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Old 11-16-2006, 09:40 PM
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Default Solo Issues

Hi everybody,

I'm looking for some guidance and perspectives on this issue I've been having with my training. I can't stand the idea of solo flight. I just don't like it and it really makes me nervous the idea of it. I think maybe I've been using my CFI as a crutch too much or something.

My idea of flying is always having an aircrew and thats something I've really looked forward to, not this solo stuff. I love Aviation to pieces just like everyone on here... I just have to find away to get through this solo stuff.

Has anyone gone through this? Does this sound similar to anybody?
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Old 11-16-2006, 09:52 PM
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If you think that you are using your CFI as a crutch, try flying with another instructor. Have them do as little as possible, perhaps just sit and be there just in case.

Remember, you have the radio, so if you really need something, you can get help.
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Old 11-17-2006, 02:04 AM
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I think Shaun is onto the right path. Fly with another instructor, and do not allow him/her to intervene unless saftey becomes an issue. Also, look at this not as a block or hinderance, but as a milestone. It's amazing what good training will do for you if things go bad. I was frightened about doing spins for my CFI rating but did it quickly subsided after the first one. I did what I had been trained to do, and it worked well. Use your checklists, think ahead, and when in doubt, ask. Don't be afraid to sound like a student, you are one. In time the fear will subside and you'll enjoy not having your instructor squawking at you over the intercom.
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Old 11-17-2006, 05:09 AM
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Originally Posted by Pilotpip View Post
I was frightened about doing spins for my CFI rating but did it quickly subsided after the first one.
Man... I love spins. I'm no CFI - just a PPL student, but my instructor let me do one already anyway. See, he's an ex-Black Hawk pilot; you know how those chopper guys are You can tell he really enjoys stuff like that.
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Old 11-17-2006, 08:20 AM
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Originally Posted by mprinceton26 View Post
Hi everybody,

I'm looking for some guidance and perspectives on this issue I've been having with my training. I can't stand the idea of solo flight. I just don't like it and it really makes me nervous the idea of it. I think maybe I've been using my CFI as a crutch too much or something.

My idea of flying is always having an aircrew and thats something I've really looked forward to, not this solo stuff. I love Aviation to pieces just like everyone on here... I just have to find away to get through this solo stuff.

Has anyone gone through this? Does this sound similar to anybody?
This raises some red flags to me. Every wanna-be professional pilot I know couldn't wait to solo. There is some natural apprehension, that's normal, but if you find in the long term that you really don't like flying solo you may want to reconsider what you are doing.

The crew environment will not serve as a crutch forever...someday you will upgrade to regional captain, and end up flying with with a weak FO who will want to use YOU as a crutch...
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Old 11-17-2006, 08:31 AM
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I don't want to sound insensative, but do you want to be a pilot or not?

It is a good healthy fear, don't get me wrong. But having something like nerves preventing you from doing what you (like others) have dreamed of doing, that's bogus.

Think of it from this perspective. You are flying on your flight instructor's certificate. He/She should not sign you off to solo until you can both say that "I know your/I'm ready to solo." Not "I think"...its "I know." He/she should NEVER put you in a forced position.

Anyway, I know soloing is a HUGE resposibility, but if you really want to be a pilot, and really want it BAD...I think after one time around the patch in an empty plane, all your worries will vanish.

Good Luck Chief.
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Old 11-17-2006, 08:46 AM
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CRJ,

Now that I've done them, I do too. I need to find an aerobatic aircraft and do some.

PS: Were you wearing a parachute? If you weren't you might want to double check the regs before you do them again.
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Old 11-17-2006, 08:55 AM
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also, to get to that valuable airline job, you HAVE to have 20hrs solo flight (including the long XC) to take the commerical checkride.

like it or not, you will be flying solo before you can look at an airline job
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Old 11-17-2006, 09:40 AM
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And just to reiterate what BTWISSEL said...as well as Rickair...

When you get to the point where you upgrade to Captain...and you are flying with a FNG...it will be like you are soloing alllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllllll over again...

No worries, its not as bad as it sounds - this solo thing...

Lax
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Old 11-17-2006, 10:22 AM
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Right now, you just needs to get past this hurdle. I bet you will get used to it fairly quickly. You do need to get to a point where it doesn't phase you a bit to go up solo. I think once you do it a few times, it won't be an issue. If it still is an issue, refer back to previous posts.
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