Thread: Any CTLS available for demo/training in Seattle area?

TU16,
My original instructor, in the 152, was a old-timer - pretty set in his ways. He didn't like change and could barely comprehend the idea of a "plastic plane". He hadn't really gotten over the fact that women flew.... I was pretty sure he wasn't going to be the best Light Sport Guy.

I was SO lucky to find Sonny Weller, a local seasoned CFI who flies most everything (short of jets), teaches aerobatics, and does airshows. He did NOT have specific experience with the CT, but showed interest in adding it to his bag of tricks. We arranged for him to get a couple of hours experience with another CT-ok'd instructor. He did some research (including this forum) and found out the differences of the CT flight characteristics. Together we explored most aspects of flight. He amazed me one day when he tested the waters of a direct 18+ kt sidewind. He put it down time-after-time with the upwind wing low and on one wheel, then gently dropping to the other and then the nose. After a few times around the patch, I was doing it too!
As you'll read here, it's really important to find someone who isn't going to do the cookie-cutter thing. The CT isn't a 172, and flies (& lands) differently. LSAs are light, and react to the winds differently. And energy management during landing is a bit different. It's been said here a bunch... you really have to "fly" the CT... and after you learn, you'll be a better pilot for it.

I"m really looking forward to my first Bi-annual flight review in the next month or so... there's always something to learn from Sonny. www.sonnyweller.com
Tim

Originally Posted by administrator

Doug,

...I also think there is no better place to fly then the Pacific Northwest... the views on a sunny day are spectacular ...!

:) Amen to that:

On take off from KAWO. Tecnam Sierra. Feb. 2010

And, Doug, you'll be in demand as the only active CT in Seattle area too.. :) I'll stay envious... :)

Originally Posted by CT4ME

TU16,
I was SO lucky to find Sonny Weller, a local seasoned CFI who flies most everything (short of jets), teaches aerobatics, and does airshows....
I"m really looking forward to my first Bi-annual flight review in the next month or so... there's always something to learn from Sonny. www.sonnyweller.com
Tim

Thanks, Tim! Wet, cloudy Seattle for 9 months a year is probably less conducive to sport aviation than sunny Arizona... Mostly IFR pilots here... :) I wish I'll be as lucky as you were! :)
Will keep looking!