 Contact by Phone (Members Only) |
I started with WVFC in 1994 as a student pilot looking to learn how to fly. I have been here ever since. Currently I am also the General Manager of the flying club, so my instructional time is limited. |
Teaches at: PAO SQL HWD
Accepting new students? No
Email: jsmith@wvfc.org
Hourly instruction rate: $ 65 -75 
Special: Please call for availability
Ratings held: AMEL, Instrument and Commercial. Primary, Tail-wheel, and Instrument Instruction
May instruct in these aircraft types: *Checkpilot
*PA28-112, *PA28-161; *PA28-181; *PA28-5DB, *PA28R-200T, PA28-300, *PA28-235, *C152, *C172, *C172S, G1000, *C172RG, *C177RG, *C182, *C182RG, C206T, *T210, *P210, *M20C, *M20J, *M20K, M20N, *7ECA, *8KCAB, *7CGAA, *7GCBC
Why are you a Certified Flight Instructor?
I have been in or around small planes since I was but a wee bit lad. Me mother threw me into the cargo area of a C150 when she was getting her PVT. Needless to say, I really love to fly, and instruction is a great way to share flying with others. Plus it makes for great conversation over a few martini's. Note the story gets better as the martini's flow.
How long have you been instructing?
Since 2000.
Do you tend to favor PAO, SQL, HWD or E16, and how might it affect a student's ability to schedule time?
I will make it to any of the airports. Please call me in advance to be sure that I am free. 650-856-2030 Ext 340.
How would you describe your availability in general?
I am Limited, either E mail me or give me a call. I specialize in finishing off ratings. I have a knack for getting people to complete their certificate. I mostly fly in the AM or late afternoons during the week.
What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
WVFC has great ground school offerings at all four locations. I personally do not do a ton of ground with my students, so I highly recommend WVFC's ground schools.
What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
All winged aircraft are good. The easiest to aircraft to learn IMHO are the Warriors. Just a real easy platform, very stable, really hard to hurt. However C172's Glass panels are all pretty straight forward. It really depends on what you are looking for and respond to. The club has a lot to choose from.
What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
Warriors,they are the best.
What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
I not only get people to pass, just as important I get people to finish. I do not waste a lot of time. I teach the old school building block method combined with a phased approach that seems to get people through in a minimal amount of time.
Additional Comments:
Learning to fly will teach you a lot about yourself. Take time to find a CFI you feel you can work well with, it is as critical as making sure you study. WVFC is a really great place to learn how to fly, or to become a member and rent aircraft. So join the family.
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