If you're a student pilot, here are a few times it's appropriate to cancel a flight lesson...

1) Stress At Home

Part of the IMSAFE check is making sure you're not experiencing any unusual, significant stress. If you're having something going on outside of the flight school, it's best to avoid wasting time and money when you can't fully focus on a flight lesson.

2) You're Unprepared

Nothing's worse than showing up for a flight lesson unprepared. You'll waste time and money. It's better to explain to your CFI why you're not prepared and cancel the lesson (even if that means a cancellation fee).

3) Your CFI Is Unprepared

Have you ever showed up and a CFI doesn't even know what lesson they're about to complete with you? You're paying a lot of money for professional flight training and should expect your CFI to be as prepared as you.

4) When You're Feeling Sick

Going back to the IMSAFE check, if you're not feeling well it's going to be a lot harder to have a successful flight lesson.

5) You're Not 100% Certain The Airplane Is Airworthy

Not completely sure the airplane you're flying has gotten its latest inspection? Check the logbooks before you go, and if you can't confirm the airplane is airworthy, postpone the flight lesson to make sure the airplane is good to go.

6) The Weather Is Below Personal Minimums

While this applies more to solo flights than dual-received flights, you should have personal minimums set. For instance, if you're a brand new student and there's moderate turbulence with high surface winds, you probably won't get much out of the lesson because you're simply not prepared to fly in windy conditions yet.

7) You Don't Have Updated Charts Or Documents

Before you fly, make sure you have all of your charts and documents updated. Flying without updated charts could get you in airspace you're not supposed to be in.

When have you canceled a flight lesson? Tell us in the comments below.