Almat Flying Academy
The Student Pilot Podcast
My name is Simon Kalas, a UK flight school owner. Each week myself and my guests aim to inspire, motivate and support student pilots to achieving their goals of becoming a Private or Commercial Pilot. We discuss, warts and all, what it takes to learn to fly and beyond, sharing our experiences from our team and guests.
Author
Almat Flying Academy
Category
Podcast website
Latest episode
Jun 21, 2026
Where to listen?
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Episodes
The Captain's Brief - More than just a formality? - The Student Pilot Podcast EP #47 21.06.2026 17:27
We've just released a new episode of The Student Pilot Podcast, and this one is all about something all pilots should take seriously from day one: the captain's briefing. Whether you're a student pilot, private pilot or instructor, a good briefing can make a huge difference to safety, decision-making, workload management, and overall confidence in the cockpit. We discuss why Captai...
Help I'm Lost! | | The Student Pilot Podcast EP46 29.03.2026 25:31
In this episode myself and Claire talk about one of the most common fears student pilots have, getting lost! You will learn what to do if this happens and how to get back home safely with as little drama as possible. We also reveal the answer to last weeks "Aviation fact or fiction". 🔗 FREE Learn to Fly Guide: https://almat.co.uk/product/ulfg-aero/ 👍 Like & subscribe for more stude...
NPPL vs PPL - Licences Compared | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP45 28.02.2026 17:31
In this episode Claire and Steve talk about the recent licencing changes, the removal of LAPL and how this may affect you as a licenced or student pilot. We also cover the main differences between NPPL and PPL in the UK, for those of you who are considering starting training. 🎧 Plus: Dont forget to join in our new feature "Aviation Fact Or Fiction". 🔗 FREE Learn to Fly Guide 👍 Like &a...
2026: Realise Your Pilot Goals | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP44 18.01.2026 22:55
In this episode of the Student Pilot Podcast, Simon and Claire talk about how to: Get started with flight training, restart after a pause ot refocus if progress feels slow We cover the most common reasons students stop flying — time, money, confidence, and momentum — and how to push past them with realistic advice and the right mindset. Whether your goal is your first lesson, first solo, or finall...
Threat And Error Management | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP 43 27.06.2025 19:15
✈️ Episode 43 – Threat and Error Management (TEM) for Student Pilots 🎙️ Welcome back to The Student Pilot Podcast! In this episode, we dive into one of the most important but often overlooked topics in flight training: Threat and Error Management (TEM). As a student pilot, you’re constantly juggling new procedures, weather decisions, airspace awareness, and aircraft control. So how do you stay ahe...
Are you flying illegally? | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP42 27.04.2025 11:06
In this episode we talk with Steve Mason about if you maybe flying illegally, and not even realise it! We go through whats required to keep legal in terms of currency, for a UK PPL and LAPL licences, including the 90 day passenger rule, for those taking passengers. We hope you find this helpful! Blues skies and safe flying everyone! Support the show
Your First Solo! | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP41 16.02.2025 15:49
Myself and Claire talk about the First Solo flight during PPL and LAPL training. What to expect, when it may happen, some tips to make it easier and we also reflect on our own First Solo Experiences. Join the Almat Flying Academy community and let's take flight together. Subscribe to our channel, hit that notification bell, and stay tuned for exciting updates, aviation tips, and incredible fl...
EP40 Licencing Changes Coming? | The Student Pilot Podcast 27.01.2025 15:13
In this episode myself and Steve Mason talk about the proposed licencing changes that may come into play in 2025. This is a must watch if you are currently training or already hold a valid licence. Ready to embark on your aviation adventure? Contact us today to schedule your first flight or inquire about our training programs and aircraft rentals. Phone: 02477 220 399 Email: customerservice@almat....
The Exam Trap - How to avoid it | Student Pilot Podcast #39 28.12.2024 14:47
In this episode myself and Claire talk about the importance of completing the theory exams in a timely manner and the potential trap you can fall into if you don't. Strap in, this episode could save you money! Resources in this episode FREE Question Bank Theory Training videos for all 9 PPL and LAPL subjects CAA website If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We...
My Journey From Student Pilot To Flight School Owner | Student Pilot Podcast #38 16.11.2024 28:02
In this episode our friend from the USA Chris Gregory interviews Simon on Chris's podcast Final Approach. During the podcast we discuss my journey to becoming a private pilot, the reasons why I quit 3 times along the way, how I ended up owning the flight school I trained at amoungst other aviation chit chat. Chris is also curious to find out the differences flying in the UK to the USA. If you...
Talking sustainable flight training with Kerry Wilmot | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP 37 05.10.2024 37:09
In this episode we talk to Kerry Wilmot from Neboair about sustainable flight training and what the future of flight training may look like. We also talk about the Pipistrel range of aircraft, specifically the Velis Electro, the first certified electric training aircraft to the UK market. Kerry also talks about her work with Giraffes On Tour and Great Ormond Street Hospital. If you would like to b...
Warning - Don't compare your journey to others! | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP36 31.03.2024 19:49
Whilst it may be human nature to compare our progress to others, it can be counterproductive. We talk about why others journeys to becoming a licensed pilot can be vastly from your own. The key take away, is to focus on your progress and improvement, but celebrate others wins. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. We also have some FREE...
Aviation Acronyms & Mnemonics | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP35 03.03.2024 17:23
Learning the Acronyms & Mnemonics within aviation can be arduous, so we are creating a series to debunk the most common ones. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. We also have some FREE items to help you: Get our FREE learn to fly guide - 24 pages jam packed full of information you NEED to read before starting training. https://alma...
What Flight Equipment Do I Need? | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP34 02.02.2024 3:37
One of the things overlooked when first starting flight training, is flight equipment. We go over what the minimum level of equipment required for PPL and LAPL, plus some optional Items. We cover when to get your equipment, how much it costs and where to get it from. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. Some useful links here: FREE Ques...
HNY 2024 Your Student Pilot Motivation | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP33 03.01.2024 26:57
Happy New Year! We discuss your motivation as a student pilot, and how the New Year can provide a good time to reflect and re focus, to make better progress in the year ahead. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. We discuss the following: 1.Where to start if you haven't yet started flight training 2.When is the best time to start t...
Engineer, Airline Pilot And Author - A Fascinating Career | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP32 16.12.2023 19:02
On this episode we talk to Steve Ford about abut his fascinating aviation career, spanning several decades. From being inspired by his father as a young boy, he shares how his career evolved from engineer, to pilot, test pilot and more recently a published author. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. Watch here: https://youtu.be/m4sUsC...
Navigating ATPL's Part Time | The Student Pilot Podcast #EP31 18.11.2023 25:21
Phil Thomas, a former Almat student gives us some feedback on how he passed the ATPL exams on a part time basis, whilst in full time work. He shares some practical advice and tips to help you get through your ATPL's. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. Watch here: https: https://youtu.be/469ex_eODl8 If you would like to support th...
Instructor Takeover - Perfect Your Circuits |The Student Pilot Podcast #30 04.11.2023 32:10
As a new feature of the podcast, "Instructor Take Over" episodes feature instructors on our team. This week we invite our Coventry chief flying instructor Claire onto the show, to talk about how you can improve your circuits, giving you safer and more consistent landings as a result. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. Watch...
Flight Training On Credit - Good Or Bad Idea?| Episode #29 21.10.2023 12:53
This week we discuss financing your PPL / LAPL and give you some pros and cons about using credit for training. Please note: this is not financial advice and you should do your own research before considering taking out any form of credit. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. FAST TRACK OFFER 2023 This years fast track price including o...
PPL Before Integrated - A Distinct Advantage? The Student Pilot Podcast #28 30.09.2023 35:45
In this episode I talk to former PPL student at Almat Flying Academy Cain Goodhand. He is now licensed, recently completed his integrated training and is preparing for a career in commercial aviation. He tells us his experiences going into integrated with a PPL compared to those that don't. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. On T...
Fantasy Wings - Empowering Diversity in Aviation | Episode #27 16.09.2023 9:18
Today I talk to Jackson Smith, who as a young Black man battled adversity en route to gaining his own Pilot’s Licence and a degree in Aviation. He was determined to make it easier for other young black and minority ethnic people and women to access the same opportunities he fought to get. This led to the creation of Fantasy Wings in 2019, an organisation dedicated to this. If you would like to sup...
FRTOL & The RT Exam - Master Radio Telephony and Pass First Time | Episode #26 25.08.2023 28:08
Good radio telephony is an important part of being a great pilot. Furthermore a UK pilot licence is not much use without a Flight Radio Telephony Operator Licence (FRTOL). Find out why as RT examiner, flight instructor and experienced commercial pilot Neil McKenzie talks to me about the standard of radio telephony required to pass the RT Exam, how to prepare and what to expect. This will also be v...
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT 12.05.2023 1:26
Check out this announcement to find out about our NEW show, "The Aviator Show" This is available tonight on our YouTube Channel @almatflyingacademy Support the show
PPL Skills Test - Insider Tips From An Examiner | Episode #25 05.05.2023 19:35
We sit down with our Head Of Training and Examiner, Steve Mason, to discuss the PPL Skills Test. The thought of your test approaching can be daunting, but Steve shares valuable insight on what to expect and why you shouldn't be worried. If you would like to support the channel, you can via Buy Me A Coffee. We appreciate your support. Get Our FREE Learn to Fly Guides If you are looking to lear...
The Secret to Smashing the PPL Skills Test | Episode #24 28.04.2023 18:51
This week - PPL Fast Track student Archie passed his Skills Test, and joins us to talk about his secrets to success. If you are an aspiring pilot or are approaching your own skills test - this podcast will give you a valuable insight on what to expect. An inspiring pilot for all - especially young aviators. Find out how he did it, so you can too! If you would like to support the channel, you can v...
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