My first post to VAF was an ad searching for an RV-7A. Well, I got numerous responses and a few weeks later I bought one. A wonderful airplane built by two wonderful people (N68RS). I have been a Bonanza driver for most of my life and thought I would easily transition into an RV, but quickly figured out that this is no Bonanza! The previous owner, who is a retired Air Force aviator, retired airline pilot, 777 instructor, did 3 hours of dual with me....and did a great job. This made the insurance company happy, but my own personal limits were not satisfied. So I decided to undergo RV transition training with a pro.
The airplane was sitting in my hangar, and I really wanted to fly, so time was of the essence. I didn't want to schedule in cold country and have a weather delay, so I focused on instructors in warm climes. Jan Bussell, in Florida, came to the top of the list, so I called him. He had an opening in his schedule. United had an award ticket available, so off I went.
Three days later I returned to Colorado with my confidence level much improved. Still aware of my limitations, but feeling like I truly understand what flying an RV is all about. Jan wears his airplane like a 2nd skin, but most importantly he is an educator. He really knows how to convey the training to you in a manner that you understand and that sticks with you.
So now I have returned home, done another hour with a local instructor as an extra safety measure, and now I am soloing. Just rolling that RV onto the runway, smooth as silk. My point is, it doesn't matter what you've flown, what your experience is, it ain't an RV. Get thee to a professional. It'll be the best money you've ever spent, and may save your airplane and your life.
The airplane was sitting in my hangar, and I really wanted to fly, so time was of the essence. I didn't want to schedule in cold country and have a weather delay, so I focused on instructors in warm climes. Jan Bussell, in Florida, came to the top of the list, so I called him. He had an opening in his schedule. United had an award ticket available, so off I went.
Three days later I returned to Colorado with my confidence level much improved. Still aware of my limitations, but feeling like I truly understand what flying an RV is all about. Jan wears his airplane like a 2nd skin, but most importantly he is an educator. He really knows how to convey the training to you in a manner that you understand and that sticks with you.
So now I have returned home, done another hour with a local instructor as an extra safety measure, and now I am soloing. Just rolling that RV onto the runway, smooth as silk. My point is, it doesn't matter what you've flown, what your experience is, it ain't an RV. Get thee to a professional. It'll be the best money you've ever spent, and may save your airplane and your life.
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