 Contact by Phone (Members Only) |
I work full time in Technology marketing, but aviation is where I invest my true energy. I studied physics in school, thus my interest in the "why and how" stuff. I love to travel, and prowl around airports on all continents. I speak just enough German and Japanese to be dangerous.
When not working or aviating, I'm probably in a coffee shop, at a winery or adventuring afield with my fiance Ivana. |
Teaches at: PAO SQL HWD E16
Accepting new students? Yes
Email: richard.terrill@gmail.com
Website: www.rt-aviation.com
Hourly instruction rate: $ 60-75 
Ratings held: Pilot - Commercial Pilot; Instrument Airplane Flight Instructor - Airplane Single Engine; Instrument Ground Instructor - Advanced Endorsements - Complex; High Performance; Tailwheel; High-Altitude
May instruct in these aircraft types: *Checkpilot
7ECA, 7GCAA, 7GCBC, 8KCAB-180, AA5B, C-120, C-140, C-150, C-152, C-170, C-172, C-172RG, C-172SG1, C-172SP, C-182, C-182T, C-182T-G1, C-T182RG, PA28-161, PA28-181, PA28-236, PA28-5DB, PA28R-180, T34-B
Why are you a Certified Flight Instructor?
Because I like to learn, and teaching gives me the ideal way to continue my aviation education. I enjoy sharing not only my technical knowledge, but the wisdom and folklore of flying.
How long have you been instructing?
Since 2003
Do you tend to favor PAO, SQL, HWD or E16, and how might it affect a student's ability to schedule time?
PAO is my homebase, but I'll teach at all other fields with enough notice and planning.
How would you describe your availability in general?
Good, but I prefer a bit of prior planning. I like to cluster flights together and typically mix primary students with advanced training. That said, if you can get the keybook, you can always send email and ask...
What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
Most of my students have used self-study, augmented with group classes. I integrate the technical and knowledge components of aviation with flight instruction, but I find it ideal if you have read through the material first I can structure your learning. My personal goal is to not just have my students pass the written test, but to fundamentally understand the material.
What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
For primary students the C152 is great to simplify things. Citabria for those who like oldschool. The C172SP is great for anyone who wants to learn about systems and quickly progress to more advanced aircraft.
I integrate all of these aircraft into my primary training - so you get to try different types. I also include spin training, extensive night flight, and flight in the clouds (not required by the FAA, but I find it is a lifesaver). I want my clients to be prepared for everything nature has to offer them.
I also do type checkouts and especially like preparing experienced pilots for mountain and desert flying.
What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
As above - we will fly all the 'usual suspects' to pick one that is right for you (C152, Warrior, Citabria, C172)
What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
80%
Additional Comments:
I am a fan of "back to basics" in all aspects of life, flying included. My students typically are the ones who want to know what is connected to what, how it works, why it works, how we used to build airplanes, and why we build them the way we do now. On a walk to the flightline if I see an open cowling I'll take you over and we'll push and pull on things to see just what is really going on "up front".
I own a 1948 Cessna 170 (well, okay, it owns me), and I cannot imagine a finer time than low and slow over Gilroy - low enough you can smell the garlic and wave to people. Aircraft are time machines. They can save you time on a trip to Mendocino, certainly. Or in an antique they can transport you back 50 years. Or in a super advanced airplane (like the G1000 systems) they can take you into the future.
Please email me and ask for my "Pilot Information Brief" - it describes my teaching and flying philosophies, and will give you some useful advice on how to select an instructor.
Be safe!
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.