 Contact by Phone (Members Only) |
I am a retired IBM engineer/manager. I have realized my life's ambition to fly and to enjoy the light in the eyes of eager students. I have particular interests in solving tough problems, and I diagnose training situations with a careful eye, with the objective of getting beyond learning plateaus and on to flying fun.
What I like best is flying to good restaurants. What I dislike most is bad weather for flying. I am an Amateur Radio operator, N6AKK, and I love little electronic gadgets. |
Teaches at: PAO SQL
Accepting new students? Yes
Email: n6akk@mac.com
Phone: 650-856-2030
Hourly instruction rate: $ 60 
Ratings held: Gold Seal ASEL Instrument flight instructor, - Multi engine commercial license.
May instruct in these aircraft types: *Checkpilot
*A-36, *C-152, *C-172, *C-172RG, *C-182, *C-182RG, *C-206, *C-T182RG, *DA-20 A-1, *F33A, *GROB, *PA-32-260, *PA28-161, *PA28-181, *PA28-236, *PA28R-201, *PA28R-201T, *PA32-300
Why are you a Certified Flight Instructor?
I first soloed in a Piper J3, in 1954. I have been enthusiastic about flying ever since. I built Radio control models for many years.
How long have you been instructing?
As of 2008, 17 years of flight instructing, with an additional 2 years of ground instruction only.
Do you tend to favor PAO, SQL, HWD or E16, and how might it affect a student's ability to schedule time?
I favor PAO because of the variety of planes available for training. PAO is centrally located, and the CASSi system combined with desk personnel services provide sufficient ability to schedule aircraft.
How would you describe your availability in general?
I am available as scheduled. I prefer phone contact to confirm appointments to assure that there is no confusion on the times and dates of appointments. I am flexible on early morning and late night flight appointments, so as to meet the training requirements, via prior arrangement.
What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
The syllabus I use is in the Jeppesen format- a format that is used in FAR 141 training, and in general use by WVFC. I use that syllablus as a guide, and modify the training to meet the Needs of the individual student. Primarily, my reading recommendations are the Gleim Private pilot Q&A Book for the Knowlege test, and the ASA/Trevor Thom or Machado book for text material and study. To save money, this study can be done by the student at low cost, while questions and problem areas can be addressed during ground training discussions.
What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
I like the Piper Archer and Warrior. I feel the enhanced visibility of the low wing provides additional safety in the sky, and the forgiving performance contributes to rapid growth in skill. Additionally, when the student is awarded the Private license, the new pilot will have lots of experience in a four seat aircraft, with no need to get checked out in another at additional cost.
What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
The student may have desires to eventually buy an aircraft, so that the type that is being evaluated for purchase is the best type in which to learn. For overall training however, I prefer the Piper, for the reasons mentioned above.
What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
I have earned a Gold Seal instructor certificate, which means that at least 80% of my students pass on the first try.
Entire contents © 1998, 2004 West Valley Flying Club. All rights reserved.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form without the express written permission
of an officer of the club is strictly prohibited.