Modern general aviation airplanes have what may be considered high performance characteristics. Therefore, it is increasingly necessary that pilots appreciate and understand the principles upon which the art of flying is based. The first men to fly learned why they were able to fly, before they were successful in their attempts to do so. In other words, they started on the ground and worked up. It is equally essential that the newcomer to today's realm of powered flight do likewise.

   The principles of flight spelled out in this handbook represent the essence of the topics selected, and about which pilots should be well informed. Such information, when understood, can make one a safer and more effective pilot. It must be understood though that the material presented is not intended to cover all the parameters of powered flight.