Now more than ever, the world needs pilots. With a pilot shortage that is only increasing, more and more young adults are foregoing traditional education paths and taking to the sky. Learning to fly and becoming a certified pilot is a process. Mastering the physics that keeps you aloft and remembering every flight law are just the beginning steps of the flight school experience, and we know all student pilots are ready to fast forward to their first official day in the sky.
Much like learning to ride a bike or drive a car, your first plane can make or break your flight experience. We always recommend starting with a simple aircraft that is easier to operate so you can leave your first lesson feeling comfortable and confident.
As one of the most well-respected flight schools in Indiana, our flight instructors at Jeff Air Pilot Services take pride in putting student pilots on the right path for success and providing the best flight experience possible. With years of experience flying different aircraft, here are the three planes we recommend for beginners:
- Cessna 172
The Cessna 172 was specifically designed with students in mind, which is why we have a fleet of them available for our student pilots. Cessna 172s are known for their forgiveness and wide accessibility to replacement parts. Their high-wing design offers greater visibility, stability and ground clearance for those learning to fly, and its tricycle landing gear makes landing easier to master.
- Piper PA-28
When in flight, the low-wing design of the Piper PA-28 makes flying feel more like gliding. The landing gears of this aircraft are affixed to the wings instead of the fuselage, which creates stability during taxi. Piper PA-28s have a lower center of gravity because of the wider positioning of the landing gear and low-wing placement, making taxiing in stronger winds easier.
- Diamond DA40
As a newer trainer plane, the Diamond DA40 is a modern aircraft option for novice pilots. Like the Piper PA-28, the Diamond DA40 has a low-wing design that offers a better view of the sky. Diamond DA40s are made of composite materials instead of metal, making them much lighter and more fuel-efficient.
The Cessna 172, Piper PA-28 and Diamond DA40 are all great starter aircraft options, so the choice comes down to personal preference. If you have the option to test out all three, we highly recommend experimenting and seeing which one best suits your personal preferences and flying needs. No matter which one you choose, you can have confidence knowing you’re flying with industry-trusted aircraft that are built with students in mind.
Ready to take flight?
If you’re ready to earn your private pilot license and fly with the top-selling Cessna 172, come visit us at Jeff Air Pilot Services! Our planes are well-maintained, regularly inspected and ready for you to take flight! From takeoff to landing, you can have confidence knowing you’re taking to the sky in best-in-class aircraft. Contact us today!