PODCAST · education
The Student Pilot Podcast
by Almat Flying Academy
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.
Episodes
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LAPL Changes - Are you ready? | The Student Pilot Podcast EP #48
In this episode Claire and Cain discuss the upcoming changes to UK LAPL, which are now days away! UK LAPL(A) holders have until 1 October 2026 to transition their rating to the new fixed 24-month validity system under FCL.740.A. Miss the deadline, and you'll need to meet the renewal requirements...
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The Captain's Brief - More than just a formality? - The Student Pilot Podcast EP #47
We've just released a new episode of The Student Pilot Podcast, and this one is all about something all pilots should take seriously from day one: the captain's briefing. Whether you're a student pilot, private pilot or instructor, a good briefing can make a huge difference to safety,...
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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…
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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...
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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 slow We cover the most common reasons students stop flying — time, money, confidence, and momentum — and how to push past them…
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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...
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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!...
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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,...
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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…
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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 episode FREE Question Bank Theory Training videos for all 9 PPL and...
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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…
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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...
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Warning - Don't compare your journey to others! | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP36
Whilst it may be human nature to compare our progress to others, it can be counterproductive. We talk about why others journeys to becoming a licensed pilot can be vastly from your own. The key take away, is to focus on your progress and improvement, but celebrate others wins. If you would like…
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Aviation Acronyms & Mnemonics | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP35
Learning the Acronyms & Mnemonics within aviation can be arduous, so we are creating a series to debunk the most common ones. 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…
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What Flight Equipment Do I Need? | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP34
One of the things overlooked when first starting flight training, is flight equipment. We go over what the minimum level of equipment required for PPL and LAPL, plus some optional Items. We cover when to get your equipment, how much it costs and where to get it from. If you would like to support...
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HNY 2024 Your Student Pilot Motivation | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP33
Happy New Year! We discuss your motivation as a student pilot, and how the New Year can provide a good time to reflect and re focus, to make better progress in the year ahead. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. We discuss the...
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Engineer, Airline Pilot And Author - A Fascinating Career | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP32
On this episode we talk to Steve Ford about abut his fascinating aviation career, spanning several decades. From being inspired by his father as a young boy, he shares how his career evolved from engineer, to pilot, test pilot and more recently a published author. If you would like to support the...
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Navigating ATPL's Part Time | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP31
Phil Thomas, a former Almat student gives us some feedback on how he passed the ATPL exams on a part time basis, whilst in full time work. He shares some practical advice and tips to help you get through your ATPL's. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We...
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Instructor Takeover - Perfect Your Circuits |The Student Pilot Podcast #30
As a new feature of the podcast, "Instructor Take Over" episodes feature instructors on our team. This week we invite our Coventry chief flying instructor Claire onto the show, to talk about how you can improve your circuits, giving you safer and more consistent landings as a result. If you would...
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Flight Training On Credit - Good Or Bad Idea?| Episode #29
This week we discuss financing your PPL / LAPL and give you some pros and cons about using credit for training. Please note: this is not financial advice and you should do your own research before considering taking out any form of credit. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy...
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PPL Before Integrated - A Distinct Advantage? The Student Pilot Podcast #28
In this episode I talk to former PPL student at Almat Flying Academy Cain Goodhand. He is now licensed, recently completed his integrated training and is preparing for a career in commercial aviation. He tells us his experiences going into integrated with a PPL compared to those that don't. If…
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Fantasy Wings - Empowering Diversity in Aviation | Episode #27
Today I talk to Jackson Smith, who as a young Black man battled adversity en route to gaining his own Pilot’s Licence and a degree in Aviation. He was determined to make it easier for other young black and minority ethnic people and women to access the same opportunities he fought to get. This…
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FRTOL & The RT Exam - Master Radio Telephony and Pass First Time | Episode #26
Good radio telephony is an important part of being a great pilot. Furthermore a UK pilot licence is not much use without a Flight Radio Telephony Operator Licence (FRTOL). Find out why as RT examiner, flight instructor and experienced commercial pilot Neil McKenzie talks to me about the standard…
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SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT
Check out this announcement to find out about our NEW show, "The Aviator Show" This is available tonight on our YouTube Channel @almatflyingacademy Support the show
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PPL Skills Test - Insider Tips From An Examiner | Episode #25
We sit down with our Head Of Training and Examiner, Steve Mason, to discuss the PPL Skills Test. The thought of your test approaching can be daunting, but Steve shares valuable insight on what to expect and why you shouldn't be worried. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me…
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The Secret to Smashing the PPL Skills Test | Episode #24
This week - PPL Fast Track student Archie passed his Skills Test, and joins us to talk about his secrets to success. If you are an aspiring pilot or are approaching your own skills test - this podcast will give you a valuable insight on what to expect. An inspiring pilot for all - especially…
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How to Get A Scholarship | Episode #23
We talk about what scholarships are available currently to PPL students and how to find out more about them. We also catch up with 2022 Amat scholarship winner Leo Turrell. He tells us about how he won his placement and how you could too. This week - PPL Fast Track student Archie passed his…
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Mental Health In Aviation | Episode #22
Simon And Eman discuss how mental health issues may or may not affect your flight training or ability to hold a pilots licence. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. Get Our FREE Learn to Fly Guides If you are looking to learn to fly or...
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Aviating With Tech - Pro's And Con's | Episode #21
In this episode we discuss advancement in general aviation technology and the effects of introducing technology into your flights. Also the good and bad from mobile phones, to GPS, Parachute systems and more. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate…
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Keeping your PPL / LAPL Licence Current - Practical Advice | Episode #20
In this episode we discuss what happens if you let your PPL or LAPL lapse. This is a big problem for licence holders as we see a large proportion of pilots flying infrequently after they pass, leading to their ratings lapsing and some never returning to flight again. We also discuss 10 tips to…
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Creative Ways for Funding Your Flight Training | Episode #19
Finding funds to pay for your flight training can be difficult and lack of progress with your training, usually comes from not flying frequently enough. What if you could find ways to make funding your flight training a little easier? We share 10 ways in which you can either fund or subsidise…
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Is Building Your Own Flight Simulator Worth It? | Episode #18
Many of our students use X plane, FS2020 and the like at home and some have even gone to the lengths of building simulators or have professional companies build simulators for them. The question is, is it worth the time and money investment and do they get anything from it? If you would like to...
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Qualifying Cross Country - Navigating A Major Milestone | Episode #17
For some the Qualifying Cross Country flight for a PPL or LAPL licence seems like a big deal, but in reality, by the time you are ready to complete it, its not that bad at all. Archie tell's us of his long wait for weather to play ball with him and tells us about his flight on the day and some of...
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The 35 Year PPL | Episode #16
We talk to Lee, who had a very turbulent journey to achieving his PPL back in 2022 after first attempting it in the eighties. He kindly shares his experience of getting a pilot licence so you don't go through what he did. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We...
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Taking Your First Passenger - 10 Tips | Episode #15
We interview one of our former students talking about his journey to becoming a licensed pilot, fulfilling his dream of taking his dad flying in a light aeroplane and running the London Marathon for the Royal Society For Blind Children. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me…
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From Wheelchair To Flight Instructor - An Inspirational Story | Episode #14
Our very own Head Of Training Steve Mason comes on the podcast to tell his inspirational story, of how he overcame the challenges of Cerebral Palsy, to fulfil his ambition of becoming a professional pilot. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your...
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Why You Shouldn't be Afraid of ATC | Episode #13
Most students are nervous when it comes to talking on the radio, especially to Air Traffic Control (ATC). Dave, one of Coventry's FISO unit joins us to tell you why you really should not be worried talking on the radio. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We...
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Airline Careers - Short vs Long Haul - Veteran Pilot Tells All | Episode #12
Airline pilot Neil tells us about his experience flying long haul and why he chose to give up the long haul lifestyle for short haul. This is a great perspective on the life of an airline pilot and how over time your career may change. Neil started on flying commuter aircraft, then onto freight,...
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Intensive PPL + Full Time Education & 4 Hour Journey - How Archie Copes | Episode #11
Balancing university and flight training is a challenge in itself, but along with 4 hour train journey, now thats tough. Archie tells us how he travels 150 miles each week from Bournemouth to train with us at Coventry, whilst studying for university. If you would like to support the channel, you...
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Buying a share in an aircraft, Good Or Bad Idea? | Episode #10
Many students and Private Pilots alike have dreamt at some point about owning their own aircraft. For some, the most accessible way is to part own an aircraft with a group or syndicate. Dave tells us how on completion of his PPL, why he decided to buy into his current aircraft. We explore the...
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Avoiding The 5 Biggest Student Fails | Episode #8
If you are a student pilot, you need to listen to this! We share the 5 BIG fails student pilots make, that either prevent them from finishing their training or slow down their progress, costing them more and more money. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We...
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Sam Retford - Balancing A Busy Acting Career And Flight Training | Episode #7
Sam Retford is a busy actor, featuring in many popular TV shows such as Coronation Street, Holly Oaks, and Ackley Bridge. Sam tells us how he successfully balanced his work and training commitments to achieve his licence and how you can too. If you would like to support the channel, you can via…
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Why Flying Only 1 Flying Lesson a Month is a Terrible Idea | Episode #9
For some their budget or time availability may mean they need to fly irregularly. From personal experience and seeing other students struggle with the same dilemma. Is learning to fly at one lesson a month or less a good idea?? We talk about the reasons why I think it may not be the best for you....
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Choosing the Right Flying School and Instructor For You | Episode #6
Choosing your flight school and instructor can be daunting, but making sure you get the right one for you is really important to ensure you get the best results. We take you through the things you should consider before choosing a flight school and instructor in this episode. If you would like to...
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Record Holding Airline Pilot Shares a Lifetime of Aviation Experience | Episode #5
Derek tells us about his exciting career starting as a helicopter engineer and the commercial career that follows, including bush flying and becoming a captain with Flybe. Derek is an avid aviator and flying instructor, his passion for aviation is clear to see in the interview. If you would like…
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Talking Pilot Medicals With AME Dr. Rob | Episode #4
We recently interviewed Aeromedical Examiner Rob Simpson about LAPL, Class 2 And Class 1 Medicals on the Aviator Show and wanted to share this with the Student Pilot Podcast listeners too. This episode will give you an insight into what is required to achieve your medical and the common problems...
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The True Cost of Getting Your PPL or LAPL & Avoiding the Cheap Training Trap | Episode #3
Budgeting for your flight training is so important, as it could be the difference between finishing your training and not. What's more, I see so much headline pricing out there at minimum requirements, which quite frankly is B.S. Lets face it, the average private pilot does not finish in 45…
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Which Pilot Licence Should You Choose - LAPL or PPL (A)? | Episode #2
One of the biggest things that you need to consider before starting a course of training is, which licence best suits your needs. My advice is start with the end in mind. This episode goes in depth to describe the differences between the #PPL and LAPL (A). If you would like to support the…
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I'm Scared of Heights, Flying and Suffer Motion Sickness, But I'm a Pilot | Episode #1
Billi tell her inspirational story of the problems she faced whilst training and how she over came them. From sickness, fear of flying, fear of heights and huge gaps in her training from prolonged work commitments, most people would have given up. She explains how she remained motivated to finish...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
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.
HOSTED BY
Almat Flying Academy
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The Student Pilot Podcast have?
The Student Pilot Podcast currently has 49 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The Student Pilot Podcast about?
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...
How often does The Student Pilot Podcast release new episodes?
The Student Pilot Podcast has 49 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The Student Pilot Podcast?
You can listen to The Student Pilot Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The Student Pilot Podcast?
The Student Pilot Podcast is created and hosted by Almat Flying Academy.
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