Private Pilot Ground School Course Outline

Aerodynamics & Theory of Flight

During this session we will discuss airframe construction, forces acting on an aircraft in flight, movements and controls, aircraft stability and flight performance.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 21 – 39

Airframes

During this session we will discuss airframe construction, control surfaces and common words. There will also be discussion of different types of aircraft.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 9-20

Aero Engines and Aircraft Systems

Topics covered will include types of combustion engines, the four stroke cycle, engine timing, cooling, lubrication, fuel systems, carburetors, mixture control, exhaust system, ignition system, electrical system, propellers, engine instruments and engine operation considerations.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 51 – 85

Canadian Aviation Regulations, Licensing Requirements and PSTAR

The aim of this class is to review rules of the air and procedures. Students are expected to study the AIM references outlined in the PSTAR study guide PRIOR to attending this class.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 91 – 119, PSTAR study guide, AIM LRA section and CARs

Licensing Requirements & Radio License (ROC-A and Exam)

You will learn about what is required for your Private Pilot License. During this lesson you will learn about the phonetic alphabet and how to use it in aviation. At the end of this lesson you may be given the Restricted Operators Certificate Exam for Aviation. Bring in your Passport to process the ROC-A efficiently.

Reference: AIM LRA section, Industry Canada ROC-A Study Guide

Flight Instruments

This lesson will involve an analysis of atmospheric pressure, the pitot static system, gyroscopic theory and associated instruments. The magnetic compass will also be discussed.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 39 – 50 and 179 – 182

Flight Operations: Airmanship and Performance

During this session we will discuss care of the airplane, weight and balance, factors affecting aircraft performance and performance charts, wake turbulence, and handling flight abnormalities.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 259 to 297, AIM AIR section, POH,

Meteorology

In this class we will discuss the atmosphere, clouds, pressure, winds, humidity, temperature and stability. There will be further training about air masses, fronts, precipitation, fog types, thunderstorms, icing and turbulence. We will look at available weather data, decoding and analyzing weather observations and forecasts from METARs, TAFs, FDs and GFAs.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 123 – 172, AIM MET section

Navigation I: Basic Theory

During this session we will discuss latitude and longitude, the earth’s magnetism and aeronautical charts. Later we will discuss departure procedures and getting back on track. During the practical portion of the class, you will learn about using the E6-B, Douglas Protractor, Charts and flight log. Near the end of the lesson we will start to plan a trip from CYTZ to Muskoka.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 175 - 179, 184 – 206 Flight Computer User Manual, VNC, POH, CFS

Radio Aids to Navigation

In this class we will discuss radio wave theory, the theory of operation, application of various radio aids to navigation including VOR, NDB, ADF, DME, VORTAC, TACAN, ILS, radar, transponder and GPS devices.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 227 – 255

Radio & Electronic Theory

Topics to include aerodrome layout, traffic procedures, the Canadian Airspace System, radio wave theory and frequency bands, radio communication facilities and procedures.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 91 – 105, 207 – 226 and ROC-A study guide

Human Factors & Pilot Decision Making (PDM)

This class analyzes the pilot decision making process and other related issues such as pilot attitude, the “DECIDE” process, human factors, and air safety. Medical factors affecting pilots such as hypoxia, carbon monoxide poisoning, hyperventilation, decompression sickness, sensory illusions, alcohol, drugs, blood donation, fatigue, pregnancy, nutrition, stress and physical fitness.

Reference: From the Ground Up, pages 303 – 319, AIM AIR section

AIM = Aeronautical Information Manual

RTOC = Radio Telephone Operator’s Certificate study guide

POH = Pilot Operating Handbook