Student Requirements
Students need to be at least 18 years old, in reasonable physical shape, able to sprint for take-off and run out the landings. They should have no medical conditions that would interfere with these requirements and should be able to think clearly and follow instructions.
You should be sure to get a good night's sleep. The lesson will last about 4-6 hours and we will be quite active so you will need to be physically ready and mentally clear.
What to Bring and Wear
We recommend that students wear long pants, wear shoes with some tread (tennis/running shoes are okay). It doesn’t hurt to wear a long-sleeved shirt and gloves to help prevent possible raspberries.
Also, bring water to keep hydrated, and perhaps something to munch on because, in order to have a better chance of getting a full lesson in, we don't stop for a formal lunch.
The Day of Your Lesson
Call the office (415-456-3670) at 7 a.m. for final wind/weather check and meeting time and location. Click here for directions to training and other flying sites.
If you are taking the basic course, be sure to bring your USHPA membership/rating card. It is required to be on your person while flying. Also bring your log book so you can keep it up to date.
General
All equipment is provided for lessons.
If we are going to Ed Levin Park, there is a $6.00 park entrance fee payable at the booth. Debit and credit cards are accepted, as well as cash. Please obey the speed limit signs in the park.
Lessons do not include your USHPA membership. If you decide to take the Basic Course, you will need to join right away after your first lesson. A full-year membership is required before any ratings can be issued and if your membership isn’t processed it will likely delay your progress through the course. You should join as a pilot member. The application form can be found here.
Dogs may come if leashed and under control although they and friends will not be allowed in the launch and landing areas. Cameras are fine. Alcohol etc. are not allowed during the course of the lesson.
Basic Course
- On the second day, you will be issued your textbook, log book, P1 (beginner) written test study guide, P1 and P2 syllabus/skills sign-off sheets.
- Third lesson day prep: Thoroughly read the P1 study guide to be prepared for the written exam. You must pass this test in order to be issued your first (P1) rating and graduate from the "bunny hills."
- Fourth lesson day prep: Read Chapters 1 through 3 of the textbook.
- Fifth lesson day prep: Read Chapters 4 and 5 of the textbook.
- Sixth lesson day prep: Read Chapters 6 and 7 of the textbook.
- Seventh lesson day prep: Read Chapters 8 and 9 of the textbook.
- Eighth lesson through graduation: Finish remaining chapters and appendices.
