Booking & Scheduling

How should I prepare for my lesson?

4 min read

Booking & Scheduling

Updated Feb 2026

Arriving prepared makes a real difference to the quality of your lesson — and keeps your costs down by ensuring none of the time you've paid for is spent looking for equipment or waiting for you to get ready.

Arrive at least 15 minutes early

You're required to arrive at least 15 minutes before your booked lesson. This time is for pre-flight briefing and preparation — not for travelling from the car park or sorting your kit.

The 15-minute pre-flight briefing is included in your training rate. If you arrive late, you're not just reducing your flying time — you're starting the lesson without the instructor briefing that sets up everything you'll practise in the aircraft. It also puts pressure on the schedule and can affect other students' lessons.

Arriving late affects the whole lesson

If you consistently arrive after your slot time, your instructor may need to reduce the exercise or cut the flight short to stay within schedule. You'll still be charged for the booked block time.

What to bring

Your instructor will confirm exactly what materials are needed for each lesson, but as a rule the following should be with you every time you fly.

Pilot's logbook Required

Every flight must be logged. Your logbook is the official record of your flying hours and is required for your PPL application.

Kneeboard Required

For noting clearances, headings, frequencies, and any other information during the flight.

VFR chart (1:500,000) Required

The relevant chart for your operating area. Required once you begin navigation exercises.

Navigation computer and ruler Required

For pre-flight planning. Needed from navigation training onwards.

Your own headset Optional

A headset is provided by the school, but you're welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

Study materials Optional

If your instructor has set any ground study ahead of the lesson, bring your notes or materials so you can discuss them at the debrief.

What to wear

Wear comfortable, practical clothing. There are no formal requirements — but some clothing and footwear is not permitted for safety reasons.

Open-toed shoes or sandals — secure, closed footwear is required

Loose scarves or dangling accessories that could catch on controls

Any clothing that could interfere with aircraft controls or the rudder pedals

Beyond these restrictions, dress for the temperature — the cockpit can get cold in winter and warm in summer. Layers are useful. Practical trousers and a comfortable jacket will serve you well for most Scottish flying conditions.

On the day

Switch your mobile phone to flight mode before you enter the aircraft. Phones must not be in use during any flight.

Don't fly within 8 hours of consuming alcohol. This is a CAA regulation, not a guideline. If your instructor has any reason to believe you're impaired for any reason — alcohol, medication, or otherwise — the flight will not proceed and standard cancellation fees will apply.

If you're on any prescription or over-the-counter medication, check with your Aviation Medical Examiner before flying. Some medications that seem minor can affect your ability to safely operate an aircraft.

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