Your checkride is the final step toward earning your pilot certificate. It’s a comprehensive test of your knowledge, decision-making, and flying skills. While it can be nerve-wracking, proper preparation makes a huge difference. Here are our top tips for ensuring a smooth and successful checkride experience.

1. Understand the ACS (Airman Certification Standards)

The FAA’s Airman Certification Standards (ACS) outline everything you need to know and demonstrate during your checkride. Make sure to review the relevant ACS for your certificate or rating, whether you’re taking your Private Pilot, Instrument Rating, or Commercial Pilot checkride.

Quick Tip

Highlight areas where you feel less confident and focus your study efforts there.

2. Be Proficient in the Oral Exam

Your Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) will ask questions about regulations, procedures, aerodynamics, weather, and emergency scenarios. Practice answering questions out loud, and use resources like:

FAA Handbooks (e.g., Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge)
FAR/AIM for regulations
Scenario-based study sessions with your instructor

If you’re preparing for an instrument or multi-engine checkride, make sure you understand Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) procedures and systems in depth. Check out our Instrument Rating or Multi-Engine Rating training for extra support.

3. Perfect Your Maneuvers

Your DPE will evaluate your ability to perform required maneuvers safely and within ACS parameters. Be sure to:

Practice slow flight, stalls, steep turns, and emergency procedures
Ensure smooth and coordinated control inputs
Know the standards for altitude, speed, and heading deviations

If you struggle with specific maneuvers, schedule additional practice flights with your instructor at Summit Flight Academy.

4. Know Your Aircraft Inside and Out

You must demonstrate knowledge of your aircraft’s performance, limitations, and emergency procedures. Be prepared to:

Explain the aircraft systems (fuel, electrical, flight controls, etc.)
Calculate weight and balance and takeoff/landing distances
Demonstrate proper checklist usage for every phase of flight

5. Fly with Confidence and Stay Ahead of the Aircraft

Examiners are not expecting perfection, but they want to see good judgment and confidence. If you make a minor mistake, acknowledge it and correct it quickly. Stay ahead of the aircraft by:

Thinking one step ahead in each phase of flight
Using checklists methodically
Staying calm and professional throughout the ride

6. Get Plenty of Rest and Arrive Prepared

A well-rested mind is crucial for peak performance. The night before your checkride:

Review key topics but don’t cram
Ensure you have all necessary documents (logbook, IACRA application, endorsements, etc.)
Arrive early, dressed professionally, and with a positive mindset

Final Thoughts

At Summit Flight Academy, we ensure our students are fully prepared for their checkride. Our structured programs, experienced instructors, and real-world training environment set you up for success.

Looking for extra practice or financing options? Visit our Financing Page or check out our FAQs for more details.

📞 Call us at +1 816-282-1500
🌐 Visit us at summitflightacademy.com
✈️ Schedule an intro flight today at FlightCircle.

Top Tips for Acing Your Checkride