Some pilots love to see new places and others simply prefer the thrill of being thousands of feet above the earth. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot or just getting started, there are some things that you just can’t forget when traveling.
Choose Destinations You Can Fly Yourself To
Just like some people love to be the driver in a car, pilots tend to prefer to be the ones in the cockpit. When you’re traveling, choose destinations that you can fly to yourself. There are many great locations that you can get to via a small plane or a slightly bigger charter jet. You can find many great destinations that are easily accessible by air. If you want to travel somewhere new, consider choosing a place with good flight connections and airports along the way where you can fuel up. This can be great for those pilots who love to travel.
Pack For the Weather
It’s important to pack for the weather. As you know, weather conditions can sometimes change dramatically. It’s important to have clothing for hot and cold days. This ensures that even while you’re flying, you can be comfortable.
Don’t Forget a Good Pilot’s Watch
If you’re a pilot and also like to travel, then one of the most important things that you can do is invest in a good pilot’s watch. A pilot’s watch is designed for use in flight, so it has features that make it easier to use while flying. You can use IWC watches for men or women to help track time in the air just to ensure that you are keeping good time. While many airplanes now offer these features, having a watch means you can have a backup in case of equipment failure.
Take a Friend Along for the Ride
One of the best ways to get more out of your traveling experiences is to take a friend along for the ride. You can take along a pilot friend or a friend who simply loves to travel and isn’t scared of flying in a smaller plane than you would with United or American Airlines. Friends who are also pilots can be invaluable resources, whether it’s just for moral support or if they have some extra tips and tricks that you might not have thought of yourself. Plus, you have someone who can also fly if you get tired.
Make Sure to Send Your Flight Plan Far Enough in Advance
As a pilot, you should always make sure that your flight plan is sent far enough in advance. This will help ensure that there are no delays or problems. If your flight plan is not sent far enough in advance, there could be serious consequences for both the pilot and the aircraft. This includes scheduling all your stops. If you fail to send an updated flight plan after an unscheduled stop, it may be considered an illegal landing. This can result in fines or worse, including prison time.
Bring Your Passport For International Destinations
Just because you are the one flying does not mean you can go without a passport. If you’re traveling to a country outside of the United States, your passport is required. You’ll need to show it when you arrive and leave the country. When you pack for your trip, make sure you include your passport, or you won’t be able to enter the country legally.
Find Locations to Visit Outside of Tourist Spots
Tourist places are fine, but being able to fly yourself means that you can explore places outside of typical tourist spots. Often there are smaller airports and places to land in more rural areas. This can give you access to vacation spots that are off the beaten path. It means you can explore towns and cities you may not have otherwise known about.
Don’t Forget to Budget for Fuel
You should always be aware of the cost of fuel and know how much you’ll need for your trip. Fuel is one of the biggest expenses in aviation. It’s important to account for fuel costs, especially if you are flying with more people than usual. More weight in a plane means that you will use up fuel more quickly. There are apps that can help you estimate your fuel needs as well.
