The Complete Private Pilot

This is not AI-generated content. The contents were created by subject matter experts from Aviation Supplies & Academics, an 85-year-old aviation company.

Anyone interested in pursuing a Private Pilot, Sport Pilot, or Recreational Pilot Certificate needs this textbook. In a friendly, readable style, the author, a long-admired member of the aviation community, comprehensively covers all the details involved in the adventure of learning to fly.

An FAA Knowledge Exam is required to earn a Private Pilot Certificate. Using the FAA exam as the foundation for learning, Bob Gardner applies practical information, preparing readers not only for the test, but also for taking flight. He augments the required aeronautical knowledge with specific tips and techniques, checklists and mnemonic devices, and sound advice from personal experience. A provided full-color example of a sectional chart supports the many interactive exercises throughout the text. Each chapter concludes with review questions that simulate those found on the FAA test. A comprehensive glossary and index are included to simplify study. This practical application of the FAA Knowledge Exam is only available in The Complete Private Pilot!

• Includes links to helpful resources on the internet for weather charts, flight planning information, and more.
• For instructors, an available integrated flight/ground school syllabus for both Part 141 and Part 61 programs enhances the textbook.

Robert Gardner, a long-admired member of the aviation community, began his flying career in Alaska in 1960 while in the U.S. Coast Guard. By 1966, Bob had accomplished his private land and sea, commercial, instrument, instructor, CFII, and MEL. Over the next 16 years he was an instructor, charter pilot, designated examiner, freight dog, and the Director of ASA Ground Schools.

Bob held an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate with single- and multi-engine land ratings; a CFI certificate with instrument and multi-engine ratings; and a Ground Instructor’s Certificate with advanced and instrument ratings. A well-known author, journalist, and airshow lecturer, Bob was a Gold Seal Flight Instructor and was named a Flight Instructor of the Year in Washington State. ASA is proud to continue Bob’s work by updating his books for future generations of pilots.