My name is Simon Kalas, a UK flight school owner. Each week myself and my guests aim to inspire, motivate and support student pilots to achieving their goals of becoming a Private or Commercial Pilot. We discuss, warts and all, what it takes to learn to fly and beyond, sharing our experiences from our team and guests.
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47 recent
March 29, 202625 min
Help I'm Lost! | | The Student Pilot Podcast EP46
In this episode myself and Claire talk about one of the most common fears student pilots have, getting lost! You will learn what to do if this happens and how to get back home safely with as little drama as possible.We also reveal the answer to last weeks "Aviation fact or fiction".🔗 FREE Learn to Fly Guide: https://almat.co.uk/product/ulfg-aero/👍 Like & subscribe for more student pilot content.#StudentPilot #LearnToFly #AviationMotivation #PilotTraining #PPL ✈️Support the show
February 28, 202617 min
NPPL vs PPL - Licences Compared | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP45
In this episode Claire and Steve talk about the recent licencing changes, the removal of LAPL and how this may affect you as a licenced or student pilot. We also cover the main differences between NPPL and PPL in the UK, for those of you who are considering starting training.🎧 Plus: Dont forget to join in our new feature "Aviation Fact Or Fiction".🔗 FREE Learn to Fly Guide👍 Like & subscribe for more student pilot content.#StudentPilot #LearnToFly #AviationMotivation #PilotTraining #PPL ✈️Support the showSupport the show
January 18, 202622 min
2026: Realise Your Pilot Goals | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP44
In this episode of the Student Pilot Podcast, Simon and Claire talk about how to:Get started with flight training, restart after a pause ot refocus if progress feels slowWe cover the most common reasons students stop flying — time, money, confidence, and momentum — and how to push past them with realistic advice and the right mindset.Whether your goal is your first lesson, first solo, or finally earning your licence, this episode is here to remind you:👉 The only pilots who don’t make it are the ones who stop showing up.🎧 Plus: new podcast features for 2026, including Aviation Fact of the Month, Student Clinic, and Aviation Tip of the Month.🔗 FREE Learn to Fly Guide👍 Like & subscribe for more student pilot content.#StudentPilot #LearnToFly #AviationMotivation #PilotTraining #PPL ✈️Support the show
June 27, 202519 min
Threat And Error Management | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP 43
✈️ Episode 43 – Threat and Error Management (TEM) for Student Pilots 🎙️Welcome back to The Student Pilot Podcast! In this episode, we dive into one of the most important but often overlooked topics in flight training: Threat and Error Management (TEM).As a student pilot, you’re constantly juggling new procedures, weather decisions, airspace awareness, and aircraft control. So how do you stay ahead of the curve and make safe decisions under pressure? That’s where TEM comes in.We’ll cover:✅ What Threat and Error Management really means✅ How student pilots can spot potential threats before they escalate✅ Real-world examples of common errors and how to manage them✅ Building the mindset of a proactive, safety-conscious pilotWhether you're just starting out or approaching your skills test, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you fly smarter and safer.🛩️ Subscribe and join us on your journey from student to certified pilot!🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.Join the Almat Flying Academy community and let's take flight together. Subscribe to our channel, hit that notification bell, and stay tuned for exciting updates, aviation tips, and incredible flying adventures! Prefer to download / listen? Available on all popular podcast platforms including itunes and Spotify.Ready to embark on your aviation adventure? Contact us today to schedule your first flight or inquire about our training programs and aircraft rental.Phone: 02477 220 399Email: customerservice@almat.co.ukWebsite: https://almat.co.uk/Support the show#StudentPilot #FlightTraining #PilotPodcast #ThreatAndErrorManagement #AviationSafety #PrivatePilot #LearnToFly #PilotInTrainingSupport the show
April 27, 202511 min
Are you flying illegally? | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP42
In this episode we talk with Steve Mason about if you maybe flying illegally, and not even realise it!We go through whats required to keep legal in terms of currency, for a UK PPL and LAPL licences, including the 90 day passenger rule, for those taking passengers.We hope you find this helpful!Blues skies and safe flying everyone!Support the show
February 16, 202515 min
Your First Solo! | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP41
Myself and Claire talk about the First Solo flight during PPL and LAPL training. What to expect, when it may happen, some tips to make it easier and we also reflect on our own First Solo Experiences.Join the Almat Flying Academy community and let's take flight together. Subscribe to our channel, hit that notification bell, and stay tuned for exciting updates, aviation tips, and incredible flying adventures! Prefer to download / listen? Available on all popular podcast platforms including itunes and Spotify.Ready to embark on your aviation adventure? Contact us today to schedule your first flight or inquire about our training programs and aircraft rental.Phone: 02477 220 399Email: customerservice@almat.co.ukWebsite: https://almat.co.uk/Support the show
January 27, 202515 min
EP40 Licencing Changes Coming? | The Student Pilot Podcast
In this episode myself and Steve Mason talk about the proposed licencing changes that may come into play in 2025. This is a must watch if you are currently training or already hold a valid licence.Ready to embark on your aviation adventure? Contact us today to schedule your first flight or inquire about our training programs and aircraft rentals.Phone: 02477 220 399Email: customerservice@almat.co.ukWebsite: https://almat.co.uk/At Almat Flying Academy, aviation is our passion, and safety is our priority. Our flight instructors bring a wealth of experience, and some of them hold ATPLs (Airline Transport Pilot Licences) and currently work for airlines. This real-world expertise ensures that your training is not only comprehensive but also aligned with industry standards.Get Our FREE Learn to Fly GuidesIf you are looking to learn to fly or have started already but feel you haven't got all of the information you need, we have FREE Learn to Fly Guides for PPL / LAPL, Flight Instructors and Commercial Pilots. These include detailed information on the training process and realistic budgeting. So they are useful wherever you choose to train. Get them here - https://almat.co.uk/product-category/learn-to-fly/Support the show
December 28, 202414 min
The Exam Trap - How to avoid it | Student Pilot Podcast #39
In this episode myself and Claire talk about the importance of completing the theory exams in a timely manner and the potential trap you can fall into if you don't. Strap in, this episode could save you money!Resources in this episodeFREE Question BankTheory Training videos for all 9 PPL and LAPL subjectsCAA websiteIf you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. https://buymeacoffee.com/infoepReady to embark on your aviation adventure? Contact us today to schedule your first flight or inquire about our training programs and aircraft rentals. Phone: 02477 220 399 Email: customerservice@almat.co.uk Website: https://almat.co.uk/At Almat Flying Academy, aviation is our passion, and safety is our priority. Our flight instructors bring a wealth of experience, and some of them hold ATPLs (Airline Transport Pilot Licences) and currently work for airlines. This real-world expertise ensures that your training is not only comprehensive but also aligned with industry standards.Get Our FREE Learn to Fly GuidesIf you are looking to learn to fly or have started already but feel you haven't got all of the information you need, we have FREE Learn to Fly Guides for PPL / LAPL, Flight Instructors and Commercial Pilots. These include detailed information on the training process and realistic budgeting. So they are useful wherever you choose to train. Get them here - https://almat.co.uk/product-category/learn-to-fly/Support the show
November 16, 202428 min
My Journey From Student Pilot To Flight School Owner | Student Pilot Podcast #38
In this episode our friend from the USA Chris Gregory interviews Simon on Chris's podcast Final Approach. During the podcast we discuss my journey to becoming a private pilot, the reasons why I quit 3 times along the way, how I ended up owning the flight school I trained at amoungst other aviation chit chat. Chris is also curious to find out the differences flying in the UK to the USA.If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. https://buymeacoffee.com/infoepReady to embark on your aviation adventure? Contact us today to schedule your first flight or inquire about our training programs and aircraft rentals. Phone: 02477 220 399 Email: customerservice@almat.co.uk Website: https://almat.co.uk/At Almat Flying Academy, aviation is our passion, and safety is our priority. Our flight instructors bring a wealth of experience, and some of them hold ATPLs (Airline Transport Pilot Licences) and currently work for airlines. This real-world expertise ensures that your training is not only comprehensive but also aligned with industry standards.Get Our FREE Learn to Fly GuidesIf you are looking to learn to fly or have started already but feel you haven't got all of the information you need, we have FREE Learn to Fly Guides for PPL / LAPL, Flight Instructors and Commercial Pilots. These include detailed information on the training process and realistic budgeting. So they are useful wherever you choose to train. Get them here - https://almat.co.uk/product-category/learn-to-fly/The One Stop Shop for LAPL & PPL Flight TrainingAlmat Flying Academy isn't just a flight school; we're a complete aviation solution with an in-house aeromedical examiner (AME). We offer top-tier flight training and serve as an Exam centre for theory modules, FRTOL and the practical skills test. Additionally, we provide specialised ratings, including Night and Instrument Rating (Restricted).PPL & LAPL Theory Exams and Preparation (Ground School)We are an exam centre for UK CAA PPL and LAPL theory exams. We can also help you prepare for the theory exams with our PPL Expert Online Groundschool. Our interactive question bank and video courses cover all 9 modules and a masterclass on using the CRP flight computer.Learn more here - https://almat.co.uk/product-category/flying-school/ppl-lapl-flying-school/ppl-theory-lapl/Flight Instructor CoursesWhether you aspire to become a Flight Instructor or a Class Rating Instructor, Almat Flying Academy offers comprehensive training to help you reach your goals. Discover more here: - https://almat.co.uk/product-category/flying-school/flight-instructor-courses/We also have a sponsorship program for Flight Instructor (F.I.) training - more here - https://almat.co.uk/sponsored-fi/Radiotelephony Licence (FRTOL) Training and ExamsThe FRTOL is a crucial part of obtaining a UK PPL / LAPL pilot licence - without it your licence is very restricted in this country. We can help you secure yours by organising the pre-requisite training and the rt exam at one of our locations. Find out more here: Radio Licence (FRTOL) Training - https://almat.co.uk/product-category/flying-school/frtol-radio-licence/The Ultimate Aviation Destination in the UK for Avgeeks!Almat Flying Academy is your trusted flying school, with locations at both Coventry Airport, Warwickshire and Sywell Aerodrome in Northampton in the United Kingdom. Our school is dedicated to turning aviation dreams into reality, and we're here to guide you every step of the way.Trial Flying Lessons and Flight ExperiencesWant to know what it is like to fly a light aircraft without any commitment to lessons? A Trial flying lesson is for Support the show
October 5, 202437 min
Talking sustainable flight training with Kerry Wilmot | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP 37
In this episode we talk to Kerry Wilmot from Neboair about sustainable flight training and what the future of flight training may look like. We also talk about the Pipistrel range of aircraft, specifically the Velis Electro, the first certified electric training aircraft to the UK market.Kerry also talks about her work with Giraffes On Tour and Great Ormond Street Hospital.If you would like to book an Electric Flight Experience or Trial Lesson, all flights will raise £10 per flight for Giraffes On Tour.If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support.We also have some FREE items to help you:Get our FREE learn to fly guide - 24 pages jam packed full of information you NEED to read before starting training. Book a FREE consultation: Book a Trial LessonWe also have some special offers. £504 OFF Fast Track Courses in 2024, our best course yet!Support the show
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