This post is part of a series 'Instructor Bad Habits' which evolved from a lecture given by Jonny Greenall at EU Rotors. In the complex world of helicopter aviation, the Law of Primacy stands as a pivotal principle that can make or break your flying career. This fundamental teaching method, often underestimated, dictates that the first lessons you learn are the ones that stick with you the longest. At Balearic Helicopters, we believe in laying down the right foundations from the start, ensuring that your journey as a pilot is both safe and successful. Picture this: you're up in the skies, the rotor blades slicing through the air, and suddenly, an unexpected situation demands instant action. What you learned first will be your instinctive response. This is the Law of Primacy in action. For experienced pilots, trainees, and instructors alike, understanding and leveraging this concept is crucial. It prevents the formation of incorrect habits that can lead to dangerous decisions, such as a fixed-wing pilot instinctively pushing the cyclic forward upon engine failure in a helicopter – a potentially catastrophic move. Why First Impressions Matter In aviation, as in life, first impressions are paramount. The initial exposure to a concept or skill not only sets the tone for your learning experience but also creates lasting imprints on your memory. When foundational helicopter flying principles are taught correctly from the get-go, pilots can build upon them with confidence, ensuring a smoother transition from novices to seasoned professionals or from PPL(H) to CPL(H). At Balearic Helicopters, we prioritise accuracy from the start. Our experienced instructors are adept at presenting complex information in digestible chunks, ensuring that every lesson is both comprehensive and error-free. This meticulous approach significantly reduces the risk of learning incorrect procedures, which can be difficult to 'unlearn' later on. The Power of Initial Learning Why is initial learning so potent? It's simple: the human brain is wired to retain the first piece of information it receives on a subject. This becomes the cornerstone upon which all future knowledge is built. For instance, if a helicopter pilot is incorrectly instructed on a procedure during their initial lessons, there's a high chance they'll revert to this flawed technique under pressure. Balearic Helicopters' training programmes are designed to mitigate such risks by emphasising correct procedures from the beginning. Our instructors are not just teachers but mentors who guide students through the nuances of helicopter aviation, ensuring every pilot is well-prepared to face the skies with confidence. Embracing the Law of Primacy for Success For those contemplating a career in helicopter aviation or looking to expand their skills, embracing the Law of Primacy is non-negotiable. It’s about setting the right habits early on and maintaining them throughout your flying career. Whether you're starting your PPL(H) journey, advancing to CPL(H), or refining your skills as an instructor, the emphasis on correct initial learning cannot be overstated. Balearic Helicopters offers a unique learning environment in the stunning locale of Mallorca. Our commitment to excellence and adherence to the Law of Primacy ensures that our pilots are not only proficient but also safe and reliable. Ready to take the first step towards mastery in helicopter aviation? Join us at Balearic Helicopters and let’s build your future together, one correct procedure at a time.