Flying Clubs: From Basic Flying Lessons to Authoring Flying Plans
There is more to flying clubs than simply being special interest organizations where those with passions for flying converge, though this is one reality when talking about flying clubs. Flying clubs are also avenues in which members and aspiring members learn the dynamics involved in flying, from actual aircraft handling, to the authoring of flying plans, and even to the maintenance tasks which are required for aircrafts.
Truth be told, lessons in flying, from pilot training to the creation of flying plans, stand to be staples when talking about flying clubs, as it is basically an organization sired through a group of persons' love for flying. Because of this, it isn't surprising to know that many licensed pilots owe their roots from flying clubs, before engaging into the more professional and career oriented line of aviation. Some non-profit flying clubs go as far as actually operating airports, further enhancing the pilot training and creation of flying plans lessons boasted by flying clubs. In Canada, a number of flying clubs are known to operate airports, some dating back to the 1920s.
Generally, there are two categories of flying clubs; the Equity and the Non-Equity classes of flying clubs.
The Equity Class of Flying Clubs
As the name already implies, the equity class of flying clubs are flying clubs which own an aircraft or aircrafts, and are used by flying club members in pursuing their flying oriented activities. Members basically have to "buy into" the club, owning a portion or share of the aircraft asset which is attributed to the club. Also, for the use of the various insurance fees, hangar rentals fees, annual aircraft checkups and other aircraft related fees, members of equity flying clubs have the responsibility in paying for these costs through monthly dues, which are essential dues for equity flying clubs.
The Non-Equity Class of Flying Clubs
The Non-equity variety of flying clubs are flying clubs which don't own an aircraft credited to the club's list of assets, but rather rent aircrafts as a group. Monthly fees of non-equity flying clubs are used in the actual renting of aircraft. Non-Equity flying clubs stand to be much more less costly to be members of, compared to that of being a member of an equity flying club.
Bottom line, regardless if one goes to an equity or a non-equity flying club, flying lessons ranging from the creation of flying plans to the actual piloting an aircraft are sure to be garnered, as flying clubs stand to be great for those with flying plans.
