I’ve had several communications with CPPP, the owner’s group I belong to for my Twin Comanche. I had done some proficiency flying once and had a star for an instructor. Mike B and I attended, and both had the chance to fly my airplane through it’s paces. This was before all the upgrades and improvements I’ve made, but those really didn’t matter for the work we were doing.
The instructor I had back then was an airline pilot and long-time Comanche and Twin Comanche enthusiast. He knows how to take them apart as well as fly them. I was very lucky to get him, and man did we make that machine sing. I really wanted that experience, but knew I wouldn’t be lucky twice in a row for this kind of thing, so was less than enthusiastic trying to fit that into my airline life at this point.
Insurance Requirement: This year I successfully argued with my insurance provider that the ongoing requirement for multi-engine recurrent training and an IPC was overkill for a guy flying everyday. I did that because it is very difficult to find an instructor with more experience than I have and that I trust to do the things we need to do. Now the onus is on me to ensure I stay on top of my complex and incredible machine, so I am personally committed to meet those insurance requirements anyway. The requirements make sense, but now I have more control over my schedule.
New Camera System: I have upcoming photo flight with my airplane and a B-25, which prompted me to buy a GoPro 4 – Silver. I’m looking forward to getting back into capturing video and having that available when the Mitchell Bomber fills my windscreen. It will also be an awesome way to capture for review my own training. I like the ability to edit out the inevitable mistakes I’m destined to make on the way.
CPPP Response: I am impressed. I actually told these guys that their schedule was too lax; I wouldn’t fly with anyone I didn’t feel had a solid resume in this airplane – credibility; and a few other lesser constraints. While I appreciated their time, particularly the volunteers, I didn’t think it would work.
Several people jumped in there and did not give up. I don’t expect this kind of service from an owners group. I appreciate that very much.
The resumes I was given are impressive. I have a need to fly with people that are better than I am, and am currently blessed with doing that everyday now. I expect the same in the PA30, now that I am flying it less now. It is imperative I stay on top of it.
Beverly and I are looking to travel in it for our vacation in October. This training, as well as dragging Mike B away from his office for some instrument work, will get me where I want to be.
Committed to making it work. I am going to talk to Beverly and bid a schedule to allow me to make the May training dates.