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Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Private Pilot Ground School

Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare

Overview

This is a three-day workshop that took place during the MIT Independent Activities Period (IAP) in January, 2019. This workshop aims to provide information for students to prepare for the FAA Private Pilot Knowledge Test. Topics include airplane aerodynamics, aircraft systems, navigation, meteorology, aircraft ownership and maintenance, aircraft performance, multi-engine and jets.

Syllabus

1. Introduction to Private Pilot Ground School.
2. Airplane Aerodynamics.
3. Learning to Fly.
4. Aircraft Systems.
5. Charts and Airspace.
6. The Flight Environment.
7. Navigation.
8. Helicopter Aerodynamics.
9. Meteorology.
10. Communication and Flight Information.
11. Aircraft Ownership and Maintenance.
12. Aircraft Performance.
13. Interpreting Weather Data.
14. Human Factors.
15. Flight Planning.
16. Seaplanes.
17. Small UAS Operations.
18. Weight and Balance.
19. Multi-Engine and Jets.
20. Flying at Night.
21. Weather Minimums and Final Tips.
Special Lecture: F-22 Flight Controls.
Special Lecture: The How and the Why of IFR.
Special Lecture: Oshkosh 2018—Safe Space for Light Aircraft Pilots.

Taught by

Dr. Philip Greenspun and Dr. Tina Srivastava

Reviews

4.9 rating, based on 32 Class Central reviews

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  • Tina and Philip have been very precise and upto the point in having this groundschool lectures. I was specifically exited at lecture numbers 22, Nd 24. Go Aviation enthusiasts

    There was a joke Tina mentioned when showing us how to interpret an approach plate: “I thought I saw a putty-tat ; I did I did see a Putty tat”. That got my ribs cracking. 😂
  • For those that are interested in flying these lectures are made for you to understand exactly what you need to know to go the extra step and that is a Cockpit.
  • TONY
    I have done the ppl ground school before here in South Africa. I was just curious to see the America teaching method. I must say both professors are very professional and up to date with relevant information. Thank you for the lift theory clarification by the Wonderful Professor Tina. I do agree with you. One must also look at Daniel Bernoulli (1700 -1782) is also a wonky theory.
    I highly recommend this ppl course.

  • Victor Muzimo
    Private Pilot Ground School provides a solid foundation for aspiring pilots, covering essential topics like aerodynamics, navigation, weather, FAA regulations, and flight planning. The course is designed to prepare students for the FAA Knowledge Exam and offers both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into flying. Ground school teaches about aircraft systems, airspace, radio communication procedures, and safety protocols. It emphasizes critical thinking, situational awareness, and decision-making skills necessary for safe flight operations. The curriculum typically includes lectures, reading materials, and practice exams, ensuring that students are well-prepared for both written tests and hands-on flight training.
  • David-Ferenc Geiger
    It was a great course which covers mainly all aspects of flying a non commercial aircraft. Especially the great explanations where very easy to understand, so a great course for all interested in aviation. Basic aerodynamics get very well visualized by utilizing models and the students in class ask questions I also had while watching. A even more thorough dive in meteorology is probably the only aspect of this class which left something to be desired, however that is because of my background in flying sailing planes which requires brother knowledge in that area.
  • Stanley Karanja Kamau
    The ppl ground school is such a resourceful centre for all the information you require to kickstart your aviation persuit with well elaborated examples and experienced tutors
  • Nehal Asad
    This was very helpful regarding to PPL and it has upgraded my knowledge and critical thinking. PPL exam is now easy for me to pass and achieve high in exam
  • Profile image for Peter Wilhelm Kasten
    Peter Wilhelm Kasten
    Useful course for those who is interested in flying and want to become pilot.Each part of this course is well taught and explained by experienced lecturer.
  • Fernando Asekele Alex Dos Santos
    Achei muito bom, muito interessante,eu aprendi bastante coisas em muito pouco tempo de curso, foi algo muito legal pra mim.
  • I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course I like this course
  • Profile image for Mohammed Abdulsahib Saleh
    Mohammed Abdulsahib Saleh
    thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsis thanks for the corsisthanks for the corsis
  • Emmanuel Moffat Mathiya
    First of all I should thank the team for organizing this course, to empower individuals who have interest in pursuing a career in piloting. The course has really taught me the basics of becoming a good pilot, the fundamental factors to consider when flying a plane, navigation in all sort of environment. Above all I would prefer if you make PDFs available as well so that more content can be found in written formats and can be downloaded and use at any conveniences.
  • Fadi Dekkan
    This isn't an average course , but rather a fully designed and detailed program with sufficient information and knowledge. Special thanks to the wonderful professionals who delivered such a profound sum of knowledge. I did enjoy every bit of it and it was well organised and well delivered with clarity and didactic modes

    Many thanks
  • Aayan Marwaha
    Great course for aviation enthusiasts.
    Good way to pass your Easter break if you wanna learn some stuff about aerospace and aeronautics.
  • Profile image for Jeffrey Nunn
    Jeffrey Nunn
    This course was both entertaining, and informative. I especially enjoyed the F-22 portion, that was a very fun treat.
  • Profile image for Maria Jacob
    Maria Jacob
    I am 18 years old and have an interest in the aviation field. Even beginners can understand the class with ease, the course was really good and interesting. Personally, the class on the raptor was my favourite, and hoped it would have been a bit more longer.

    In this class, they didn't stop with planes but they gave a basic knowledge of helicopters, drones etc. I would promote this class to anyone who needs a theoretical basic understanding of aviation.
  • Mansi Padaliya
    Useful course for those who is interested in flying and want to become pilot.Each part of this course is well taught and explained by experienced lecturer. To add this platform provide free course which is cherry on the cake because many students can’t go to MIT physically so this is the best way to pursue such good course from good college.
  • Profile image for Joyita Dhar
    Joyita Dhar
    That was amazing session. I learned a lot of things about aircraft and much more . I got huge knowledge about aircraft air carrier and much more. The scientific method and terms are completely amazing . I am happy to learn something new which will be help me to increase my knowledge level .
  • This course was amazing ! It gave a really good introduction to pilot ground school and what to expect. Everything from planning, tower control, human aviation performance and much more. Overall, this video is something to watch if your just learning how to fly.
  • Profile image for Pilot.ramtin Haj
    Pilot.ramtin Haj
    It was a good course, the professor was excellent, he explained the aerodynamics of the Seqal center, landing gear, components and parts, the teaching method was very good.

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