FLY MORE!

Introduction

Please also read the article on general phase check information as this article only includes information specific to the solo phase check.

Solo information

The solo phase check is likely to be the first time you fly with anyone besides your primary flight instructor.  The phase check may take place when you are nearly ready to solo or even after your first solo flight at the discretion of your instructor.

As your check pilot, my job is to see how you are doing on the topics and maneuvers listed in the phase check packet.  The phase check is not passed or failed.  Rather, the various tasks are marked “satisfactory” or “review” with supporting coments. 

It is impossible for me to determine in one flight whether or not you are ready to solo.  That is up to your flight instructor, not me. 

It is best to not worry about what your check pilot is thinking during the phase check flight.  Focus your attention on flying the airplane instead.  However, I can’t resist mentioning a thought that is lurking in the mind of your check pilot and later your FAA examiner:

Do you fix your own mistakes?

Several landings in a row that are all OK, but none great, is a performance vastly superior to many perfect landings followed by one that requires your instructor, check pilot or examiner to save you.

Suggestions

Relax if possible and pretend that the check pilot is not in the airplane with you.

If you have any questions about an upcoming flight with me, don’t hesitate to ask.

Until next time, FLY MORE.