Michael P.

For the past 6 years I've been a cross country glider pilot and have been learning the art of soaring, going to competitions, trying to set soaring records, and enjoying long flights in my ASW-20B high performance glider. During this period I've had over 20 off-field landings. In a sailplane there is no go-around option so our landings must be spot landings every time. Unfortunately, we don't get as much practice at this as we'd like without having the benefit of being able to do touch and goes.

So I decided after a five year hiatus from power flying that it was time to get checked out in an airplane so I could have something to fly in the winter months and practice landings and approach airspeed control in
anticipation of next years soaring season. After some searching, I learned of the Acro Air group in Alabama, had a nice chat with Aaron Komara, and made my decision that my return to power flight should be in a tailwheel airplane.

Let me just say that the entire experience totally exceeded my expectations. Aaron is hands down the best instructor I've flown with - very patient - very cool - and confident enough to let you fly with the skill to tell you exactly what your doing right or wrong very quickly and concisely without having to freak out and take control of the airplane - obviously a great skill for someone teaching in conventional gear airplanes.

I've been so pleased with the instruction, equipment, and experience that I've decided to continue dual aerobatic instruction with Aaron. I've found the tailwheel and aerobatic experience to be a real benefit to my glider aspirations. The basic stick and rudder skills, and confidence in unusual attitudes will greatly complement the skills needed for successful and safe cross country glider flying and help me maintain an edge during the dormant (soaring) winter months. I'm now also qualified to fly the tow plane!

Thanks to Aaron and Acro Air!

Michael
Mike and 88V