How to Stay Safe & Comfortable Flying in Hot Weather

Summer in Arizona presents one of the most unique flight training environments in the country.

At Falcon Field, it's not unusual for temperatures to exceed 110°F during the hottest months of the year. Yet every day, pilots safely operate aircraft throughout the Southwest thanks to preparation and excellent flight training.

At Desert Wings Flight School, we not only teach students crucial weather-related decision-making and practical skills, we teach them that managing themselves is just as important as managing the airplane.

Heat Is a Safety Factor for Pilots

Safety is not only about a well-maintained and prepared aircraft and flight-plan, the well-being of the pilot is a crucial part of the equation.

Heat can affect:

• Concentration
• Reaction time
• Situational awareness
• Decision-making

Managing heat is a safety skill. Here’s some top tips from our experienced instructors:

• Hydrate before you fly - begin hydrating several hours before flight, continue drinking water throughout the day, avoid excessive caffeine, replace electrolytes when needed. Even mild dehydration can reduce performance.
• Dress like a professional pilot - we recommend light-colored clothing, breathable fabrics, sunglasses, hats for ramp operations, sunscreen.
• Eat before flying - flying in extreme heat while hungry can increase fatigue and reduce concentration but heat can quash the desire to eat. Students should eat regular and balanced meals, avoid excessive sugar, carry snacks in case they need to maintain their energy levels. Good nutrition supports good decision-making.
• Know when to stop - one of the hardest skills for pilots to learn is recognizing personal limitations. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, reduced concentration may indicate heat stress. Safe pilots know when to discontinue operations. It doesn’t equate to failure, on the contrary, it demonstrates crucial safety skill acquisition.

Aircraft Performance

Arizona summer temperatures affect:

• Takeoff performance
• Climb performance
• Fuel planning
• Aircraft limitations

This is why our instructors place such strong emphasis on:

• Density altitude
• Aircraft performance charts
• Weather planning
• Risk management

Read more about how Desert Wings Flight School instructors use Arizona weather to enhance student pilot’s flight training in Mesa AZ.

Arizona Makes Better Pilots

Learning to fly in Arizona means learning to manage operational challenges. Students who train at Falcon Field gain experience that prepares them for flying almost anywhere. Making safer, more capable pilots. And the airlines know it.

At Desert Wings Flight School our instructors teach students how to fly safely, comfortably, and professionally in different flight training environments. We teach you how to master summer flying.

Ready to learn from experienced Arizona instructors? Book a tour to discuss your flight training in Mesa AZ.