Summer Flying Tips for Student Pilots: Stay Safe in the Cockpit
When you think of perfect flying weather, sunshine and a few clouds in the sky may come to mind. But summer flying isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. You might encounter unexpected thunderstorms, overheating, and sun glare.
Even without snow or tornadoes, you still need to be safe during the summer. Here are a few tips to get you through the summer months as a student pilot.
1. Hydration
As you fly, your body is closer to the sun and the altitude you’re used to increases. It’s important to stay hydrated before, during, and after your flight. Try to avoid drinking caffeine and make sure you eat a light meal beforehand so you still have energy as you fly.
Dehydration and heat exhaustion is not something you want in the cockpit. Dehydration can impair your focus, judgment, and reaction time. Plan to land as soon as possible if you start feeling fatigued, dizzy, nauseous, or feel like you may lose consciousness.
2. Overheating Aircraft
Hot weather can easily overheat the aircraft. When you’re going through your pre-flight checklist, pay close attention to which parts of the aircraft tend to overheat. Talk with your Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) about how to cool down parts of the aircraft.
If the aircraft has air conditioning, turn it on as soon as you get in. Additionally, try to avoid scheduling your flight during the hottest part of the day as doing so could easily overheat the aircraft.
3. Summer Thunderstorms
Summer thunderstorms are often hard to plan for because they can come unexpectedly. You’re more likely to avoid them in the morning versus the afternoon. If there’s more humidity in the air, heavier wind blowing toward a body of water, or more turbulence than normal, a thunderstorm could be underway. For tips on handling the opposite season’s challenges, check out our guide to Winter Flight Training: Tips for Success.
It’s crucial to look out for those signs. Plan to land immediately before getting caught in the thunderstorm.
4. Dress Appropriately
Before your flight, make sure you’re wearing appropriate clothing that is loose-fitting, comfortable, and light colored. Wearing dark, tight clothing can make your flight uncomfortable and easier for the sun to overheat you.
Also, wear sunscreen. If your flight is longer than two hours, reapply the sunscreen. Flying at higher altitudes exposes your skin to stronger UV rays, increasing your risk of sunburn or sun poisoning. Sunscreen is a must.
5. Practice Crosswind Landings
Summer can bring stronger and more unpredictable winds. This means you’re more likely to experience crosswinds during takeoff and landing. Take time to practice crosswind landings with your CFI to ensure that you know how to take control of the aircraft, not the wind.
Understanding how to properly crab the wind (a technique that angles the aircraft’s nose slightly into the wind for better alignment), transition into a sideslip, and maintain control during landing is essential for summer flying.
Final Thoughts
You can overcome summer flying challenges with the right knowledge and consistent practice. Before each flight, make sure you’re prepared for the heat and the possibility of bad weather. Flying during the summer can be a fun and enjoyable experience when you’re prepared. If you’re flying around the 4th of July or New Year’s, don’t forget to review our article on What to Know When Sharing the Sky With Fireworks to stay safe during celebrations.
Contact Bravo 6 Flight Academy today to enroll and take flight!
