 Contact by Phone (Members Only) |
I have been involved with all aspects of aviation since 1986, either as a student, instructor or aviation mechanics assistant. I have flown over 90 different types of aircraft from Piper Cubs to Jets. I flew 6 different types as a student pilot! I am a corporate pilot for a small company that operates a Cessna 421B. I also fly an Aerostar Super 700 for another company. I am an airshow qualified formation pilot and I have flown and displayed in airshows across the west coast. I am an NAA and FAI World Record Holder. I am interested in flight testing airplanes and I have owned 3 experimental aircraft (RV-4, L29, Mig17). I am an avid scuba diver and ice hockey player. I hold degrees in Physics and Computer Science.
I enjoy music and playing the violin. |
Teaches at: PAO SQL
Accepting new students? Yes
Email: vec@ecochrane.com
Website: http://www.ecochrane.com/flighttraining.html
Hourly instruction rate: $ 60 - 75 
Special: I offer block rates for 11 hours or more
Ratings held: Airline Transport Pilot - Airplane Single Engine Land & Sea, Airplane Multi-Engine Land & Sea, Instrument Airplane. Instructor Pilot - Airplane Single Engine Land & Sea, Airplane Multi-Engine Land & Sea, Instrument Airplane, AVL29, AVL39, T33, Mig15, Mig17 Ground Instructor - Advanced & Instrument. FAST Formation Lead and Instructor Pilot. Experimental Type Ratings AVL29, AVL39, T33, Mig 15, Mig 17
May instruct in these aircraft types: *Checkpilot
7ECA,8KCAB,C-182/G1000,C-172/G1000,C-152,C-172,C-172RG,C-172XP,
PA28-161,PA28-181,PA28R-180,SR20,SR22,BE-76
Why are you a Certified Flight Instructor?
I enjoy sharing the experience of flight with people and introducing them to the world of aviation. I enjoy teaching the simpler aspects of flight as well as the technical & complex subject areas.
How long have you been instructing?
I have been an instructor since 1990.
Do you tend to favor PAO, SQL, HWD or E16, and how might it affect a student's ability to schedule time?
I teach primarily at San Carlos and Palo Alto airports.
How would you describe your availability in general?
I am available early in the morning and late afternoons. I am generally available in the evenings and on weekends. Check CASSi or contact me for more details.
What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
Each student is different and will learn at a different pace. I will recommend either a formal ground school or personalized instruction and tailor the program based on the needs of the student.
What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
I really have no favorite aircraft, but I will say that the simpler the aircraft the easier it is for a student to learn the basics.
What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
I would recommend either a Citabria or a Cessna 172. Of course, it depends on what the student is trying to accomplish and I would recommend an aircraft closely aligned with their goals.
What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
Since 1990, 85% of my students pass their checkrides on the first attempt.
Additional Comments:
Aviation World Record Holder, AOPA
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