suppakuppa

Im planning on getting my PPL as soon as i can but as of yet dont have the money to do so. I wanted to start studying though and learning stuff i need to know before i even start paying. Is this a good idea or should I just wait for the instructor to give me material? If I should start studying then what book should i start reading that would help me out the most? I was looking to maybe getting the "Jeppesen GFD Private Pilot" text book. Any imput on this book or info on other material i can start with? Thanks!

falcon20pilot

The Airplane Flying Handbook is the text book for basic flying. It has the maneuvers in it and describes the intent of the maneuver, which along with your instructor's teaching of how to accomplish that in your particular aircraft makes up the basic PPL and commercial requirements. That might be one to consider.

rickair7777

Can't hurt to get started with the reading. The Jeppesen system is good.

I also like the Cessna stuff, and that might be advantageous if you are going to be doing your training in a Cessna (the majority of students do).

If you have any idea which school (or freelance instructor) you will be using, I would ask them. Many instructors will have a preference, and schools will usually require the use of a specific system. If you don't have any idea, then Jeppesen is fine. They have books for every rating.

NoBeta

Another good place to start is with the FAR/AIM. Start with part 91-general operating rules. Part 61-certification of pilots. In the front of the FAR/AIM is a study list for private pilot certification and all other ratings. You can follow that list as a guide. Also near the front is part 1- definitions. it is good to have a good grasp on all those terms. pretty basic stuff. Good Luck and you came to the right forum to ask questions. Great bunch of people on here to help ya....

Bellanca

The Jepp book is good. Check out AOPA, they have a trial membership where you'd get 6 months of their magazine and access to their website aopa.org. AOPA membership is only ~$25 a year, so I would suggest joining when the trial runs out. Also, the FAA has the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge, Airplane Flying Handbook and a few others available in PDF online for free. Handbooks & Manuals

Its never too early to start studying, and it will save you money in the long run. Even if it is just a hour or two less of ground here and there because you have a solid grasp of knowledge topics - it all adds up.

rickair7777

The problem with that is that, taken out of context, a lot of it would be confusing.

Also I don't think the FAR/AIM itself has a study guide, that was added by one or more reprint vendors so make sure the copy you buy has a study guide if you want one.

NoBeta

Good point Rickair. Some regs are confusing at first until explained.

I have heard about that FAR'S explained book but have never looked at it myself.

I have seen the study guide in the ASA FAR/AIM for the past few years.

Ottopilot

All you need is free online:

Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowlede:
Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge
(ground school info)

Airmen's Information Manual:
Aeronautical Information Manual
(ground school)

Airplane Flying Handbook:
Airplane Flying Handbook
(flight school)

PearlPilot

Hello, I started studying for my PPL a couple of years prior to getting in the cockpit. I've always wanted to start flying during college, but due to lack of funds, I couldn't until I got a full time job. The Jeppesen is an excellent book, although a bit on the pricey side. You might want to wait until you start flying to make that investment, maybe... You should also purchase Rod Machado's Private Pilot handbook. It is written in a humorous style and goes beyond what you need to know. I found reading Machado's book encouraging for someday when I do start flying. I used his books all through my instrument rating. Also definitely sign up for the free AOPA membership. After 6 months, it's actually $45 a year now. It is a solid investment IMO since their information library is quite priceless. That should get you started. Of course I am sure you are tirelessly researching online about flying. I spent and still do spend hours on airliners.net. I wish you all the best and truly hope that you can start flying soon. Keep us updated and good luck!

Walkeraviator

Otto nailed it. I would go as far as to eliminate the AIM from teh study list until you have a flight instructor to help you decipher it. Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowlede, and the Airplane Flying Handbook are the two best sources for education in written print. The Jeppesen books are good too, especially if you learn by seeing instead of reading. They have a lot more images and diagrams than the FAA books. You may want to go ahead and buy the Practical Test Standards book (PTS) so you know up front exactly what the test is and what you need to focus on.

Next, if you get to something you dont quite understand, come here... there is a forum full of experienced guys who are more than willing to clarify questions. Hell PM me if you got questions... if i dont know the answer, I will help you find it...