Hi guys, I see you are looking at OFT as an option. This is where I did my PPL last year...
Like you said, both good and bad things to say about every school. Based solely on my experiences these are a few pros and cons about OFT
Pros
- Better weather than the UK (foggy early morn in winter, storms most afternoons in summer so beware!)
- Generally cheaper than a PPL in the UK (and most of Europe??)
- Good fun! Being around like mided people in Florida is a real laugh. Plenty to do on your 'down time' but don't let that take over the flying!
- No landing fees or PPR so you can pretty much go where you like, within reason.
- Airspace is less busy and there is more uncontrolled airspace
- Radio work is a bit more relaxed so can help when training
Cons
- WATCH THE MONEY IN YOUR ACCOUNT!! OFT can be very sneaky, I'm certainly not the first, nor will I be the last, to have what appear to be random charges leaving my account. Just keep an eye on your funds and regularly ask for a print out.
- Because it is far more relaxed, you are not as well prepared for flying in the UK or Europe
- Training methods are JAA but they are taught mainly by americans... who initially were taught under FAA. Result- if they don't fully understand the JAA way of doing things they revert back to doing it their way. Fine to pass a PPL skills test in the US but it won't cut it back here (no disrespect to the FAA guys out there, we just do things differently!)
- A/C are just not up to scratch. The maintainance is questionable to say the least so make sure you are taught how to do a walk round properly and make sure you do it!! THIS IS IMPORTANT. Do not think you've done it a hundred times before so you wont bother, check everything. If you find a problem, tell someone. Do not feel under pressure to fly an A/C you are not happy with.
These are just a few of my thoughts so hopefully they will give you something to think about. I loved my time in America, it really was great! The instructors all tend to be nice guys (not sure if there are any girls there at the moment??) and provided you work hard, they will too. Having completed most of the instrument rating back here in the UK I can see where training in the US can lead to serious issues in your basic flying ability which take time to iron out. However it's a good place to hour build initially because you have so much freedom. Just beware, if I were you, I'd save some hours to do in your home country if you plan on flying in Europe before you start any professional training to get used to the way things work.
One thing I will say is don't just go for the cheapest option particularly if you plan on doing this as a career! It is important to get the right training. Yes price may well be a factor but don't let it be the overriding one when making a decision like this! It is a huge investment, so choose wisely
If anyone has any more questions, feel free to ask away!
Ad