lml@lancaironline.net Mailing List Archive

<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> << Lancair Builders' Mail List >> <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<--->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> The discussion regarding training during the initial flight test phase seems to have come full circle. Because this affects what I do, I'll add my two cents worth. Everything that has been said, is basically true, however the emphasis and stress on the FAA issues involved are exaggerated in my opinion. Brent Regan I believe holds the clearest voice in this issue. It is NOT illegal. The pilot establishes who is "essential for the purpose of the flight". I have asked for, and received, an interpretation from my FSDO, and and they say essentially that while not illegal, it is not recommended. (Ask your local FSDO (In writing) and then report your answers to this List) The same position is held by the EAA. Likewise the insurance companies. They're not insuring the first 10hrs (100hrs V-8) anyway. I do not believe there would ever be an enforcement action begun, unless there was a violation of the careless and reckless operation FAR and they were looking to pile on charges. Now, let's get down to the nitty gritty. If you go to Redmond and train in a company plane, many factors come into play. The airplanes have to be in commission, available, weather has to cooperate, you have to find a good instructor. Do you want a CFI? Let's suppose everything went well and at the end of three days you have ten hours in a company airplane that is, at best, similar to your airplane. Now you're going to go home, to get in your airplane for the initial testing. I can guarantee you, this will not be the same airplane you trained in. This month's issue of Flying Magazine contains an article written by Lane Wallace, and it is an interview of John King (King Schools). In the article he pointedly makes the remark that General Aviation flying IS NOT safe. That definition would be- to be free of risk. There are risks - and they need to be managed. He defines four areas in which pilots need to be risk managers. The pilot, the aircraft, the environment, and external pressures. The Pilot - (in command) trained and experienced in THIS model Lancair? Engine operation knowledge? Do you know all the "What If's?? Can you find the "Hi Boost" with your eyes closed? The Aircraft- inspected by an expert and found airworthy? The Environment-- sufficient length runway, low traffic, emergency landing sites etc. etc. External Pressures-- will you value the airplane over your skin in an emergency? Test flying a home built airplane IS risky. I believe that the best course of action to minimumize risk and to protect an investment of 1/4 to 1/2 million dollars, several years of your life, and your skin, is to train in your OWN airplane when it is determined by the test pilot to be airworthy. If the airplane is built according to the manual, and workmanship up to standards, this airworthiness test period will not be a full 25-40 hours. Of course there will be squawks, but not locked flight controls, engine stoppages etc. etc. Then-- Let The Training Begin! Charlie Kohler -- LML website: http://www.olsusa.com/Users/Mkaye/maillist.html LML Builders' Bookstore: http://www.buildersbooks.com/lancair Please send your photos and drawings to marvkaye@olsusa.com.