PPL Flight Test

[boogs82]

Hey guys/gals,

I've read through a few of the threads regarding this. I've reviewed the flight test guide and the ground stuff. I've got the stuff committed to memory that I need committed to memory. I've got a good grasp of the emergency procedures. I've sat with my instructor and reviewed material and I have the flight test review coming up next week and flight test planned for a couple of days after that.

Here's my question. How long does the average private flight test take to complete? I'm not in a rush to get through it and I know there really isn't a time limit to complete. I'm just looking for averages.

[FenderManDan]

My actual test was 1.8 hobbs IIRC. Ground portion was a bit more than one hour. That put me in around 60tt. I am getting ready for my CPL one. Much easier this time since I can actually drive these Cessna things.

[boogs82]

Thanks FDM. Where did you do your test? I guess that makes a difference in the Hobbs too. Mine's going to be at a not-so-busy uncontrolled with a practice area nearby.

[7ECA]

PPL flight test, ground portion was something like 1.5, and the flight was a 1.7. That was done out of CZBB, so transiting to and from the practice area added a bit of time.

CPL flight test was an hour on the ground, and 1.7 flight. This was at CYPK, so minimal transiting time, although the plane was a bit of a dog...

[FenderManDan]

Thanks FDM. Where did you do your test? I guess that makes a difference in the Hobbs too. Mine's going to be at a not-so-busy uncontrolled with a practice area nearby.

CYTZ, which made a nav part of the test take a bit of time. I am probably doing a CPL out of CYOO this time.

[Mmittal]

Hey boogs, the ground portion of the flight test lasts anywhere between 40 minutes to one hour. Having a prepared classroom with the navigation log as visually clear as possible will keep the questions fairly to the point.

The flight itself is on average 1.5 hours with it ranging between 1.4 -1.8 hours. This is usually followed by a 20 minute debrief.

Of course, there is the after party which can go on for an additional 8 hours.

[boogs82]

I'm getting some conflicting information about the memory items for the flight test. From what I can see, the only memory items are Vx, Vy and Va. I've got those committed to memory anyway. I'm also being told now two different things about the operation of aircraft systems. I'm hearing from one side that it doesn't have to be from memory and then I'm hearing from another side that it does. In the flight test guide it says "The candidate will be expected to demonstrate practical knowledge of the operation of systems installed in the aeroplane being used for the flight test. Use of these systems will be evaluated both on the ground and in the."

I have no problem with the operation systems and the practical use. Otherwise I wouldn't be doing a flight test review and going for a flight test. But to explain a system thoroughly I'd likely have to refer to the POH, if I can, to make sure that I'm not missing anything.

[jump154]

When I used a similar argument my Instructor told me technically I was correct, I could look things up - but if I just knew the answer cold that would impress the examiner more and they would move onto something else. "Last thing you want is to seem uncertain and give the examiner something to pick at to find a flaw"
This did not satisfy my Engineering brain, which always verifies numbers that I think I know - but it seemed to work on my flight test.
I've now forgotten what Oleo oil a 152 uses (my logic for not needing to know it was I was not allowed to fill it at my school), but I did memorize that for one day!

[Broken Slinky]

Mine was 45 minutes on the ground and 1.4 on the Hobbs. Have the AROJIL paperwork all out and sticky noted if it makes it easier to find. Know things like when a compass swing and ELT battery is due. Remember your 5 Ts while doing your "cross country" portion of the test. The examiners tend to like lots of talking from you about what you're doing. Specifically while going through checklists, etc... Take your time between each maneuver. If you need extra time to get trimmed up, etc... Definitely take it. If you don't quite understand something the examiner is asking, get clarification. Basically treat them like a first time passenger and you're trying to put them at ease with your vast flying knowledge. Besides all that, just have fun with it. Relax and enjoy the experience.

[RonReynolds]

That is correct Vx,Vy,Va are the only items on a PPL flight test that need to be recited from memory. (...and maybe your name )

With that said, things will go a lot smoother and if you actually understand that systems, and procedures of the aircraft that you are flying for your test.

Notes, stickies and such all over the POH, and logbooks are going to speed up the process but nothing will substitute your actual understanding of them.

My all means with you can't remember .... look it up... feel free to look in whatever reference you have POH, FGU, CFS, Logbooks and Flight Test Guide.