Understanding Flight School Terminology: A Beginner’s Guide
by Elsa Peralta
2 min read ·
If you’re new to aviation and considering flight training, you might feel overwhelmed by all the terms used in the industry. At Red Arrow Flight Academy, located at Doña Ana County International Jetport (KDNA) in Santa Teresa, NM, we aim to make your journey into aviation as smooth as possible. This guide breaks down some common flight school terms to help you get started.
Common Aviation Terms You Need to Know
1. Part 141 vs. Part 61
These numbers refer to different types of FAA-approved flight training programs:
- Part 141 programs are more structured and follow a strict FAA-approved syllabus. These programs are ideal for full-time students aiming to become professional pilots quickly.
- Part 61 programs are more flexible and allow students to learn at their own pace, often part-time.
At Red Arrow Flight Academy, we offer both Part 141 and Part 61 programs to suit different student needs.
2. Private Pilot License (PPL)
This is the first step in becoming a licensed pilot. A PPL allows you to fly a single-engine aircraft for personal use but not for hire. It’s the foundation of all other pilot certifications.
3. Instrument Rating (IR)
An instrument rating allows you to fly in low-visibility conditions, such as clouds or fog, by relying on the aircraft’s instruments. This is a critical skill for professional pilots and is available at our Santa Teresa location.
4. AATD and BATD Simulators
These acronyms stand for Advanced Aviation Training Device and Basic Aviation Training Device. They are flight simulators used for safe and cost-effective training. At Red Arrow, we use the Redbird FMX full-motion simulator to help students gain confidence before flying an actual airplane.
5. Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE)
A DPE is an FAA-approved examiner who administers the final checkride (practical test) for pilot certifications. At Red Arrow, we have an in-house DPE to make the certification process more convenient for our students.
6. Discovery Flight
A discovery flight is a short, introductory flight with a certified instructor. It’s designed to give you a taste of flying before committing to a full training program. Discovery flights at Red Arrow are a great way to explore the skies over Santa Teresa, El Paso, and beyond.
7. Flight Schedule Pro (FSP)
FSP is an online tool for scheduling lessons and tracking your progress. All Red Arrow students use this system to stay organized throughout their training.
Why Choose Red Arrow Flight Academy?
Choosing the right flight school is essential for your success. Here’s why aspiring pilots from Santa Teresa, El Paso, Ft. Bliss, Las Cruces, and Juarez choose Red Arrow:
- The only Part 141 flight school in the area.
- Access to modern aircraft, including 6 Cessna 172s, 2 Piper Archers, and 1 Cessna 182 for high-performance training.
- Year-round flying weather in Santa Teresa, NM.
- VA GI Bill-approved programs for veterans.
- In-house maintenance ensures minimal downtime for our fleet.
Ready to Start Your Journey?
Understanding flight school terminology is just the first step. If you’re ready to begin your aviation journey, Red Arrow Flight Academy is here to guide you every step of the way.
Visit our website at flyredarrow.com or call us at (575) 201-6160 to schedule your discovery flight or enroll in one of our programs today!
Reach Out Today