Stapleford Flight Centre - New for 2007

>>STAPLEFORD FLIGHT CENTRE
>>NEW FOR 2007

Sharpen your skills

ESSEX-based SFC has introduced a new course for PPLs who want to further their training to hopefully become better pilots.

The PPL Plus Course is designed to improve pilots' handling skills and confidence, increase safety and learn advanced handling techniques. In total, students need to complete five hours of flight training in addition to eight hours groundschool.

The syllabus will cover circuit revision, constant aspect forced landing technique, maximum rate turns and handling an engine failure after take off. Most of the syllabus will be taught in a PA28 Warrior but there will also be unusual attitude recovery and spinning in a Slingsby Firefly.

CFI(FI) Keith Pogmore and instructor Tony Glover will carry out the training, inspired by the Pass Plus driving qualification.

Keith is also responsible for aerobatic training and tailwheel conversions. He told LOOP, "We want to give a new challenge to our club members with PPLs.

"The CAA has found that 75% of qualified PPLs do not renew their licences after five years when the initial enthusiasm diminishes.

"They have flown around the locality, taken their friends for a flight, flown over Le Touquet, so what next?"

The course, which costs £997, has been reviewed by 190-hour PPL Sue Rose. She said, "This course was tailor-made for people like me with a PPL and some subsequent experience.

"One briefing session and flight with Keith convinced me that I needed a course like this to improve my handling skills and to give me confidence that I can handle an emergency when I am up there on my own without an instructor.

"It will certainly increase your confidence and enjoyment."

W: www.flysfc.co.uk

Words: Kirsten Corrigan