 Contact by Phone (Members Only) |
 It is wonderful to be out of an office and surrounded by new-pilot enthusiasm, working with people who are genuinely excited about what they're learning. Prior to becoming a flight instructor I worked in a variety of environments, including legal, career consulting, and non-profit. My degrees are in political science from UC Berkeley and College of Notre Dame (now NDNU). During the last nine years I've also taught part time at NDNU. I enjoy immersing myself in a learning envionment, and have had some incredible students over the years, some of whom have also become good friends.
If you're already a member of West Valley, then you know me as whatsup@wvfc.org. I've come to love this place and I honestly can't imagine a better place to hang my hat, or a better group of aviators to hang out with than those here at West Valley. |
Teaches at: PAO SQL
Accepting new students? No
Email: pandrewscfi@yahoo.com
Website: www.myflyinglife.com
Phone: 650-856-2030 (PAO Office)
Hourly instruction rate: $ 60
Ratings held: Commercial Single Engine Land, CFII
May instruct in these aircraft types: *Checkpilot
152, 172, 172SP, 172RG, 182, G1000
Why are you a Certified Flight Instructor?
I've been a college teacher for ten years and I still get a kick out of helping people discover things. When I had the chance to migrate my teaching skills into the cockpit I didn't think twice.
How long have you been instructing?
Since May 2004.
Do you tend to favor PAO, SQL, HWD or E16, and how might it affect a student's ability to schedule time?
PAO, SQL & HWD are all fine... just leave me 30 minutes of commute time between lessons if I need to go from one airport to another. If I ever convince the GM to open West Valley Venice I may have to limit myself to just one location.
How would you describe your availability in general?
Days, nights and weekends. I'm a full time CFI so I'm available to work around my students' schedules. Multi-day boot camp style training is also a scheduling option.
What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
I think the interaction that takes place at a ground school is beneficial for most students; however, no ground school can cover all the information required to be a safe pilot, and it still needs to be related to what we do in flight. The best combination is ground school supplemented by one-on-one sessions. I also encourage students to join informal study groups to reinforce their knowledge and learn from others.
What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
I like Cessnas because the tanks are on the top and the wings are more comfortable to camp under. They also provide a wide range of aircraft for students to move up through, starting with the mighty and inexpensive 152.
What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
In general, the least expensive airplane the student fits in will do just fine. For students interested in learning advanced avionics from the start, I recommend a 172SP with the G1000 panel.
What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
All but one so far.
Additional Comments:
My rate for phase checks is whatever you normally pay your regular instructor, including any negotiated discounts.
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