Books for Aspiring Pilots
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Joined: Dec 2023
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From: Ontario
Books for Aspiring Pilots
I’m an aspiring commercial pilot starting my training in under two months. I’ll be beginning a full-time Integrated ATPL program, and I’d like to make the most of this time before training kicks off. I’m looking for book recommendations — whether on aviation fundamentals, systems, theory, or even mindset and professionalism — that would give me a solid head start. I’m open to both technical manuals and broader reads about the industry.
Any advice on must-reads (or even “don’t waste your time” books) would be much appreciated!
Thanks in advance.
Any advice on must-reads (or even “don’t waste your time” books) would be much appreciated!
Thanks in advance.
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 187
Likes: 31
From: Brisbane
Honestly, the only book I'd recommend is a booklet I'd written after 20 years of instructing, Kyle. It wouldn't be much use to a student in your situation though, UNLESS they could convince an instructor to strictly apply the principles within, since the methods described are quite different to that which instructors are taught. However, if you're willing to present it to a few instructors you may find one who's willing to try something different.
Joined: Oct 2007
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 1,027
Likes: 120
From: Wherever I go, there I am
I posted this in another forum a few years ago when someone asked a similar question. Not sure if the hyperlinks still work:
From the Ground Up - This is the GO-TO textbook in Canada. You can get through most of the subjects in Canada with just this book. It is about as thick as one of my NZ subject books, but within those pages is a gold mine of information.
Canadian Aviation Regulations Website - This will be your one-stop shop for all the air law. Although I also used a book called "
," you avoid the potential for changing regulations by going straight to the source.
TC AIM - The Aeronautical Information Manual outlines all the rules and procedures for operating an aircraft in Canada. You can think of it as expanded guidance from the CARs. This is not so much I suggest you get it, as you will need to get it if you have any chance of passing your exams - that is how integral it is to aircraft operations.
Nav Canada AIP - The AIP is similar to, but quite different from the TC AIM. The only part of the AIP that you will likely find helpful is Part 1, often known as the CAP GEN. Parts 2 and 3 are used by international flight ops departments to figure out how to operate into and from Canada. When operating within Canada, it is the AIM that is the primary reference.
Air Command Weather Manual - An Air Force Weather Manual put out by the RCAF. It's good to grab as this seems to be what TC uses to develop their Met questions.
Mechanics of Flight - Not well known in Canada, but I think every pilot should own this. It's great for principles of flight, and the content for high-speed flight is a great starting point for pilots.
- Put out by the US Navy, this is a go-to book for principles of flight. There is a reason we used this during my university aerodynamics studies. Sure, it has its problems, but it is well worth the cost.
- There are better books out there on the subject, but this is where TC seems to pull information for the questions. Be careful: there are two editions to this book: Basic and Advanced. Advanced is what you want for the ATPL. Basic is for the PPL and into the CPL.
Alright, as for other books that I won't hyperlink, but that I nevertheless found helpful (but in no particular order) during all my studies thus far (this includes a type rating and into my 23rd year as an airline pilot):
From the Ground Up - This is the GO-TO textbook in Canada. You can get through most of the subjects in Canada with just this book. It is about as thick as one of my NZ subject books, but within those pages is a gold mine of information.
Canadian Aviation Regulations Website - This will be your one-stop shop for all the air law. Although I also used a book called "
," you avoid the potential for changing regulations by going straight to the source.
TC AIM - The Aeronautical Information Manual outlines all the rules and procedures for operating an aircraft in Canada. You can think of it as expanded guidance from the CARs. This is not so much I suggest you get it, as you will need to get it if you have any chance of passing your exams - that is how integral it is to aircraft operations.
Nav Canada AIP - The AIP is similar to, but quite different from the TC AIM. The only part of the AIP that you will likely find helpful is Part 1, often known as the CAP GEN. Parts 2 and 3 are used by international flight ops departments to figure out how to operate into and from Canada. When operating within Canada, it is the AIM that is the primary reference.
Air Command Weather Manual - An Air Force Weather Manual put out by the RCAF. It's good to grab as this seems to be what TC uses to develop their Met questions.
Mechanics of Flight - Not well known in Canada, but I think every pilot should own this. It's great for principles of flight, and the content for high-speed flight is a great starting point for pilots.
- Put out by the US Navy, this is a go-to book for principles of flight. There is a reason we used this during my university aerodynamics studies. Sure, it has its problems, but it is well worth the cost.
- There are better books out there on the subject, but this is where TC seems to pull information for the questions. Be careful: there are two editions to this book: Basic and Advanced. Advanced is what you want for the ATPL. Basic is for the PPL and into the CPL.
Alright, as for other books that I won't hyperlink, but that I nevertheless found helpful (but in no particular order) during all my studies thus far (this includes a type rating and into my 23rd year as an airline pilot):
- Dictionary of Aviation Terms
- Handling the Big Jets
- The Jet Engine (by Rolls-Royce)
- Gas Turbine Engines (for Pilots and Mechanics)
- The Turbine Pilots Flight Manual
- Fly the Wing
- Advanced Aircraft Systems
- Flight Discipline (Kern)
- Redefining Airmanship (Kern)
- Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA, available as PDF. Just ignore the FAR stuff, unless you want to fly into the US, then it's handy!)
- Instrument Flying Handbook (FAA, same as above)
- Instrument Procedures Handbook (FAA, same as above, but there are a few differences between Canada and the US, so take this with the warning that is intended)
Joined: Apr 2016
Posts: 2
Likes: 0
From: Croatia
Aviation Books
Subject: New Pilot Memoir – Old Pilot Bold Pilot
Hello everyone,
After many years in the cockpit, I’ve finally taken the time to write down some of the stories and lessons from my flying life. The result is my memoir, Old Pilot Bold Pilot.
It’s not a technical manual but rather a collection of experiences — from the everyday to the unusual — that shaped my time as a pilot. I wrote it with fellow aviators in mind, knowing how much we all enjoy hearing about the challenges, close calls, and humor that come with this profession.
If you enjoy reading real-world flying stories, I’d be glad if you had a look. You can find more about the book here: www.oldpilotboldpilot.com
I’d also love to hear from others who have written or are thinking about writing their own aviation stories — it’s a journey in itself!
Blue skies,
Blaine
Hello everyone,
After many years in the cockpit, I’ve finally taken the time to write down some of the stories and lessons from my flying life. The result is my memoir, Old Pilot Bold Pilot.
It’s not a technical manual but rather a collection of experiences — from the everyday to the unusual — that shaped my time as a pilot. I wrote it with fellow aviators in mind, knowing how much we all enjoy hearing about the challenges, close calls, and humor that come with this profession.
If you enjoy reading real-world flying stories, I’d be glad if you had a look. You can find more about the book here: www.oldpilotboldpilot.com
I’d also love to hear from others who have written or are thinking about writing their own aviation stories — it’s a journey in itself!
Blue skies,
Blaine
Joined: Jan 1999
Posts: 1,377
Likes: 174
From: England
Hi Kyle
The book will introduce you to the basics. Good luck with the training and welcome to the pilot community.
The book will introduce you to the basics. Good luck with the training and welcome to the pilot community.
Joined: Feb 2004
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 3,689
Likes: 118
From: USA
Aerodynamics for Naval Aviators Aerodynamics for Naval Aviators
- Put out by the US Navy, this is a go-to book for principles of flight. There is a reason we used this during my university aerodynamics studies. Sure, it has its problems, but it is well worth the cost.
- Put out by the US Navy, this is a go-to book for principles of flight. There is a reason we used this during my university aerodynamics studies. Sure, it has its problems, but it is well worth the cost.
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/fi.../00-80T-80.pdf
Joined: Apr 2016
Aviation Qualifications: CPL
Posts: 82
Likes: 1
From: Ontario
Instead of TC FTM, I very much recommend SharpeAero Book. It is TC approved, but unlike the FTM, it is very much picture oriented, which helps tremendously understanding many concepts. It cost more than TC FTM, but worth every penny.
They also have a book for the night rating, when the time comes, and if it is anything like their Flight Training book, it might be worth it.
They also have a book for the night rating, when the time comes, and if it is anything like their Flight Training book, it might be worth it.
Joined: Nov 2025
Aviation Qualifications: ATP+Mil
Posts: 61
Likes: 93
From: Scotland
Instead of TC FTM, I very much recommend sharpeaero Book. It is TC approved, but unlike the FTM, it is very much picture oriented, which helps tremendously understanding many concepts. It cost more than TC FTM, but worth every penny.
They also have a book for the night rating, when the time comes, and if it is anything like their Flight Training book, it might be worth it.
They also have a book for the night rating, when the time comes, and if it is anything like their Flight Training book, it might be worth it.
Joined: Oct 2007
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 1,027
Likes: 120
From: Wherever I go, there I am
This text is pretty heavy reading for a brand new pilot. In fact, it's more than most pilots need. Yes, it has been used as an introductory textbook in university aero engineering programs...that's a sign. But, a glutton for punishment can get it here for free:
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/fi.../00-80T-80.pdf
https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/fi.../00-80T-80.pdf
But you are right, it is heavy reading for a new pilot, so maybe I should have clarified that it's better used for the CPL and ATPL.
Joined: Feb 2004
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL
Posts: 3,689
Likes: 118
From: USA
The US Navy apparently has a slimmed-down version:
https://www.cnatra.navy.mil/training...inee-guide.pdf
The USAF also has its own version of this stuff: ATC Manual 51-3, Aerodynamics for Pilots
But I couldn't find the free online version. It's probably out there but I'm lazy.
https://www.cnatra.navy.mil/training...inee-guide.pdf
The USAF also has its own version of this stuff: ATC Manual 51-3, Aerodynamics for Pilots
But I couldn't find the free online version. It's probably out there but I'm lazy.
Joined: Sep 2004
Aviation Qualifications: ATPL(H)
Posts: 2,376
Likes: 879
From: Canada
For background history and light reading I highly recommend the book “Fate is the Hunter” ( not the movie, never the movie..trust me ) by Ernest K Gann and “Stranger to the Ground” by Richard Bach.
