Expert: Malcolm Dickinson - 4/22/2004

Question
Dear Malcolm,
Im learning how to fly in a Flying School in New Zealand.
Ive got my 1st solo and it was brilliant.I would be going to do cross country soon.And i need some tips on flying vfr.
Things to expect. what common mistakes and the usual classics.I dont know? something like map enterpretations and applications,what to see what to do,preparations? so i would know and be able to prepare for them prior to start flying vfr cross country.

Kind Regards

Justin

Answer
Your first VFR cross-country flights will be dual with your instructor.  He will coach you about things to look out for and be aware of while you are flying cross country.

Another useful thing is to read the chapter in your aviation textbook about cross country flying. It will give you many of the steps you'll need to take while on your flight.

There are also some helpful videos. You can have a look at the King video about cross-country flying - a description is at http://www.kingschools.com/productDetail.asp?itemNo=TNV%20KSJV019NTSC

Practice your pilotage, looking outside and comparing what you see on the ground to the chart in your hand.

Best of all is to find a buddy who is also a student pilot... then talk him into lettin gyou go along in the back seat as he does his first cross country flights! You can learn a whole lot by watching someone else get a lesson.

Good luck!

Malcolm