Episode 436: Check-Ride Essentials: Don’t Walk In Without These

Check-Ride Essentials: Don’t Walk In Without These

When it comes to check-rides, even the strongest applicants can stumble if they’re missing the required items. No matter how sharp your flying skills or how deep your knowledge, the check-ride won’t start without the proper documents.

In today’s episode of 30 Check-Rides, 30 Lessons: Final Approach Course Real-World Wins & Fails, we share Robert Gardner’s story — and how one missing item nearly derailed his CFI check-ride before it even began.

Robert’s Story

Robert came to H.O.G.S. from New Mexico for his initial CFI check-ride. From the start, it was clear he had prepared thoroughly. He had done the studying, mastered the material, and flew the helicopter well.

When our schedule opened, I told him, “Get in your car and start driving.” He did just that — packed his car, drove to Indiana, and trained with us until he was ready.

But on check-ride day, something happened that could have stopped everything.

The Logbook Scare

We flew the helicopter to the examiner’s office. Robert drove separately, planning to leave straight from Fort Wayne back to New Mexico once the check-ride was done.

When we arrived, the examiner said the words no applicant wants to hear:
 “Your applicant can’t find his logbook.”

Robert searched his car. He called the hotel he had just checked out of. Nothing. At that moment, it felt like the ride was over before it had even begun.

Finally, while flipping through his study materials inside, Robert opened a book — and there was the logbook, tucked between the pages. The check-ride went forward, and Robert passed. But the scare taught us a timeless lesson.

The Lesson Every Pilot Must Learn

From day one, examiners make it clear: no logbook, no check-ride.

Years ago, this same examiner gave me advice I still repeat today:
 👉 “Always go through the checklist in the ACS (formerly the PTS) and verify every single required item is present.”

We see it all the time. Pilots show up from around the country with only 50–70% of what’s required. Luckily, at H.O.G.S. we stock extra supplies to cover most gaps — but your logbook? That’s on you.

Preparation is More Than Flying

Robert was as prepared as any applicant. He knew the material, he flew well, and he passed. But the lesson is clear: check-ride prep is more than studying maneuvers. It’s making sure every single required item is in your bag before you walk in the door.

How H.O.G.S. Helps You Prepare

At H.O.G.S. (Helicopter Online Ground School), our system is designed to ensure you’re ready — not just with knowledge, but with the details that matter on check-ride day.

That’s why our Final Approach Course walks you through every requirement in the ACS, checks every box, and eliminates surprises.

And beyond that:

• Take a 24-hour free test flight to explore the system risk-free.
  
  
• Every membership comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
  
  
• Get 24/7 support at AskHogs.com — even from Kenny’s AI clone inside the courses.