I have been blessed with many highlights in my aviation career, the fist introductory flight, first solo, taidragger off-runway landings in the bush, competing at the First World Air Games in Turkey (1997), various other World Rally and Precision Championships, and many other highlights. But I have to confess, the best money I have ever spent on flying, was with Christophe from Light Sport Aviation (Rhinopark) doing the Motorized Touring Glider(TMG) rating in an SF 28, exploring PAS (Power Assisted Soaring).
A whole new world was opened to me, after 23 years of flying. Too incredible to believe? Not so, it is indeed a world different from what I knew to exist. The theory taught me to consider the atmosphere (weather) in a totally different way than what I was accustomed to. The PAS – emphasised good flying habits, it sensitise the essentials to power flying such as “fly the wing”. The soaring taught me to appreciate each little bit of “turbulence” for what it is, analyze it and use it to my advantage. Eish – it’s totally different from the usual swearing which goes hand-in-hand when experiencing turbulence in a power plane! The flying taught me to better understand the aerodynamics of surface controls. The list goes on.
I don’t know how I could have missed it previously, but I am sincerely thankful for the opportunity I had. And will have again. The learning curve is steep and I am only at the beginning of it. Fortunately the way the classes are presented, is very informal but professional and thorough. ( I have had enough instructors in my life to know).TMG is an easy transition medium for conventional power pilots to experience the wonder of engine off flight reserved for gliders. The new regulations facilitate conversions to higher licences and migration additions in the NPL environment practical.
This is certainly an experience I most strongly recommend to all my power-plane buddies (even those I don’t know). Don’t miss the opportunity the LSAschool provides for all of us. You can take my word for it – of all the money I have ever spent on flying, this is the best deal one can ever have. It is money well invested.
An experience not to be missed.
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