ATP practical
#432
New Hire
Joined APC: Nov 2021
Posts: 2
ATP Practical at VSL Aero
Just wanted to contribute since I read the forums often and it has given me some insight of what to expect as I make the jump from the military. I recently completed my ATP Practical training and Checkride at VSL (https://vsl.aero) in Russellville, AR. Training was very straight forward and their website provides all the study info you’ll need to be successful (one of the more detailed websites pertaining to ATP Practical and Multi engine transition training). Ground training in the morning then flights right after. Flights were in their Travel Air with G5/Garmin 530 avionics. I was paired up with another Military ATP pilot and we took turns flying with the instructor. After each flight we would switch to the back seat which reinforced what we just learned. Lunch is provided daily from different local restaurants. Good instruction and excellent experience overall.
#433
Line Holder
Joined APC: Aug 2022
Position: Lots
Posts: 44
Just wanted to contribute since I read the forums often and it has given me some insight of what to expect as I make the jump from the military. I recently completed my ATP Practical training and Checkride at VSL (https://vsl.aero) in Russellville, AR. Training was very straight forward and their website provides all the study info you’ll need to be successful (one of the more detailed websites pertaining to ATP Practical and Multi engine transition training). Ground training in the morning then flights right after. Flights were in their Travel Air with G5/Garmin 530 avionics. I was paired up with another Military ATP pilot and we took turns flying with the instructor. After each flight we would switch to the back seat which reinforced what we just learned. Lunch is provided daily from different local restaurants. Good instruction and excellent experience overall.
#435
New Hire
Joined APC: Nov 2021
Posts: 2
It’s a 5 day course but maybe shorter based on your flight proficiency and ATP studies (ACS knowledge, BE95 limitations and systems). Took me 4 flights in 3 days to include the practical. It was just under $4,300 including the DPE.
#436
Line Holder
Joined APC: Aug 2022
Position: Lots
Posts: 44
That's a really good deal. Did they have bunks or did you need a local hotel?
#437
New Hire
Joined APC: Jul 2023
Posts: 1
Just wanted to contribute since I read the forums often and it has given me some insight of what to expect as I make the jump from the military. I recently completed my ATP Practical training and Checkride at VSL (https://vsl.aero) in Russellville, AR. Training was very straight forward and their website provides all the study info you’ll need to be successful (one of the more detailed websites pertaining to ATP Practical and Multi engine transition training). Ground training in the morning then flights right after. Flights were in their Travel Air with G5/Garmin 530 avionics. I was paired up with another Military ATP pilot and we took turns flying with the instructor. After each flight we would switch to the back seat which reinforced what we just learned. Lunch is provided daily from different local restaurants. Good instruction and excellent experience overall.
I just finished the program. It took 4 days, i had three prep flights in a Piper Aztec and then the checkride. Instructors were top notch. DPE was from an Air Force background. Recommend the program, especially if you are from a Mil background.
#438
New Hire
Joined APC: Dec 2023
Posts: 5
VSL aero moved their training program to "In the Pattern" at the Denton TX airport. They use the same DPEs from VSL aero.
I just finished the program. It took 4 days, i had three prep flights in a Piper Aztec and then the checkride. Instructors were top notch. DPE was from an Air Force background. Recommend the program, especially if you are from a Mil background.
I just finished the program. It took 4 days, i had three prep flights in a Piper Aztec and then the checkride. Instructors were top notch. DPE was from an Air Force background. Recommend the program, especially if you are from a Mil background.
#440
On Reserve
Joined APC: Apr 2022
Posts: 12
FTI offers just the practical course in Miami and Denver (in addition to the 2-week zero-to-hero CTP+written+practical). I had a great experience in Miami, 5-day course for ~$7500, both instructor and DPE were ex-AF.
It’s definitely pricey compared to other options, but I didn’t have to worry about weather or airplanes breaking down (both factors I saw affect other people).
It was a little intimidating learning the A320 just for the checkride but the depth of knowledge is not to a type-rating level (think Boldfaces/big systems overview vs complex EPs/which hydro controls a specific spoiler).
They pair you with a training partner and you take the checkride as a crew. The left seater is evaluated but can be assisted by the right seater, then you switch seats.
It’s definitely pricey compared to other options, but I didn’t have to worry about weather or airplanes breaking down (both factors I saw affect other people).
It was a little intimidating learning the A320 just for the checkride but the depth of knowledge is not to a type-rating level (think Boldfaces/big systems overview vs complex EPs/which hydro controls a specific spoiler).
They pair you with a training partner and you take the checkride as a crew. The left seater is evaluated but can be assisted by the right seater, then you switch seats.
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