How to use Spires properly
Spires works best when used as a guide, not a shortcut. This page shows you the best way to move from confusion to clarity, without pressure.
The best way to use Spires
A simple flow that works for most people.
1) Pick a direction
Start with a broad route decision. Integrated vs modular, airline programmes vs independent training, pace vs budget.
Start with schools2) Build your pathway
Use the Pathway Helper to map decisions into a route plan you can actually act on.
Open Helper3) Prepare properly
Use prep to learn the mindset and format, not memorise. General first, then specific.
Go to prepUse the flight school pages for comparison
Spires is most useful when you compare routes side by side, not when you browse randomly.
What to look for
- Route structure (integrated/modular)
- Typical pace and training style
- Partnerships and affiliations
- Location, lifestyle, and logistics
- Where support matters most
Where to go
Start with the flight schools overview, then open a few schools that match your constraints.
Use prep to learn the thinking, not just answers
General first
If you skip foundations and go straight to airline or school-specific prep, you often end up learning the wrong things.
General prepSpecific second
Airline and school-specific sets are best once you’ve chosen a direction. They are designed to sharpen readiness, not create it.
When support plans genuinely help
Free
Best for early exploration and understanding the landscape.
Basic
Ideal once you’re narrowing options and want structured foundations.
Pro / Full
Most useful when you have a direction and want targeted preparation.
Common mistakes that reduce results
- Trying to decide everything at once
- Jumping to airline prep without general foundations
- Buying one-off access repeatedly instead of using a plan
- Using prep like memorisation
- Ignoring lifestyle constraints (time, location, flexibility)
Spires is designed to support clarity, not urgency. Use it at the pace that keeps you consistent.
Want the cleanest route forward?
Start by exploring routes, then use the Pathway Helper to map a plan, then prepare with foundations first.