What kind/ how much math do pilots need to know?

Question

I'm like a C-/C+ to B- Math student. I'm a bit slower learner for math too.

I was a bit bummed to know that pilots I think use a lot of math.

Answer 1

you don't need advanced math to do a pilot job... much people think that as a pilot you'll need super advanced math and physics and that's absolutely not true at all.. lol... but this doesn't mean is easy or you'll not need to study hard, 'cause you'll always keep studing... but I'm pretty sure you can be an excelent pilot... good luck... :D...

Answer 2

Your grades are as good as mine were. Fortunately if you got past sixth grade you know all the math you need to be a pilot. Especially nowadays with computers that do it all for you. I can't recall ever even using algebra in the last forty years of flying.

Answer 3

You're not that bad. Just practice more and you should be fine. Pilots are required to do basic arithmetic, calculate moments around pivots, etc. Good luck.

Answer 4

Hey, you did better than I did when I was in school. I always got F's and D's! It is true that in aviation you need basic mathematics and formulas and geometry, but you don't have to worry about that. I basically had to relearn everything whenever I saw I needed it. I too had a hard time whith math when learning to fly because I am a slow learner, but I made sure that my instructor knew that before when I first met him so he knew how much to expect from me. You too should find yourself a patient instructor who is willing to explain things a few times so you understand them. But most important of all, never give up flying, your patience and effort will be rewarded in the end.

Answer 5

Not much even I was surprised when I learned my pilot buddies were commerce or banking graduate.

Answer 6

pilots don't need to know much math persay. it's just that the qualities of a good pilot is to be able to reason things through in a logical and methodical manner and so the perception is that if you're good at math/physics etc then that is a good indication that you will be a good pilot.

Answer 7

Depends on what level of aviator you wish to become. Private pilots use basic algebra and some geometry. It is relatively simple problems. I have always looked at it as I'm flying from point A to point B at 85MPH and carry 100L of fuel. I have to account for a minimal of 30 minutes extra fuel (FAA regulations) and the speed would burn X amount of Liters of fuel per hour. I mean it's just simple stuff like that. I took professional aviation in college. If you want to be an airline pilot, don't rely on computers. You will do A LOT of math even with the computers in case of a malfunction. My school required up to college level calculus, so really it does depend on the level of which you want to fly. Personally, I would NOT reccomend this as a career unless you like flying long periods of time and rarely being home. It is what I found for the first bit of college. Personal opinon and experience though. Hope this helps!

Answer 8

The math is not all that tough. Take a ground school course and see what we're talking about. They will show you how to plot courses, calculate fuel burn, etc. Then you can decide if the math is too much for you. Of course the further you progress in ratings, a bit more is needed but its still not that hard.

Ground school courses can be had from most flight schools, junior colleges, or via DVD's from Kings Schools or Sporty's.