Mixing flying schools

[ADB25]

Hi all,

My question is...

I have started flying at a local grass strip airfield close to me, but having experience flying from a reasonably busy airfield such as Biggin Hill, I do (however strange it may sound) miss the radio chatter and queuing e.t.c. I feel this is great on-going tuition that helps to build your skills as a pilot.
However, I do like the family atmosphere provided at my local grass strip so was considering an hour or 2 PPL tuition at each school every other week.

Leeds Bradford offers newer aircraft, 'real runways' and busy traffic control.

My local field offers great friendly atmosphere, the challenges of a grass strip and real nuts and bolts aircraft to fly.

What are everyones experiences of flying at different types of fields, which is best for development or is it just a case of indifference. Also is it even possibly to combine two schools to gain a PPL?

Many thanks all

Alex

[BackPacker]

There's no legal reason why you should not combine different schools.

However, just as it's wise to stick with one instructor for the best part of your training, it's also best to stick with one school. Just think about the hoops the instructors have to jump through to keep each other updated on your progress. Within one school they typically have a single cabinet where all student files are kept, so if you go from one instructor to the next they can simply access your file and be up to date. With two schools this is going to be virtually impossible. And your learning may suffer.

And then I haven't even started on the legal documents that the school has to keep on your behalf. Including the results of your ground exams, the QXC paperwork and so on.

My advice would be to stick with one school, but simply visit the other place on your x-countries. Once you've got the license you can always become a member of both clubs (or rent at both schools) if you want to.

[jayeff]

In addition to the above good points, there is the fact that continuity will go a long way to assist you in getting the best from your training as well as having the added benefit of probably lessening the number of hours you will need to gain your licence.