VFR NAVIGATION

Master Real-World Flight Planning and Navigation

Overview:

Step into the pilot’s seat and learn how real-world aviators plan and navigate their flights across the UK skies. Our VFR Navigation Day Course is designed for aspiring aviators aged 11–17 who are ready to take their flying knowledge to the next level using official UK CAA methods and tools. Across a full day of immersive, hands-on training, students will learn the skills needed to plan and execute a visual flight under VFR (Visual Flight Rules), using the same techniques and materials taught to Private Pilot Licence (PPL) trainees.

Working with a real 1:500,000 UK CAA aviation chart, students will learn how to interpret airspace, terrain, ground features, controlled zones, and navigation aids, before stepping through the full flight planning process, including calculating headings, ground speeds, time intervals, fuel burn, and aircraft performance — all adapted for light aircraft.

The course culminates in a real-world scenario where each student will create and fly their own VFR route using our flight simulators, applying all the skills they’ve learned throughout the day

Course Details

Location (click on location to book):
Pangbourne (Berkshire)
Midlands: Coming Soon
Manchester: Coming Soon
Kent / South East: Coming Soon
Cambridgeshire: Coming Soon
Scotland: Coming Soon

Experience Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Group Size: Up to 15 students
Includes: Chart, scale ruler, protractor, planning worksheets, access to flight simulators

What You’ll Learn:

Introduction to the UK CAA 1:500,000 VFR chart

  • How to read and interpret airspace types, terrain features, controlled zones, Navigation beacons, danger and restricted areas

  • Identifying key navigation features from the air and on the map

Essential Navigation Techniques

  • Using the clock–map–ground method

  • Magnetic variation and compass headings

  • Calculating drift, wind correction angle, and track

Flight Planning Fundamentals

  • Constructing a complete VFR navigation log

  • Estimating airspeed, fuel burn, and endurance

  • Planning for alternates and diversion techniques

  • Weight, balance, and performance considerations

Pre-Flight Decision Making

  • Interpreting NOTAMs (Notices to airmen) and weather (METAR/TAF)

  • Briefing a flight route and considering Air Traffic Control communication

  • Fuel planning, reserve policy, and emergency considerations

Simulator Challenge – Fly Your Route!

  • The Final hour of the course will be dedicated to each student flying their planned 20 nautical mile route on our flight simulators under instructor guidance - combining the newly acquired theoretical planning knowledge with physical flying skills

  • Students will put into practice their flight plan, adjust in real-time for simulated wind and visibility, and aim for accurate navigation checkpoints

What’s Included:

  • A4 section of official UK CAA 1:500,000 VFR Chart

  • Aviation protractor, scale ruler, and flight planning templates

  • Use of full flight simulator setup with instructor support

  • Certificate of completion

  • Take-home navigation materials and equipment to practice and explore further

Whether you're dreaming of becoming a pilot or just curious about how real-world flight planning works, this course offers a one-of-a-kind, immersive experience. Gain practical aviation knowledge, test your decision-making and navigation accuracy, and leave with real pilot skills you’ll be proud of.

Spaces are limited – book now and chart your course