Cessna Flying Lessons: What To Expect

Pilots that have only flown low wing planes may wonder what to expect from Cessna flying lessons. High wing Cessnas have different characteristics than do the low wing planes like Piper Cherokees or Cirrus SR20s.

1. Select your flight instructor. If you don't already have an instructor, make sure you contact the local flight school and talk with the various instructors to find a good fit with your personality.
2. Get the Cessna operations manual. The flight school should have additional manuals available for purchase. Read over the manual before you go for the first lesson.
3. Go over the weight and balance. Do a sample calculation from the weight and balance sheet in the manual to make sure you are within limits, the flight instructor will probably ask if you have done one. You can get the official weights from either the flight school's rental website or contact them.
4. The instructor will give a brief overview. You will see where the fuel check points are on the wings and belly, as well as oil check location.
5. Visibility is different in the high winged Cessnas. While you have great downward visibility, the wing blocks vision, especially in a turn. If you are used to seeing the field while turning base or downwind in a low winged plane, you may be in for a new experience.

Learning to fly in a variety of planes helps your flying skills be better. A check ride in a Cessna may be an interesting way to add to your skills.