A)), who started to learn to fly in my early 50s. I passed (just), but every flight is a learning experience.  I currently own 1/5 of a Cessna 172 - but I am not sure which bit is mine.Follow me on Social Media Website https://whiskeyalphapilot.com/Twitter/X https://twitter.com/wayneallenpilotInstagram https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyalphapilot/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyAlphaPilotYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WhiskeyAlphaPilot

Send us Fan MailEver wondered how heavy your wallet needs to be to take to the skies? Buckle up, as I take you on a financial voyage into the world of pilot training. From the adrenaline-pumping trial flight that kickstarts your logbook to the nuanced selection of an aircraft that suits your stature and budget, like my trusty PA-28, I try to cover it all. I offer practical tips on how to navigate payments to flying schools while keeping your investment secure, and offer my take on the surprising costs that come with solo flights and ground school essentials. It's not just about the money; it's about making smart choices that keep your dream of flight a reality.Strap on your headset and let's talk about the less-discussed aspects of becoming a pilot—the ones that hit your bank account. I'll take a look at the membership fees and hidden costs, the benefits of ground school versus self-study, and why  a medical certificate should be at the top of your checklist. And don't worry, I haven't forgotten the joy that comes with this journey; we'll explore the importance of connecting with fellow aviators and seasoned pros who can offer a windfall of advice. So, join me as we share laughs, insights, and maybe a few gasps at the price of charts, while always circling back to the ultimate goal—flying safely and with sheer delight.I'm a UK based private pilot (PPL(A)), who started to learn to fly in my early 50s. I passed (just), but every flight is a learning experience.  I currently own 1/5 of a Cessna 172 - but I am not sure which bit is mine.Follow me on Social Media Website https://whiskeyalphapilot.com/Twitter/X https://twitter.com/wayneallenpilotInstagram https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyalphapilot/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyAlphaPilotYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WhiskeyAlphaPilot

Send us Fan MailHave you ever dreamt of touching the clouds and commanding the skies? Your journey to the captain's seat begins here, as I help to unfold the map to your flying aspirations. The runway to the skies is paved with crucial decisions—starting from your trial flight to selecting the right flight school. With a blend of personal experiences and not an expert advice, I navigate through the essentials of financial preparedness, and why a heart-to-heart with your potential flight instructor could make all the difference. If the sky's the limit has always been your mantra, let's turn that into a flight plan!Brace yourself for a captivating exploration of the vast skies as I try to dissect the intricacies of flight training options and the financial nuances of getting in the air. Discover how to strike the perfect balance between passion and practicality, ensuring your time in the cockpit is both exhilarating and economically sound. I'll share some of my tips to try to safeguard your investment in flight school and reveal how to find harmony with your instructor for an optimal learning experience. It's not just about the destination; it's about relishing the climb. Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for takeoff into the world of aviation, where your dreams of flight are cleared for departure!I'm a UK based private pilot (PPL(A)), who started to learn to fly in my early 50s. I passed (just), but every flight is a learning experience.  I currently own 1/5 of a Cessna 172 - but I am not sure which bit is mine.Follow me on Social Media Website https://whiskeyalphapilot.com/Twitter/X https://twitter.com/wayneallenpilotInstagram https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyalphapilot/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyAlphaPilotYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WhiskeyAlphaPilot

Send us Fan MailTop tips that every student pilot should know before starting learning to fly.There is lots of advice out there, but these are a few tips that I found hightly useful in my quest to learn to fly - I hope you do too!!My podcasts may be edited for brevity and entertainment I am not a flight instructor. If in doubt consult a qualified instructor. The internet will not teach you how to fly.https://www.whiskeyalphapilot.comI'm a UK based private pilot (PPL(A)), who started to learn to fly in my early 50s. I passed (just), but every flight is a learning experience.  I currently own 1/5 of a Cessna 172 - but I am not sure which bit is mine.Follow me on Social Media Website https://whiskeyalphapilot.com/Twitter/X https://twitter.com/wayneallenpilotInstagram https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyalphapilot/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyAlphaPilotYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WhiskeyAlphaPilot

Send us Fan MailLearing to fly is great until you find you cannot fly at night - for that you need a 'Night Rating'. 5 hours of instruction, cross country, navigation and a few full stop landings is all you need - who am I kidding. This is a personal podcast from my experiences of learning to fly, and flying in the UK. I am not a flight instructor. All details have been edited for entertainment and may contain errors and inaccuracies. If in doubt consult your own flight instructor. I'm a UK based private pilot (PPL(A)), who started to learn to fly in my early 50s. I passed (just), but every flight is a learning experience.  I currently own 1/5 of a Cessna 172 - but I am not sure which bit is mine.Follow me on Social Media Website https://whiskeyalphapilot.com/Twitter/X https://twitter.com/wayneallenpilotInstagram https://www.instagram.com/whiskeyalphapilot/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/WhiskeyAlphaPilotYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WhiskeyAlphaPilot