Take the First Step Toward Learning to Fly
Posted by Patuxent River Naval Air Museum
Community Builders
The path to flying begins with a first step.
In July, local residents will get the chance to take that step when the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps and the Association of Naval Aviation present a seven-day aviation ground school course at the Southern Maryland Higher Education Center.
The course, taught by Judge Robert T.S. Colby, is being offered to high school students, NSCC cadets, JROTC cadets, CAP cadets or anyone over the age of 15 who is interested in aviation.
The course is scheduled for July 14 and 16-21. It will include 48 hours of instruction on topics including aerodynamics, aircraft systems, flight instruments, aircraft performance, charts, air space, navigation, communications, meteorology, weather reports, federal aviation regulation and airport operations.
Judge Colby
The program will conclude with the administration of the Federal Aviation Administration Recreational Pilot and Private Pilot Knowledge Tests, allowing students to become certified in these subjects.
Dave Seeman, chair of the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum’s exhibit committee, strongly recommended that any students interested in becoming a pilot jump at the chance to take instruction from Colby, a former Navy combat pilot.
“He has a great sense for training,” Seeman said. He added that the aviation ground school classes average a 90 to 92 percent pass rate for the FAA ground exam.
The fee for the class is $147. Registration forms can be obtained by calling 703-549-7722.
