Spring has arrived once again, bringing longer days, vibrant landscapes, and—more often than not—fantastic flying weather. There’s never been a better time to rediscover the joys of taking to the skies, but to help you make the most of it (and stay safe), we’ve updated our spring flying tips. Whether you’re a seasoned private pilot blowing off winter cobwebs or a student pilot eagerly earning your wings, these reminders and insights will keep you informed, prepared, and excited for the season ahead.
1. Be mindful of skill-fade and stay current
If you’ve been grounded due to weather or simply haven’t logged much flight time this winter, your hands-on flying skills may need a tune-up. Skill-fade, which refers to the gradual loss of practical flying abilities due to a lack of recent practice, and knowledge-fade, the diminishing recall of theoretical aviation information, are common after a break, even for experienced pilots, so don’t be disheartened. To address skill-fade, consider a checkout flight with an instructor; it’s always money well spent and will boost your confidence. During this flight, you’ll refresh procedures and emergency drills, ensuring you’re safe, proficient, and comfortable at the controls. If you choose not to do so, consider flying by yourself before taking passengers to ensure you’re up to scratch.
For knowledge-fade, revisit your PPL (Private Pilot Licence) syllabus and brush up on air law, meteorology, and radio procedures to ensure your understanding is up-to-date. QuizAero’s ground school resources are an excellent way to refresh your theoretical knowledge and prepare for safe spring flying.
If you’re a microlight pilot or student, spring is the perfect time to revise the correct techniques for all manoeuvres. Watch QuizAero’s ‘Learn to Fly Video Series,’ which covers the entire practical training syllabus in detail, helping you refine your skills and build confidence for spring flights.
With the UK’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) emphasising ongoing training, use resources like the CAA’s Safety Sense Leaflets, local flying club workshops, and QuizAero’s materials to regain both confidence and competence before taking to the skies.
2. Check Your Aircraft's Condition
It’s not only pilots who can become rusty over winter. Ensure that your aeroplane has been thoroughly checked and that tyres are correctly inflated and in good condition. Remove both cowlings and thoroughly check the air intakes for blockages caused by animal nests or bird debris. Consider replacing the fuel if it has been in the aircraft for a long time.
It's important to inspect the aircraft for corrosion after damp winter months, especially in coastal regions like Cornwall or the Scottish Highlands. Additionally, spring brings increased pollen and insect activity, which can clog air filters and nest in all crevices.
3. Consider increased wildlife.
Whilst we’re talking about nests, it’s a good reminder to point out that wildlife activity increases in spring. Bear in mind that migratory birds may return in the spring. According to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), around 90% of bird strikes occur within, or near to, the aerodrome boundary.
Spring sees a notable increase in UK bird populations, with species like lapwings and swifts returning to airfields in England, Wales, and Scotland. Remain vigilant, especially during dawn and dusk flights.
If you notice nests near the runway and other areas where aircraft operate, report these to airfield management to ensure that nesting birds aren’t endangered. As a responsible pilot community, we strive to do our part in protecting local wildlife while maintaining a safe environment for flying.
4. Expect Busier Airspace.
If you’ve been flying over the winter, you may have gotten used to quieter skies. During the first few days of good weather in spring, you can expect lots of private pilots to be airborne. Those pilots may also be rusty and prone to errors. Keep a keen lookout, especially in the circuit, and don’t be surprised if other pilots make mistakes by cutting you off or entering the runway whilst you’re approaching!
Warmer weather and clearer skies draw more GA pilots back into the skies, so you can expect circuits and en route frequencies to be livelier than they’ve been all winter. At the same time, the last year has seen an increase in both drone and military activity. Make sure you’re aware of local regulations and keep an eye on NOTAMs for potential unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations in your vicinity.
Also consider that many pilots will be requesting zone transits, so radio frequencies are likely to be busy. Ensure your radio calls are precise and bear in mind that you may not get a zone transit if the airspace is congested—ensure you have an alternate plan.
5. Beware of swift weather changes
Spring weather in the UK can shift from brilliant sunshine to gusty showers in an hour. Remind yourself of your personal minimums and keep them fresh in your mind when flying cross-country. Even if you’re keen to make the most of the first warm weekend, don’t push beyond your comfort level or licenced privileges. Log your experiences and reflect on them—knowing when to scrub a flight due to wind or poor visibility is a vital skill, especially in spring’s variable conditions.
Student pilots should master interpreting TAFs (Terminal Aerodrome Forecasts) and METARs (Meteorological Aerodrome Reports) using resources like the Met Office website and our comprehensive meteorology course (part of Bitesize Online Ground School). Don’t let a sudden shower ground your excitement—plan ahead and fly safely!
Are You a Student Pilot? Take to the Skies with Confidence
Whether you’re learning to fly aeroplanes, helicopters, or microlights, spring offers the perfect conditions to progress. Brush up on your written exams with QuizAero’s study materials, designed to help you pass first time. Ready to soar? Sign up for QuizAero Bitesize today and join thousands of British pilots taking flight this spring!
Original date of posting March 2022, updated March 2025.
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