Introduction

My name is Muhamad Yassin Sulhi Al-Shaikhli, and I am a proud recipient of my Student Pilot License (SPL) from the Philippines. As someone who has always been passionate about aviation, it was a dream come true to be able to pursue pilot training in a country renowned for its aviation schools, warm hospitality, and excellent training facilities. My decision to come to the Philippines was not made lightly, but it has proven to be one of the best choices of my life. This testimonial is my way of sharing my experience and journey, hoping that it might inspire others with a similar dream to take that leap of faith and fly towards their future.

Choosing the Philippines for Pilot Training

When I first started considering a career in aviation, I knew I had to find a country and a training environment that suited both my personal preferences and professional goals. I researched several countries that are known for aviation training, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. However, the Philippines quickly caught my attention due to its unique blend of factors: affordability, quality of training, and multicultural environment.

• Affordability: Compared to other countries, the cost of pilot training in the Philippines is significantly lower. The overall expense of training, including tuition, accommodation, and living costs, is more manageable here. This was a critical factor for me as I wanted to ensure that my family’s resources were wisely spent while receiving the highest quality education.
• Quality of Training: The Philippines has several highly reputable flying schools. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) ensures that the training standards are internationally recognized and meet ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) guidelines. The country’s tropical climate also allows for more consistent flying opportunities, reducing the chance of delays due to weather conditions.
• Multicultural and Friendly Environment: Coming from Iraq, it was important for me to feel welcomed and comfortable in a foreign land. The Philippines is known for its warm hospitality and friendly nature, which I experienced firsthand from the moment I arrived. The locals are respectful, helpful, and genuinely curious about other cultures. This aspect made my transition to living in the Philippines much smoother.

My Arrival and First Impressions

When I first arrived in the Philippines, I was struck by how vibrant and lively the country is. The people are incredibly friendly and welcoming, and it didn’t take long for me to feel at home. Despite being far from Iraq, I never felt out of place. The diversity of the Philippines, both in terms of its people and its culture, made it an ideal environment for international students like me. I quickly realised that I was not the only foreigner pursuing a career in aviation here—there were students from all over the world, which made for a rich cultural experience.

My first day at the flying school was a memorable one. I had chosen a well-established flight academy that offered a comprehensive training program for aspiring pilots. The staff were incredibly professional, and I was introduced to a flight instructor who would guide me through the journey. The facilities were modern and well-maintained, which reassured me that I had made the right choice.

Theoretical Ground School: Building a Solid Foundation

Before stepping into the cockpit, the first few weeks of my training were spent in ground school. I quickly learned that becoming a pilot requires far more than just practical flying skills—it also demands a deep understanding of aviation theory, regulations, and safety protocols.

Ground school covered a range of subjects that laid the foundation for my future as a pilot, including:

• Aerodynamics: I learned about the principles of flight, lift, drag, thrust, and how various forces interact with an aircraft in motion. This helped me understand the physics behind every action I would later take as a pilot.
• Navigation: Navigation is a critical part of any pilot’s responsibilities. During ground school, I learned how to read and interpret aviation maps, charts, and instruments. These skills would become essential when planning flight routes and ensuring safe travel.
• Meteorology: Weather is a significant factor in flying and understanding how different weather patterns affect flight safety is crucial. The Philippines, with its tropical climate, offers diverse weather conditions for pilots to learn about and adapt to.
• Aviation Regulations: Every country has its own set of regulations when it comes to aviation. The Philippines follows ICAO standards, which ensures that the training is globally recognized. I learned about airspace classifications, flight rules, and the importance of adhering to aviation laws.
• Aircraft Systems and Engines: As a pilot, it’s important to understand how the aircraft works. I studied the different components of an aeroplane, how the engine functions, and what to do in case of mechanical failures.

Ground school was intense, but it was also extremely rewarding. The instructors were highly knowledgeable and patient, always ready to explain concepts that I found difficult. These early weeks in ground school gave me the confidence I needed to move on to the practical side of my training.

My First Flight: The Beginning of a Lifelong Passion

After completing ground school, the moment I had been waiting for finally arrived I was going to take to the skies for my first flight. The experience was exhilarating, to say the least. I vividly remember stepping into the cockpit for the first time, my hands shaking with a mix of excitement and nerves.

I was flying a Cessna 172, a small aircraft that is commonly used for pilot training. It was a clear day, perfect for a first flight. My instructor sat beside me, guiding me through every step of the pre-flight checks. Once everything was in order, we taxied down the runway, and within moments, we were airborne.

The feeling of the plane lifting off the ground was indescribable. The world below me shrank, and I could see the landscape of the Philippines stretching out in every direction. The sensation of flying is something that can’t be fully explained—it’s a mixture of freedom, control, and pure joy. At that moment, I knew that I had made the right decision in pursuing a career in aviation.

During that first flight, I was mainly focused on basic manoeuvres. My instructor demonstrated how to maintain level flight, how to turn, climb, and descend. These might sound simple, but when you’re flying an aircraft for the first time, every action feels monumental. I spent most of the flight getting a feel for the controls and learning to trust the aircraft.

Building Confidence in the Cockpit

As the weeks progressed, I spent more and more time in the cockpit. Each flight brought new challenges and new lessons. My instructor gradually introduced me to more advanced manoeuvres and concepts. One of the most important aspects of my training was learning how to communicate with air traffic control (ATC). The Philippines has busy airspace, especially around cities like Manila, and being able to communicate clearly and effectively with ATC is a vital skill for any pilot.

I also learned how to handle emergency situations, such as engine failures, electrical failures, and even practising forced landings. These drills are crucial because they prepare pilots for worst-case scenarios. At first, practising emergency procedures was nerve-wracking, but over time, I became more confident in my ability to handle any situation that might arise in the air.

Cross-country flying was another significant milestone in my training. During these flights, I had the opportunity to fly to different airports across the Philippines, navigating through various airspaces and dealing with changing weather conditions. The cross-country flights helped me build my confidence as a pilot and gave me a sense of accomplishment as I successfully completed each journey.

Solo Flight: A Defining Moment

One of the most defining moments of my pilot training journey was my first solo flight. After months of training with my instructor by my side, the day finally came when I was ready to fly alone. I can still remember the mixture of excitement and nerves as I climbed into the cockpit, knowing that this time, it was just me and the aircraft.

My instructor stood on the ground, giving me a final thumb-up as I prepared for take-off. The sense of responsibility was overwhelming, but I trusted in my training. As I took off and gained altitude, I felt a surge of confidence. I was in complete control of the aircraft, and for the first time, I truly felt like a pilot.

Flying solo is a unique experience. Without an instructor to rely on, you have to trust your instincts and your skills. Every decision you make is your own, and there’s a sense of independence that comes with that. My solo flight went smoothly, and when I landed safely back on the runway, I was met with applause from my fellow students and instructors. It was a proud moment, one that I will never forget.

Earning My Student Pilot License (SPL)

After completing the necessary hours of flight training, ground school, and solo flights, I was ready to take the next big step: earning my Student Pilot License (SPL). The SPL is the first official certification that allows a student to fly solo under the supervision of an instructor, and it is a significant milestone in a pilot’s career.

The process of obtaining my SPL involved passing both a written exam and a flight check. The written exam tested my knowledge of aviation theory, regulations, and safety procedures, while the flight check evaluated my practical flying skills. I was nervous, but I had prepared extensively for both tests.

The day of my flight check was one of the most intense experiences of my training. I had to demonstrate everything I had learned, from take-offs and landings to emergency procedures and navigation. My instructor watched closely, making sure that I adhered to all safety protocols and displayed a thorough understanding of the aircraft and its systems.

When I was finally handed my SPL, it was a moment of immense pride and accomplishment. All the hard work, dedication, and long hours of study and practice had paid off. Holding that licence in my hands was a tangible reminder of how far I had come on this journey.

Reflections on My Experience in the Philippines

As I look back on my time in the Philippines, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences I’ve had and the people I’ve met along the way. The Philippines has been more than just a place to earn my SPL—it has become a second home to me. The friendships I’ve made with fellow students, the mentorship I’ve received from my instructors, and the cultural experiences I’ve had all contribute to making this journey unforgettable.

The diversity of the training environment, the challenges of flying in tropical weather conditions, and the opportunities to explore different parts of the Philippines through cross-country flights have all helped shape me into a more capable and confident pilot.

Looking Ahead: The Next Step in My Aviation Career

Now that I have earned my SPL, my journey as a pilot is far from over. This is just the beginning of a lifelong career in aviation. My next goal is to pursue my Private Pilot License (PPL), which will allow me to fly larger aircraft and take passengers. From there, I plan to work towards my Commercial Pilot License (CPL) and eventually become a professional airline pilot.

The training I received in the Philippines has given me a solid foundation to build on, and I am excited to continue learning and growing in this field. I know that the road ahead will be challenging, but I am confident that with determination and hard work, I will achieve my goals.

Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking

Becoming a pilot is not an easy journey, but it is one that is incredibly rewarding. For anyone considering pursuing aviation, I wholeheartedly recommend the Philippines as a destination for pilot training. The quality of education, the affordability, and the supportive environment make it an ideal place to start your journey.

As I move forward in my aviation career, I will always look back on my time in the Philippines with fondness and appreciation. This beautiful country has not only given me the skills and knowledge to become a pilot but has also enriched my life in countless other ways. I am proud to be part of the aviation community, and I look forward to soaring to new heights in the future.