The fourth volume of this series contains basic principles of flight, together with a great deal of technical information about the airframe, systems and engines of light aircraft.

New information has been included to deal with the increasing number of diesel, glass cockpit and composite types.

The usual instruments contained in basic aeroplanes are included and a section on airworthiness and performance enables candidates to complete their study for the examination in flight planning and performance.

Again there are practice questions and answers at the back.

In addition to the concepts of basic navigation theory, this book contains clear instructions for using the navigation computer, accompanied by a series of diagrams showing each step to perform a function.

There is a useful section on flight planning and en route navigation and for those who are studying for the full European licence, there is a separate section on basic radio navigation. This section is primarily geared at PPL level and therefore is not sufficient for instrument training, which is dealt with in volume 5. The volume contains practice questions and answers.

This book is updated every year to take account of changes in the law. It contains a comprehensive explanation of the sources of aviation law and where the UK system fits within the overarching European and World systems of Aviation law. There is a detailed explanation of licensing to include UK and EASA licences for fixed wing, microlights, sail planes, helicopters and balloons.

One of the unique features of this book is the comprehensive cross-referencing to source materials and work is underway to make these links available through the website, to enable fast update or cross referencing of material.

In the meteorology section, the background to weather and weather forecasting is covered with clear diagrams. The author of this section is a current meteorologist, so all of the latest information and sources of weather forecasting are covered.

A section at the back contains practice questions for the student to test his knowledge and the answers also contain links to the text where necessary.

This covers all flying training manoeuvres including basic instrument flying. Pre-flight briefing material is set out in diagram form and summarised. There is a full description of the contents of the PPL Skill test, which must be undertaken at the end of the PPL training.