Ravenair for CPL/IR

[ClearedTakeOff]

Hi All,

Just wondering if anybody had experience of flying training with ATO, Ravenair?

I am looking at starting my CPL/IR training in the new year and am looking for a reputable ATO within the Midlands/ North West.

Any suggestions welcome.

[octavian]

Hi CTO,

I think you might have gone down this questioning route before, but here goes:

I'm sure that you're familiar with what is available at Tatenhill, as it appears to be your locale.

JD Aviation at Hawarden is also one that you have previously looked at.

Then there is Ravenair, which is highlighted in your post.

All three are reputable ATOs.

It rather depends upon your criteria which will be the best for your CPL and IR. Two of them are based at ATC controlled airports and, if you are looking at going down the route that will lead you to an airline, then I would suggest that the sooner you get into that form of controlled environment the better. Coming from an AFIS or A/G environment and hitting SIDS, STARs and the fast moving instructions issued by ATCOs can be a bit of a challenge. Obviously, the disadvantage of training out of such an airport is that you get pretty low priority. Looking at Liverpool, it is anticipating a bit of an improvement in its commercial traffic in 2016, which may be a factor to consider, although I have great admiration for their controllers integrating GA with commercial stuff. Hawarden, on the other hand has excellent ATC, good accessible procedures and a balance of commercial, Bizet, Beluga and training.

In the past you have dwelt on the cost of landings. Yep, you will need to pay for them.

If cost is your sole consideration, then you will take the cheapest option.

Contact the providers, go and meet the people, discuss what you're after and then make your decision with all the facts I hand.

In case you are wondering, I did all of mine with JD Aviation, and hold him and his instructors in the highest regard.