Eating before flight training

[777Pilot]

In initial flight training for the Private license, when considering meals for breakfast and lunch, what are the best types of foods to consume to increase concentration level and physical stamina - particularly during the early morning and late afternoon flight schedules?

Also, is there a rule of thumb as to how soon one should go up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

[Chief Captain]

Before my very first flight, I was told not to have a heavy meal. Just a bagel, or some fries. Anything like that - not too much and not too heavy. I actually can't fly light aircraft on an empty stomach, or I'll want to puke- big jets are fine though.

In general, complex acrbohydrates (like potatoes and other starchy foods) are great for long term energy release- like a slow flame. Simple sugars (like chocolate bars and energy drinks) are great for short term energy supply- like a small explosion.

[PGT]

I didn't really follow a schedule of eating, I just flew. The summer heat and instruction just wore me out, I took naps after every single lesson.

[Mad Doggy Dog]

Originally Posted by 777Pilot

In initial flight training for the Private license, when considering meals for breakfast and lunch, what are the best types of foods to consume to increase concentration level and physical stamina - particularly during the early morning and late afternoon flight schedules?

Also, is there a rule of thumb as to how soon one should go up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

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I would recommend eating the following:

bananas
3 cups of expresso
high fiber cereal
haggis
fried tofu
sausage
onions
lutefisk
protien shake
jalapenos
slimfast
refried beans
metamucil


And whatever you do, absolutely positively do not light a match in the cockpit due to explosion hazard. And wear depends undergarments.

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OK,

I am joking.

The above meal would be very.........farty.



Besides, if you are going to become a pro pilot, get used to not eating.

Unless you have a strong union at your carrier..............strong enough so you can confidently tell the cheif pilot to pound sand when you delay the flight to eat in the interest of safety.

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Try complex carbs like oatmeal. Maybe some protien too, like eggs.

But bananas are real easy to barf out.............if you have to.

[My Flight Surgeon]

Like any other time, eat what you want in moderation.

[ZachH]

This is what i drink before a lot of training flights, really helps for 3 or 4 hours. I notice improved flying and learning.

[777Pilot]

Originally Posted by 777Pilot

In initial flight training for the Private license, when considering meals for breakfast and lunch, what are the best types of foods to consume to increase concentration level and physical stamina - particularly during the early morning and late afternoon flight schedules?

Also, is there a rule of thumb as to how soon one should go up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

Is there a rule of thumb as to how long one should wait before going up for flight training after consuming a moderate to heavy meal?

[My Flight Surgeon]

It is individual. Depends on how you tolerate a little turbulence and food.

[Maurus]

It isn't like swimming where you will cramp up if you go flying too early. The amount of time to wait changes with each person. Depending on what I eat, I may have to a wait a while. Greasy foods are so good, but don't tend to sit well...