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Returning to the cockpit after an extended break can be one of the most exciting yet challenging experiences a pilot can face. Whether you've been away due to career changes, family responsibilities or medical reasons, getting back in the air comes with a unique set of challenges.
Here, we explore some of these hurdles and how pilots can overcome them to regain their confidence and proficiency.
1. Skill Decay
Flying, like any highly technical skill, requires consistent practice. Over time, even seasoned pilots can experience a decline in their proficiency. Muscle memory fades, and tasks that once felt automatic—like radio communication, checklist management, or handling emergencies—might now require conscious effort.
How to Address It:
Refresher Training: Enrol in a flight review or a simulator session with a certified flight instructor (CFI). Focus on both basic manoeuvres and emergency procedures.
Study: Revisit your manuals, AIP, and aircraft systems knowledge. Reviewing these materials can rebuild your technical understanding.
2. Regulatory Requirements
A gap in flying may mean that your certifications, medicals, or currency requirements are no longer valid. Depending on the duration of your absence, you may need to complete additional steps to meet regulatory standards.
How to Address It:
Check the Rules: Review CAA regulations for currency requirements, including recent flight experience, medical certification, and instrument proficiency.
Plan Ahead: If your medical has expired, schedule an appointment with an Aviation Medical Examiner early in the process.
3. Confidence Gap
Even pilots with thousands of hours can feel hesitant when they’ve been away from flying. Aviation demands precision and decision-making, and the thought of being “rusty” can be intimidating.
How to Address It:
Take It Slow: Don’t rush back into complex flights. Start with simple VFR flights in familiar conditions and gradually build up to more challenging scenarios.
Set Goals: Break your return into achievable milestones, such as completing a solo flight or passing an instrument proficiency check.
4. Adapting to Changes
The aviation landscape is constantly evolving. New airspace regulations, technology advancements, or changes in company policies can create a steep learning curve for returning pilots.
How to Address It:
Stay Informed: Subscribe to aviation news, attend safety seminars, and engage with pilot communities to stay up to date.
Embrace Technology: Familiarise yourself with any new avionics or procedures, especially if your aircraft has been upgraded.
5. Physical and Mental Readiness
Flying is both physically and mentally demanding. After a long break, you may find that your endurance for long flights or multitasking in high-pressure situations isn’t what it used to be.
How to Address It:
Fitness and Health: Ensure you’re in good physical shape to handle the rigors of flying. Regular exercise and good sleep habits can enhance focus and stamina.
Mindset: Practice mindfulness or stress management techniques to remain calm and composed in the cockpit.
6. Financial Considerations
Flying isn’t cheap, and returning to the skies often involves costs for training, medical exams, and possibly additional certifications.
How to Address It:
Budgeting: Plan and set aside funds for your return, factoring in aircraft rental, instruction, and potential exam fees.
Look for Opportunities: Explore scholarships or pilot programs designed to assist returning aviators.
My Return
When I first returned to the cockpit last week after a year and a half being ground based, it felt like everything was happening at double speed. My scan wasn’t as sharp as it used to be, and I often found myself one step behind the airplane. On final approach, I realised I was getting slow because I was so focused on the descent profile that I neglected airspeed management—a fundamental that used to come naturally. After takeoff, I missed checklist items because I was still processing the upwind while the aircraft was already miles ahead of me. It was humbling and a stark reminder that flying demands not only technical skills but also the mental agility to stay ahead of the aircraft at all times. All of this was not helped by some poor weather, a bit of wind and a bit of rain - conditions that I wouldn't normally have batted an eye at.
It was good to only do one circuit that day, partly because of the weather, but also because it gave me a chance to reset without overloading myself. That single flight removed the startle factor and let me process everything I needed to improve on. By the time I step into the cockpit again (hopefully this week, weather depending) I know I’ll be much more prepared. I’ve already written a full page of notes outlining areas to work on—everything from managing airspeed on final to nailing my after-takeoff flow—and having a clear plan will make a world of difference for the next flight.
Conclusion
Returning to flying after an absence is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it’s about rediscovering your passion for aviation. While the process may feel daunting at first, each step you take brings you closer to regaining the joy of piloting an aircraft.
Remember, aviation is a community. Whether through flight schools, mentors, or fellow pilots, you’re never alone in your journey back to the skies. With dedication, patience, and preparation, you’ll find yourself once again soaring confidently above the clouds.
I will keep everyone posted as my journey continues, so check back regularly for updates!
Until next time, blue skies and smooth landings everyone!
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