The Dual Cross Country Flight

Private Pilot License (PPL) Notes

This section demonstrates a typical dual cross-country training flight, guiding new student pilots through planning, navigation, communication, and flight management during a cross-country journey.

Pre-Flight Preparation:

1. Check weather conditions for the entire flight route.
2. Complete the flight log with all necessary details.
3. File a flight plan for each leg of the flight.
4. Conduct a thorough preflight inspection of the aircraft.
5. Organize the cockpit for easy access to tools and documents.
6. Make necessary radio calls before taking the runway.

Departure Procedures:

1. After takeoff, reach pattern altitude on the departure leg.
2. Exit the pattern at a 45-degree angle.
3. Turn on course when clear of the airport vicinity and at least 500 feet above pattern altitude.
4. Start the timer using the E6B flight computer.

Enroute Navigation:

1. Establish on-course heading and cruising altitude (e.g., 3,500 feet).
2. Assume the initial heading (e.g., 49 degrees) and look for the first checkpoint (e.g., Owensville and the racetrack).
3. Log the time over each checkpoint.
4. Contact Flight Service to activate the flight plan using a nearby Remote Communications Outlet (RCO).
5. Adjust power settings for cruise and lean the mixture.
6. Confirm true airspeed using the Outside Air Temperature (OAT) gauge.
7. Maintain continuous visual scanning to avoid traffic conflicts.
8. Remain vigilant, especially when flying near other airports.

Groundspeed Checks and Course Verification:

1. Perform groundspeed checks at designated checkpoints using the E6B.
2. Monitor and maintain the desired heading to stay on course.
3. Use visual references (e.g., towns, roads, railways) to confirm position.
4. Adjust calculations if groundspeed differs from estimates due to wind changes.

Airspace Communication:

1. Establish radio communication before entering controlled airspace (e.g., Class D airspace).
2. Contact the appropriate tower to request transition through their airspace.
3. Follow instructions provided by air traffic control.
4. Maintain awareness of airspace boundaries and comply with regulations.

Approach and Landing at Destination:

1. Prepare for the approach and landing well before reaching the destination airport.
2. Obtain airport advisories from UNICOM or relevant frequencies.
3. Plan to arrive at pattern altitude before reaching the airport vicinity.
4. Begin descent in sufficient time to reach pattern altitude smoothly.
5. Make radio calls announcing position and intentions in the traffic pattern.
6. Complete the pre-landing checklist.
7. Maintain vigilance for other traffic and obstacles.
8. Log the time of arrival upon landing.
9. Perform a full-stop landing and taxi back for takeoff if continuing the flight.

Departure for Next Leg:

1. Announce departure intentions on the Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF).
2. After takeoff, reach pattern altitude on the departure leg.
3. Exit the pattern at a 45-degree angle when clear of traffic.
4. Turn on course upon leaving the airport vicinity.
5. Activate the next flight plan with Flight Service.
6. Climb to the planned cruising altitude (e.g., 4,500 feet).

Enroute Considerations:

1. Acknowledge the accomplishment of completing the previous leg successfully.
2. Stay focused on navigation, communication, and flight duties.
3. Note changes in groundspeed due to wind variations.
4. Recalculate groundspeed and true airspeed as necessary.
5. Observe landmarks to verify position and course.
6. Adjust heading if drift is detected to maintain the desired course.
7. Tune into Automatic Weather Observing System (AWOS) for updated weather information.
8. Be aware of any special activities (e.g., parachute jumping) at upcoming airports.

Final Approach and Landing:

1. Identify the destination airport and determine the active runway.
2. Use runway numbers and compass headings to verify correct runway alignment.
3. Plan to enter the traffic pattern appropriately (e.g., 45-degree entry to downwind leg).
4. Announce position and intentions on the CTAF.
5. Complete the pre-landing checklist.
6. Make adjustments for crosswind conditions if necessary.
7. Perform a full-stop landing and taxi clear of the runway.
8. Close the flight plan using appropriate communication methods (e.g., RCO, telephone).

Post-Flight Actions:

1. Conduct a post-flight inspection of the aircraft.
2. Review the flight and address any issues or lessons learned.
3. Reflect on the experience to build confidence and proficiency.

Key Takeaways:

1. Cross-country flights require thorough planning and continuous attention to navigation and communication.
2. Maintain situational awareness by scanning for traffic and monitoring instruments.
3. Follow checklists and adhere to standard operating procedures.
4. Adapt to changing conditions, such as wind and weather.
5. Enjoy the experience and continue to build skills for future flights.

Remember, consistent practice and adherence to procedures ensure safe and enjoyable cross-country flights. Stay vigilant, and be prepared for unexpected events in future flights.