Transition from helicopter

[Toobuilder]

Agree that the active feet of the helicopter pilot will be your biggest asset. One of the only pilots who could fly my Hiperbipe immediately has tons of helicopter time. Conversely, I was able to fly his Jetranger right off the bat in my first and only time in a helicopter. Though not as critical in an RV as other taildraggers, the feet are the key.

[RV7Guy]

I'd definitely look for something other than a 4 if you are not currently fixed wing rated. Get your ticket in something like a Cherokee or 172, get RV transitioned, then shop for the RV of your liking.

When I built my 7, I had no tailwheel time at all. I got transitioned with Mike Seager in Oregon. The tail wheel was made easier with helicopter experience.

I fly helicopters for a living and can tell you the control feel of an RV is quite similar to a helicopter. Especially the R22.

For the guy who mentioned helicopter guys like to make HUGE pitches changes, I don't know where you get that. If you can see a had or wrist moving over control is taking place. Pretty much like the RV.

[Toobuilder]

Originally Posted by RV7Guy

...For the guy who mentioned helicopter guys like to make HUGE pitches changes, I don't know where you get that. If you can see a had or wrist moving over control is taking place. Pretty much like the RV.

That is certainly what my VAST (18 whole minutes) of helicopter time told me as well. It took every bit of concentration not to overcontrol in the hover... and I'm very used to "twitchy" airplanes. In fact, my transition into forward flight in the helicopter was simply the point where I couldn't keep ahead of it any longer and flew the patern so I could relax a little.

[gmann750]

Originally Posted by RV7Guy

I'd definitely look for something other than a 4 if you are not currently fixed wing rated. Get your ticket in something like a Cherokee or 172, get RV transitioned, then shop for the RV of your liking.

When I built my 7, I had no tailwheel time at all. I got transitioned with Mike Seager in Oregon. The tail wheel was made easier with helicopter experience.

I fly helicopters for a living and can tell you the control feel of an RV is quite similar to a helicopter. Especially the R22.

For the guy who mentioned helicopter guys like to make HUGE pitches changes, I don't know where you get that. If you can see a had or wrist moving over control is taking place. Pretty much like the RV.

get training in a citabria or decathlon, stay away from the spam can trikes, it will be a step backwards, stay in a taildragger at all costs, you will be happy you did!

[bkthomps]

i fly both, agree, if you can fly R22, you can fly anything

however, fixed wing is a lot of risk assessment and planning, rotorcraft you can mostly do by the seat of your pants

[gstone]

bkthomps is exactly right!

[Blain]

Originally Posted by Mike S

Blain, welcome to the good ship VAF.

You are just down the hill from me, you are welcome to stop by anytime.

I do not have a 4, but I have a buddy close by who has one in the late stages of construction. I do have a 10, is you want to see it.

Good to have you aboard

Thanks Mike. Are you at O61 or KPVF? OK to PM me.

Originally Posted by gmann750

get training in a citabria or decathlon, stay away from the spam can trikes, it will be a step backwards, stay in a taildragger at all costs, you will be happy you did!

My previous instructor has the same opinion. He gave me a few minutes with the stick in a Harmon Rocket. That is what hooked me. No problem with straight and level.

Side note; had my insurance agent quote liability only on an -4. About 1/4 of what I was paying for '22 coverage.

Blain

[Blain]

Update;
Spin entry training in the Decathalon last week. "Things you can't do in a helicopter"!

Shopping for a RV-4

Blain