Ten knowledge areas
Study guides
This section gathers study guides for the private pilot written and oral—airspace, weather, navigation, regulations, systems, and more. Use it as a map of topics, not as a substitute for FAA publications or your CFI.
New to the path? Start with How to Become a Private Pilot, then follow the ordered steps on exam-prep. Drill weak areas with tools, and cross-check anything that matters against the official links on resources.
Start with the path00 PPLHow to Become a Private PilotSteps, requirements, and timeline for the Part 61 airplane path.01 ASPAirspace ClassesClasses A–G, equipment, and how each looks on a sectional.02 WXWeather TheoryPatterns, METAR/TAF, charts, and go/no-go thinking.03 NAVNavigationVOR, GPS, dead reckoning, pilotage, sectional reading.04 FARFAR Part 61 & 91Certification, operating rules, and PIC responsibility.05 SYSAircraft SystemsEngine, electrical, fuel, and how the airplane behaves.06 AEROAerodynamicsFour forces, stalls and spins, load factor.07 COMRadio CommunicationsPhraseology for tower, approach, and center.08 PLNPre-flight PlanningBriefings, inspections, and §91.103.09 EMGEmergency ProceduresEngine failures, system faults, weather encounters.10 NGTNight FlyingRequirements, illusions, lighting, endorsement.