I can also work with you to design and execute an approved display using a range of different aircraft and under a variety of conditions.
I was a professional display pilot for more than 30 years so I’m well placed to apply specialist knowledge and technique to help you achieve your display authorisation.
My emphasis is on:
When formation flying is requested I can enlist the help of qualified practitioners as part of a tuition package or focus entirely on the solo elements as part of the display. Formation flying of any sort demands the highest concentration of effort – not just handling skills but the essential human factors of knowing your team partners well and having trust in their ability and judgement! I regard this discipline of flying as the pinnacle of aeronautical skill …
The world of display flying has changed dramatically since 2015, but that hasn’t deterred young ambitious pilots wanting to develop and showcase their expertise.
The Civil Aviation Authority has tried its best to standardise requirements with a more comprehensive set of rules, with Human Factors now front and centre of all display activity.
I was exposed at an early stage in my career to the dangers of having a complacent attitude. As Brian Lecomber so astutely put it in an article for Aircraft Illustrated: “Having completed 20 displays I was cocky but wary. When I’d done 200 I knew it all. When I had done a 1,000 I was beginning to raise an eyebrow of respect to the actuarial odds.”
The CAA can’t see everybody that takes part, relying instead on selected experienced individuals to act as mentors and evaluators on their behalf. Having specialised in unlimited display aerobatics for a long time I am one of a small cadre of evaluators qualified to scrutinise your display presentation.
There are defined aerobatic levels of competence. Most of the candidates that fly with me have basic knowledge and experience already under their belt. The aircraft types are split into horsepower categories including multi engine or even ex-military jet fighters.
State-of-the-art purpose built aerobatic machines demand a high degree of spatial orientation. The trick is learning not only how to do it but also what happens next! The need for a focussed mental approach and awareness is vital. Not surprisingly, a large part of my coaching and evaluation is devoted to understanding the pilot’s psychology as well as their handling skills.