Have always wanted to fly but never been able to afford it until now. Have had two lessons so far and seem to have managed, but there is SO much to learn. Does anyone manage to learn at age 70? NPPL would suit me fine as I may be able to buy a 3 axis microlight if I can fly it. Any advice as to best way to get ground exams Etc.?
BRI
Pilot has published reports over the years from people your age and older who have successfully learned to fly. There is a lot to learn and our ability to remember information and master new skills deteriorates with age... but this is compensated for by other qualities that come with maturity. You will have ways of absorbing and retaining information that youngsters haven't learned, you will be more cautious than them and probably make better judgements, thanks to your decades of experience.
Tips are: prepare for lessons by reading up in advance; leave home early so that you arrive at the airfield early; don't be reserved, especially with your instructor; try to make friends with people at the club (they won't mind your age); and above all, don't take the process of learning to fly too seriously. The best advice anyone gave me was that you only learn once, so take time tto savour every stage of the experience. In your case, I'd say, take it one step at a time and don't worry about completing the course. That way when you do complete it will come as a pleasant surprise (and you will probably get there quicker without the pressure and anxiety).
Good luck and be sure to send Pilot a letter occasionally to let us know how it's going.
Nick Bloom, Editor, Pilot
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