I was particularly blessed to be included in the Team of absolutely great people, back in September 2015. After a winter of maintenance, yes, this old Lady requires more maintenance than is capable of flying, I did the Type Rating on the plane, theory, real aircraft handling and a direct view of its systems in the hangar next door.
Francisco Agullo not only is the Chief and Founder of the Super Constellation Flyer Association but also is a check airman on almost every single airplane that can be qualified as a real flying machine. Such as the DC-3, DC-4/6/7, B-757/767 and many more. Having him as my Instructor brought me a full knowledge of the intricacies of the DC-3. A real joy and excitement, the word "piloting" is totally appropriate here. Simulated engine failure on climb out, real single engine approaches and go-arounds, crosswinds landings and approaches to minimums in real CAT I weather. I missed the most important one, that will replace most approaches in the future, RNAV GNSS approaches with LPV minimas! Yes, we are indeed qualified to fly them on the DC-3 (and still, not as easy as on the Airbus...)
"Fifty, Forty, Thirty, Twenty..."
Raph,
RépondreSupprimerCongratulations on the new blog! I'm very excited to read about your worldwide adventures flying the Breitling DC-3 Team!
Eric