quote:
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rigorous CAA/JAR evacuation test of all off within 90 seconds
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So how would you make it more realistic? Use real disabled pax, children and elderly to take part? It's as realistic as it can be and if it satisfies the regulatory bodies??

Pax-man, as you said “we were taking lots of family to a wedding, so there was no other viable option really”. There was another option, have the wedding at home.

Remember, charter airlines provide a service that enables many people to travel where they want to at a price they can afford (your wedding trip for example). No charter, no overseas weddings, very few holidays abroad and the nationals up their prices even higher so even less people can afford to fly away.

A little discomfort for a hols in Disney World is worth it for the many (and many are return customers too).

I do understand your original point though.
:)

Flypast,

You hit the nail on the head! Excellent post, getting across some of what I'd been trying to say far better than I ever could.

Deconehead,

You're right, but so am I (if you know what I mean!). Of course I've a choice, but we're all entitled to dislike something AFTER we've paid for it! ;)

Dear CB,

As I have said before, the answer is simple - I chose not to take a PPL.

"nasty airline's pockets." I never said that Manx were nasty, just abusing their monoply position with the help of the IOM govt.

"ferry", takes too long, I have tried it. "stay at home" tell that to my mother! "pay for business class", there is none to the IOM.

"Who really cares about another few inches of legroom?" On short haul, not me. My argument you continually misrepresent.

"If your time is up, then it's up." I am not a fatalist.

"try spending 7 hours on a N*tional Express bus and you will know what cramped is!"
I choose not to.

Now, back to the thread ...

Orlando Flight Training
 

Just thought I would mention this as there seemed to be a false rumour circulating regarding the above school (well in Florida). Myself and several others were informed that OFT did not have a JAA multi engine instructor and that only a single engine CPL could be achieved. I rang the school today and found out this is not the case and you can infact obtain a multi engine CPL. Just for the record.

Turkish
:ok:

They have NOW - they didn't when you asked!! (So it was not a false rumour).

Indeed, at least in theory, they have access to three (now) - but you cannot get one of them at the moment.

Only relaying what they said to me yesterday Keygrip.

Orlando flight training
 

Do any of you have any comments about Orlando flight training ?

Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

I tried putting it in the search but, no success. Any info would be greatly appreciated. Thank YOu.

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

try www.flyoft.com

Been looking at these myself to do ppl. I've had a friend say they are very good. Have a fleet of decent Warriors that are all less than three yrs old.

Of course this is all word of mouth. I have never been myself. Any opinions good or bad appreciated!!

G-MANN

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

A friend of mine trained with OFT and I believe he was very happy. So much so that he is going back later in the year!

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

After looking at the thread about Naples Air Centre it got me thinking a little bit. Can anybody describe the state of OFT current fleet or even pics would be better. There are non on their website which makes you wonder why!

I'd rather pay a bit more to learn in an aircraft which is not dirty, rusty, mouldy etc etc.

Also do you think I should purchase my own headset before I go and avoid the sales banter at the school (if there is any!)

G-MANN

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

I finished there last month, what were you going there to do PPL? CPL?

They have 3 multis, few cessnas, quite a lot of cadets/warriors, 2 or 3 heli's

Good value for money, its right in the tourist part (Kissimmee), nice bunch of people there..

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

was looking at doing the JAA PPL for now!! How were the instructors? Did you have the same instructor throughout your course?

G-MANN

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

Yeah same instructor, probably because he was the only instructor lol (in Multi that is).

All the PPL students seemed happy there, doing my multi was sometimes a bit awkward as they only had one multi instructor as I said (JAA) he was very good though.

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

So the big question for me is:

OFT (vs) NAC (vs) EFT

PPL + 100 hours to take me up to around 150hrs. Any pointers?:bored:

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

Sounds like they may have improved. It was about three years ago when I flew with them. I was on holiday in Florida and thought I would get some hours in while I was there. I was plagued with double bookings, very long waits and a/c technical problems which all came to a head with the manager who initially tried to turn it around to me, but eventually had no choice but to reason with my complaint. Whether it was bad luck I dont know but I will not be going back.

As for aircraft, the warrier III's were in very good condition equiped with GPS. The cessna's 152's were a little grotty but then again aren't most 152's around the world.

The instructor for my FAA check out was very nice chap.

All the best with what ever you decide.

Mint

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

I did my CAA IMC there nearly 3 years ago now, last year I did FAA PPL, FAA IR and will be returning there to finish off my JAA ME CPL there in a couple of weeks.
Clearly I keep returning there because I am satisfied with the value for money and the service and the planes. To date all my instruction, both FAA and JAA has been first rate.
I know they are currently having accommodation problems - both hotel and student.
They have a fair selection of aircraft - two new 172s (ish) and their two Warriors are ok. PPL is usually taught in either 152 or Cadets which are quite old. Twins include a Seminole, which is ok, and two Duchesses, which are old. They have one Arrow which is crap - but are working on getting another.
I heard a rumour - which is unconfirmed - that they have sold their simulators and not got replacements yet - so anyone planning to do an IR there should check this with OFT.

Orlando Flight Training
 

i need advice on orlando flight training. does anyone know the company? i was thinkin on taking their pro pilot 1000 which trains upto CFII and then offer u a job as a CFI until u get 1000 hours for employment.

is this offer ok cos u guys know best!!!

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

Hi, we are 2 brits doing ppl and cpl/ir training at OFT at the moment. We have found them really good. there are always a few hitches wherever you go but the people are great and its a happy place to be. You will work as hard as you want to, instructors are really thorough, nice and hard working.

anyone had the pleasure of meeting morag tho?:}

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

then you need to look elsewhere,
I have been to 2 UK approved flyingschool´s in Florida,
both of them having planes in the condition´s described above.:ouch:

You get what you pay for:ok:

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

With the pixel count in modern phones (let alone cameras) and hosting sites like photobucket there's absolutely no reason why PPRuNers can't help each other with making educated decisions regarding vast sums of money before traveling to any FTO, UK or elsewhere.

Airframes are only one part of the value equation but unless you look to a career in bush flying or the bottom of the freighting market you will find the state of the aircraft a very important factor for a professional pilot and their career decisions.

The theme on this forum is endemic - they're tatty but them do fix what breaks. As and when your finances recover you will not use that as a basis for buying a home or a car. Many of you are hypnotised and willingly suspending your standards in desperation to fly while accepting the demanding and expensive academic hoops you have to jump through.

In the real world you will find that entirely reversed. You ticket is your ticket and you'll never intentionally fly a mouldy shed.

So there's the challenge. Let's see more photos.

Rob

Re: Hi ya...anyone know any info on orlando flight training
 

flying ferrets please check your pm
thx

Contacting Orlando Flight Centre
 

I want to build some hours out of here in March, however after several emails I have had no reply to what I need to know? Is there anyone from there looking at this that can help and send me some details? If so please PM me. Thanks

Kilo

Re: Contacting Orlando Flight Centre
 

check your pm

Was @ OFT summer '02. Very friendly bunch and good instruction. :ok:

Was at OFT July and August 05 for Hour Building + MEP, Night and JAA CPL. Great place, great people, awesome flying. Never had a problem with double booking, but as an hour builder your slot is open to be taken by a guy/gal who needs to do a flight pre-CPL or PPL skills. They may not have quite the number of instructors required for JAA CPL, they could probably hire another instructor to get people through in the time that they promise. However, I did 135 hours in 7 weeks and I can't wait to go back for some more flying when I have the money.

I certainly would not describe their aircraft as mouldy old sheds. They are certainly very well used and with the cost of flying in the US, coupled with the weather then what do you expect? They are in the sky for many hours a day. Therefore if the VOR goes u/s on a 152 it will still fly until the next maintenance. Saying that though, I found their 172s to be immaculate as they are only a few years old and their Warrior IIIs are also in tip top nick. However if you want to pay £35 an hour then you will fly an aircraft that doesn't look new - i.e. a 20+ year old 152. That stands wherever you go. I got incredible value for money on aircraft that may not all look shiny and new but I assure you that they fly just the same, I mean I've paid £100+ an hour to fly said aircraft in the UK and that is before landing/touch and go fees. If you're loaded, pay more and get the shiniest aircraft you can - if you're not (like me), hunt for a bargain, whichever you choose you will hone exactly the same skills. If they are well maintained then there should be few problems with your bargain. Enjoy OFT if you go, I recommend it.

Are Yes OFT
 

OFT,
I went there in 2003 and had a great time. If you are planning to go the whole hog i.e ATPL then this is a good start.
All the guys that went out there when I was there all have jobs bar 1/2 people now.
I believe it was an extremely good grounding in flying to start with. I now have time to reflect on a number of points/posts made.
The Aircraft: I did my ppl in a Cadet which was fine. Then for my hour build I used the might 152. Note regarding the mould/rusty etc Does the mould effect your flying? Nope!! Does the rust effect your flying yes.. Well come on a second, would the plane be flying if it wasn't airworthy? Nope So rust is not really the right word to use. If there is some thing wrong with the plane you as a responsible pilot or wannabe pilot would and should notice this on your walk round. It is after all your pink body that is about to commit aviation and with every flight you can make the go / no go decision. If in doubt ask. There is no such thing as a stuppid question. Anyway I think you catch my drift.
(I don't require a dig from anyone about the above)
I had a wicked time me and another guy went all over florida together and then, when we returned to UK did Ground school together and he now flies Q400's and I fly corporate aircraft.
The accomodation on the other hand was crap and extremely over priced so be carefull on that part.
My advice is to get the ground exams out the way before going out there as this will release more time for you to get to grips with how to fly and enjoying the Kissimmmeeeeee/Orlando entertainment.
If you are in it for the long term I personally would recommend you do your CPL / IR in the UK because it is different flying in UK then it is in the States. Yes it costs more but at some point you are likey to be in UK airspace.
I hope this helps you and if you do go to Florida make sure you go to : Sharky's in Venice on the beach for lunch.
Ocala for great burgers.
Key West for an over night.
If you get the chance go to the Bahamas in a twin.
Fly with another aircraft from Venice down to Naples along the coast.
Touch and goes at Lake wales. I could go on for ever.
Just the only thing to watch out for is any hidden costs right at the start.
And OFT are quite good at those hidden costs
Happy Days:ok:

I was at OFT for 2 months (Oct-Dec 2004), mainly flying C172 for PPL and hour building, with some Duchess hours for a multi rating. The C172's they had then were excellent and I didn't have any major problems with the school.
As per most places for training, you do sometimes need to keep on top of them to make sure your slots are booked and you are getting what you want out of your time there. However, if you are not easily messed around, then you will enjoy it.
I would recommend OFT, although I haven't been for over a year. At least there is a use for Disney Land as a vrp, instead of just being a place for gourging on burgers, just to revisit your lunch on the roller coasters. :yuk:

I have been to OFT twice in the past 3 years. I have flown their twins, singles and helicopters. Even though an administrative problem stopped my helicopter flying last time the situation was resolved amicably. I would recommend OFT to anybody but bear in mind the following points which apply to all flying schools in the USA:
1. The majority of instructors are people building hours to go onto better jobs. They get paid about $10.00 per flying hour. So treat them with respect especially if they have put themselves out for your benefit.
2. Be fully aware of what you are paying for and what charges will be levied. Some schools have fees that they don’t advertise as fully as their basic charges, but are there to be found. It is an all too often situation where people are not fully aware of all the charges, their account runs out early and they complain of being overcharged.
3. The time at the school is work and not a holiday. Be on time, ready to go and be prepared to put in study at night.
4. The profit margin at flying schools is very low, so if you are after cheap flying expect the aircraft to be a bit tatty and a little tired. Due to legislation in the USA, the maintenance schedule should make all the aircraft legal and safe.
5. Sh1t happens; expect aircraft to go tech, bad weather and other problems.
6. Enjoy.

ah hello guys i have all the answers you seek , i used to be a CFI there and
i'll gladly answers yer questions . pm me .

Orlando Flight Training
 

HI all

Im interested in hearing from anyone who trained at OFT in Kissimmee, im going out there to do some hour building and commercial training and want to know what to expect.

Cheers

hey, how you doing?

check out page 7 of this forum, plenty of info there.

i have done all my training there and shall be returning next week to the FIC.

just make sure you establish from the beginning what you intend to do there and what time frame you have. allow for weather, a/c going tech, and the laid back approach.

OFT
 

I take it from the "laid back" quote, its down to me to arrange all of my bookings etc.

You dont know if im able fly 7 days a week if i fall behind on my schedule do you? Whether thats hour building, night imc and comm instruction.

cheers

yes indeed, it is up to you to schedule your a/c, and to make sure you get what you want.

you can fly 7 days a week with the weekends usually being quite quiet when hr building. When I was there last september there was only one JAA CPL instructor and we had to obviously work around his days off but they were going through a transitional period and hopefully that has been overcome by now.

When do you expect to be going?

OFT
 

Im hoping to get out there for the beginning of April, around the 1st 2nd or 3rd.

Basically im just waiting on OFT to send me the forms i need to book my appointment at the embassy in London. Ive been told that i can expect to get my visa appoinment about 3 weeks after posting my application. HOPEFULLY thats the case. Im out there for about 9 weeks, then im coming back to do my IR and MCC.

Then im sure that Virgin are going to hire me as an A380 1 OF

Otherwise i will do an instructors rating after completing my MCC

When are you getting out there, and for how long,

I'll be out there tue 28th feb.

Should be doing my FI from thursday in Sebastian for 4 weeks, returning 5th April.

If there is anything you need to know whilst I'm out there let me know and I'll keep you posted.

OFT
 

Does anyone know if they do the modular course for the ATPL exams?
Need to convert from ICAO to JAA
Thanks very much

No they don't. Only people that do them in Florida is Naples Air Center.

Wolanyo

Im going out at the same time.

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