What is ground school?

Ground school is a type of aviation training that takes place on the ground, as opposed to in the air. It typically covers topics such as aircraft systems, aerodynamics, weather, navigation, regulations, and flight planning. Ground school is a necessary step for anyone pursuing a pilot's license, and it can either be done in a classroom setting or online. The length of a ground school course depends on the level of certification or rating being pursued. Private pilot ground schools can range from several weeks to a few months, while commercial pilot ground schools can take several months or even up to a year. Ground school is a crucial part of pilot training, as it provides the foundational knowledge required to safely operate an aircraft.