Aviation: Learn to fly the PA-28-161

By the hand of a real PA28 instructor

Created byGonzalo C

Last updated 6/2020

English

English [Auto],

What you'll learn

General Characteristics of the airplane
Limitations of the Piper Cadet
Systems of the airplane
Normal procedures and maneuvers

Course content

2 sections • 12 lectures • 1h 6m total length

Introduction10:10
Explore the PA-28-161 aircraft fundamentals, including its 160 hp direct-drive engine, fixed-pitch prop, fuel system, and key performance speeds, plus an overview of its airframe and flight instruments.

Flight's Briefing5:57
Plan a visual flight from Merritt Island Airport, briefing weather, depart runway 11 in a left traffic pattern, and navigate restricted Cape Canaveral and Brabo airspace near Orlando.
Preflight of the airplane7:13
Verify aircraft documents, airworthiness certificate, registration, and weight and balance, then conduct a full preflight check of fuel, battery, lights, flaps, wings, engine, and control surfaces.
Start-up and Pre-taxi3:53
Perform the star checklist and clear prop before engine start, verify magnetos at 1000 rpm, set transponder to 1000, then complete the pre-taxi with wind, weather brief, and radio setup.
Taxi1:59
Begin taxi by releasing the parking brake and applying power. Confirm brakes work while steering, observe wing and ball indicators, and monitor airspeed near zero, altimeter, and magnetic heading.
Run-up5:34
Perform a PA-28-161 run-up: verify parking brake, set 2000 rpm, test magnetos and carburetor heat, check vacuum and engine gauges in the green, and review takeoff emergency procedures.
Takeoff and Climb4:16
Guide you through takeoff and climb, including runway verification, applying full power, climbing to altitude, turning with a 30-degree bank, maintaining pitch, and monitoring weather toward a landmark lake.
Cruise1:45
Pilot maintains 3500 feet cruise in PA-28-161, sets rpm around 2300, trims for climb, and follows the left leg using magnetic compass cues, noting simulator versus real-life landings.
Maneuvers9:27
This lecture covers PA-28-161 maneuvers, including pre-maneuver checks, fuel verification, slow flight, stalls and recovery, and 360-degree turns with altitude maintenance.
Descent4:32
Pilot flies a PA-28-161 descent, joins a left downwind for runway 11 at 2000 ft, then reduces to 1000 ft, while navigating restricted airspace near Patrick AFB.
Traffic pattern and Landings6:26
Learn to fly the PA-28-161 through the complete traffic pattern and landing sequence, including 45-degree entries, base and final turns, flap settings, approach speeds, and the landing flare.
Taxi and Shutdown4:54
After landing, taxi to parking area, switch off lights and transponder standby, shut down the engine, remove the key, and secure the aircraft with magnetos, controls, doors, and wind ropes.

Requirements

None. If you have Flight Simulator and the PA28 installed you can practice along.

Description

Is it difficult to fly an airplane? Not really—but it does require dedication, consistent practice, and the right instruction. This course is designed to introduce you to the exciting world of aviation using the PA-28-161, one of the most widely used and trusted training aircraft in the United States and around the world. Renowned for its stability, simplicity, and forgiving flight characteristics, this airplane has helped thousands of pilots successfully begin their aviation journey—and now it’s your turn.

In this course, you will develop a solid foundation in basic airplane theory, including how an aircraft generates lift, the four forces of flight, flight controls, and essential aerodynamic principles. These topics are presented in a clear, engaging, and easy-to-understand format, making them accessible even if you have no prior aviation experience.

Beyond theory, the course emphasizes hands-on understanding of the most important flight maneuvers student pilots must learn before flying solo. You will explore straight-and-level flight, climbs, descents, coordinated turns, and basic control techniques that are critical for safe and effective flying.

By the end of this course, you will have the confidence, knowledge, and foundational skills necessary to take the next step in your pilot training and move closer to your first solo flight.

Who this course is for:

Student Pilots
Simulator Pilots
Aviation Enthusiasts
Pilots

Aviation: Learn to fly the PA-28-161

What you'll learn

Explore related topics

Course content

Introduction1 lecture • 10min

Practical Training11 lectures • 56min

Requirements

Description

Who this course is for: