Decisions, Decisions
Where do I begin to study to become a pilot?
It may seem daunting when both the practical and theoretical aspects of learning to fly are considered; However, if you approach the training step by step it is relatively straightforward. You may study separately from the practical lessons or you may combine both. Please ask the flying school or college that will conduct or arrange your training. They will advise on a programme and the reference texts that they prefer. If you decide to self-study the following guide to our webstores (printed and digital) may assist.
Welcome to the Aviation Theory Centre
If you are certain of the title you need, please go directly to the store and place your order. In the header titles ‘STORE;’ refers to the printed bookstore. Our books are also available in digital form (for both platforms and on-line) by ordering through the ‘DIGITAL STORE’. If you are uncertain of which titles you need, please read the following:
If you are an absolute newcomer to flying or wish to buy a gift for a young enthusiast, the first book to which they will refer, is titled, ‘Basic Aeronautical Knowledge’ commonly called, ‘BAK’.
This contains the study material for the first theory examination. This exam is associated with the Recreational Pilot Licence (the entry-level licence for a pilot).
We also suggest you consider ‘Flight Radio for Pilots’ as this is an important part of the basic practical and theoretical knowledge for a pilot.
If you are beginning study and also starting flying lessons, then we would suggest the ‘Flying Training Manual’ and you will need a Pilot’s Log Book. We have prepared a package called the ‘Student Pilot Kit’ (SPK) which contains all four of the above titles.
The SPK makes an excellent gift for a youngster (or an oldster!) who is about to start.
A Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is the next step for pilots who want to build on their basic flying skills and gain more freedom in the air. It helps you develop the knowledge and confidence needed to plan flights, navigate between airports, understand weather and flight planning in more detail, and operate safely in a wider range of situations.
A PPL also allows you to carry passengers, subject to the rules, and is a common next step for students who want to continue progressing as a pilot. Training includes both theory study and flight lessons, helping you build practical skills alongside a stronger understanding of aviation.
To support your study, explore our new book, Private Pilots License. This book builds on the BAK, and we recommend starting with that book first, as it sets out the fundamentals you will need to progress to this level
If you are starting a course which will lead to the Commercial Pilots Licence (CPL) – via the Private Pilots Licence (PPL) then the next kit is for you. It is called the, ‘PPL/CPL Kit’.
Alternatively, the printed books may be purchased individually as/and when, required. Adventurous pilots may later add a ‘Rating’ to their licence as below.
This book prepares you for night VFR flight which is actually flown with reference to the instruments although some navigational tasks can be undertakes by visual reference to the lights and reflections on the ground. This book explains the techniques.
More advanced pilots then look towards the Instrument Rating – the keystone of professional flying. We have prepared the following self-titled book, accordingly.
The mark of the professional pilot is the ability to fly day and night and in all forms of tolerable weather.
The next stage of training is the control of an aeroplane with more than one engine and how to anticipate and cope with, the consequences of one of those engines failing – perhaps at an awkward moment.
Some pilots enjoy the world from a different perspective. This book is an introduction to the basic manoeuvres.
There are traditional and agricultural aircraft that have a tailwheel configuration rather than a nose-wheel. There are specific take-off and landing techniques for these types of aircraft.
The title, ‘Three Points’, refers to a landing technique which slows the aircraft on landing until all three wheels touch the ground simultaneously (the best way!).
For friends who might be a little wary of flying we have prepared a booklet which explains the whys and wherefores of modern airline operations. It is called appropriately, ‘In Safe Hands’ and should dissolve most unknowns.
Studying for Your ATPL
For career pilots we offer books at the Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) level.
The Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) is the highest level of pilot certification issued by CASA and is a requirement for those aiming to act as pilot-in-command on multi-crew aircraft in high-capacity air transport operations. The ATPL exam suite includes seven subject areas, each testing advanced aeronautical knowledge.
Below is a breakdown of the seven ATPL subjects and which ATC book is designed to help you prepare for each one.
Flight Planning (AFPA)
Aeroplane Performance, Planning & Loading for the Air Transport Pilot
This book includes detailed flight planning exercises using the Boeing 727, the aircraft type used in the CASA exams. It mirrors the structure and calculations required for the exam.
Performance & Loading (APLA)
Aeroplane Performance, Planning & Loading for the Air Transport Pilot
This text also supports the Performance and Loading subject, including both theoretical concepts and practical applications aligned with the CASA APLA workbook.
Navigation (ANAV)
Avionics & Flight Management Systems for the Air Transport Pilot
This book covers key navigation topics required for the ANAV exam, including flight management systems, GPS, RNAV, and radio navigation aids. It aligns with CASA’s syllabus and provides the theoretical foundation needed for modern airline navigation systems.
Aerodynamics & Aircraft Systems (AASA)
Aerodynamics, Engines & Airframe Systems for the Air Transport Pilot
This volume includes coverage of advanced aerodynamics, turbine engines, and major aircraft systems, structured around CASA’s syllabus.
Human Factors (AHUF)
Human Being Pilot by Aviation Theory Centre
This book covers the psychological and physiological aspects of flight crew operations, including human performance limitations.
Air Law (AALW)
Flight Rules and Air Law for the Air Transport Pilot
Written for Australian airspace operations, this book helps prepare for the Air Law exam, which has a higher pass requirement of 80%. Students will also need access to the current AIP, CASRs, CAOs and CARs.
Meteorology (AMET)
We recommend:
- Manual of Aviation Meteorology by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM)
- BOM Aviation Knowledge Centre
These resources provide accurate information on aviation meteorology.
Also available is our advanced “Aviation Meteorology” manual.
Available in digital only.
For pilots who have qualified but have become a little rusty regarding the procedures and regulations, we offer annual pocketbooks:
• the Visual Flight Guide (VFG) for visual pilots; and
• the Instrument Flight Guide (IFG) for instrument pilots.
The aviation industry is very volatile with respect to regulations and procedures – and these days with the rapid advancement of technology. We have had major and ongoing re-structuring of pilot licensing with the introduction of CASR 1998 Part 61, amendments to the AIP and the introduction of Graphical Area Forecasts by the Bureau of Meteorology.
We try to keep up with these changes by issuing new editions of our books but inevitably some changes occur at a time when it is impossible or uneconomical to reprint the books. We have therefore developed two techniques for informing our customers about operational and administrative changes in between reprints. These are by means of Notices to ATC Customers (NOTACS) and free downloadable PDFs (ADDENDA) – both from our website.