Graduated Pilot's Outlook: Manuel Andrade

What was your experience at IFA like?

My experience at IFA from the moment I signed up until the end was an extremely pleasant experience. At IFA, there is always communication with the student, that is, the student is always aware of what is going on. Whether in the theoretical part regarding scheduling classes or how ANAC works, or in the practical component in which planning is always available to listen to any questions and clarify any doubts. I have no problem recommending it and have even done so to colleagues who want to pursue this career.

What were your biggest challenges?

In the theory phase, I think the most challenging part is, above all, reconciling all the material in a short period of time. IFA does a good division of subjects, that is, for 4 months or more we have certain subjects that go well with each other. And then at the end of the 4 months we take it to ANAC where we do the exams. The instructors were also a great help, always available not only to clarify doubts, but also to present certain concepts in ways and perspectives that suit the students.

The theoretical phase for me and my colleagues was something different, we could only go to ANAC every 3 months. We started classes in October 2021 and by October 2022, of the 13 subjects that had been given, I had completed all 13 subjects in 3 sittings in ANAC. In short, the first time I went to ANAC was in January 2022 and January 2023 was when I concluded.

What were your most memorable moments during the flight phase?

The most memorable moments during the flight phase were, in my opinion, solo navigations to different locations. The opportunity to take the plane from Viseu to Bragan?a alone and be able to land on a different runway is an experience I will never forget.

These navigations where we can observe Portugal from the sky and observe all its beauty, is an opportunity that few people have in life. I can't also say that the opportunity I had to do a low pass on an IFR flight at Faro airport was an absolutely memorable moment and I will always be grateful to Instructor Sérgio Alma?a for this opportunity.

How many hours did you fly per week on average?

An estimate of hours is difficult to say but I can say that whether in Viseu or Cascais, when there were planes there were around 6 to 7 flights per week. I can say that in 7 months I did almost 140 hours of flight and 40 hours of simulator.

It is a reality in aviation schools that there are cancellations and rescheduling. I would say that the main reasons are two: Airplane Maintenance and Weather. These are two aspects that schools cannot control since the weather is a variant that cannot be risked, flight safety is the most important thing. And regarding maintenance, planes have a minimum of instruments and indications that must be working for us to carry out a safe flight. Cancellations and rescheduling are a reality that we students have learned to accept.

Based on your entire learning journey so far, what is your main piece of advice for people who want to become an ATPL(A) pilot?

My main advice is to be demanding with yourself. Don't try to pass through the raindrops, be hardworking and always want to learn, even when you finish the course and have the 3 stripes. The best trait of a pilot is to be humble. Enjoy all the experiences, the ups and downs and realize that there will be difficulties but work to overcome them.