Beyond Dawlish

How to Log Flying Hours During Flight Training

Logging your flying hours correctly is one of the most important parts of becoming a licensed pilot. Every flight you take during your Flight Training must be recorded properly, as it directly impacts your eligibility for licenses, ratings, and airline applications.

1. Why Logging Hours Is Important

DGCA and other aviation authorities require documented proof of your flight time. Accurate logging during Flight Training helps in:

%u2714 CPL (Commercial Pilot License) issuance
%u2714 Type rating eligibility
%u2714 Airline interviews and career applications
%u2714 Personal skill tracking and progress

An incomplete or incorrect logbook can lead to delays in your pilot journey.

2. What Should Be Logged?

Every student pilot must maintain a pilot logbook with these key details:

%u2714 Date of flight
%u2714 Aircraft registration and type
%u2714 Total flight time
%u2714 Dual or solo time
%u2714 Cross-country, night, instrument, or simulator time
%u2714 Instructor’s signature and remarks (if dual)

Your Flight Training institute will help guide you through this process.

3. Types of Time You Must Track

To meet DGCA’s CPL requirements, make sure your logbook includes:

%u2714 Minimum 200 total flying hours
%u2714 100 hours as Pilot-in-Command (PIC)
%u2714 20 hours cross-country flying
%u2714 10 hours instrument time
%u2714 5 hours night flying

These categories must be tracked accurately with support from your Flight Training academy.

4. Digital vs Manual Logbooks

Many students now use digital logbooks for easier updates and backups. However, a hardcopy logbook is still required for DGCA verification. During Flight Training, you can use:

%u2714 Manual DGCA-approved logbook
%u2714 Digital logbook apps like mccPILOTLOG, LogTen Pro, or PilotLog
%u2714 Cloud storage backups for security

Make sure every entry is verified by your instructor when needed.

Why Logging Is a Discipline in Flight Training

Logging flights teaches students to stay professional, organized, and detail-oriented—essential qualities for airline pilots. A reputable Flight Training program emphasizes timely and proper logging from day one.

Conclusion

Proper logging of flight hours is as important as the flying itself. Treat your logbook like a professional record—it reflects your journey, progress, and experience. Start building a solid logbook foundation with expert guidance during your Flight Training program.