!#5: What You Need to Pilot a Recreational Aircraft

!±8± What You Need to Pilot a Recreational Aircraft

Piloting a recreational aircraft sounds like a lot of fun to many people, and it is. However, you can't just go out and fly a recreational aircraft. Instead, you will need to have some pilot training first and receive your recreational pilot certification. If you enjoy flying then all of these requirements will be enjoyable for you. Plus, you will truly be prepared when you take flight on your own. The following information will help you obtain your recreational pilot certification and give you a better understanding about what is involved.

First of all, keep in mind that pilot training for recreational aircrafts is not the same as a private pilot's license. A recreational pilot certification allows the pilot to fly, but he may not fly beyond a fifty mile radius from the original airport. Another regulation that recreational aircraft pilots should keep in mind is that flying at night is not allowed. Flying in an area where communication with air traffic control is necessary is also against regulations.

A recreational pilot's license also means that you can't fly over 10,000 feet. In emergency situations this would be voided, but for general flying 10,000 feet is the maximum. Also, recreational flyers may only fly in good weather. You may only take one passenger along with you and your plane may only have a single engine with less than 180 horsepower and no more than four seats. Although there are a lot of regulations for a recreational pilot's license there are also some significant benefits to having a recreational aircraft license.

One of them is that you are only required to take 30 hours of training whereas a private pilot's license requires 40 hours. The benefit of this is that it saves you a lot of time and money. Plus, if you change your mind and want to upgrade to a private pilot's license one day you may do so simply by taking the 10 hours of training that is necessary for a private pilot's license. This includes communication with air traffic control as well as instrument flying.

Some additional regulations apply to achieving the recreational pilot certification. This includes being at least 16 years of age and having a level three medical clearance, at the very least. Fluency and literacy in English is also a requirement.

Once you begin your pilot training you will need a few things like a headset. A Telex headset or a Peltor headset are good options for you. Flying can be very loud and you want to protect your hearing while enjoying the flight, so using a Telex headset or a Peltor headset will protect your hearing and allow you to truly enjoy your recreational flight.