It seems that its my turn in the barrel at pprune.
Another EN classic;
"I have learned something from every instructor I have worked with."
Taken out of context, this does sound ridiculous. I should have been more precise and said that I have learned something NEW from each instuctor. Each teaches a bit differently and not all cover the same topics. I have found it useful to fly with several different instructors to fill in the gaps.
I wonder what they have learnt from working with you !
No need to wonder - here are some examples:
1. My background in computer engineering has resulted in a particular interest in avionics. The aircraft I have operated over the years have typically been equipped with advanced avionics (for the time) and my instructors were often unfamiliar with this equipment. At their request, I have briefed my instructors on many occasions on the use of this equipment.
2. As an owner operator, one is also the de facto Director of Maintenance - not turning wrenches, but assuring that necessary work is done on a timely basis. This has led me to be diligent about having current, detailed knowledge regarding AD's, SB's, SL's etc. for airframe, engine, and avionics. Instructors who train in a variety of aircraft are often not up to speed on these details, and are usually interested in knowing more.
your (very experienced) "principal instructor" tells you that you fly "better than many he has worked with."
This quote was taken out of context by FL from a thread dealing with the topic of "how old is too old to learn to fly a helicopter." My post made the point that age, per se, is not all that important, and went on to cite some personal data to support this point, as did several other posters. My post was intended to encourage those who might be reluctant because of age to give helicopter flying a try. I consider myself very much a newbie in the helicopter world, and was not intending to be boastful. If it sounded this way, it is is more due to my poor writing skills rather than attitude.