The interested reader
The interested reader who has found my “PPL textbooks” guide useful who has found my “PPL textbooks” guide useful may be planning inmay be planning in future to move on to a career in fl
future to move on to a career in flying. In this case you will need at some point to tying. In this case you will need at some point to take aake a series of ground exams which are much tougher than those taken at PPL level.
series of ground exams which are much tougher than those taken at PPL level. You mayYou may find this guide useful in selecting which set of t
find this guide useful in selecting which set of textbooks are best suited to yourextbooks are best suited to your circumstances. If you have reached this stage
circumstances. If you have reached this stage you should be familiar with the acronymsyou should be familiar with the acronyms used but they are explained below for the benefit of those new t
used but they are explained below for the benefit of those new t o aviation training:o aviation training: Acronyms used
Acronyms used JAA
JAA – – Joint Aviation Authorities Joint Aviation Authorities – – a group of (mostly European) civil aviation regulators. a group of (mostly European) civil aviation regulators. JAR
JAR – – Joint Aviation Requirements Joint Aviation Requirements – – a common set of requirements adopted by all J a common set of requirements adopted by all J AAAA members, for example in flight crew licensing
members, for example in flight crew licensing CAA
CAA – – Civil Aviation Authority Civil Aviation Authority ATPL
ATPL – – Airline Transport Pilot Licence Airline Transport Pilot Licence CPL/IR
CPL/IR – – Commercial Pilot Licence with Instrument Rating Commercial Pilot Licence with Instrument Rating TK
TK – – Theoretical Knowledge Theoretical Knowledge DL
DL – – Distance Learning Distance Learning FTO
FTO – – Flight Training Organisation Flight Training Organisation
At the end of the article I have included a few ideas of how the system could be changed to At the end of the article I have included a few ideas of how the system could be changed to make the whole exams process more straightforward and cheaper for st
make the whole exams process more straightforward and cheaper for st udents. My brilliantudents. My brilliant ideas are usually ignored so feel free
ideas are usually ignored so feel free to skip them. But who knows, perhaps this article mato skip them. But who knows, perhaps this article ma yy be read one day by so
be read one day by someone at the CAA or EASA who dmeone at the CAA or EASA who decides such innovative thinking isecides such innovative thinking is the way ahead !
Ground training Ground training
The introduction of the JAR system for flight crew training in 1999 resulted in a The introduction of the JAR system for flight crew training in 1999 resulted in a
considerable expansion in the choice of textbooks available on the market for the budding considerable expansion in the choice of textbooks available on the market for the budding Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) student. For those new to flying it should be noted Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) student. For those new to flying it should be noted that someone who has been issued with a Commercial Pilot Licence with an Instrument that someone who has been issued with a Commercial Pilot Licence with an Instrument Rating (a “CPL/IR” ) with theory exam passes at
Rating (a “CPL/IR” ) with theory exam passes at ATPL level has a “frozen” ATPL. TheyATPL level has a “frozen” ATPL. They can fly as a First Office
can fly as a First Officer on a multi-crew aircrafr on a multi-crew aircraft with their CPL but cannot be issued witht with their CPL but cannot be issued with an ATPL until they have over
an ATPL until they have over 1,500 hours of total flying experience.1,500 hours of total flying experience. Prior to JAR there was only one published series avail
Prior to JAR there was only one published series avail able for ATPL study, which wasable for ATPL study, which was “Ground Studies for Pilots” by Ta
“Ground Studies for Pilots” by Taylor and Parmar. These were ylor and Parmar. These were revised by Roy Underdownrevised by Roy Underdown and appear to be published versions of the ground school notes from the old College of Air and appear to be published versions of the ground school notes from the old College of Air Training at Hamble which closed in 1984. Other organisations such as the Professi
Training at Hamble which closed in 1984. Other organisations such as the Professi onalonal Pilot Study Centre at Bournemouth and Trent Air Services at Cranfield which
Pilot Study Centre at Bournemouth and Trent Air Services at Cranfield which bothboth specialised in correspondence courses ( or “dist
specialised in correspondence courses ( or “distance learning” to use 21ance learning” to use 21stst Century Century terminology) produced their own manuals which they sold as a complete set when you terminology) produced their own manuals which they sold as a complete set when you signed up for a course with them.
signed up for a course with them.
The introduction of JAR certainly made the cost of passing the ground exams much more The introduction of JAR certainly made the cost of passing the ground exams much more time consuming and expensive. Prior to JAR there were three routes:
time consuming and expensive. Prior to JAR there were three routes:
Do a correspondence course. This was as it Do a correspondence course. This was as it said on the tin: there was no rsaid on the tin: there was no requirementequirement to attend any classes
to attend any classes or “brush up” sessions prior to exams.or “brush up” sessions prior to exams.
Do a full time course. These were tailored in duration to what Flight TrainingDo a full time course. These were tailored in duration to what Flight Training Organisations (FTOs) found was required to teach the material.
Organisations (FTOs) found was required to teach the material. In the mid 90s forIn the mid 90s for example Cabair at Cranfield used to run a course of 4 weeks duration for the
example Cabair at Cranfield used to run a course of 4 weeks duration for the “Navigation Group”
“Navigation Group” of subjects and another 4 weeks course of subjects and another 4 weeks course for the “Technicalfor the “Technical Group
Group””. The CAA required that you sit all of the s. The CAA required that you sit all of the subjects in aubjects in a ““GroupGroup”” in one in one attempt over 2-3 days of exams so the courses were preparation for the Group the attempt over 2-3 days of exams so the courses were preparation for the Group the candidate planned to sit. Candidates would then have the option of immediately candidate planned to sit. Candidates would then have the option of immediately ploughing into the next Gro
ploughing into the next Group or could take a break to the next Grouup or could take a break to the next Group depending onp depending on work commitments and financial circumstances.
work commitments and financial circumstances.
Do full time study as part of an “integrated”Do full time study as part of an “integrated” course which included both ground andcourse which included both ground and flying training. At the time integrated was e
flying training. At the time integrated was exactly as it suggests: stxactly as it suggests: students would doudents would do flying one day, then ground classes the following until 30-40 weeks into the course flying one day, then ground classes the following until 30-40 weeks into the course so that theoretical learning could reinforce practical experience in the air for a so that theoretical learning could reinforce practical experience in the air for a substantial part of the course.
substantial part of the course.
This UK national system which had worked for well for the previous 30-40 years was This UK national system which had worked for well for the previous 30-40 years was
substantially changed with the introduction of the Europe-wide JAR system which the CAA substantially changed with the introduction of the Europe-wide JAR system which the CAA was one of the first European countries to implement. The objective
was one of the first European countries to implement. The objective was to harmonisewas to harmonise European flight crew licensing so enable free movement of labour across European European flight crew licensing so enable free movement of labour across European boundaries.
boundaries.
How much free movement of pilots to jobs in Europe has resulted is debata
How much free movement of pilots to jobs in Europe has resulted is debata ble but we haveble but we have ended up with a more prescriptive and expensive system. The components of a CP
ended up with a more prescriptive and expensive system. The components of a CP L/IRL/IR course were broken down into “modules”.
ATPL Theoretical Knowledge (TK) course Module. It was specified that a
ATPL Theoretical Knowledge (TK) course Module. It was specified that a course for thiscourse for this module had to contain 650 hours of classroom tuition. It was also stipulated t
module had to contain 650 hours of classroom tuition. It was also stipulated t hat anyhat any Distance Learning TK course had to have at least
Distance Learning TK course had to have at least 10% of this figure (so 65 hours) as10% of this figure (so 65 hours) as classroom based
classroom based teaching. This is the origins of the “brushteaching. This is the origins of the “brush--up” week(s) held by trainingup” week(s) held by training providers prior to the CAA exams which are held in
providers prior to the CAA exams which are held in the first week of every month.the first week of every month. The former UK ground studies routes described above have been replaced with t The former UK ground studies routes described above have been replaced with t hehe following options:
following options:
Do a correspondence course. Except it is now known as a TKDo a correspondence course. Except it is now known as a TK Distance LeaningDistance Leaning (DL) course and has the 65 hours of classroom att
(DL) course and has the 65 hours of classroom attendance requirement.endance requirement.
Do a full time TK courseDo a full time TK course. This now has the minimum of 650 classroom hours. This now has the minimum of 650 classroom hours requirement. In practice this results in a course of 26 weeks duration.
requirement. In practice this results in a course of 26 weeks duration.
Do an “integratedDo an “integrated course course”.”. In practice FTOs like Oxford and Cabair do the TKIn practice FTOs like Oxford and Cabair do the TK course for 26 weeks solid prior to starting an
course for 26 weeks solid prior to starting any flying at all so I suggest that really flying at all so I suggest that reallyy the title “integrated” CPL/IR course with TK knowl
the title “integrated” CPL/IR course with TK knowledge passes at ATPL leveledge passes at ATPL level (a.k.a. the “frozen ATPL”) has become meaningless. What they are doing is
(a.k.a. the “frozen ATPL”) has become meaningless. What they are doing is in fact in fact a Modular CPL/IR in one contiguous timescale.
a Modular CPL/IR in one contiguous timescale.
To be an FTO approved to do any of the above in the UK a requirement is that
To be an FTO approved to do any of the above in the UK a requirement is that each FTOeach FTO must produce its own manuals for each TK subject. This will
must produce its own manuals for each TK subject. This will have a cost overhead andhave a cost overhead and having produced a set of training manuals four of the providers have published them as having produced a set of training manuals four of the providers have published them as books for purchase with the attraction of a greater size of market than previously existed books for purchase with the attraction of a greater size of market than previously existed before 1999.
before 1999.
They would potentially be of interest to students studying in any of the JAR countries plus They would potentially be of interest to students studying in any of the JAR countries plus other in the Middle East and Asia which broadly follow the J
other in the Middle East and Asia which broadly follow the J AR system rather than theAR system rather than the American FAA system. With English being the language of aviation an English speaking American FAA system. With English being the language of aviation an English speaking FTO has a clear advantage here compared to those
FTO has a clear advantage here compared to those schools and authors who speak and writeschools and authors who speak and write English as a second language.
English as a second language. The textbooks available The textbooks available
The main aim of this article is to review the four series of books available from pilot The main aim of this article is to review the four series of books available from pilot supplies shops from the following training providers:
supplies shops from the following training providers: Oxford
Oxford – – who are a large FTO who do flying training so can offer the ATPL TK course via who are a large FTO who do flying training so can offer the ATPL TK course via any of the above three routes.
any of the above three routes. Jeppesen
Jeppesen – – these books were written by these books were written by Atlantic Flight Training (AFT)Atlantic Flight Training (AFT) at Coventry at Coventry Airport. AFT are an FTO who also do flying training and at the time these
Airport. AFT are an FTO who also do flying training and at the time these books werebooks were written they used to do full time and DL courses at
written they used to do full time and DL courses at Coventry. AFT ceased doing groundCoventry. AFT ceased doing ground training in the UK early in 2010.
training in the UK early in 2010.
London Metropolitan University and Cranfield Aviation Training
London Metropolitan University and Cranfield Aviation Training - these are both - these are both solely theoretical knowledge course training providers so can only offer the
solely theoretical knowledge course training providers so can only offer the first twofirst two options
What is currently available is vastly improved when compared to the training materials of What is currently available is vastly improved when compared to the training materials of past years. The quality of graphics and diagrams and u
past years. The quality of graphics and diagrams and use of colour is in a different league tose of colour is in a different league to the monochrome thumbnail sketches and prose-heavy text of the past. They are available to the monochrome thumbnail sketches and prose-heavy text of the past. They are available to anyone who has the money and inclination to buy them - you do not have to be a student at anyone who has the money and inclination to buy them - you do not have to be a student at the school that produced them. I have used all of them to a great
the school that produced them. I have used all of them to a great er or lesser extent er or lesser extent so whatso what follows is my opinion on each. I have shown how each series have spil
follows is my opinion on each. I have shown how each series have spil t books across thet books across the exam subjects so that should a student be struggling he can easily see which is the one exam subjects so that should a student be struggling he can easily see which is the one required. Each exam subject usually has its own dedicated book.
required. Each exam subject usually has its own dedicated book.
A point to note is that each school includes the books or manuals as part of either a DL or A point to note is that each school includes the books or manuals as part of either a DL or full time course so if
full time course so if you signed up for a course with the FTO who produced them then youyou signed up for a course with the FTO who produced them then you will not have to spend the £600-700 each set costs
will not have to spend the £600-700 each set costs – – the books will be included in the total the books will be included in the total course cost.
course cost.
Oxford Aviation
Oxford Aviation AcademyAcademy
Oxford has been training Commercial Oxford has been training Commercial pilots since the early 1960s. Their pilots since the early 1960s. Their spin- prone Commercial Director does seem to prone Commercial Director does seem to
like keeping people on their toes with like keeping people on their toes with regular name changes
regular name changes – – I used to know I used to know them as Oxford Aviation Training and them as Oxford Aviation Training and before that as Oxford Air Training Scho before that as Oxford Air Training School.ol.
Wh
Whatever the current name “Oxford” is theatever the current name “Oxford” is the shorthand name that most refer to them as. shorthand name that most refer to them as.
Comments
Comments – – this is certainly the most detailed and comprehensive set of books on the this is certainly the most detailed and comprehensive set of books on the market. The books are lavishly illustrated in colour and the detail in diagrams is excellent. market. The books are lavishly illustrated in colour and the detail in diagrams is excellent. If you want to look something up and cannot find it in the Oxford books then I suggest that If you want to look something up and cannot find it in the Oxford books then I suggest that you will have to look hard to find it in another source. Page count is enormous at i
you will have to look hard to find it in another source. Page count is enormous at i n excessn excess of 6,500 across the 14 books.
of 6,500 across the 14 books. Critique
Critique – – With individual books costing anything up to £60 I would expect at this sort of With individual books costing anything up to £60 I would expect at this sort of figure to buy a hardback book rather than the oversized paperback book that it is. The figure to buy a hardback book rather than the oversized paperback book that it is. The actual book size is A4. Oxford used to publish them in ring binders so this looks like a actual book size is A4. Oxford used to publish them in ring binders so this looks like a cheap way of getting a saleable book out of what used to be a
cheap way of getting a saleable book out of what used to be a manual. Unless viewed on amanual. Unless viewed on a table these oversized paperbacks do flop around in a way a hardback book does not.
table these oversized paperbacks do flop around in a way a hardback book does not.
These books were written with the introduction of JAR and while they do cover absolutely These books were written with the introduction of JAR and while they do cover absolutely everything that you could possibly need to know according to the JAR learning objectives, everything that you could possibly need to know according to the JAR learning objectives, they do lack emphasis on what is reall
they do lack emphasis on what is really important which you get from a dedicated set ofy important which you get from a dedicated set of course notes. When used as part of a class
course notes. When used as part of a classroom based course or as a supplement to a DLroom based course or as a supplement to a DL course they make an excellent, encyclopaedic reference. For use
course they make an excellent, encyclopaedic reference. For use as the core of a DL courseas the core of a DL course from Oxford they could be ver
from Oxford they could be very heavy going and only for the most y heavy going and only for the most dedicated or hyperdedicated or hyper enthusiastic.
enthusiastic.
I would suggest to an ATPL student not to buy the complete set of manuals. A better I would suggest to an ATPL student not to buy the complete set of manuals. A better method is if you find a particular subject ver
Oxford book to research the particular aspects
Oxford book to research the particular aspects you are struggling with by looking up theyou are struggling with by looking up the relevant chapter. This is made slightl
relevant chapter. This is made slightly more difficult in that there is y more difficult in that there is no index at the back ofno index at the back of each one. Oxford is no different here from most of the others and this reflects its origins as each one. Oxford is no different here from most of the others and this reflects its origins as a manual. It does have the JAR leaning objective number at the
a manual. It does have the JAR leaning objective number at the start of each chapter so tstart of each chapter so thishis could always be cross-referenced with the le
could always be cross-referenced with the learning objectives which are still availarning objectives which are still available onable on the JAR website (www.jaa.nl)..
the JAR website (www.jaa.nl)..
Jeppesen (with Atlantic Flight Training) Jeppesen (with Atlantic Flight Training)
These books were actually written by These books were actually written by Atlantic Flight Training (AFT) based Atlantic Flight Training (AFT) based at Coventry airport and have
at Coventry airport and have Jeppesen’s na
Jeppesen’s name on the cover,me on the cover, presumably for marketing purposes presumably for marketing purposes
and to give a more international and to give a more international appeal.
appeal. Comments
Comments – – Your money does buy Your money does buy you a hardback book. Coverage is you a hardback book. Coverage is comprehensive and there are more comprehensive and there are more photographs of real life examples of photographs of real life examples of aeroplane parts and equipment than in any of the other competitors. They are about two aeroplane parts and equipment than in any of the other competitors. They are about two thirds of the page length of the Oxford books. Much of this is due to them not having thirds of the page length of the Oxford books. Much of this is due to them not having sample questions at the end of each chapter in the way that the Oxford books do. This is a sample questions at the end of each chapter in the way that the Oxford books do. This is a particular dislike of mine. The text should cover what n
particular dislike of mine. The text should cover what need to be explained and not pad oueed to be explained and not pad outt with large numbers of questions on what you have just read at the end of each
with large numbers of questions on what you have just read at the end of each chapter. Ichapter. I believe that this is where the on-line question bank should b
believe that this is where the on-line question bank should be used or a separate questions-e used or a separate questions-and-answers book or manual should be provided. Worked question examples in the text are and-answers book or manual should be provided. Worked question examples in the text are a more productive use of space, for example when calculati
a more productive use of space, for example when calculating conversion angles in Generalng conversion angles in General Navigation.
Navigation. Critique
Critique – – conciseness of the books does very. The Aircraft General conciseness of the books does very. The Aircraft General Knowledge books inKnowledge books in particular are really to the sort of level more appropriate for a maintenance engineer’s particular are really to the sort of level more appropriate for a maintenance engineer’s
course. It is difficult to get t
course. It is difficult to get to grips with basics that are required bo grips with basics that are required by the pilot among they the pilot among the mass of material. The stuff on properties of materials used (aluminium, titanium, steel etc) mass of material. The stuff on properties of materials used (aluminium, titanium, steel etc) is all very interesting stuff
is all very interesting stuff – – but we are flying the things, not building them ! The but we are flying the things, not building them ! The Performance book in particular is very good and I do know is used by a couple of the Performance book in particular is very good and I do know is used by a couple of the schools in preference to their own particular manual on the subject.
schools in preference to their own particular manual on the subject.
The diagrams used are clear enough and have associated photographs to show actual The diagrams used are clear enough and have associated photographs to show actual examples of equipment used. However rather too many of them are of the ass
examples of equipment used. However rather too many of them are of the ass ortment ofortment of vintage machines such as the Lockheed Electra and Douglas DC6 which happen to be at vintage machines such as the Lockheed Electra and Douglas DC6 which happen to be at Coventry Airport which is where AFT are based. Where photos are used it
Coventry Airport which is where AFT are based. Where photos are used it would be best ifwould be best if they were taken of parts and equipment used by the “baseline” ai
they were taken of parts and equipment used by the “baseline” ai rcraft used for the Jrcraft used for the JARAR syllabus, which are the Piper Seneca for the piston engine tw
syllabus, which are the Piper Seneca for the piston engine tw in and the Boeing 737 for thein and the Boeing 737 for the Medium Range Jet Twin. There is also a lack of consistency in the diagrams. Some are Medium Range Jet Twin. There is also a lack of consistency in the diagrams. Some are drawn from other sources, often in a monochrome format while others have been produced drawn from other sources, often in a monochrome format while others have been produced by an in-house graphic artist. It all works bu
by an in-house graphic artist. It all works but just does not have the consistency level of thet just does not have the consistency level of the other publications.
The books are on their second edition while Oxford is now on edition five. There are The books are on their second edition while Oxford is now on edition five. There are numerous typos in the text which shows that the second editions were rushed into print numerous typos in the text which shows that the second editions were rushed into print without thorough proofreading. I actually did the f
without thorough proofreading. I actually did the f ull time 650 hour ATPL theoreticalull time 650 hour ATPL theoretical knowledge course at AFT in
knowledge course at AFT in 2007 and we did have some good sporting f2007 and we did have some good sporting fun spotting theun spotting the errors in the books when they were displayed in pdf format on the interacti
errors in the books when they were displayed in pdf format on the interacti ve whiteboard. Ive whiteboard. I actually tended to rely on what was taught in the classroom and used these books for
actually tended to rely on what was taught in the classroom and used these books for reference where some extra re
reference where some extra reading was required to consolidate knowledge and for thisading was required to consolidate knowledge and for this they proved adequate, of which more later in this article.
they proved adequate, of which more later in this article.
One big problem with this series is that in early 2010 AFT stopped doing full time ground One big problem with this series is that in early 2010 AFT stopped doing full time ground school at Coventry and made all of the ground school staff ( man
school at Coventry and made all of the ground school staff ( man y of whom had contributedy of whom had contributed to these books) redundant. It is therefore difficult to
to these books) redundant. It is therefore difficult to see how Jeppesen can keep themsee how Jeppesen can keep them updated in the future unless some arrangement has been made with re
updated in the future unless some arrangement has been made with re gard to copyright.gard to copyright. Nordian (with London Metropolitan University)
Nordian (with London Metropolitan University)
These are published by a consortium of These are published by a consortium of Norwegian and Swedish schools plus L
Norwegian and Swedish schools plus Londonondon Metropolitan University, hence the “Nor” in the Metropolitan University, hence the “Nor” in the name. London Met has been doing ATPL
name. London Met has been doing ATPL ground studies for 30+ years (prior to 1992 it ground studies for 30+ years (prior to 1992 it was London City Polytechnic). And well done was London City Polytechnic). And well done them - how many other UK academic
them - how many other UK academic institutions have ever bothered to offer institutions have ever bothered to offer something for trainee pilots ? It makes a something for trainee pilots ? It makes a refreshing change from Sport Science, Media refreshing change from Sport Science, Media Studies and other
quasi-Studies and other quasi-academic fluff. It’s justacademic fluff. It’s just a pity they are based in the
a pity they are based in the most expensive citymost expensive city in the country in which to live and study.
in the country in which to live and study.
Comments
Comments – – Another set of durable hardback books, split over 15 volumes with exactly Another set of durable hardback books, split over 15 volumes with exactly the same division as Jeppesen. They are als
the same division as Jeppesen. They are also of a much smaller and more convenient sizeo of a much smaller and more convenient size than
than Oxford or Jeppesen and avoid the “doorstop” effect of some of the heavier subjects.Oxford or Jeppesen and avoid the “doorstop” effect of some of the heavier subjects. Effort has clearly been made to consolidate and simplify material, which is of benefit to Effort has clearly been made to consolidate and simplify material, which is of benefit to those who speak and read English as a second language. The diagrams are
those who speak and read English as a second language. The diagrams are numerous andnumerous and tend towards the simple and schematic to explain the principles involved rather than the tend towards the simple and schematic to explain the principles involved rather than the “engineers drawing” type present in some of the other series
“engineers drawing” type present in some of the other series . Use. Use of colour is good withoutof colour is good without being lavish in the way that the Oxford
being lavish in the way that the Oxford books are.books are. Critique
Critique – – My big dislike wMy big dislike with this series is the layout ith this series is the layout of the text. Each pof the text. Each page has the textage has the text split into two columns which does not allow your reading to flow easily. I don’t kno
split into two columns which does not allow your reading to flow easily. I don’t kno w ifw if this is a consequence of using some archaic deskt
this is a consequence of using some archaic desktop publishing package but it does giveop publishing package but it does give them the look of a manual for sat nav device or
them the look of a manual for sat nav device or a mobile phone. I do like the way the booka mobile phone. I do like the way the book outer covers are given a colour coding which gives some differentiation
outer covers are given a colour coding which gives some differentiation according to JARaccording to JAR subject area
subject area – – Mass & Balance, Performance and Flight Planning are all Mass & Balance, Performance and Flight Planning are all in the 030 categoryin the 030 category and coloured brown, for example. It seems more down to earth than the Oxford book
and coloured brown, for example. It seems more down to earth than the Oxford book covers with their large airliner pictures beloved to plane spotters on the front covers and covers with their large airliner pictures beloved to plane spotters on the front covers and gives a less pretentious first impression.
There have been whinges about this series of books on a “certain rumour network” with There have been whinges about this series of books on a “certain rumour network” with accusations of poor grammar, mistakes, incomplete sentences and poor proof reading. Most accusations of poor grammar, mistakes, incomplete sentences and poor proof reading. Most seem to be made by European students. When I was studying at AFT one guy there had seem to be made by European students. When I was studying at AFT one guy there had these books and found them really useful so I just wonder if non-English speakers find these books and found them really useful so I just wonder if non-English speakers find books written in English by
books written in English by other non-English speakers hard going ?other non-English speakers hard going ?
I have summarised the books available from each series in the following table. The book I have summarised the books available from each series in the following table. The book description is blank where the book title is the s
description is blank where the book title is the same as the JAR exam subject name. ame as the JAR exam subject name. AllAll split down the large subject of Airframes
split down the large subject of Airframes & Systems into three books, and consolidate other& Systems into three books, and consolidate other smaller subjects such as the two Communications exams into one book.
smaller subjects such as the two Communications exams into one book.
JAR JAR subject subject code code JAR exam JAR exam subject subject name name Oxford book Oxford book number and number and description description Jeppesen book Jeppesen book number and number and description description Nordian book Nordian book number and number and description description 10 Aviation 10 Aviation Law Law 1 1 12 12 100100 21 21 Airframes / Airframes / systems/ systems/ engines engines 2
2 Airframes &Airframes & Systems Systems 44 Airframes & Airframes & Systems Systems 101101 Airframes & Airframes & Systems Systems 3
3 ElectricsElectrics 6 6 Electrics Electrics 103 103 ElectricsElectrics 4
4 PowerplantPowerplant 5 5 Powerplant Powerplant 112 Powerplant112 Powerplant 22 Instruments
22 Instruments 5 5 7 7 107107
31
31 Mass Mass && balance balance 6 6 Mass & Mass & Balance, Balance, Performance Performance 10 108 10 108 32 Performance 32 Performance 9 9 111111 33 Flight 33 Flight Planning & Planning & Monitoring Monitoring 7 7 11 11 104104 40 40 HumanHuman Performance Performance 8 8 13 13 106106 50 Meteorology 50 Meteorology 9 9 1 1 109109 61 General 61 General Navigation Navigation 10 10 2 2 105105 62 Radio 62 Radio Navigation Navigation 11 11 3 3 114114 70 Operational 70 Operational Procedures Procedures 12 12 14 14 110110 80 80 Principles Principles ofof Flight Flight 13 13 8 8 113113 91 91 VFR VFR CommsComms 14 14 CCoCCoomommmmmsmmsss 1515 CCoCCoomommmmmsmmsss 102102 CCoCComoommmmmmmssss 92
92 IFR IFR CommsComms Total books Total books in series
CATS ( Cranfield Aviation
CATS ( Cranfield Aviation Training School)Training School)
CATS are like London Met - a provider of ground CATS are like London Met - a provider of ground training only. They are headed by a Dr Stuart Smith, training only. They are headed by a Dr Stuart Smith, no less, so clearly a man with an impressive academic no less, so clearly a man with an impressive academic background. CAT
background. CATS offer you the lowest cost way ofS offer you the lowest cost way of getting your box ticked of studying the
getting your box ticked of studying the ATPL TKATPL TK module because they give you the
module because they give you the option of notoption of not having paper copies of the book but access to them having paper copies of the book but access to them on-line only plus the brush-up courses for just £999. on-line only plus the brush-up courses for just £999. I have not included a subject table for CATS
I have not included a subject table for CATS – – they they produce one book
produce one book for each subject with the exceptionfor each subject with the exception of the two Communications exams which are covered of the two Communications exams which are covered by one boo
by one book, giving a total of 13k, giving a total of 13 books. This does books. This does result in their Aircraft General book being much the largest since the other providers all result in their Aircraft General book being much the largest since the other providers all split this into three books.
split this into three books. Comments
Comments- in book form these are another paperback- in book form these are another paperback – – cue the usual whinge that for the cue the usual whinge that for the cost of them why not hardback
cost of them why not hardback? ? Older versions were in a 4 ring binOlder versions were in a 4 ring binder form but they areder form but they are now available in book form. The text in these books is very brief and to the point, almost to now available in book form. The text in these books is very brief and to the point, almost to the extent that they resemble an advanced set
the extent that they resemble an advanced set of notes someone has made on an ATPLof notes someone has made on an ATPL course. This is not a bad thing; a dense mass of
course. This is not a bad thing; a dense mass of text can be very intimidating for those text can be very intimidating for those newnew to a subject.
to a subject. Critique
Critique - I have found that if I want to l - I have found that if I want to learn about something new I will often look in theearn about something new I will often look in the section with schoolbooks for 11-14 year olds in the local library. I recentl
section with schoolbooks for 11-14 year olds in the local library. I recentl y was sufficientlyy was sufficiently interested after seeing a f
interested after seeing a film about Alexander the Great to borrow the book about him, allilm about Alexander the Great to borrow the book about him, all 47 pages of it with economic use of text plus lots of maps, diagrams and pictures in full 47 pages of it with economic use of text plus lots of maps, diagrams and pictures in full colour. I got a great deal
colour. I got a great deal out of it, it didn’t take long to read and it gave me out of it, it didn’t take long to read and it gave me a really gooda really good overview if I really wanted to find out more. Or bluff m
overview if I really wanted to find out more. Or bluff m y way on Alexander the Great.y way on Alexander the Great. This is my thoughts on the CATS books. I think it is lacking depth on one or two subjects This is my thoughts on the CATS books. I think it is lacking depth on one or two subjects but I think the rest of them would d
but I think the rest of them would do what most people want to do, o what most people want to do, which is get the examwhich is get the exam passes on the subjects which are of not much interest, are not likely to result in interview passes on the subjects which are of not much interest, are not likely to result in interview questions, and are not going to hinder progress on a Type Rating due to lack of knowledge questions, and are not going to hinder progress on a Type Rating due to lack of knowledge acquired on the ATPL course.
acquired on the ATPL course.
Many of the diagrams are monochrome which I think does let down the excellent
Many of the diagrams are monochrome which I think does let down the excellent colourcolour diagrams that are also profusely used. I have found from teaching PPL ground school that a diagrams that are also profusely used. I have found from teaching PPL ground school that a picture or table can replace a great deal of dense text. CATS veer a bit close to the wind in picture or table can replace a great deal of dense text. CATS veer a bit close to the wind in
their economy of words but their use of yellow highlight boxes of the important points is their economy of words but their use of yellow highlight boxes of the important points is very good
very good – – I wonder how many students skimp even the text used and rea I wonder how many students skimp even the text used and rea d just thesed just these boxes alone ?
boxes alone ?
Which is the best ? Which is the best ?
Having reviewed the above, my recommendation would be
Having reviewed the above, my recommendation would be … none… none of the above ! Theof the above ! The books I have actually found to
The Bristol Ground School (BGS) ATPL
The Bristol Ground School (BGS) ATPL ManualsManuals Comments
Comments- Unfortunately Mr Alex Whitingham- Unfortunately Mr Alex Whitingham does not sell his Bristol manuals as a stand-alone does not sell his Bristol manuals as a stand-alone set that you can buy at the pilot supplies shops! set that you can buy at the pilot supplies shops! The subjects are split into 7 manuals
The subjects are split into 7 manuals in four ringin four ring binders which are normally only available if you binders which are normally only available if you sign up with BGS for a Distance Learning course. sign up with BGS for a Distance Learning course. The content level is exactly the right blend
The content level is exactly the right blend between what is required for exams and that between what is required for exams and that which is essential knowledge for your future which is essential knowledge for your future career. Diagrams are excellent and the text is career. Diagrams are excellent and the text is finely honed to deal with the important parts of each subject (IE the materiel that JAR asks finely honed to deal with the important parts of each subject (IE the materiel that JAR asks the most questions about). There is room on the side of each page for
the most questions about). There is room on the side of each page for your own notes andyour own notes and important points are highlighted next to the text for easy reference. The style of writing is important points are highlighted next to the text for easy reference. The style of writing is much more of a readable relaxed narrative almost
much more of a readable relaxed narrative almost in the style of a classrin the style of a classr oom lecture withoom lecture with occasional bits of humour and irony liberally sprinkled throughout the text. This is a occasional bits of humour and irony liberally sprinkled throughout the text. This is a refreshing change when compared to the dry fashion of the other books.
refreshing change when compared to the dry fashion of the other books. Critique
Critique – – as I write this in Februaras I write this in February 2011y 2011 I have been doing private ATPL tuition onI have been doing private ATPL tuition on Saturdays for some months now with “J”, one of my ex
Saturdays for some months now with “J”, one of my ex-PPL ground school students now-PPL ground school students now doing his ATPL Theory exams. We cover the subjects he has most difficulty with like doing his ATPL Theory exams. We cover the subjects he has most difficulty with like Navigation, Aircraft General Knowledge and Mass & Balance (which by
Navigation, Aircraft General Knowledge and Mass & Balance (which by happyhappy coincidence happen to be the ones I enjoy teaching the most!). He is
coincidence happen to be the ones I enjoy teaching the most!). He is actually registeredactually registered with an FTO at Cranfield but we use the books from Oxford and Jeppesen I have acquired with an FTO at Cranfield but we use the books from Oxford and Jeppesen I have acquired over the years from various sources and he has
over the years from various sources and he has the temporary use of some Bristol manuals.the temporary use of some Bristol manuals. I teach using courses I have written in
I teach using courses I have written in PowerPoint but our base reference is the BristolPowerPoint but our base reference is the Bristol manuals. If a question crops up or a point needs to be explai
manuals. If a question crops up or a point needs to be explai ned I can guarantee that what Ined I can guarantee that what I am saying is going to be also explained somewhere in the Bristol manual
am saying is going to be also explained somewhere in the Bristol manual ..
I would strongly suggest that if you can borrow or buy a set off someone who has I would strongly suggest that if you can borrow or buy a set off someone who has
completed their ATPL course then do so. It is surprising to me the number of people who completed their ATPL course then do so. It is surprising to me the number of people who will dispose of their manuals when they have finished the course so take advantage of it. will dispose of their manuals when they have finished the course so take advantage of it. Perhaps you can arrange to borrow with return if required for an inter
Perhaps you can arrange to borrow with return if required for an inter view. Used sets onview. Used sets on eBay seem to go for anything up to £200 which is money well spent. BGS have on on-line eBay seem to go for anything up to £200 which is money well spent. BGS have on on-line forum on their website where manuals are available
forum on their website where manuals are available for sale from students for sale from students who havewho have completed their course.
completed their course.
Failing this, give BGS a call and see what kind of deal
Failing this, give BGS a call and see what kind of deal can be made for a purchase. Theycan be made for a purchase. They have been investigating producing the manuals as a series of books.
have been investigating producing the manuals as a series of books. I did make a call toI did make a call to BGS to enquire if they ever sell the manuals
BGS to enquire if they ever sell the manuals as a stand-alone purchase. They do althoughas a stand-alone purchase. They do although cost is higher than for the other commerciall
cost is higher than for the other commercially available books. Part of the reason for this isy available books. Part of the reason for this is that BGS have manuals printed in small batches of
that BGS have manuals printed in small batches of 20-30 sets locally in the UK, while the20-30 sets locally in the UK, while the other suppliers reportedly print thousands at a time at low cost in the Far East which will other suppliers reportedly print thousands at a time at low cost in the Far East which will then satisfy demand for 2-3 years at a ti
then satisfy demand for 2-3 years at a time. This does mean that BGS has the theoreticalme. This does mean that BGS has the theoretical advantage of being able to respond much more rapidly to syllabus changes.
Checking did confirm that the
Checking did confirm that the Oxford books were indeed printed in Singapore, but on Oxford books were indeed printed in Singapore, but on thethe other hand the Jeppesen books were printed in Germany. The syllabus has been stable since other hand the Jeppesen books were printed in Germany. The syllabus has been stable since about 2001 so I had my doubts
about 2001 so I had my doubts about how much of an advantage this about how much of an advantage this would be. Howeverwould be. However changes are coming in June 2011 in the form of the implementation of J
changes are coming in June 2011 in the form of the implementation of J AR NPA-25AR NPA-25 (Notice for Proposal of Amendment). One problem with the JAR syllabus is that each (Notice for Proposal of Amendment). One problem with the JAR syllabus is that each subject had its own SET (Subject “Expert” Team) with their own ideas of what should be subject had its own SET (Subject “Expert” Team) with their own ideas of what should be included in the content.
included in the content.
Anyone who has done the Air Law exam and then subsequently taken Operational Anyone who has done the Air Law exam and then subsequently taken Operational Procedures will notice a substantial quantit
Procedures will notice a substantial quantity of very familiar material and think “I havey of very familiar material and think “I have already done this”.
already done this”. INS crops up INS crops up in both Instruments anin both Instruments and also Radio Navigd also Radio Navigation.ation. Meteorology crops up in Flight Planning. Principles of Flight creep into Performance. Meteorology crops up in Flight Planning. Principles of Flight creep into Performance. NPA-25 is supposed to redu
NPA-25 is supposed to reduce or eliminate much of this duplication across the syllabus andce or eliminate much of this duplication across the syllabus and this will require some pruning of content from selected s
this will require some pruning of content from selected s ubjects. Certainly BGS will be ableubjects. Certainly BGS will be able to supply NPA-25 compliant manuals upon adoption in J
to supply NPA-25 compliant manuals upon adoption in J une 2011 in a much shorterune 2011 in a much shorter timeframe that the other providers.
timeframe that the other providers. Does how you do
Does how you do your Theoretical Knowledge coursyour Theoretical Knowledge course affect the e affect the books to use ?books to use ?
If you are going to do the Modular ATPL TK course full time at Oxford, Cabair, CATS etc, If you are going to do the Modular ATPL TK course full time at Oxford, Cabair, CATS etc, most of your learning will be in the classroom with the
most of your learning will be in the classroom with the FTO’sFTO’s own set of textbooks or own set of textbooks or manuals. For example Oxford naturally will use the Oxford books. There is no need to read manuals. For example Oxford naturally will use the Oxford books. There is no need to read the textbooks cover to cover, just look at relevant chapters for
the textbooks cover to cover, just look at relevant chapters for some consolidation ifsome consolidation if required. I did this at Atlantic and it
required. I did this at Atlantic and it is by far the easiest is by far the easiest way to do the course. But Iway to do the course. But I probably did more con
probably did more consolidation and extra reading using some of the Bristol manuals I hadsolidation and extra reading using some of the Bristol manuals I had managed to acquire than using the Jeppesen books.
managed to acquire than using the Jeppesen books.
If Distance Learning, I would suggest only using an FTO which specialises
If Distance Learning, I would suggest only using an FTO which specialises in this form ofin this form of course, not one which does both full time and DL courses. I saw at
course, not one which does both full time and DL courses. I saw at Atlantic that DLAtlantic that DL students seemed to be very much an afterthought in terms of att
students seemed to be very much an afterthought in terms of att ention they received. BGSention they received. BGS does DL only and it shows that their manuals are writte
does DL only and it shows that their manuals are writte n to make life as straightforward asn to make life as straightforward as possible for the non-classroom student. The on
possible for the non-classroom student. The only series of the four commercially availablely series of the four commercially available series which come close in this respect is the CATS series.
series which come close in this respect is the CATS series.
The other three (Oxford, Jeppesen and Nordian) really are textbooks in the clas
The other three (Oxford, Jeppesen and Nordian) really are textbooks in the clas sic sense, tosic sense, to support teaching provided either in the classroom or from a distance learning manual
support teaching provided either in the classroom or from a distance learning manual written specifically for the purpose. I do not think t
written specifically for the purpose. I do not think t hey are succinct enough to be used ashey are succinct enough to be used as the foundation of a DL course but are very good
the foundation of a DL course but are very good for a “second opinion” or a different wayfor a “second opinion” or a different way of looking at the subject if it is one
of looking at the subject if it is one you find particularly difficult. The Oxford series inyou find particularly difficult. The Oxford series in particular can be a very good reference for a really detailed look at an area of difficulty. particular can be a very good reference for a really detailed look at an area of difficulty.
Buy as required or if you can get a whole second hand set for a
Buy as required or if you can get a whole second hand set for a good price then do so andgood price then do so and use as your own mini reference library.
use as your own mini reference library. Other books
Other books
Aerodynamic
Aerodynamics, Engines and Systems for the s, Engines and Systems for the Professional PilotProfessional Pilot This is one of three books by Air Pilot Publishing’s “Master Pilot’s This is one of three books by Air Pilot Publishing’s “Master Pilot’s
manuals” series which was written for the Australian ATPL. While I am not manuals” series which was written for the Australian ATPL. While I am not a great fan of their PPL series
a great fan of their PPL series of books this one is an excellent read,of books this one is an excellent read, particularly in its coverage of large transport aircraft systems such as particularly in its coverage of large transport aircraft systems such as
electrics and hydraulics. The basic principles ar
electrics and hydraulics. The basic principles are explained in a few pages and then thee explained in a few pages and then the systems examined in real life detail on the base aircraft, which for the Australian ATPL is systems examined in real life detail on the base aircraft, which for the Australian ATPL is the Boeing 767. There are also illustrations of what i
the Boeing 767. There are also illustrations of what i t means to the pilot with descriptionst means to the pilot with descriptions of what instruments and panels the system in questi
of what instruments and panels the system in question has in the cockpit. The one criticismon has in the cockpit. The one criticism I have is that the diagrams are not in colour which is a great pity. You can always do what I I have is that the diagrams are not in colour which is a great pity. You can always do what I have done and colour in yourself when looking at the schematics for hydraulics and
have done and colour in yourself when looking at the schematics for hydraulics and electrics.
electrics.
Rolls-Royce - The Jet Engine Rolls-Royce - The Jet Engine From the horses mo
From the horses mouth ! uth ! The diagrams in thThe diagrams in this are outstanding, asis are outstanding, as you would expect from the engineers designing the engines. If you you would expect from the engineers designing the engines. If you have read the books by Oxford etc you will recognise a lot of the have read the books by Oxford etc you will recognise a lot of the diagrams because they have just been copied verbatim
diagrams because they have just been copied verbatim from thisfrom this outstanding book. I particularly like the description of thrust outstanding book. I particularly like the description of thrust
distribution within the engine and performance chapters. The only distribution within the engine and performance chapters. The only area it is weak on is the minimal content on turbo-prop engines. You area it is weak on is the minimal content on turbo-prop engines. You can skip the sections on VTOL with the Pegasus engine and
can skip the sections on VTOL with the Pegasus engine and afterburners, neither of which is relevant to ATPL st
afterburners, neither of which is relevant to ATPL study. Mine is theudy. Mine is the 5
5thth edition as shown to the left but there is edition as shown to the left but there is now a 6now a 6thth edition out – edition out – I have seen some bad I have seen some bad press about content having been “d
press about content having been “dumbed down”umbed down”. If sent a freebi. If sent a freebie copy for a review I ame copy for a review I am sure I can offer a more informed opinion.
sure I can offer a more informed opinion.
Not much of an Engineer by Sir Stanley Hooker Not much of an Engineer by Sir Stanley Hooker
Hooker was an outstanding mathematician with a background in Hooker was an outstanding mathematician with a background in aerodynamics who worked on supercharger design
aerodynamics who worked on supercharger design for Rolls Royce,for Rolls Royce, dramatically boosting the efficiency of piston engines such as the dramatically boosting the efficiency of piston engines such as the Merlin by using mathematical analysis rather than
Merlin by using mathematical analysis rather than “rule“rule-of--of-thumb”thumb” design. The race to improve the performance of the Merli
design. The race to improve the performance of the Merlin during then during the Second World War reminds me of the of the sort of competition that Second World War reminds me of the of the sort of competition that now goes on between Formula 1 racing teams
now goes on between Formula 1 racing teams – – except that for Sir except that for Sir Stanley the other team was Nazi
Stanley the other team was Nazi Germany and national survival wasGermany and national survival was a stake if the RAF lagged in aviation technology.
a stake if the RAF lagged in aviation technology.
He was later Technical Director for important engines like the Pegasus engine on the He was later Technical Director for important engines like the Pegasus engine on the Harrier and the Ol
Harrier and the Olympus on Concorde. I suggest that ympus on Concorde. I suggest that having studied your ATPL books onhaving studied your ATPL books on superchargers, turbochargers and jet engines you have a read through this book. It should superchargers, turbochargers and jet engines you have a read through this book. It should all make sense and gives a real
all make sense and gives a real feeling of the historical background to the jet feeling of the historical background to the jet engine. Theengine. The appendices have some excellent descriptions of the
appendices have some excellent descriptions of the likes of Propulsive Efficiency whichlikes of Propulsive Efficiency which you should be able to understand. If
you should be able to understand. If you dyou don’t thenon’t then you need to go back to your textyou need to go back to your textbooks !books ! Some of his opinions will seem archaic to the modern reader but bear in mind he was born Some of his opinions will seem archaic to the modern reader but bear in mind he was born over a century ago (and died over 25 years ago). He does have a
over a century ago (and died over 25 years ago). He does have a real talent of explainingreal talent of explaining technical issues
technical issues in layman’in layman’s terms which I am guessing was developed over many years s terms which I am guessing was developed over many years ofof dealing with bean counters and politicians during his career.
dealing with bean counters and politicians during his career. The greatest pity was that he did not write
The greatest pity was that he did not write a book along the lines of “Jet engines – a book along the lines of “Jet engines – a Simple a Simple Guide for Pilots” –
Turbine Pilot’s Flight Manual by Brown & Turbine Pilot’s Flight Manual by Brown & HoltHolt
To acquire an FAA CPL requires you to pass just one written exam To acquire an FAA CPL requires you to pass just one written exam of 100 questions plus an oral test. Upon getting a job flying a jet of 100 questions plus an oral test. Upon getting a job flying a jet itit is common practice for the airline trainee to then spend the first is common practice for the airline trainee to then spend the first month or more in ground school classes studying books like this to month or more in ground school classes studying books like this to acquire a level of knowledge the JAR qualified pilot has long since acquire a level of knowledge the JAR qualified pilot has long since achieved. It is little surprise the US Congress has recently
achieved. It is little surprise the US Congress has recently mandated that a pilot flying an airliner requires
mandated that a pilot flying an airliner requires 1500 hours flying1500 hours flying time before being let loose on Joe Public.
time before being let loose on Joe Public. I am not a great fan of American avi
I am not a great fan of American aviation textbooks. They tend to have a “folksy” style thatation textbooks. They tend to have a “folksy” style that I find too simplistic, for example using irritating words like “gizmo” to describe
I find too simplistic, for example using irritating words like “gizmo” to describe an an electrically driven device. The overall impressi
electrically driven device. The overall impression you get is an assumption that the readeron you get is an assumption that the reader has the reading age of an 11 year old and a pre
has the reading age of an 11 year old and a pre -GCSE level of educational attainment. This-GCSE level of educational attainment. This is surprising since a “college” degree is usually a pre
is surprising since a “college” degree is usually a pre-requisite for a fl-requisite for a flying job in the USA.ying job in the USA. Having said all this, for just over £20 this book does have some innovative chapters on Having said all this, for just over £20 this book does have some innovative chapters on aircraft systems and there is
aircraft systems and there is a very good section at the back describing the most a very good section at the back describing the most commoncommon commercial aircraft in service, engines used, weights, performance etc for the substantial commercial aircraft in service, engines used, weights, performance etc for the substantial proportion of ATPL
proportion of ATPL candidates whose aircraft recognition skills are mediocre to say thecandidates whose aircraft recognition skills are mediocre to say the least. Perhaps we should
least. Perhaps we should make it an exam make it an exam subject? subject? I do remembI do remember one CPL/IR ger one CPL/IR graduateraduate from Oxford who I did my Flying Instructor course with asking me what that high wing from Oxford who I did my Flying Instructor course with asking me what that high wing thingy on final approach was during a mutual teaching session (it was
thingy on final approach was during a mutual teaching session (it was a Cessna 172 !).a Cessna 172 !). There is a systems CD provided with the manual. Throw it awa
There is a systems CD provided with the manual. Throw it awa y or use it as a coffee maty or use it as a coffee mat – – it is rubbish.
it is rubbish.
The Professional Pilot Study Guide Series by
The Professional Pilot Study Guide Series by Mike BurtonMike Burton These books have been around for about 20 years now. I got seven These books have been around for about 20 years now. I got seven of them for about £2 each in a shop clearout at Birmingham airport of them for about £2 each in a shop clearout at Birmingham airport some years ago and for that they were a bar
some years ago and for that they were a bargain. They cover thegain. They cover the subjects in the Aircraft General and Systems exam such as
subjects in the Aircraft General and Systems exam such as hydraulics, electric, undercarriages, propellers etc.
hydraulics, electric, undercarriages, propellers etc. They are were written for the old UK s
They are were written for the old UK system which had AGK splitystem which had AGK split into a series of mini papers of about 15 questions
into a series of mini papers of about 15 questions eacheach – – but not but not much changes in aviation so they are still very useful as each one is much changes in aviation so they are still very useful as each one is about 80-10 pages total including a large number of practice
about 80-10 pages total including a large number of practice questions. Again, the only real criticism is t
questions. Again, the only real criticism is that a move fromhat a move from monochrome to colour diagrams would really make a big difference.
monochrome to colour diagrams would really make a big difference.
The Electronic alterna
The Electronic alternative…tive…
I visited my local library while writing this a
I visited my local library while writing this article. There were perhaps half a rticle. There were perhaps half a dozen peopledozen people browsing the book
browsing the bookshelves and yet just about every one of some twenty coshelves and yet just about every one of some twenty computer terminalsmputer terminals had someone using it
had someone using it, many of them “screenagers”, many of them “screenagers”. To me books are the mark of Civilised. To me books are the mark of Civilised and Literate Man. However leaving aside the fact that money is supposed to be spent on and Literate Man. However leaving aside the fact that money is supposed to be spent on
books and not on
books and not on making libraries publicly funded internet cafes, instances like this and themaking libraries publicly funded internet cafes, instances like this and the popularity of book readers like iPad and
popularity of book readers like iPad and Kindle demonstrate that a substantial proportion ofKindle demonstrate that a substantial proportion of people just will not buy reading m
people just will not buy reading material unless they can see and be seen reading it on theiraterial unless they can see and be seen reading it on their latest gadget. The good news for all the gadget freaks i
latest gadget. The good news for all the gadget freaks i s that for some of the above seriess that for some of the above series the books or manuals are available in electronic form on a CD or DVD, or whatever they the books or manuals are available in electronic form on a CD or DVD, or whatever they call those shiny round things.
call those shiny round things.
Bristol supplies a DVD as part of their “Bristol suppliesa DVD as part of their “Integrated Learning System”. It contains allIntegrated Learning System”. It contains all the manuals in text form and has some animations added as a bonus. Perhaps they the manuals in text form and has some animations added as a bonus. Perhaps they would sell it as a stand-alone item? I would suggest they take the cost of all the would sell it as a stand-alone item? I would suggest they take the cost of all the manuals, subtract the print cost, and sell
manuals, subtract the print cost, and sell the manuals on a DVD for the net sum.the manuals on a DVD for the net sum. Given that the production costs would be a few pounds I would say this could be a Given that the production costs would be a few pounds I would say this could be a profitable sideline.
profitable sideline.
Nordian produce an Nordian produce an ““E-book E-book ” on DVD” on DVD for 60% of the cost of the books which for 60% of the cost of the books which equates to 560 Euros. For this you only get a licence to use the
equates to 560 Euros. For this you only get a licence to use the DVD for 18 monthsDVD for 18 months (how this works I am not sure
(how this works I am not sure – – do they self delete after this time ?). do they self delete after this time ?).
CATS have the option of not buying their manuals and just accessing their courseCATS have the option of not buying their manuals and just accessing their course on-line.
on-line.
I can see that for those wi
I can see that for those with jobs involving travel or people who wish to study duringth jobs involving travel or people who wish to study during breaks at work a DVD plus laptop is a lightweigh
breaks at work a DVD plus laptop is a lightweight and convenient study tool. Personally It and convenient study tool. Personally I prefer a book or manual which I then p
prefer a book or manual which I then proceed to deface with added highlighter marks androceed to deface with added highlighter marks and extra notes. But if paper is anathema to
extra notes. But if paper is anathema to you and you do not own a bookcase then the optionyou and you do not own a bookcase then the option is there. I am all for electronic media where it enhances learning
is there. I am all for electronic media where it enhances learning – – animations are a brilliant animations are a brilliant way to make a point and I often use YouTube clips on courses. I just cannot bring m
way to make a point and I often use YouTube clips on courses. I just cannot bring m yself toyself to spend money on something which is little more than an enhanced pdf file.
spend money on something which is little more than an enhanced pdf file.
Time for change ? Time for change ?
In my article on PPL textbooks I had a few thought on the examination system we have In my article on PPL textbooks I had a few thought on the examination system we have under JAR and the same is true for the ATPL. With the PPL exams my own feeling is that a under JAR and the same is true for the ATPL. With the PPL exams my own feeling is that a significant percentage of potential pilots
significant percentage of potential pilots are put off by the current number of exams and theare put off by the current number of exams and the lack of much in the way of teaching support to pass them.
lack of much in the way of teaching support to pass them. With the ATPL the significant issues are
With the ATPL the significant issues are cost and user-friendliness. There is no icost and user-friendliness. There is no industry orndustry or government support of any significance for trainees so the vast majorit
government support of any significance for trainees so the vast majorit y are funding theiry are funding their training personally from savings, loans (usually from Bank of Mum and Dad since the sta training personally from savings, loans (usually from Bank of Mum and Dad since the sta rtrt of the credit crunch) or in the case of older candidates with income from employment. Of of the credit crunch) or in the case of older candidates with income from employment. Of those in employment a significant number will be taking the TK module as a
those in employment a significant number will be taking the TK module as a DL course,DL course, typically taking about 12-18 months to do
typically taking about 12-18 months to do so.so.
The problem they face is that they may be faced wi
The problem they face is that they may be faced with the requirement to take “brushth the requirement to take “brush--up”up” courses of
1-courses of 1-2 weeks duration for each “module” of subjects (for 2 weeks duration for each “module” of subjects (for example BGS split theirexample BGS split their course into 2 modules, other have 3). They also need to set asi
course into 2 modules, other have 3). They also need to set asi de time for examinationsde time for examinations which are held from Monday to Thursday in the first week of every month. Again, most which are held from Monday to Thursday in the first week of every month. Again, most students will do “sittings” where they take 4
