Transition

Each AFTII transition training course involves a minimum of 12 hours ground school and three flights. During ground school we conduct a comprehensive preflight, review aircraft capabilities and limitations, discuss normal, abnormal and emergency procedures use of the systems: Engine(s) and propeller(s), landing gear & brakes, flight controls, fuel, electrical, environmental, de & anti-ice, flight instruments, navigation & autopilot. All flight training is conducted in the client’s aircraft where we learn where vital switches are and what all switches do.

1st flight includes normal start, taxi, run-up and takeoff. During climb we begin using the autopilot. During cruise flight we fill in the trend monitor sheet. We accomplish some basic flight skill drills such as slow flight, steep turns, maintain altitude, airspeed & heading while changing configurations and recover from approach to landing stall. For twin-engine aircraft, we simulate an engine failure, we evaluate  the pilot's response, proper maneuvering, and drag demonstration. All aircraft - we find proper power settings for an instrument approach with glide slope, circle to land, and missed approach. Upon returning to the airport we enter the traffic pattern and accomplish a go-around and various landings – normal, crosswind, no flap and short and possibly soft field landings.

The second flight is an ~ 2.5 hour round trip. If high altitude sign off is required, a portion of the cruise flight will be above Flight Level 250. A simulated loss of pressurization with rapid descent to a lower altitude will be a required part of the course. A high altitude sign off is not required, nor available for aircraft that are only certified to 25,000′ or are not pressurized. Note: A pilot who has logged PIC time in a pressurized aircraft prior to April 15, 1991 does not require the training nor a high altitude endorsement.

The third flight will concentrate on use of navigation and autopilot during approaches, missed approaches, DME ARC when applicable and holds. Recovery from Unusual attitudes are required for an IPC as is a circle to land and a non-precision approach with Loss of Primary Instruments. A test is administered at the end of training. Upon completion of training the pilot will be very knowledgeable in all areas taught and proficient in flying the aircraft.

Fees: Fees are based on daily rates*, not on number of pilots. Each additional pilot usually adds 1 additional day of flight training when all pilots attend the ground school together. For example – a three day transition course in a Matrix, Malibu or Mirage, for 1 pilot is $1650 or $550/day plus expenses and travel-only days if applicable. A second pilot usually needs one extra day so he’d only be an extra $550 for a total of $2200 plus expenses.

* Daily rate – a normal day begins 8AM and ends at 6PM. There is a $50/hr charge for training that extends beyond 6PM.