Preparing for your private pilot exam is an exciting yet challenging journey. Whether you’re dreaming of soaring through the skies or simply expanding your aviation knowledge, having the right resources is crucial to your success. To help you ace your exam and build a strong foundation in aviation, here are some of the best books to read before your private pilot exam:
7 Best book to read before your private pilot exam
1. “Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge” (FAA-H-8083-25B)
Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge introduces pilots to the broad spectrum of information that will be needed as they progress in their pilot training. Written for the pilot preparing for a remote, sport, private, commercial, or flight instructor certificate, it is a key reference with all the information necessary to operate an aircraft and to pass the FAA Knowledge Exam and Practical Test. Chapter subjects include the following:
- Introduction to Flying
- Aeronautical Decision-Making
- Aircraft Construction
- Principles of Flight
- Aerodynamics of Flight
- Flight Controls
- Aircraft Systems
- Flight Instruments
- Flight Manuals and Other Documents
- Weight and Balance
- Aircraft Performance
- Weather Theory
- Aviation Weather Services
- Airport Operations
- Airspace
- Navigation
- Aeromedical Factors
Readers are introduced to flying and a history of flight, criteria and examinations required for earning various pilot certificates, how to plan their flight education, and more. With dozens of full-color illustrations, photographs, diagrams, graphs, and charts, this handbook provides crucial tools for aspiring pilots in their knowledge exams and beyond.
Beginners and advanced pilots alike will find the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge to be a critical resource for all things aviation, updated with the most current FAA information, an index, a glossary, and appendices of common acronyms, abbreviations, NOTAM contractions, and airport signs.
2. “Airplane Flying Handbook” (FAA-H-8083-3C)
The Airplane Flying Handbook provides basic knowledge that is essential for all pilots. It provides information on the transition to other airplanes and the operation of various airplane systems. This handbook is developed to assist student pilots in learning to fly airplanes.
It is also beneficial to pilots who wish to improve their flying proficiency and aeronautical knowledge, those pilots preparing for additional certificates or ratings, and flight instructors engaged in the instruction of both student and certificated pilots. It introduces the future pilot to the realm of flight and provides information and guidance in the performance of procedures and maneuvers required for pilot certification.
3. “Private Pilot Test Prep” by ASA (Aviation Supplies & Academics)
Join millions of pilots and mechanics who chose ASA and passed their tests the first time, using the most trusted resource in FAA test preparation. Test material is expertly organized into chapters based on subject matter and includes introductory text and illustrations, questions, answer choices, answers, explanations (for correct and incorrect answers), and references for further study. Use the book to become familiar with the FAA Knowledge Exam, then use Prepware for unlimited study sessions and practice tests, and receive your test authorization (endorsement) at no additional cost!
The ASA Test Prep and Prepware software include the figures, legends, and full-color charts you’ll see at the testing center. Questions cover all Private, Recreational, and Sport Pilot FAA Knowledge Exams and are identified by test: airplane, rotorcraft, glider, lighter-than-air, powered parachute, and weight-shift control. You can also count on ASA to monitor FAA test changes and update you through a free email service.
4. “Stick and Rudder: An Explanation of the Art of Flying” by Wolfgang Langewiesche
A timeless classic, “Stick and Rudder” breaks down the principles of flight in a way that’s easy to understand. It’s particularly helpful for grasping the mechanics of flying and developing a deeper appreciation for the art of piloting. While it’s not a test-prep book, it’s a fantastic supplement to your studies.
5. “The Student Pilot’s Flight Manual” by William K. Kershner
This first volume in The Flight Manuals Series is a ground school textbook, maneuvers manual, and syllabus all rolled into one, providing a step-by-step comprehensive course for student pilots working towards a Private or Sport Pilot certificate. This authoritative manual from the legendary flight instructor, William K. Kershner, edited by William C. Kershner, presents a wealth of practical information while encouraging student pilot decision making.
6. “Weather Flying” by Robert N. Buck
How do you improve on the best guide for pilots to learn how to fly in all kinds of weather? The answer is the Fifth Edition of Weather Flying. Regarded as the bible of weather flying, this aviation classic not only continues to make complex weather concepts understandable for even the least experienced of flyers, but has now been updated to cover new advances in technology. At the same time, this respected text still retains many of its original insights from over four decades of publication, provided by renowned weather flying veteran Robert N. Buck.
7. “Say Again, Please: Guide to Radio Communications” by Bob Gardner
Talking on an aviation radio and understanding air traffic control instructions can be one of the most intimidating aspects of flight training. Bob Gardner’s “Say Again, Please” teaches readers what to say, what to expect to hear, and how to interpret and react to clearances and instructions, while detailing the airspace system and explaining how the ATC system works.
This new Fifth Edition has been expanded and updated throughout to reflect current FAA rules and operating procedures. Chapters in the book cover communication etiquette and rules, understanding radio equipment, emergency situations, and both VFR and IFR communications and clearances. Also included: a concise summary of the FAA’s communication facilities and their functions, airspace classifications and definitions, and the FAA’s recommended shorthand for copying clearances.
The communication requirements for entering, departing, and transiting each class of airspace is explained in detail by following along with the author on “simulated” flights. A full-color sectional excerpt, in an attached fold-out format, is provided for the example flights so readers can review the map while reading the explanation for flying and talking in each area. Readers will learn everything they need to communicate effectively in VFR, IFR, and emergency conditions. The example foldout sectional chart is in full color and is also used for example flights discussed throughout the book.
8. “FAR/AIM (Federal Aviation Regulations/Aeronautical Information Manual)”
ASA has built a reputation for providing the aviation community with the most accurate and reliable FAR/AIM products available. The 2022 FAR/AIM book continues this tradition, containing complete and up-to-date information from Titles 14 and 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 and 49 CFR) pertinent to General Aviation, Sport Pilots, Flight Instructors, and Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) operators, combined with the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM), and a free email subscription service for you to receive updated information as it is released by the FAA.
Convenient handbook-sized 6″ x 9″ format includes:
- Unabridged text of AIM, including full-color graphics
- Pilot/Controller Glossary
- NASA Aviation Safety Reporting Form
- The Pilot’s Bill of Rights
Additional features:
- FREE updates available online and via email subscription service service for instant access to regulation changes as they are released throughout the 1-year book lifecycle (sign up on ASA’s website)
- Changes and updates since last edition clearly marked
- Suggested regulation study list for each certificate and rating
- Tabs printed in page margins for quick reference
- Comprehensive FAR and AIM index
ASA’s FAR/AIM books have been the standard regulatory reference of the industry for 75 years. ASA consolidates the FAA regulations and procedures into easy-to-use reference books full of information pertinent to pilots, flight crew, and aviation maintenance technicians.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for your private pilot exam requires dedication, practice, and the right resources. These books will not only help you pass the test but also set you up for a successful and safe flying career. Remember, the journey to becoming a pilot is as much about learning as it is about passion. So, grab these books, hit the books, and get ready to take flight!
Happy studying, and blue skies ahead! ✈️📚
