I am on the homestretch of my training, so now I am focusing on areas where I need a little more practice.Short field landings have been hard for me to do consistently, but I'm starting to get it. The FAA Practical Test Standards (PTS) say a sport pilot must be able to touch down at or within 200 feet beyond a specified point. Right now I can do it one out of every three tries or so, but I'm getting more consistent with practice. The Remos G3 loves to fly and I'm still getting used to how much it floats in ground effect. The advice left on this blog is really helping me get it - especially the tip to aim at the beginning of the runway, so once I flare I'll touch down on the numbers (my aiming point). I'm also learning it's OK for these to not be super-smooth landings. I naturally want to make smooth landings, but it's more important on short field landings to put it down on the aiming point.Over the course of my trianing, Jason and I have become good friends. Which makes me curious—how many of you became friends with your instructor during the process of learning to fly? Have you kept in touch?
Posted by Tom @ 02:37 PM, July 02 Great videos Brady. I've been following your progress for a while and you've inspired me to go for the Private Pilot Certificate. I went on an introductory flight a few weeks ago. It was really fun but I started to suffer from air sickness at one point. Do you or any of the other pilots on here have any recommendations for a beginner having trouble with airsickness?
Posted by Ron H @ 05:20 PM, July 02 Tom,The best advice I could offer is, keep flying. Most of us experienced motion sickness to some degree early in our training.You'll get used to it but some who are prone to it might take a little longer than others.
Posted by Randy Dallas @ 09:30 PM, July 02 BradyGreat timing on the video. I have been discussing short field and soft field TOs/landings with my instructor and am looking forward to getting some practice in those areas. Unfortunately the weather here in Florida has not been very conducive to flight training for the last 4-5 days so I haven't been able to get in much flying. I'm at 16.9 dual and 1.6hrs solo now and only need to get my solo cross country and another 1 1/2 hours or so of solo flight in then practice some short field and soft field stuff and I should be close to wrapping this thing up. Now if I could only get the weather to cooperate. Well have a great 4th and keep up the great work.Randy
Posted by Douglas @ 11:39 AM, July 03 Hi Brady,My weakest performance during my flight exam was short field landings. My DPE had me do it twice, and I think if the second one was any worse I would have failed.As you've foud out, it's not that easy. Practice may not make "perfect", but it does improve your chances!My instructor is also the owner of the flight school. We do keep in touch, especially when it comes to aviation related events. He just sponsored a chicken grill combined with a FAAST safety seminar last week at KHLG.To anyone in the Pittsburgh/Wheeling area looking for flight instruction, I HIGHLY recommend Dinny Walford at Ohio Valley Flight Academy (KHLG). He's a retired math/science teacher, and has been instructing for about 40 years. Also, VERY reasonable rates. I completed my Private Pilot last year (including EVERYTHING) for less than $4500.Doug
Posted by Anita @ 12:54 PM, July 03 Hi Brady,Love keeping up with you. My 16 daughter just started lessons last month and loves it!In response to Toms motion sickness question, my daughter also gets motion sick very easily. She takes Bonine (over the counter med) at least an hour before her flight and it has done great for her with no sleepiness or any other side effects. She flew this morning and said the stalls and sharp turnes didnt make the Bonine have to work harder for her. So hopefully getting accustomed to the feel of things does ease up on the motion sickmess.Good luck!
Posted by Scott @ 01:00 PM, July 03 Tom,Air sickness is nothing but a side effect of fear, or anxiety. The more you fly the more comfortable you will become and the fear should come under control. The thing you need to do is understand this and that it for some people is normal. The worst thing you can do is stress about it, because then you fear loosing your cookies. "That" will become a self-fulfilling prophecy. For most people by the tenth flight airsickness will be a thing of the past. Good Luck!
Posted by Scott @ 01:05 PM, July 03 Tom,DO NOT take any medication with out consulting a Aviation Medical Examiner!! Most if not all air sickness medications are strictly forbidden by the FAA.
Posted by rusty @ 01:34 PM, July 03 I'm with Tom on the don't take any meds w/o consulting the AME 1st, lost an eardrum to side-effects of pollen & completely blew accelerated IFR training... oh well better safe than sorry. also, why not hit some actual short/soft stuff not too far from KOSH, Wild Rose/IdleWild W23 - real soft sand & grass
Posted by Brady Lane @ 01:44 PM, July 03 Rusty: I would love to practice on a real soft field like Wild Rose and hope to be able to soon, but right now our airplane agreement says we have to stick to hard surfaces. We have talked about going up to Brennand (79C) to practice where the runway is considerably shorter and narrower than OSH. I visited Wild Rose a couple weeks ago (by road) and it is on my list of places to visit once I get my certificate. I'll be sure to have the cameras rolling the first time I experience my first real soft field.
Posted by JIm Heffelfinger @ 03:45 PM, July 03 Brady,Glad to see your training time taking a more normal duration. Having “minimum” hours is sometimes deceiving to new pilots about training commitments – time and money. Also the time since you started the training is more realistic for most pilot training. As an overall view – your blog is spot on for a reality check for perspective sport pilots and a window into the PPL program as well. I applaud EAA and you for presenting SP training in the most realistic light possible. jim
Posted by Brett Campany @ 09:23 PM, July 03 Hey Brady, got something for you to try if Jason will give you the "go ahead" to do it. In our class of aviation a lot of accidents can happen on approach where the aircraft comes in to slow, stalls and spears into the ground. A way of getting a feel for that is to go up to about 3500ft and imagine that you're on final and the runway elevation is at 3000ft. Bring your approach speed down, right down to stall and see if you can recover before you get to 3000ft. I've done this in the aircraft I've been flying to see how slow I can get the aircraft in a landing configuration before it stalls and then stall the aircraft and see if I can recover before 3000ft.It's a really good learning exercise that allows you to get a better feel for your aircraft in that situation and it's also good to have that in the back of your mind if that situation ever comes up.Give it a shot, see how you go.
It was in the high 90s in Oshkosh today and well over 100 degrees inside the cockpit. Even though I grew up in Texas, I'm not used to those temperatures anymore. I knew the heat would have an effect on airplane performance, but I underestimated the effect it would have on me as a pilot - both physically and mentally.Toward the end of the lesson I started making mistakes I don't normally make. I was drenched in sweat, mentally sluggish and physically exhausted, so after an hour I finally admitted to myself it was time to call it quits for the day.It was a good lesson for me to learn my personal tolerances.This was the first time I've flown in these temperatures and I wasn't used to it. I'm sure those of you who fly in warmer climates are a little more acclimated to it, but it was a tough flight for me. I'd be interested to hear some of your experiences flying in temperatures different than what you normally fly in. How was the flying different? Did it affect you physically/mentally? I will definitely drink more water before trying to fly in those temperatures again.
Posted by Robert Van Meter @ 10:51 PM, June 26 First, thank you Brady for doing this blog. It has inspired me and I am now on my 12hr of flight training.I totally know where you are coming from regarding the heat. I live in Frisco, TX just north of Dallas, and the temps have been in the high 90s and 100s. At the end of an hour, I am tired, hungry, and ready to call it the day.My instructor and I have actually been opening the windows on the plane while aloft to get some ventilation. It is exhausting enough with the heat, but this time of year there are also winds that regularly are blowing 15 - 24 knots so its also a rodeo.I am originally from the Northwest and this heat is really something. I can't say that airplane performance is any different as all of my lessons have been in the heat. I will have to report back when the weather cools to give a good comparison.Thanks again for your blog I anxiously await every new post.
Posted by Randy Dallas @ 11:36 PM, June 26 Hey Brady.I'm doing my training in Central Florida, at First Landings located at the Apopka-Orlando Airport (X04), and we have been 92-100F degrees for the last week and a half. In fact, when I went up with another instructor, as part of my pre-solo evaluation, we were reading 94deg outside air temp at 2500'MSL...That's crazy! Now since I now spend most of my time in Northern Italy, I'm no longer used to this brutal Florida heat but have managed to handle it without too many issues. I just tend to go through a couple of sets of clothes a day!I think where I feel the high temps affect me the most is the thermic activity and unstable conditions associated with high heat and high humidity. It is quite choppy near the surface and can feel like a roller coaster ride when flying under the towering cumulus clouds that turn into the evening thunderstorms Florida's famous for. It's funny, I was talking to my instructor about how it seemed in your videos that you were not experiencing the choppy conditions during landings that I have been seeing here and how I thought that the cooler/thicker air, like you have in OSH would be nice to train in. Of course It could always be that you are just a lot smoother than me...lol. But It will be interesting to fly in cooler conditions to see the difference.
Posted by Russ Hearn @ 01:34 PM, June 27 Brady, we have had 100+ temps here all week in middle-Georgia and I am just not that interested in flying lessons in the afternoon right now. To crawl into an airplane that 140+ degrees and go out just ain't inspiring. I hope we get a break in the heat soon, the grass looks like it's wilting away.
Posted by Jessica @ 03:56 PM, June 27 Hey Brady! I live on the other side of Wisconsin, in Eau Claire, and was out for some check ride prepping with my instructor on one of those crazy hot days. I made sure to take a Gatorade with me to help combat any exhaustion I may get from loss of fluids, but I still experienced the same mental sluggishness like you did...hard to think when your that hot.
Posted by Garrett @ 11:32 PM, June 27 Hey Brady, Yup I know what you mean. We have been having 100+ days down here in Texas. I think today was our 5th straight. Density alt was like 3,800 today and our field elevation is 1,300. It was HOT!!! anyway.. I had a great flight this morning myself. I am just a few away from my solo!!! I am ready.....www.mypilotchronicles.com
Posted by Michael B. Dorna @ 05:22 PM, June 28 Hey Brady!What you are doing here is awesome. I've been meaning to follow it more closely, but I've been busy. I took my check ride the day after you had the "hot flight" - under the same exact conditions! Talk about sweating! I fly out of Waukesha (KUES) and did my cross-country to Oshkosh. And you are correct sir, that first solo cross-country is when you really start feeling like a real pilot. Oh, by the way, I passed! Keep it up man! You'll be there before you know it. Hoping to run into you at AirVenture this year ... Mike Dorna
Posted by Ron H @ 09:12 AM, June 29 As you have discovered, Remos shortfall is the lack of ventilation. All that glass that provides such good visibility allows the sun to make it very hot. We've talked to Remos execs and the delivery center in Arkansas about this and they assure us it's been addressed in newer models. Living in the southwest, we routinely hit 100+. The only way we can fly the Remos this time of year without dangerous heat levels in the cockpit is to take the doors off and keep IAS at 100 or less. Try it, you'll like it! It takes a little fiddling with the squelch to overcome increased wind noise and you have to make sure everything is put away so it won't blow out.
Posted by Brady Lane @ 09:33 AM, June 29 I have a whole new respect for those of you training down south in Texas, Florida, Georgia, etc. Randy: There is a noticeable difference in smoothness with cooler air. You're going to love winter flying!Garrett: I just watched your latest video. It's fun seeing your landings improve with each one. Looks like you just about got that sight picture down - and to do those landings in 100 + temps is impressive.Micahel: CONRATULATIONS on your certificate! That's awesome. I will definitely be at AirVenture and would love to shake your hand. Any tips for me as I prepare for my checkride?Ron H: I've been curious what it's like to fly the Remos without the doors. I think it would be a blast. How windy is it? Any noticeable drag difference?
Posted by Ron H @ 05:43 PM, June 29 Brady, there isn't any noticeable difference in the handling of the Remos with the doors off. We all enjoy flying it that way too. The only wind issue you'll have is setting the squelch on the intercom. And I did have one passenger try to point something out to me by sticking their arm out into the slipstream. Not a good idea!Just have someone hold the door in place from the outside, pull the little clip that holds the hydraulic ram on the ball in the door frame, pop it off the ball then pull the red handle forward to free the pins that hold the door in place.
Posted by Deno @ 06:44 PM, June 29 Real lesson here!
Posted by Michael B. Dorna @ 01:45 PM, June 30 The best advice I have in regards to taking the check ride is to relax. I know that sounds overly simplified but that's it in a nutshell. That morning, I drove to the airport slowly, I mean under the speed limit slowly. When the test began I never let anything rattle me, I just took my time with everything. Everyone I talked to told me to do this and it worked very well. I'm sure you'll be well prepared for the oral so just remember to relax and try and enjoy the process. I'm sure you'll do great!
Posted by Frank @ 07:08 PM, July 01 Winnebago County (WFRV)- A plane had to make an emergency landing in a field in Winnebago County. No was injured. The small plane came down in a farmer’s field just north of Highway 44 near the intersection of Knott Road and Ripple Avenue.An EAA spokesperson said an EAA flight instructor had to land her plane because she had some trouble with it. At the time, she was flying with an EAA student. EAA official Dick Knapinski told Channel 5’s Angenette Levy “Pilots usually train for emergency landings but it’s something you hope you never have to execute. The big thing you hope to execute in an emergency landing is get the airplane down and land the airplane safely.”The NTSB and the FAA will investigate the landing. Was this the plane you fly? This station will not storeWinnebago County (WFRV)- A plane had to make an emergency landing in a field in Winnebago County. No was injured. The small plane came down in a farmer’s field just north of Highway 44 near the intersection of Knott Road and Ripple Avenue.An EAA spokesperson said an EAA flight instructor had to land her plane because she had some trouble with it. At the time, she was flying with an EAA student. EAA official Dick Knapinski told Channel 5’s Angenette Levy “Pilots usually train for emergency landings but it’s something you hope you never have to execute. The big thing you hope to execute in an emergency landing is get the airplane down and land the airplane safely.”The NTSB and the FAA will investigate the landing. Add a Comment(0) Comments Ads by GoogleWhat's this?$49/Hr Job - 132 OpeningsRealistic $49 Per Hour Home BasedJobs No Fixed Schedule Great Paywww.officialjobsfromhome.com$300/Hr NBC Home JobWork Online For NBC From Home.Guaranteed Work. Start Today!consumerreportingusa.org/Single and Over 40?Meet Older Appleton SinglesEveryone is Serious and Screened.Matur
Posted by Fred @ 12:17 AM, July 02 You probably have already answered this question in the past. If so, apologies. What is the recording (video and audio) setup you have?Regards.
Posted by Brady Lane @ 11:57 AM, July 02 Frank: The plane that made the emergency landing yesterday was not the plane I'm using, but another Remos G3 being used by EAA's AirAcademy program. Apparently the Air Academy instructor flying the plane made a great emergency landing and nobody was hurt. I am of course interested to learn more about what happened when that information becomes available.Fred: I am using two lipstick cameras from raceoptics.com for the video and an audio recorder from Edirol to record audio. I then sync the audio to the video after the flight. I'm sure there are better units available now than what I'm using. But if you want to know more about my setup, here's a post I did on it a few months back...http://www.eaa.org/apps/blog/learntofly/75/Default.aspx
Posted by Brady Lane @ 12:01 PM, July 02 Michael: Great tip about how to stay calm during your checkride. Like most people, when I get nervous I start rushing through things. I will make a note to remember to do what you did - drive to the airport slow that day and take my time. It's simple tips like these that go a long way. Thanks!
In my last couple flights I noticed the Remos flies noticeably different without a passenger so I wanted to go up to practice, practice, practice some more solo landings.The weather was absolutely beautiful and it was also International Young Eagles Day, so the airport was quite a bit busier than when I normally fly during the week. It was a great feeling to know that even though the airport was heavy with traffic, I was comfortable with the workload.
This is also a great example of one of the many unexpected lessons, those real-life experiences, I've encountered in my training that have helped me become a better pilot. Sometimes the best lessons are the ones you can't plan for.None of my landings today were great, but none were bad either. They all could've been better. By the end of the day I felt I had a much better feel for landing the Remos without a passenger. So what's left? Below are the requirements I have to complete for a sport pilot certificate. All that remains is one more hour of solo flight and some flight time with Jason to review for the checkride. I'm on the homestretch and I'm getting excited! __√__ 20 hours of flight time including:__√__ 15 hours of dual instruction_____ 5 hours of solo flight time __√__ 2 hours of cross-country dual instruction__√__ 10 takeoffs and landings to a full stop involving traffic pattern__√__ a solo cross-country flight over 75 miles with full stop landings at two points with one leg longer than 25 nautical miles__√__ ground training from instructor or home course__√__ FAA knowledge test_____ 3 hours of dual test preparation with instructor in the preceding 60 days of practical test_____ CHECKRIDE! (FAA practical test)
Posted by Garrett @ 11:38 AM, June 23 So have you picked a day or a date coming up to go take your test? Sounds like you will be done before Osh!! Gonna fly in this year?www.mypilotchronicles.com
Posted by Garrett @ 11:56 AM, June 23 I guess Since your there, you could leave and then fly in. Just to get the experience.
Posted by Russ Hearn @ 04:34 PM, June 23 Brady, you sure make flight training look fun! I just realized it looks like I have the same headset as you do. I bought the AVCOMM AC900 and I really like the fit and feel. I am sure looking forward to the day when I have the confidence needed to solo. Right now the thought scares the daylights out of me because of my inexperience. Your on your way man, God Bless!
Posted by Brett Campany @ 07:28 PM, June 23 That's great work mate! There's nothing like being thrown a curve ball when you're flying! Your weekend solo flying was pretty good! Not long now before your text, I hope you get to video the whole thing and I also hope that you keep up with the video blog. Every time I watch one of your video's I get that passion and urge to head down to the airfield and go flying!During my flight test a few months back my examiner threw something at me that I had never done before or expected. As always our circuits are left hand circuits so after a touch and go at about 200 feet he told me to do a non-standard right hand low level circuit. I just complied without thought and pulled it off. If you can deal with something totally unexpected from either ATC or another aircraft and do it without skipping a beat than you can pretty much do anything.I'd feels more than safe flying with you mate, you're doing well, keep it up!
Posted by Adam Smith @ 10:14 PM, June 23 All my dreams have come true... I'm in Brady's blog! (Skywagon 4653B)
Posted by John G @ 04:00 AM, June 24 Nice work.This might interest you, here in SA, for Light Sport, we are required to do 35 hours total, 5 hours of solo circuits and 10 hours general flying solo. (15 hours total solo)and XC of 150nm not shorter than 90min.Wish I could visit at AirVenture!!!Jg
Posted by Bryan Hasse @ 12:02 AM, June 25 I have followed your blog since the beginning and I have enjoyed watching your progress. It has been my dream to fly since I was in high school. Now that I am almost 37 yrs old I am finally going to follow my dream and start my private pilot training within the next couple of weeks. I have selected my instructor and I am excited to finally make my dream a reality. Please keep the blog going as it has inspired me to follow my dream of flight!!
Posted by Randy Dallas @ 09:25 PM, June 25 You look very confident and at ease now that you have a few hours of solo time under your belt. I can tell that it has all come together for you quite well! Congrats.Today was a big day for me...at 13.5hrs of flight time I did my first solo flight. It was 2 touch and goes and a full stop landing for a total of .4rs. not a lot but enough to feel like I was a pilot for the first time. It was a great experience that I'll keep with me forever. And I am definitely with you on the floating on landing with no one in the right seat issue! The Remos just wants to keep flying and flying.Dual and solo cross countries and a bit of solo time along with a bit of practice/prep and I should be ready. Estimated completion date is Thursday of next week.Good luck with your preparation and looking forward to reading about your successful check ride!Randy
Posted by Erik @ 10:17 AM, June 30 It's quite normal here at KBED to be told you're number 5 or 6 to land! :)Solo is behind me but endless rain in the N.E., only 2 flights in June. Watching Brady's videos is just about my only flying this month.
I was more nervous before this flight than any others up to now. Leaving Oshkosh for the first time with no one else in the plane is a big milestone, and to be honest, downright nerve racking.Those nerves were good though, because it made me study the sectional chart all afternoon the day before my flight. I also made sure to read every bit of information available about the airports and runways I'd be landing at.With the fuel topped off and practically no winds, I took off for my first airport—Portage (C47) about 50 miles away. It was an awesome feeling when I spotted my first airport from the air and an even better feeling when I landed at it. After navigating and landing at my second airport, Dodge Country (UNU), I headed home.
As soon as I cleared Runway 9 back at Oshkosh, I was overcome with adrenaline and excitement. At that moment, I remember feeling like a real pilot for the first time.I'm curious if this is the point in other student pilots' training when they first feel like a real pilot. I know there are numerous benchmarks in the training process—but this one was a great one for me.
Posted by Anthony Adkins @ 05:56 PM, June 18 Brady,While I would probably be more cautions asking a question about this, we are all pilots and we know the question has to be answered to be safe and "legal"....You and Jason are not tiny people, how close is the weight and balance with you two in the plane? Do you have to fly the Remos without full fuel?
Posted by Tom M. @ 06:08 PM, June 18 Brady - watching your progress is really fantastic. Thanks for putting all this in video as well as text.Say, your Pilot Log showsHours flown: 28.3Days since I started: 247Cost to date: $4,334.80 *price includes ground instruction, flight instruction, books and supplies"Does that "Cost to Date" include the costs for renting the plane and insurance?Thanks.Tom
Posted by Ernest @ 06:27 PM, June 18 Congratulations! Really proud of you!
Posted by drinky @ 07:34 PM, June 18 Congrats on the first solo x-country! I did mine just over a year ago. That's when it became very "real" that I was going to finish my license. (Finally, I've wanted to fly since I was a wee lad...) We now have a Cessna 170, and my wife is finishing up her license this month. Anyway, you're through the big hurdles now, on to the finish!!!
Posted by Lindy Kirkland @ 08:08 PM, June 18 Brady, Congratulations on that cross country! I know that was a huge confidence builder for you. I really love cross country flying and seeing the US from low altitude. It is just such a neat feeling. Again, congratulations and I look forward to seeing you again at Oshkosh!Lindy KirklandPresidentThe Air Care Alliance
Posted by Anna M Osborn @ 09:30 PM, June 18 Dodge Co...is that the one with the hump in the middle and a huge drop-off? I flew in there once...after I had my ticket. If you landed there on a solo cross country you are doing very well! Yes, cross country flights do give you a "real pilot" feeling..
Posted by Randy Dallas @ 09:58 PM, June 18 Congratulations on your X-country...a big moment indeed. I to am training in a Remos G3-600 and find it to be a wonderful aircraft for this purpose. The Remos is quite responsive without being to touchy which has made it easy to learn flight maneuvers. I am 6.5hrs into my accelerated flight program and am just starting to get the flair down...I've even squeeked a couple of landings to boot. No flying today but I did get a chance to take my FAA Written exam and finished with a 98%. With that out of the way I can now concentrate on maneuvers and preparation for my first solo, which should take place sometime next week. I want to thank you for sharing you training with the rest of us...It has helped to see that I am experiencing some of the same things as you have described. It's comforting to know that its not just me so I must be on the right track. Good luck with the rest of your training!
Posted by Paul Aseltine @ 07:50 AM, June 19 Hi BradyGreat job on your cross country. I remember flying to Ludington MI (LDM) and the closer I got the clouds were getting lower. I landed and taxied to the FBO. I saw a navy pilot starting to taxi to depart. He asked me who I was and congratulated me for my flight and told me that if I get lost I should fly low enough to read the town name on a water tower. That brought back good memories. Are you eventually go for your private license?Thank you for the efforts you have made to share your experiences.
Posted by bikesandcars @ 07:53 AM, June 19 I was fine BEFORE my first x-country, but at about 4500' and 10 miles from my home airport I realized I was very much alone. I had a wave of anxiety come over me I've never felt before or since. I found it helpful to sing out loud a little, I dont know why. After a few minutes and some gatorade I relaxed and had a great solo x-country. The first time I really felt like a pilot was a few months ago. I now have my license. I flew a x-country with my girlfriend, and we had to divert to a class C airport due to very strong and gusting cross winds. I made some mistakes, but landed fine and ferried the plane back the next morning. Flying is easy, its making good decisions that define a good pilot, and I finally feel like I can make good decisions in the cockpit
Posted by Bill Marcy @ 09:11 AM, June 19 For years, I have maintained that I became a pilot the moment the T-Craft lifted off the ground for the first time with only me in it. If you are alone and the sole manipulator of the controls, you are a PILOT! I became a PILOT just 6 weeks after my 16th birthday in 1944, everything since then has been just learning to get better.
Posted by Douglas @ 11:40 AM, June 19 Nice going Brady!I would have to say the first time I felt like a real pilot was when I could go somewhere without checking in with my instructor. I still had to see if the plane was available, but I didn't have to tell him where I was going or why, just write a check when I get back. I have since joined a flying club (closer and cheaper/hr.), and can go wherever I want pretty much whenever I want. It's great!
Posted by Brady Lane @ 11:49 AM, June 19 Anthony: Great question! I've been waiting for somebody to ask this question on the blog. The empty weight of the plane is 665 lbs. Jason and I together weigh 465. Add 132 lbs. for 22 gallons of fuel and the total comes to 1262 - still 60 lbs. under gross. And that's for two big boys. I've been really impressed with what the Remos can carry. I don't think we could've done this training in some other small planes.Tom: good question about the cost tally on the blog. We included this feature on the blog to give people a realistic idea of what my training would cost in a normal situation. We are grateful that Remos has donated the plane to EAA for this project (as well as the AirAcademy program) and Jason has been donating his instruction. However, we still wanted to give people a realistic idea of what my training would cost in a real-world situation. So, I am calculating the plane rental at $99/hr. (wet), which is what a similar aircraft on the field rents for, and Jason's instruction at $36/hr. I also understand pricing will vary for people depending on location, aircraft and how long the training takes, but at least this hopefully will give people a realistic idea of the costs.Ernest and drinky: thanks and I am looking forward to the finish line!Lindy: so good to hear from you again! Look forward to seeing you here in Oshkosh in about a month!Anna: I landed and departed and Runway 02 at Dodge Co. and don't remember any bumps, but I did land and takeoff only on the first third or so of the runway. It could've also been on the intersecting runway 08/26. Either way, I'm glad I didn't encounter a big runway bump on my first solo x-country.Randy: Keep me informed of your accelerated training in the Remos. I bet you pick things up much quicker because of the proficiency factor. I'm interested to hear how it compares with how I did it. And be sure to let us know when you solo, so we can celebrate with you! It's an incredible feeling.Paul: Good question. I'll try to answer it as briefly as I can. 95% of the flying I'm interested in doing can be done with the sport pilot certificate, so for the time being I'm going to go enjoy the skies as a sport pilot. However, I've always enjoyed night flying, so one day I may go on to pursue my private. Tailwheel training is is also attractive. Floats would be fun too. There's a whole world of fun out there, so we'll see what's next.bikesandcars: Thanks for your comment and I love what you said... "Flying is easy, it's making good decisions that define a good pilot." Diverting to that Class C airport in the situation you described shows you are indeed in the good pilot category. I'm writing your quote on a post-it note and putting it by my computer.Bill: Yes, you are so correct. Are you still flying? I bet you have some great stories!Douglas: It's funny you mention that. Jason wanted me to call him before I left for this flight, but the weather was so nice and the plane was ready, so I didn't even think to call him until I reached my first airport. By the time I landed at my second airport, I noticed I had a text message from him, but the engine was running, so I just decided to call him when I returned to OSH. I should've called him ahead of time and intended to, but totally forgot. He laughed when I finally called. It is a good feeling when your instructor trusts you and your judgement to the point where you don't have to check in before every flight.
Posted by Dave S @ 12:08 PM, June 19 Awesome! Nice Job! Looks like you had perfect weather for a solo cross country. That feeling of accomplishment is something only us pilots can understand. Welcome to the club!
Posted by Nicholas Wood @ 02:53 PM, June 19 Brady you need to decide...are you going for your sport pilot license? Or not? Or with this number of hours and this much money spent have you decided to just go after your PPL. I think your blog casts an unrealistic example of a regular Joe earning his wings. You've spent more time not flying then learning and most of your time in the air now is spent remembering what it was you learned six months ago. You don't seem very committed at this point and I am ??? why this blog is on EAA's page. You are doing more harm than good at this point. I am not impressed. I went from zero time logged to passing my check ride in seven days with 21 hours logged. Trying to set the record for most money spent on light sport training? While both lengths of times are unrealistic, my time was closer to average then yours. Basically I think this blog needs to find a new home besides the EAA page. Your blog is very uninspiring and if your instructors are having a hard time getting the job done then you need to travel just a little further south to Sport Pilot Chicago in Newark, IL...find a man there, Bud Cushing, and get done with this before you throw away more money and time. What ever you are doing is wrong and discouraging to others who thanks to you are going to think earning their wings will suck a year off their lives and 5K from there wallets.Nicholas WoodEAA 831459
Posted by John G @ 04:06 PM, June 19 I was going to write about how I passed my Final Flight Test today, but Mr Wood had put me right off. He seems to think everyone has time to fly, Fact is these days people just dont have the time. Also here is RSA the requirement for Light Sport is 35 hours minimum. Please dont let him put you off! Not Everyone has the money to spend in one go. This blog is anything but discouraging!!!PS: Now I just have to wait for my License.
Posted by George @ 04:26 PM, June 19 Nick,I think every student has unique experiences in learning to fly. Some are worst or better than others. I don't think there is a reason to be negative. I do welcome your insight. Good flying to you.Grady,Great blog Grady! I find it very inspiring.George
Posted by Scott @ 04:39 PM, June 19 Brady,Just found your site for the first time. Looks like you are doing great.I would say that you are a pilot the first time you touch the controls. Every minute in an airplane is a learning experience no mater how long you fly.Good job planning. One thing I find helpful is google earth. I put the measuring tool at my departure airport then the destination. Then I zoom in and follow the line. Later when you fly for real it feels like you have already been there.Please do not take this the wrong way, but please make it a habit to no longer sit at the end of the rwy reading your charts or preparing for your flight. You are very exposed there and I would not want something bad happen to you. This is especially true at a non-towered airport, not everyone uses a radio.Great job and enjoy it all, not to worry about time, it is all flying.
Posted by Brady Lane @ 05:22 PM, June 19 Nicholas: First off, congratulations on earning your certificate in 21 hours. I would love to have earned mine in 21 hours and you bring up a good point - it is possible to earn a sport pilot certificate in much less time and with less money - especially if you enroll in an accelerated program and do nothing but fly and study. The purpose of this blog is not to show how quick or how cheap a person can earn a pilot's license. This blog aims to merely show one person's journey to becoming a pilot - and in my case that includes real life obstacles like work schedules, plane repairs, weather and aircraft availability. I feel I am a better pilot now because I've learned how to fit aviation into my regular life with these real-life scheduling issues. For me, that's a valuable lesson to learn in becoming a pilot.Thank you again for raising the point that it can be done much quicker and much cheaper than I've done it. In fact, you've given me an idea for a future blog post. I obviously chose to do the "extended" route, but would be interested to hear from people who learned the accelerated way. Thanks again Nicholas.
Posted by Brady Lane @ 05:27 PM, June 19 John G: Congrats on passing your flight test! That's awesome. I can't wait for the day I can report similar news!George: Thanks also for your encouraging words.Scott: Thank you for your comment about not sitting at the end of the runway. This was my first time at an airport without a taxiway alongside the runway and for whatever reason I didn't see the pull-off at the end of the runway until just now when I watched the video again. I even remember looking for one while I was back-taxiing. Even though I was making radio calls, I knew it wasn't good to sit on the runway so I tried making my time there as brief as possible. Next time I will definitely look for a pull off now that I know they're there. Lesson learned. Thanks for pointing that out.
Posted by Will Strong @ 06:32 PM, June 19 Good going Brady. I've been following your blog from the beginning. I'm going for my PPL and have my night x-country tonight... can't wait! I fly out of KBFI in Seattle so I know the woes of weather. Good luck going forward!Nicholas, first off I would say this video blog is the most comprehensive and informative of any flight training blog I've found. Also, if you take the time to read all the comments I think you'll find many people have been inspired. In fact, a few even give credit to this blog for starting them off!
Posted by Nicholas Wood @ 07:31 PM, June 19 If the typical sport pilot student spent this much money and time on aircraft rental, instruction, fuel, books, materials, ect...and close to 40 hours on instruction, then other than the fact that the FAA medical is not required would be the only benefit to the student. With that in mind a student would be better off going PP rather than SP. Sure, sure life, job, money, and time, family obligations can keep us out of the air. But if that is the case then why isn't Brady a sport pilot yet? More time and money has been spent here getting close to a license than a busy poor person would have spent. But when I read this blog all I see is pandering. The longer it takes Brady to demonstrate what it takes for "Average Joe" to accomplish, the longer Remos gets to attach a name to it and the more Money EAA makes on the banner advertising surrounding the blog.Kudos Brady on your success! And Kudos Remos for finding away to maintain a years worth of bottom page headlines.
Posted by Paul Stuart @ 09:34 PM, June 19 It looks to me like Brady is having very much an "Average Joe" experience. Prior to Sport Pilot, we were told that the average completion time for a Private was 70 to 80 hours. Brady is on track to gain his Sport license in 35hrs or less, and this includes a major maintenance disruption that hardly supports your "conspiracy theory" - I seriously doubt Remos wanted that kind of publicity. Brady, please don't let these few cynical comments get you down. I have followed your blog since the beginning and read all the comments. You have done a fantastic and informative job and clearly inspired many people.
Posted by Tim Whittenburg @ 04:12 AM, June 20 I decided to post this after reading the comments from Mr. Wood. I just wanted to say Bravo Zulu to you Brady for posting this blog for those of us pursuing a pilot’s license. I have 15 hours now towards my PPL and I have learned a lot from watching your videos despite the differences in obtaining the Sport License.
Posted by Pear D. @ 09:01 AM, June 20 Brady – Continue to fly “the high road” and you will go far. Thank you so much for sharing this blog with us in such a positive way, your successes as well as your challenges and frustrations. It has been an inspiration to me as well as many others from the comments I have read. Thanks also to EAA, Remos and Justin for supporting such an informative, professional project. It has inspired many to start flying, has rekindled memories of those who have been there, and, I expect it has been, and will be, a positive for EAA and Remos.
Posted by Dave S. @ 01:14 PM, June 20 Getting your certificate in 21 hours gives you nothing more than bragging rights. And it does not mean you are a better pilot. I have always been suspicious about "crash courses" in aviation. Why wouldn't you want to take your time learning to fly? That is the best part sometimes, the learning aspect of it. Spending more time with an instructor is always a benefit as well...no matter how many hours you have logged.Keep it up Brady!
Posted by Walt W. @ 04:50 PM, June 20 I hold a PPL, I've been following Brady, I would rather go up with Brady right now before getting his ticket than with Mr. Wood and his 21 hrs.
Posted by dj willis @ 07:12 PM, June 20 hello i am really interested in planes and i am looking for someone around the age of 13 to basically become email friends with me. I am looking for someone that shares the same dreams as me to become a commercial pilot. if so please email me at david08_@live.com
Posted by John C @ 07:50 PM, June 20 Mr. Woods.. this is what makes blogs so fun.There's always one moron to stir it up. Quit worrying about Brady, the EAA, Remos, and go fly and build up some hours so that you are as proficient as Brady is.
Posted by G. L. Leland @ 07:57 PM, June 20 I'm just shy of 58 years old and been considering getting the sport pilot license. Wasn't sure what to expect from the video blog and stayed away for a while. I finally checked it out and now I can't wait for the next installment! I don't excite easily, but I am truly excited for you in this endeavor. It makes me all the more determined to try myself. Take your time and enjoy every moment you can, age has a way of sneaking in and robbing you. Perhaps at the end of the training you could put it out on DVD. Good Luck.
Posted by Brian Hadfield @ 01:07 AM, June 21 Bravo Mr. Woods, you have done a wonderful job stirring up things around here and getting lots of attention. It looks like you have a type “A” personality like me. You should have no problem fitting in with the rest of the piloting community. So you got your certificate with the bare minimums in your log book, well almost. And I’m sure you knowledge is probably the same. If you actually stay in aviation for more reasons than just thinking being a pilot makes you cool you will see that there is not actually just one correct way to achieve your goal. I can see the path you thought was correct for you was the most efficient cost effective means possible and just because that worked for you doesn’t mean it’s going to for the next guy. Good luck with the rest of your aviation adventure. If you ever think about pursuing aviation as a career you should check out ATP, they to will push you through your ratings with bare minimum times and knowledge enough to pass a check ride.Brady, keep doing what your doing which is having fun learning to fly and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. Any way’s I’m sure you have gotten to see and do way more fun things during the pursuit of your license than Mr. Wood. Just remember you can’t make everyone happy and there is always going to be someone who is better than you (or at least think).Happy fathers day.
Posted by Dennis @ 01:12 AM, June 21 Totally agree with you. My first solo cross-country was when I felt like a "real" pilot. And it is still the most enjoyable part of flying for me today, some 20 years later!
Posted by WP @ 08:07 AM, June 21 Congrats on the X-country! I guess their is a certain bravado that goes along with aviation, So for the "Woods in the world" maybe next flight you could wear a leather jacket, scarf and cigar.Keep up the great work! Your an inspiration to us all, even us GREAT pilots!
Posted by Garrett @ 10:31 PM, June 21 WOW.. you can sure tell allot of people are watching your every move Brady! This just goes to prove how many people are following your progress and are sincerely interested in you and your adventure. Great Job on the X-C. I bet that feeling is amazing. I too look forward to that when my time comes. Again congrats on all your success..www.mypilotchronicles.com
Posted by Dwight @ 10:47 PM, June 21 Brady,Thank you very much for this very thorough documentation of your experience, and thanks to EAA also. I am 58 years old and I have been considering building a Light Sport airplane and getting my Sport Pilots Certificate for some months. I have spent countless hours reading books, talking to people and surfing the web learning about all facets of this exciting hobby. Tonight, Father’s Day 2009, is a special day. Tonight I have made the decision to do this. I have selected which aircraft to build and I am certain that I can get my pilot’s certificate, thanks to your blog. You have done a wonderful thing for many like me. I hope I have the opportunity to meet you at Oshkosh and shake your hand. Best of luck and success to you. PS – Mr. Wood is an idiot.
Posted by Kelly Nelson @ 09:49 AM, June 22 Hey, it's not the number of hours in your logbook that make you a pilot (or even a good one), it's the things you experience over the course of those hours. Take your time Brady. I respect pilots who take care to truly learn and own the skill as opposed to those who cram for the test so they can move on to the next rating or license.
Posted by Nooman Naqvi @ 12:45 PM, June 22 Congrats on your 1st cross country.
Posted by John Gifford jr. @ 07:18 AM, June 23 Congrats on your solo..Mr. Woods, you just confirm the verbage.."There is always one in every crowd"John Gifford
Posted by Bryan Hunt @ 10:39 PM, June 24 As has been well stated by others, I would definitely encourage anyone reading this blog to not let these left field comments from Nicholas get you down. And As John G stated: “This blog is anything but discouraging!!!”I did not start learning to fly with the intent of getting it accomplished in the least amount of time or at the least cost. Whether it is the hobby of flying or fishing or vintage cars or etc… we are each fortunate to live in a country that allows us such freedoms. As Brady is trying to show, there is the reality of life for the ‘average’ or ‘typical’ student pilot. I would not categorize your accomplishment as typical, but rather the bare minimum… bravo – hurray for you.Mine private has been a twenty year, 100 hour project… but I am proud to say that if all things align properly I will go for my check ride this coming weekend. I have had to take the enjoyment as I could, in between family, school, job, lost instructor to airline job, airplane mechanical issues, and a dissolved flying club. While you may be able to represent the other extreme of the scale… this is not a project or activity to undertake with the entire goal of least time and cost. If this had been a race to the end… then great, you won. To me, it was not the destination, but the experience of the journey. It will be (has been already) a journey with which I have learned much and enjoyed more and am very proud of. I also know that once I have that certificate in my pocket… it will continue to serve just as my college ID… that I have earned the license to continue to learn.Anyone that chooses to do so, joins the membership of the few of the whole population that can say they can get into an airplane and pilot themselves to whenever and wherever they desire.Brady… keep up the great work! And good luck as you prepare for your check ride!! As with many here, we will miss the blogs… so maybe you can continue it with a sharing of flying experiences, learning and maybe even further endorsements.On Dreams and Wings… Blue Skies to All!!Regards,Bryan
Posted by Randy Epstein @ 08:01 PM, June 25 Brady, Great job and you're almost there. I remember my first solo cross country back in 1972. The clock said I should see the airport and I started getting worried when I crested a little mountain ridge and found myself right on top of it. It is a great feeling.I'm very sorry Mr. Wood has chosen this place to try and make us believe he is Mr. Pilot. If he's so good why didn't he go ahead and get his PPC as surely he could have done it in 40 hours! Brady, hope to meet you at AirVenture.
I've only soloed once before and it was five months ago, so in many ways this felt like a first solo all over again. The first time you solo, there is a lot of attention and celebration, but the second time, there will likely be nobody watching (most times not even your instructor). The fact that nobody is keeping an eye on you is an interesting feeling — a great feeling of responsibility.Do other student pilots have this same feeling the first time you fly with no one else watching? Even though it's been a while, I knew what to expect. Or at least I thought I did. I remember the plane climbing faster and the amazing view from being able to see out the entire right window, but there was one thing on landing I didn't notice on my first solo. You can really feel ground effect on landing. In fact, you have to prepare for it, because without the extra weight of a passenger the plane just wants to float about 5 ft. above the runway for a long time. I started to get the hang of it by the third landing, but also realized that the plane flies and lands quite a bit different without a passenger. I mention in the video there was a temporary flight restriction just a couple miles north of Oshkosh for President Obama's visit to the area. I checked right before our flight to make sure I had the latest information. Here is a PDF of the TFR.
Even though there wasn't a crowd gathered at my second solo I was just as thrilled when I taxied back to the hangar. And the fact that nobody was watching was strangely a great feeling as well.
Posted by Adam Smith @ 08:04 AM, June 16 The grass is a lot greener than the first time you soloed! Like you my flight training was interrupted by a maintenance problem. There was a six month gap before I soloed again in a different aeroplane (C150 vs Cub). I always felt I sort of had two solos... but really there is nothing to match the very first time.
Posted by Russ Hearn @ 04:44 PM, June 16 Brady! I'm in man! I passed my flight exam today and now I can finish ground school and start flying too. I was really sweating the exam because of my age(55) and I am sure glad it's over. God bless your flying!
Posted by Brady Lane @ 05:14 PM, June 16 That's awesome Russ! A big congratulations to you!
Posted by Brett Campany @ 07:58 AM, June 17 Great to see you're back on the solo track mate! Nothing like getting up there on your own. Shouldn't be to long now before your training's done isn't it?You've got a great record of your training but I also highly recommend other students record their training as well. I've got this page up with a blog and heaps of photos here in Australia, check it out and to those new students, keep a record of your training because you'll love looking back on this time!http://brettscollection.shutterfly.com/
Posted by Christine P. @ 02:44 PM, June 17 There's definitely a feeling of responsibility flying solo. I can't help but think, "What if something goes wrong? Will I do the right thing at the right time?" Of course, that's what all the training is for! But to go with the responsibility, there's a tremendous excitement and sense of freedom, too. We're very lucky as fliers to get to experience that feeling and that freedom.
Posted by Garrett @ 03:30 PM, June 17 Good Job Brady.. Looks like you are well on your way! The XC is gonna be a blast I bet. I have been planning XC's like crazy just for something to do.. www.mypilotchronicles.com
Posted by John G @ 01:16 AM, June 18 We want to see the planning in the vid!(time lapsed)I have my Flight Test (Check Ride) tomorrow!Excited and nervous as hell!
Posted by Lyn @ 08:58 PM, June 19 Wow! Fun to share the trip with you! Hope you keep this on your page for a bit. I know my husband will want to watch it.
Posted by Richard Jacobs @ 06:07 PM, June 28 Brady6/27, red letter day for me! Check-ride and one hundred degree temps in Dallas. Watching your blog instilled some confidence and info when the going got tough. Just to let you know - YOU CAN'T BELIEVE THE FEELING YOU WILL EXPERIENCE GETTING THAT TICKET. Hooray, I'm a pilot!Thanks for being there ... See you in Oshkosh.Dick
Posted by Brady Lane @ 09:38 AM, June 29 Richard: Congratulations on your certificate! ...and to take your checkride in 100+ temps is impressive. I'm glad to hear the blog helped you out on your journey. Please continue to chime in with tips and advice. Was your checkride what you expected it to be like? Be sure to stop by the learn to fly center at AirVenture because Jason and I will be doing a few forum Q&As during the week. I'd love to hear more about your experience.
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