Not sure what to wear to your flight training session? This guide will help you choose the right attire to stay safe, comfortable, and focused in the cockpit.

When you show up for flight training, what you wear might not be the first thing on your mind—but it should be. The right clothing can make a big difference in your comfort, safety, and professionalism. Whether you’re flying with Angel City Flyers or another training location, here’s how to dress the part.

Dress for Safety First

Flight training isn’t like a casual drive—it’s a dynamic environment where safety matters, even down to your clothing.

• Avoid loose or dangling items. Scarves, long jewelry, or oversized jackets can get in the way or become snag hazards.
• Wear natural fibers. Cotton is a safer option than synthetic materials, which can melt in extreme heat.
• No flip-flops or sandals. Closed-toe shoes are a must to protect your feet and ensure proper control on the rudder pedals.

Think Layers

Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically—from a warm tarmac to a cool cockpit at altitude. Dressing in light layers allows you to adapt easily.

• Base layer: Comfortable and breathable (t-shirt or moisture-wicking top).
• Mid layer: Light sweatshirt or fleece for cooler flights.
• Outerwear: A jacket for walking across the ramp or colder mornings, but something you can easily stow during flight.

Choose Functional Footwear

Your shoes affect your rudder control. Here’s what works best.

• Flat-soled shoes with good grip.
• Sneakers or casual loafers are ideal—think Vans, Converse, or low-profile trainers.

Avoid boots with thick soles or heels that can interfere with pedal feel.

Stay Sun-Ready

You’ll be spending a lot of time under the sun—even in the cockpit.

• Wear sunglasses with UV protection and non-polarized lenses (polarized lenses can make reading digital screens difficult).
• Baseball hats or caps are fine outside but may obstruct headset fit in the plane—test it out beforehand.
• Sunscreen is a smart addition to your pre-flight checklist.
• Avoid dark colored clothing that absorbs heat if training in a hot environment without air conditioning.

Professionalism Counts

Especially if you’re training toward a commercial certificate or flying with new instructors, dressing professionally can help set the tone.

Opt for neat, clean, and appropriate attire. While a full uniform isn’t necessary for training, looking presentable shows you’re serious about your aviation goals. You never know who you’ll run into during your training.

Pro Tip: Bring a Spare

Especially on longer flights or full-day sessions, packing a change of clothes (or at least an extra shirt) can make your day far more comfortable—especially during warm weather or intensive simulator sessions.

Final Thoughts

When you step into the cockpit, you’re taking on the role of pilot-in-command—even as a student. What you wear to flight training sends a message: that you’re ready, prepared, and respectful of the aircraft and the learning environment. At Angel City Flyers, we encourage all of our students to show up sharp, confident, and ready to learn. And yes, that starts with what you’re wearing.

Ready to get started? Book your first flight lesson with us and show up prepared—inside and out.