Is Private Pilot Burnout a Real Thing?
Here’s a tip for getting over the postcertificate wall.
Weather delays, instructor turnover, practicing, and studying for the check ride can all lead to pilot burnout. [Credit: Shutterstock]
Question: Is private pilot burnout a real thing? I passed the check ride, but flying isn't as much fun as it used to be. I don't want to give it up, as I spent months studying and practicing and thousands of dollars on this. I even bought my own airplane, but the idea of going out flying has become a chore, like having to mow the lawn. I have a feeling if I walk away from it altogether, I will regret it. How do I get past this?
Answer: Congratulations on passing the check ride. And no, you're definitely not the only pilot to experience burnout like this. The combination of weather delays, possible instructor turnover, challenges of finding a designated pilot examiner (DPE), practicing, and studying for the check ride will definitely take their toll. After spending so much time and money to achieve your goal, you almost feel guilty when you even consider hanging it up.
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Before you make that choice, go out and find other pilots and do some fun flying. If you haven't already done so, join the local chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association and see what activities it has coming up. Also, check social media in your area for aviation events such as fly-ins and pancake breakfasts. It's not about the food at these events; it's about the camaraderie.
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Often getting into the company of fellow aviators is all you need to reset your switch, so to speak.
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