Today I flew with another instructor to get a different perspective. We were planning on going out to practice stalls and ground reference maneuvers, but shortly after take-off, I noticed an unusual draft in the plane, so we entered the pattern and came in for a landing.Making good decisions is a big part of being a good pilot. If something just doesn't feel right, come in for a landing.
We discovered that the windshield had separated slightly from the airframe, causing a draft to come into the cockpit. It was good practice for me to stay calm and focus on flying the plane in a less-than-perfect situation. We obviously made it down with no trouble.The problem was almost certainly caused by moving the plane straight from a heated hangar (over 60 degrees F) to extremely cold temperatures outside (about 1 degree F). Another lesson learned: be very careful when moving planes from heated hangars to frigid temps outside. We are repairing the windshield and will be back in the air soon. But until then, Jason reminds me I have plenty to study on the ground in preparation for my written test.
Posted by Bhargav @ 04:31 PM, January 30 Yup, that was a good learning experience. I am really enjoying your videos and also following the training. keep up the good work.Thanks.
Posted by Brett Campany @ 05:20 PM, January 30 Good decisions mate, well done! I went up last week with a new instructor as well, he's really happy with my circuits and told me that if the cross wind wasn't so strong that I would've done my solo. It feels good to know that I'm at that stage right now.I've had a situation like yours as well, did some flapless landings and before take off dropped the flaps to 10 degrees. When we reached 300ft I tried to put the flaps up but they failed. We completed a 70 knot circuit (slowest circuit I've ever done) kept my cool and landed with 10 degree of flap. It's really good when you know your training can just kick in in the event something goes wrong. Keeping your cool is something to be desired because I've heard of people flipping out when something goes wrong and that can only end in disaster!Anyhow, it's back to the books for me to. Look forward to seeing your next video.
Posted by rusty @ 10:31 PM, January 30 what's up with video banding during the audio?
Posted by Art @ 10:01 AM, January 31 The banding is caused by the radio transmitter. The RF energy is picked up by the camera electronics when in close proximity to the transmitter.
Posted by Right rudder @ 02:44 PM, February 05 Dude if I had a buck for everytime my CFI gets on me about the right rudder I would not have a lot more $$$ to pay for my lessons. You are not alone. Love to blog!!!
Posted by Ross @ 07:33 PM, February 06 While at the EAA airshow last year in Oshkosh, I purchased King Schools "King Checkride Course" Sport Pilot CD-ROM. There are six cd's in video form with John King acting as student from beginning to end. I think you will find this second to none. Good luck.
Posted by Tom Torr @ 07:54 PM, February 15 Brady: Good job, keep up the great flying. You're instructor sounds pretty cool. How's the heater in the REMOS? it looks pretty cold in Wisconsin this time of the year. I checked out the REMOS web-site, it's an awesome company.
Posted by Brady Lane @ 08:47 AM, February 16 Tom: Thanks for your comment and question. The heater in the Remos is actually very effective. In fact, most days I have to turn it down because it gets too warm - even on Wisconsin winter days. The reason you see my breath in this video is because of the draft from the windshield, which obviously is not normally there. Do most LSAs have good cockpit heaters or is this unique to Remos?
Posted by Ron H @ 10:14 AM, February 17 You'll find fairly good cockpit heaters in most aircraft. The problem will be in keeping cool in the summer months. The Remos in particular has poor ventilation for the face and upper body and with all that glass to let the sun in, it can get pretty hot. In the southwest where we routinely get over 100, we take the doors off when it's hot and limit indicated airspeed to 100 mph, per Remos. The factory tells us the problem has been addressed in the newest GX they're coming out with and we're supposed to be getting a window vent modification for the G3's we have now.
Posted by sean greenfield @ 07:32 PM, February 27 just found this blog... I'm getting ready for my solo as well and this is fantastic! i'm having communication difficulties (KPAO- lots of traffic) so it was nice to hear some different takes. Thanx!
I did it—I soloed!
The most nerve-racking part of the whole day was right before takeoff. As soon as my wheels lifted off runway 27, I was overcome with excitement, confidence and adrenaline.
I talked to myself the whole time and couldn't help but say "WOW" every five seconds.
Three times around the pattern and three landings!
It's hard to describe the feeling of accomplishment after soloing for the first time. This will be a day I'll never forget!
========
Jason thought some people might be interested in watching the entire first pattern and landing of my solo flight, so below is the whole thing from wheels up to wheels down.
Posted by Proud Dad @ 05:19 PM, January 21 Brady I am SOOO Proud!!! Looked like you would have had a hard time knowing when you touched down it was so nice. I am really proud and can't wait to fly with you. Hope it is OK I signed as "Proud Dad".
Posted by Shaun Stamnes @ 05:38 PM, January 21 Way to go Brady! I have been watching every video as they come out and even though I have never met you, I felt a great sense of pride at your accomplishment! Keep up the great work. This blog is an inspiration to those of us still working toward our ticket.
Posted by Dave @ 06:33 PM, January 21 Congratulations Brady. The smile on my face watching you solo was as big as yours. Reminded me of when I first solo'd.
Posted by Chris P. @ 06:46 PM, January 21 Congrats Brady ! Great job !
Posted by Larry Werner @ 07:22 PM, January 21 Hey Brady!!!Congratulations on your solo. I soloed today too. I wrote you a couple of weeks ago about training in the Remos G3 like you. I was so excited to drop my instructor off at the terminal and head out. He signed off on my solo endorsement and said "go have fun". Like you I did 3 take offs and landings. What an awesome experience. Then when we got back to the FBO my instructor cut my shirt tail off, actually he cut off the entire back of my shirt off and then signed and dated it. We took several pictures and I got a bunch of "congratulations" from everyone in the office. I will remember that experience forever. Wow!! Saturday starts short field and soft field take offs and some more solo pattern work.Way to go Brady!!!Larry
Posted by Jeff Frey @ 07:28 PM, January 21 Congrats Brady, You will remember this day for the rest of your life and when you hear someone else's story you will draw parallels to your own. Even after you get your license you will continue to talk to yourself when you are alone in the plane and you will always critique your landings.
Posted by Matthew @ 07:50 PM, January 21 Congrats Brady! I've been watching your progress and it's great to see your excitement on your first solo. I am starting my private pilot in April and am extremely excited. Your videos have definitely helped me understand just what I can expect to experience. Thanks, and keep up the good work!
Posted by Ray @ 09:22 PM, January 21 Cangrats Brady! I am a few hours behind you in training with about 11 and according to hints from my inst., I figure on soloing somewhere around 14 hrs. I don't know if you realized it or not, but you have been a big help and inspiration to alot of people. Thanks!
Posted by Brett Campany @ 09:25 PM, January 21 Brilliant work mate, well done!! And you're right, you'll never forget this day! Great flying, good landings and big cheesy grin at the end, well done mate!
Posted by Chris @ 09:27 PM, January 21 Congratulations! Ive been watching your progress since you began and its been fun. You are doing great! Keep up the good work.
Posted by Richard Judy @ 09:50 PM, January 21 Brady...CONGRATULATIONS!!! It reminds me of my first solo. I wasn't really prepared for the helicopter-like performance of the airplane (I fly a C-172 with the 180HP conversion and a constant-speed prop). All my landings were better than when I was with my instructor...in fact, he commented on them from the tower that I have on video. I noticed you didn't show video of the shirt tail coming off...get a video of that...it's a tradition :-)
Posted by Janet D @ 10:34 PM, January 21 Congratulations :) There's not many things in life that compare to your first solo flight. The memory rarely fades. Have fun with the rest of it.
Posted by Adam Smith @ 10:35 PM, January 21 Brady!!! Well done!!! I realised towards the end of the video that I'd been smiling all the way through. This brought back memories of my own first solo in an L-4 Cub ten years ago... chattering away to myself the whole way round. You will never forget this day and no-one can ever take this achievement away from you. Now, keep going to the end!It is GREAT to see how you are inspiring other people through the blog. Congratulations to Larry Werner also for soloing in a Remos on the same day!
Posted by Peter Pike @ 10:39 PM, January 21 Yay!!! You did it! Congratulations Brady!!!
Posted by rusty @ 10:41 PM, January 21 sweet documentation - the added lift rocks...at least you didn't see that SMOKE after you tookoff! a day you'll never forget for suresolo X-C here you come!
Posted by Tom @ 05:56 AM, January 22 Congratulations pilot! You have done something that few people will every even attempt.
Posted by Ron H @ 08:22 AM, January 22 Congratulations Brady. I was grinning from ear to ear watching you solo knowing exactly what you were feeling. Keep up the good work and welcome to the pilot community.
Posted by Alex Mumley @ 08:51 AM, January 22 Hey Congrats!!! :D Enjoy the rest of your flying until you get your pilots licence!! I just started flying not to long ago!! I love it.... happy flying!!
Posted by Douglas @ 10:52 AM, January 22 WOOOOOHOOOOO! CONGRATULATIONS BRADY!Great job! Pretty amazing feeling, huh?
Posted by Ben @ 11:43 AM, January 22 That was a great video! I watched the second one and it was almost like I was there with you. (BTW, I don't fly at all.) Someday, I'll get my chance to fly!
Posted by Grant @ 12:07 PM, January 22 Fantastic, well done. This is a great Blog.
Posted by Kelly @ 12:20 PM, January 22 Good Job, Brady. Wish you could have heard the cheers at the office when we'd heard you'd done it. You definitely have a lot of people pulling for you! Good luck with the next steps!
Posted by steve mach @ 03:26 PM, January 22 well done sir, CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
Posted by Mike Tucker @ 03:59 PM, January 22 Hey Brady! Great job. Have to love that snow! My solo was in Syracuse in the snow, too! Congrats!!
Posted by Kristy @ 04:21 PM, January 22 Nice job Brady!!! It was great to see how someone else experienced their solo. I was smiling and clapping the whole time. How fantastic is it that you have this milestone on video. I look forward to your solo x-country!
Posted by Piet van Luijt @ 04:41 PM, January 22 Brady, My congratulations !!Your blog is amazing.I am a Remos flyer from the Netherlands and fly more than 10 years on this plain.It is already my second one and I have more than 750 houres on the Remos.I can tell you that every flight gifs you an amazing feeling. Yesterday I have flown with my grandson of 8 years. He likes it very much.It is nice to see Oshkosh so quiet. I was there last year with friends during the Oskosh Adventure. It was great !Brady, go on flying ! You do is very well.Greatings from Piet (Holland)
Posted by Mark Foster @ 07:11 PM, January 22 Congrats, Brady!I have never looked at your blog until today (except for the teaser in each "e-Hotline"). After 4500+ hours over the last 22+ years, I still get excited when I get to live vicariously through someone else doing their first solo. You are correct, it is a day you will never forget. Even with my feeble brain after all those years, I still remember mine like it was yesterday! :-)Blue skies and happy flying!
Posted by Akash @ 07:36 PM, January 22 Wow!... Rocket ship :)
Posted by Barry Allison @ 07:50 PM, January 22 Congrats Brady! I've been following your journey from the start and can't wait for each new post. This idea of sharing your learning experience is fantastic. The EAA has struck gold with this one! I'm watching your every move from Canada. Really liked the addition of the outside shots of the take off and landings in the video and the full video of the circuit. More of that would be a nice addition. Can't wait to see the next chapter!
Posted by David Peel @ 08:28 PM, January 22 Congratulations Brady. Your journal has been and will be continued inspiration for this, "someday" pilot! See you at AirVenture, my aviator friend.
Posted by Jamie Hutt @ 08:40 PM, January 22 Congrats Brady! Awesome job. With that solo endorsement in your pocket the real fun is about to start. Did you notice how that tap-tap-tapping on the rudder pedals disappears when the instructor isn't in the aircraft. Weird huh? :-)
Posted by Daniel @ 08:43 PM, January 22 Congratulations Brady. I have been following your blog since Lesson 1. Watched your solo video about 3 times this evening!
Posted by Robert Tabler @ 09:00 PM, January 22 Great job Brady Congrats, Your solo was on a snowy rwy mine was on a nice warm day in NC and when my instructor said it was time I was like Really!!! I was very nervous but as soon as I lifted into the sky wow all my fears melted away. Again congrats and Many Happy Landings.
Posted by Doug Hindman @ 09:22 PM, January 22 Brady, wow, no WOW, WOW! ... congrats and welcome. Just finished the SP myself in May. Nice job handling the smoke on the first try. I like the no/go decision. Good luck on the rest of the training. there will be quiet a few for WOW's. :D
Posted by Paul Aseltine @ 09:27 PM, January 22 Congratulations!!! This was your day to remember. It was so sweet to see you SOLO. The GOOD feeling of being pilot in command never goes away. You are through the first major step, you CAN FINISH the process ALL THE WAY.
Posted by Jeff Franks @ 10:31 PM, January 22 Congrats! My solo was VERY similar. I talked to myself ALL the way around the pattern (still do!). Man, no feeling like it when your wheels clear the ground and you realize "I gotta land this thing now!". An even weirder feeling is yet to come for you...the first time you go out to the plane unsupervised and take off. My first unsupervised solo was nerve racking...not only was I convinced that I'd miss something in the checklist, I felt like a teenager stealing his dad's sportscar! I kept looking back at the terminal building thinking "surely someone is going to stop me!" :)By the way, I'm giving this site out to everyone I know. It's inspired me to get back in the air. first flight back was today. I'm still a few hours away from my PPL, but at least I'm back at it. Keep up the great work!jf
Posted by TN flyer @ 10:31 AM, January 23 CONGRATULATIONS !! Its a feeling of accomplishment that you never forget - the only thing that rivals it is when you pass your checkride !One question - Why didn't they cut your shirt-tail ? Thats an old aviation tradition that I hope does not go by the wayside.
Posted by Pierre @ 10:55 AM, January 23 This never gets old. Goosebumps ,o)
Posted by Greg Hughes @ 12:57 PM, January 23 Congrats Brady! When I soloed a couple months ago, I talked to myself, asked myself out loud if it was okay that I was talking to myself, looked at the right seat in somewhat disbelief, and had a blast. So glad you got to experience that! Watching your video made me smile, reminded me of how that day felt. Woooo!
Posted by Brandon @ 01:15 PM, January 23 Congratulations! I was grinning from ear to ear watching your first trip around the pattern. I'm so looking forward to when it's finally my turn!!
Posted by Brett Campany @ 02:04 PM, January 23 Hey Brady, a question for you mate. Where do you go from here in regards to training? I know that when I do my first solo I'll then be shown and practice forced landings but do you know what else you'll be taught from here on to obtain your certification?
Posted by Brady Lane @ 02:40 PM, January 23 Good question Brett. I had the same question, so yesterday Jason and I sat down to discuss what is next. He gave me a checklist for what we need to accomplish for the sport pilot rating... at least 20 hrs. total time (15 dual, 5 solo), 10 takeoffs and full stop landings, 1 solo cross country flight, written test, review and checkride. He basically encouraged me to hit the books hard, because once we do some cross-country flights, a few more solo flights and review I’ll be headed to the checkride. But before that, I need to take and pass the written test. So, there is a lot of reading and studying in my future. This next week I am going to try to fly with another instructor to practice ground reference maneuvers and and may also do my first unsupervised solo flight if the weather is good.
Posted by EddieK @ 03:49 PM, January 23 Way to go Brady! I am not there yet, but these videos have been an inspiration. Proud of you Bud!
Posted by Larry @ 05:45 PM, January 23 Dude, I missed it but I guess I didn't miss it. Wow, how cool is that. I've been following you for a short while since my instructor sent the link to your blog. I just did my pre cross country 01/21/09. My locating skills (I thought) were pretty good, but my landings were kinda cruddy that day. Not sure why, they were much better before. I'm guessing it was just a bad day for me. Oil well, lol. I'll get it down soon enough. But congrat's I'm proud of ya. Leftlane in Texas
Posted by Alexander Massey @ 06:23 PM, January 23 Hi Brady really really good work. Your videos are a really excellent insite into the learnng process. I hope I get an instructor as friendly and helpful as yours. Here in the UK the price for lessons is quite expensive, I would say almost double the US cost, even with a good exchange rate! Seeing your videos is making me really save hard, and once my Uni is finshed who knows. Anyway all the best, keep up the good landings.Alex Massey
Posted by Geff Galbari @ 06:25 PM, January 23 Great job on your solo,it really brings back some memories. I have really enjoyed watching all of the videos, and recommend this site to anyone interested in learning to fly or wants to get back into it. Keep the videos coming, I look forward to seeing Wisconsin green again.
Posted by Ann Criswel __ THIRST @ 06:26 PM, January 23 Brady, What an exciting trip! WOW, you did it!! I've enjoyed following your whole adventure! Great job. Ann
Posted by Brett Campany @ 10:05 PM, January 23 Cheers for that Brady, sounds very similar to how we do it in Australia. Keep up the good work, looking forward to seeing how you go with another instructor. I'm flying with another instructor this Wednesday and then hopefully going solo that same day.
Posted by Lou Reid @ 11:16 PM, January 23 You said it Brady, WOW, nice work! Isn't it such a feeling of achievement when you finally stop to realize that it was all you? Keep at it, fly safe, and of course, have fun!
Posted by Marty K. @ 09:46 AM, January 24 Man...defintitely the most awesome 30 min. you'll ever know.My mind went back forty yrs.thru a time warp,while watching this. Thanks for sharing with us all,and welcome to a very special fraterninty. congrats...you rock,dude! Marty K.
Posted by Jason J @ 10:59 AM, January 24 Congratulations dude, now the fun begins!! And it is most DEFINITELY ok to tlak to yourself, i dont think i shut up when i soloed!! The first takeoff i thought the same thing DAMN THIS BABY CLIMBS!! and when i came in for my first T&G i noticed that this girl FLOATS without that other person in here!!! Anyway once again congratulations, and i'll be watching the rest of your journey!
Posted by Bhargav @ 04:27 PM, January 24 Congrats Brady.. beautiful beautiful landings there... congrats on your 1st SOLO.
Posted by Jeff Durocher @ 08:44 PM, January 24 Great job Brady! I'm learning at Felts Field. Jay and Addison say hello. Your videos and commentary help me a lot in my training. Thanks and great job, I look forward to following the rest of your training.
Posted by David Healy @ 10:59 AM, January 25 Congratulations Brady. It was cool to see some footage of your flight from outside the cockpit. Have you thought about making a DVD out of these experiences at the end of your journey? I would buy one!
Posted by Bryan @ 06:49 PM, January 25 Congrats! Looking very good, now the fun starts working on all the maneuvers with no instructor. Keep working at it and don't stop.
Posted by Paul Aseltine @ 04:48 PM, January 26 Hi Brady. I already commented on congratulating you for soloing. I have one question, when I soloed, my instructor cut the back of my T-shirt and drew a mock picture of me flying and him on the intercom saying "Pull Back on the yoke". Did something like that happen to you?
Posted by Jason Bigler @ 11:25 PM, January 26 Dont feel bad. I carried on a full conversation with myself during my solo. I did my solo on the 3rd of January, just before you did. Also my first landing was not my best and infact my 3rd landing required a slip. I gained an extra 300+ feet per minute without my instructor. Good god its a rocket!! God love that Remos. The 15 hours i have in it were the most fun i have had.Congrats BradyJason
Posted by Chris A. @ 06:20 AM, January 27 Brady...you are the "coolest of the cool"!It's OK to talk to yourself...as long as you don't say,"Huh?". Keep up the good work! I liked the ground camera...it really brings a new perspective. I hope you can continue to have someone on that camera! The editing has been outstanding throughout this project... EAA is smart to be doing this, as this has gotten alot of people fired up...how about making a dvd of the finished product?Don't forget to ask for sequel/rights..HA!
Posted by Matthew @ 07:16 PM, January 28 Congrats! I just found your blog today and watched the entire sequence. I am a future flight student and I feel that I learned a lot from watching you.
Posted by Brian Garrett @ 10:35 PM, January 28 Boy your landings looked great! Far far better than mine and I'm at about hour 13 right now. I can't wait to get to solo... it's not long for me...
Posted by Sean Stratton @ 01:23 PM, January 30 Brady, Your solo really inspires me to keep on trying. I started flying about two years ago with hopes of getting the lessons done as quick as possible. Multiple distractions later I still have not finished but with friends like you around I know I can look to your blog for inspiration and hope,...Thanks and awesome job.
Posted by peyton cunningham jr @ 01:23 PM, January 30 As a 74 yr old learning to fly again, after 40 yrs interruption, your solo flight video inspires me to keep trying. I loved to fly & am beginning to get that feeling back. Thanks. PC
Posted by Dan Harstine @ 10:50 AM, February 02 Congrats! I have been following your progress as I am on about the same timeline in instruction. The weather has been frustrating here as well. I missed six weeks between the holidays. BUT I got kicked out of the nest Sunday and completed the Solo event!! Keep up the great work. I know I am making the right progress and having the same frustrations as I follow along with you.
Posted by Jim Robinson @ 11:47 AM, February 08 What can students do if they are ready to solo but do not have an airport near by that will let them take the trainer up solo. Many airports don't have a light sport plane to rent. I can't afford an 80 thousand dollar plane and insurance coverage, just to rent the plane out at 100 bucks an hour wet. It would still take a bunch of renters just to make the payments. What can we do? Keep up the good work. Jim, at an erie place.
I learned over the Christmas break not to take too much time off between lessons—especially a couple weeks, but sometimes that is just out of your hands. It felt good to get in the air again today. Since it has been almost two weeks since my last lesson, I was expecting to feel a little rusty at the controls. Surprisingly though, I felt completely comfortable. In fact, all my landings were decent! Today's flight was just the confidence booster I needed.
Posted by Joel Parish @ 09:22 PM, January 20 Brady keep up the good work. Great blog, look forward to every new entry. I have been on the fence about getting my private, your blog helped me to decide to just do it. I start lessons tomorrow January 21st. I am excited and nervous. This is something I have wanted to do for a long time. I am guessing the next blog I see will be you going solo? You will do great, Keep up the great work.
Posted by Peter Pike @ 09:47 PM, January 20 Hey Joel, that's great to see that the blog helped inspire you to start your lessons. Good luck!
Posted by Joel Fruit @ 04:42 AM, January 21 WOW! Those landings looked great. I hope you get to solo soon.
Posted by Douglas @ 10:38 AM, January 21 Nice work, Brady!You've got me thinking...I haven't flown in several weeks. I think I'll go take the 150 up for a ride!
Posted by Bhargav @ 03:12 PM, January 21 Nice work Brady !! can't wait to see your solo video :)
Posted by Jimmy Kobler @ 08:00 PM, February 23 Dear Mr.Lane,I am 12 years old and is inspired by flying. I've only watched one video of yours and it was amazing. I got to fly an airplane oncee and I know your adrennaline rush. I couldn't stop smilling. So Good Luck with your lessons! :-)
Posted by Ben T @ 08:09 PM, April 10 Hey, Brady, is there any way to add just a little bit of the engine noise to the videos? Nothing too loud but just enough to make the experience more complete.
Last night I met with another local flight instructor to review what I've learned so far. It ended up being more than a review. Hearing things explained in a slightly different way really helped clarify things and made other concepts make more sense. We discussed ground reference maneuvers, plane familiarization, wind, setting up for landings, and many other goodies.
One of my coworkers said it perfectly this morning: "It takes more than a single instructor to make a pilot."Even though I have a great instructor, I feel meeting with another instructor last night was extremely valuable. Jason has told me that I will also fly with another instructor before we finish our training.Every instructor explains things a little different, so I highly recommend anybody in flight training to meet with another flight instructor or seasoned pilot and have them test your understanding.For those of you who've been trained, did you use another instructor at various stages of your training? If so, how was your experience?
Posted by RG @ 04:43 PM, January 13 I have been watching your blog with great anticipation almost since the begining. I too am now at 12 hours (fly once a week barring bad weather)and I have flown with 3 instructors and fly 2 different LSA aircraft in my training. I am not sure if it will make me a better pilot in the long run, but for now it's a challenge. I think your doing it the best way. One instructor who knows your progress and can move you along (saving you money and minimizes the likely hood of giving up). Also transitioning from one aircraft to another over such long absences makes me feel like I am not excelling as fast as I should. Your ready to solo, I can barely land the airplane.If I was to start over again, I would have all the money up front. Fly several times a week, one instructor and one type of aircraft.
Posted by Douglas @ 08:01 PM, January 13 Hi Brady-My instructor was a retired school teacher, and has been a CFI for about 40 years. He was also the Northeast Flight Instructor of the Year several years ago, so I knew he was good. I only flew with another instructor once as a "stage check" after about 8 hours of flying, to have another pair of eyes check on my skills. Even in that one flight I had a couple of things explained to me differently, in a way that was easier to understand.That he also told me I was doing great and he saw no problems with my piloting gave me even more confidence in my skills.Definitely a good idea to fly with a second, and maybe even a third instructor at least once.
Posted by Joel Beyer @ 08:54 AM, January 14 I will add a couple of things. I always have my students fly with another instructor at least once during training for those reasons. One thing I caution is that both instructors know or at least talk to each other. I get a student every once in a while that comes to me and says "I flew with this guy and he told me to do it this way." There is nothing more frustrating to an instructor than that. Unfortunately as you have seen Im sure, not all pilots who hold flight instructor ratings are good teachers. Make sure both you and your instructor are comfortable with the other instructor.On another note, I just thought I would let you know your blog is working. I have had two new students come to start flying because they say the link to your blog on my site and watched it. You are infecting people with the flying Bug. Good job!!
Posted by Scott K @ 09:02 AM, January 14 Brady - I flew with 2 different instructors and 3 different aircraft, including the transition to taildragger, and each instructor taught valuable lessons that inforced the original teachings. Definately fly with a second instructor if you have the opportunity.
Posted by Brett Campany @ 09:05 AM, January 14 Mate I've been really hesitant to fly with another instructor because I'll be going from one extreme to the other. My instructor is 26, we get along well and we're on the same wavelength whereas the other instructors are in there 50's (not that it's a bad thing) and I feel like I won't relate to them as much but since seeing what you've put here, I might give it a go next week.
Posted by Ron H @ 10:03 AM, January 14 Absolutely you should fly with another instructor. We do it at as a matter of routine. Our students go through a segment of training and before moving on to the next one, they take a progress check flight with the chief instructor.I recommend it from personal experience too. Every instructor does things differently and I can learn something from each of them. You'll pick up techniques, tips and memory aids. This is especially helpful if you're struggling with something but also works well to tweak your own procedures.
Posted by Ben @ 08:48 AM, January 15 First, Thank you for the time and effort maintaining this blog, it gives a great perspective of flight lessons.Second, I am in the process of taking lessons in pursuit of a PPL. I have problems mainting altitude, I tried the different methods your instructor gave you on the subject and it allowed me to improve a 100%! Thus I did learn from another instructor, yours! My instructor is amazing and has much more confidence in me than I have in myself, but it never hurts to get a second opinion.Thanks again for your efforts! BTW, I woulod like to video my flights just to show my wife and children, is there a "for Dummies" version available that will instruct a novice on how to go about doing this??ThanksBen
Posted by Walt W @ 09:20 PM, January 16 I went thru 6 instructors before I finally earned my private license. I learned something from each of them. Even how to handle the plane doing manuevers. I was having trouble with steep turns until the one instructor gave me a hint that made it so easy I couldn't believe it. I think having different instructors is good for you, getting different propectives makes you think, lets you pick which way is best for you.
Posted by Ayush @ 08:47 PM, January 26 your coworker i think was really coorect.I completed 40 hrs of flying with 3 instructors and i am about to get my PPL.Every instructor has different areas of interests and that's what makes people flying with different instructors learn more and to become a better pilot.
Posted by Heath J @ 01:10 PM, January 31 Having been checked out in at least 15 aircraft in almost a dozen FBOs in my 5 short years as a pilot, I can say that flying with different instructors is a GOOD thing! I know pilots who hesitate to fly with new instructors, as they feel more comfortable with guys they already know - and who wouldn't? But where is the challenge in that? Hearing and learning from many different points of view and experience levels just makes us more educated. And frankly, your instructor isn't necessarily supposed to be your buddy - he's your teacher. So get out there and fly with someone you've never seen before. You'll probably learn something, and you just might make a new aviation friend.
Posted by pat mcree @ 09:05 AM, February 06 A different view point is always good but what I found was everyone has a different idea of how things are done. Details such as rate of decent and speed over the fence seem to be very much up for debate. Also you have instructor personality trats that can be either encouraging or a real confidence killer.
Posted by Joe E. Lane @ 08:52 PM, February 16 Prior to getting my license, I flew with only one instructor. He was good, but, I realized how much more I needed to learn after flying with other seasoned pilots. I like what you have done because it will encourage others to become a pilot. How you perform while filming this too is amazing. You are very calm and confident. I feel as though I was flying while watching this film. Filming the throtle movements while landing was really not clear. When landing be very easy on the controls. Like having an egg shell in your hand and don't over do it. Man, I wish that I had a plane like yours while training. I learned in an old Areonica 7AC. What you are doing will be helpful to many for years to come. Keep it up Brady.ac
Posted by John Moravec @ 09:00 PM, February 16 Just wanted to say thanks for taking the time to put this together. Extremely well done! I think having another intructor is a great idea. In my case, I learned just how good my first one was!
I made several good landings today. Finally!I can't tell you how good a good landing feels.
After a couple of them, I felt I was really starting to get it. There's still plenty of room for improvement, but these landings today sure felt nice.
Posted by Nick Leggett @ 05:21 PM, January 09 Keep up your great work.
Posted by Douglas @ 05:43 PM, January 09 Doin' great Brady...you'll be soloing real soon!
Posted by Bhargav @ 07:00 PM, January 09 Nice landings Brady.. good job !!.
Posted by Brett Campany @ 06:31 AM, January 10 Mate those are some great landings!! Now I've got something to aim for during my next lessons on Monday week! Good work, keep it up!
Posted by Bryan @ 08:46 AM, January 10 Those landings are looking like they are coming along very nicely. I have found that time spent in the pattern is just as good as time spent doing maneuvers.
Posted by Randy Epstein @ 02:30 PM, January 10 Brady, I feel a solo coming soon. Good job!! Usually our worst critics are ourselves.
Posted by Ben @ 12:36 PM, January 11 Brady, if you have some winter weather downtime, could you post some technical info on your a/v setup in the Remos? As a skydiving instructor, I understand the value of video for training purposes, and I'm very interested in recording my own flight lessons for later review. Thanks!
Posted by Greg Hughes @ 12:48 PM, January 11 I've also been mostly grounded for a few weeks due to our pacific northwest weather this time of year. I was able to do a little simulator time and got almost an hour of crosswind landings done. Like you it was after not flying for a few weeks. It is a weird feeling, just as you described really.Your instructor is terrific. You're fortunate! I assume you noticed the hands on the dashboard and the finger tapping/thumb twiddling? Heh. Proves to you without a doubt that you're doing this completely on your own. It's all about repetition and confidence now.I'd also be interested in some detail about the specific technology setup you have going in the Remos. I know I read a little about it based on a comment you wrote somewhere, but the geeky details would be cool, too.Great work, Brady - Keep it up!
Posted by Richard Menz @ 04:34 PM, January 11 Brady, Your landings looked perfect from the video. I am taking lessons from US Sport at Charlott County Airport in Florida. I had one of those days on Wed when nothing seemed to go right. On Friday, my next lesson, my instructor informed me I was going with another instructor for a simulated check ride. We did some pattern work and headed back to the FBO. He jumped out of the plane and instructed me to do 3 take off's and landing's on my own. What a rush, the landings were great and I wasn't nervous at all. I am training on a low wing GOBOSH with touchy toe brakes and am happy I dont have to deal with all the cold weather and slippery runway issues you have there.Cant wait to see your solo blog, you will do great.
Posted by Ronnie Green (Amarillo) @ 11:24 PM, January 16 For 12.5 hrs, your landings are looking really good. I have never landed on ice...Keep up the good work!!!
Posted by Gary Mascelli @ 11:08 AM, January 19 Just found your blog. Very nice job on your landings, soon it will be solo time.Brings back good memories with remembering to breath and making those feet coordinate with the hands and visual cues. GOOD JOB!!
Posted by lynn @ 05:43 PM, January 25 Is there a trick to watching the videos? It taks a long time for one to start, and then it just shows for a few seconds, then freezes?
It's been almost three weeks since my last lesson and it felt great to get back in the air. The time away definitely made things feel strange at first.If you can help it, never take this much time off between lessons. I felt I spent the first three landings just getting used to the plane again. The runways were also icy today and using Runway 09 there was a direct crosswind from the south. Today's flight felt like one of those new year's resolution workouts. You know, the ones where you've been away from the gym too long and it's your first day back. It's hard and you know you're just playing catch up for lost time, but it still feels good to be back.Hopefully, the weather will allow us another "workout" this week.
Posted by Bhargav @ 05:07 PM, January 07 Brady, i am regularly following your posts and its a very great read. I am currently doing my research on flying schools as i want to get my PPL for recreational flying :) .. very good job there and keep'em comin.
Posted by Brett from Australia @ 05:57 PM, January 07 Great work Brady, I'm following your blog rather closely now and looking at your 3 week break and what you said, well I'm going to try and avoid that. Oshkosh give you some real challenging landings, it looks amazing there mate! I've been flying a CZAW Sportcruiser with all of my lessons and just love this aircraft. The Remos looks like a sweet plane to fly and you're reading it really well. Nothing like having that kind of confidence over your aircraft! Keep it up mate!Oh hey if you ever want to check out an Australian LSA / Ultralight website & forum, come and say g'day at www.recreationalflying.com.auA few guys from there are planning on coming to Oshkosh this year for the airshow.....I'll get over there eventually!Happy flying mate!Brett
Posted by Peter Pike @ 06:46 PM, January 07 Welcome back Brady!
Posted by Chris Kemp @ 09:32 AM, January 09 Great work Brady,Love the documentary of your adventure into flying. You mentioned a while back that you found communicating with tower distracting. I found a website where you can listen to towers talking to traffic all over the U.S. and abroad. Go to www.liveatc.net. One of the best Class D airports to listen to is Grand Forks (KGFK). They have a very good aviation school that flies out of this airport. And, it's not uncommon to have 15 to 20 small aircraft around the pattern talking to tower. They're also helicopter students training around the airport.Keep the dirty side down!Chris KempWilliston, ND
Posted by Bhargav @ 01:37 PM, January 09 @Chris Kemp :"Keep the dirty side down!"I am a motorcycle rider and we say "Keep the shiny side up !!" :)good to hear, we have a similar "line" in aviation too :)
Posted by Steve Carroll @ 09:35 AM, January 10 Just remember this when you get the ticket. Don't take time off then either. Keep flying as much and as often as your wallet will allow.
Posted by Geff Galbari @ 02:07 AM, January 22 Great job on your solo,it really brings back some memories. I have really enjoyed watching all of the videos, and recommend this site to anyone interested in learning to fly or wants to get back into it. Keep the videos comming, I look forward to seeing Wisconsin green again.
Posted by Alexander Massey @ 04:53 AM, January 22 Hi Brady really really good work. Your videos are a really excellent insite into the learnng process. I hope I get an instructor as friendly and helpful as yours. Here in the UK the price for lessons is quite expensive, I would say almost double the US cost, even with a good exchange rate! Seeing your videos is making me really save hard, and once my Uni is finshed who knows. Anyway all the best, keep up the good landings.Alex Massey
Posted by Ann Criswel __ THIRST @ 03:35 PM, January 23 Brady, What an exciting trip! WOW, you did it!! I've enjoyed following your whole advnture! Great job. Ann
Posted by Mark from Detroit @ 04:29 PM, January 27 You are doing such a service to those who are considering getting started and those who are training. I want to know why you have chosen a sport plane and if you are going for a sport pilot certificate or a private pilot rating? It is so much fun to fly at night! Don't limit yourself. I want to get back into flying after being out of Army aviation for 13 years (helicopters).
Posted by Marty Vander Zanden @ 08:43 PM, August 17 Brady, You wre right on the ball picking a Instuctor. The was my big mistake. I'm doing much better now with a new one. Thanks for the good info. Marty
Posted by Howard Buss @ 04:07 PM, September 20 I wanted to thank you for this series. I am 68 years old and had about 20 hours of flying time when I was young. Do mainly to financial problems I was unable to continue. Thanks for letting me relive that experience through you
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