Academic Catalogs

APT A140: Flight Instructor Ground School

Course Outline of Record
Item Value
Top Code 302020 - Piloting
Units 3 Total Units 
Hours 54 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 54)
Total Outside of Class Hours 0
Course Credit Status Credit: Degree Applicable (D)
Material Fee No
Basic Skills Not Basic Skills (N)
Repeatable No
Grading Policy Standard Letter (S)

Course Description

Academic preparation for written and practical examinations for Certificated Flight Instructor, Airplane. Covers basic aerodynamics, aircraft performance, Federal Aviation Regulations, aviation weather factors and cross country navigation procedures. Provides in depth instruction in the fundamentals of teaching and learning and ground and in-flight instructional techniques. Meets the preparation requirements for the FAA Flight Instructor computerized knowledge examination and Fundamentals of Learning computerized knowledge examination. All training is conducted in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 61 and Part 141. Students satisfying the pilot certificate prerequisite must present proof to the instructor during the first week of the course. ADVISORY: APT A139. Transfer Credit: CSU.

Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)

  1. Successfully complete the preparation requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Knowledge Test for Flight Instructor, Airplane.
  2. Successfully complete the preparation requirements of the FAA Practical Test for Flight Instructor, Airplane after receiving in-flight instruction from a Certificated Flight Instructor.

Course Objectives

  • 1. Demonstrate basic aeronautical knowledge a. Identify the components of an aircraft. b. Define the characteristics of flight. c. Define flight controls and engine components.
  • 2. Name and identify aerodynamic principles.
  • 3. Distinguish and differentiate between parts of the national airspace structure.
  • 4. Describe air traffic control procedures applicable to pilots.
  • 5. Define Federal Air Regulations applicable to Private Pilots.
  • 6. Demonstrate basic knowledge and concepts needed for the FAA Private Pilot written exam.
  • 7. Define the safety concerns of operating an aircraft.
  • 8. Demonstrate knowledge of radio communication and flight information.
  • 9. Analyze and interpret weather and meteorology symbols.
  • 10. Prepare, analyze and solve weight and balance problems for aircraft.
  • 11. Review and analyze aircraft performance charts.
  • 12. Apply advanced skills in navigation and chart reading.
  • 13. Describe and explain navigation systems.
  • 14. Evaluate decision-making processes.
  • 15. Demonstrate sound teaching technique

Method(s) of Instruction

  • Lecture (02)
  • DE Live Online Lecture (02S)
  • DE Online Lecture (02X)