AOPA Aerobatic Course

[U220]

Hello all

Anyone any experience with schools for the above course? Looked at AOPA website and there is a big list. Would like to hear from anyone who has done the course. Thanks

[hugh flung_dung]

By asking on this forum you're more likely to get answers from people (like me) who teach the course, and we'll probably all say that our club/school is the best place to come The "private flying" forum may give the info that you want.

However, when making your decision you need to choose:

• an airfield with lots of open airspace around it and short taxi times,
• an aircraft with a good climb rate, preferably fully aerobatic (stressed for +6/-3g) and with some inverted capability. It must be easy to fly. Ideally you should be able to wear parachutes and to stand a chance of getting-out if needed (although this is highly unlikely).
• a school/club which encourages you to fly the aircraft solo
• an instructor who's been teaching aeros for a long time.

The Bulldog at Old Sarum ticks all those boxes, but it's quite a long way from Northern Ireland.

HFD

[foxmoth]

I would agree with much of HFDs post apart from

It must be easy to fly.

, You do not want too easy an aircraft for a couple of reasons, first, if you learn on an aircraft that is too easy to fly then you do not learn some things very well such as energy management and some of the basic control coordination. Secondly, if you learn on an easy to fly aero machine, then go on to something less capable, maybe because that is all that is available locally, then you can have problems. I would agree though that the Bulldog is a good starting machine.

[U220]

Aerobatic Course

Thanks for the info,

I just completed an F/I course and want to build my confidence in unusual attitudes and spins as well as break up the routine of straight and level. I will take on board all your points. Again Thanks very much.

[U220]

U220

Can you give me a contact name and number for Old Sarum? Thanks HFD

[foxmoth]

These guys also come highly recommended!
Ultimate High - Flying School, Air Displays and corporate entertainment

[hugh flung_dung]

As an FI, once you're reasonably proficient at Aeros you can differentiate yourself by doing the short course to get the "no aeros" restriction removed from your FI rating. If you're self-employed and have a reasonable accountant the course may even be regarded as a business expense (but don't take my word for that).

Send me a PM and I can provide any info you need about training at Old Sarum.

HFD