TM: according to article in Flyer it is just the basic instrument familiarisation part of the course which is done in a PA 28. There is no set number of hours for this. The idea is simply to demonstrate the ability to perform basic manouevres on instruments (essentially the big 180 out of the clag). Presumably in the test the Examiner will look for a level turn made by reference to the Moth's old fashioned turn and slip gauge coupled with the altimeter, in the absence of an AI, DI and VSI (though some Moths have the latter), or maybe you have to do the instrument bit of the test (which lasts about 2 minutes) in a separate Piper sortie.
It seems that the rest of the course is done on the Tiger Moth. No doubt the school can confirm this.
Regarding the whole of the course as flying and as fun is a good attitude.
The cross wind limitation point is a valid one, and you will undoubtedly lose flying days because of winds which would not be a problem in a more modern aircraft, but you'll just have to put up with that, and it's something that will stay with you as long as you fly vintage aircraft. Even very experienced Tiger Moth pilots stay on the ground when there is a cross wind of more than 9 knots or so.
I'm sure that Pipers and Cessnas have many good qualities, but suggest that it may be an exaggeration to describe them as "the best trainers in the world". Aren't they really tourers that have become mainstream trainers by default? The world's air forces don't use them for basic training. Are they missing something?
(edittid for badd speling)
[This message has been edited by FNG (edited 29 April 2001).]