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Bay Area native, avid international traveler, proud father of two little boys. Previous career stops include a good run in radio - both technical and on-air. I'm still in radio on a fill-in basis... ask me where! |
Teaches at: PAO SQL HWD E16
Accepting new students? Yes
Email: wvfc-cfii@gregwest.com
Website: www.gregwest.com
Phone: (408) 687-7520
Hourly instruction rate: $ 55 
Special: Block Rate: Prepay 10 hours, get 1 hour free
Ratings held: Flight Instructor Single Engine Airplane (CFI, CFII); Advanced Ground Instructor (AGI); Commercial Pilot Single and Multiengine Land; Multiple courses with Cirrus Proficiency Program (CPPP); FAA WINGS Safety Program - achieved Master level.
May instruct in these aircraft types: *Checkpilot
Cirrus SR20, SR22, SR22T (G3/Perspective). Cessna C172, C172SP, C172SP/G1000, C182, C182/G1000. Diamond DA40. Frasca G1000 Simulator.
Why are you a Certified Flight Instructor?
I absolutely love to share flying. My enthusiasm and energy for it is contagious.
How long have you been instructing?
One year. Since obtaining my instructor certificate, I have been focusing on flight reviews (BFRs), instrument recurrency, demo and checkout flights, and Cirrus transitions. My schedule is now open for new Private Pilot and Instrument students.
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 and I am willing to come to SQL and HWD for longer lessons by prior arrangement.
How would you describe your availability in general?
I'm available many weeknight evenings, and all weekends.
What method of ground school do you prefer and how does it relate to your syllabus?
I am a product of WVFC training and I highly recommend the classroom ground school. While it may be tough to commit to an evening or weekend class, it keeps you moving through the material at a good pace and you are test-ready upon completion. If your schedule does not allow you to commit to a structured class schedule, then the test prep courses from Gleim and Sporty's are good too.
What is your favorite aircraft to instruct in?
I favor the Cirrus SR22 because it is a great cross country machine. It is fast, safe, modern, comfortable, and a blast to fly.
What are your aircraft recommendations for a new student?
New students should consider the pros and cons of both a high wing (Cessna 172) and a low wing (Piper Warrior/Archer). I was exclusively Cessna for my first several hundred hours before I flew a low wing for the first time, and I really liked it. So it boils down to a matter of personal preference. We can fly each one (or just go sit in the cockpit) so you can get a feel for each.
What percentage of your students pass their checkride on the first try?
100% on IFR checkride, no data to make that claim for Private certificate. Since becoming a CFII, I have been focusing on flight reviews (BFRs), instrument recurrency, demo and checkout flights, and Cirrus transitions. My schedule is open for new Private Pilot and Instrument students.
Additional Comments:
I own a 2004 Cirrus SR22-G2 and it is on the WVFC flight line (N988CD). If you have been thinking about transitioning to an SR22, I would be delighted to instruct you in my airplane for your checkout.
I'm the WVFC Safety Seminar Coordinator. Check the WVFC calendar for upcoming seminars, and please email me if you have ideas for content and/or referrals for industry volunteers who would be willing to speak at future seminars.
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