belliott

I was recently asked during a preliminary interview if I was "BN-2 qualified"? Does the islander require a type? This seems a bit odd.... VFR 135 gig.... no idea what these guys want..... any thoughts?
B

detpilot

My guess would be, if you've ever flown one, and you're comfortable in the airplane then I'd say yes. If not, it'd be no.

dvhighdrive88

Islanders are mainly used in the Caribbean where the aircraft are flown under variants of the old British Civil Aviation Authority structure. It has been a practice there that you must get 'typed' in every aircraft you fly for hire so there is actually a BN-2 type rating out there.

I know it sounds silly, a type rating in a 10 seat piston twin, but under the British rules you have to do several checkrides in the BN-2 before you get a 'type.' as well as a written exam. Converting a US license to British standard is even more grueling with a myriad of lengthy technical tests....yuck.

Anyway, if you are flying the airplane in the US then obviously all you need to be is comfortable in the airplane and prepared for a Part 135 check out on the BN-2.

The BN-2 is not a joy to fly...it's a truck with wings. However it is very reliable and an extremely forgiving airplane...