Can backward-chained, ab-initio pilot training decrease time to first solo? -- Take 3
Abstract
This research updates articles recently published in the Journal of Aviation/Aerospace Education and Research (JAAER) Vol. 30, Issue 1 (Spring 2021), and Vol. 32, Issue 1 (Summer 2022) asking "Can backward chaining, ab-initio pilot training decrease time to first solo?" Previous results reported the experiential outcome of eight respondents, all without any previous flight time, who after completing backward chaining landing training in a flight training simulator, were able to complete three circuits in the traffic pattern on their first flight in an actual aircraft with little to no assistance. The current, updated, research placed four new respondents, again all without any previous flight time, into a forward chained flight instruction methodology for continued evaluation. The results (all completed unassisted circuits in the traffic pattern on their first flight) generally replicated the previous study; however, unlike the backward chained respondents, the forward chained respondents all had significant challenges landing the aircraft. If teaching landings to ab-initio student pilots is desired, backwards chaining in a simulator is recommended as more effective than forward chaining.