The flight portion requires between 1 - 5 hours in the aircraft, depending on pilot's overall and recent experience. Transition into the aircraft consists of normal take-off, climb power settings, steep turns, slow flight, stalls, and drag demos if the aircraft is a twin-engine model. In a pressurized aircraft at least one flight to altitude is made to familiarize the pilot with the flight characteristics of that environment and include the use of on-board weather detection equipment. We demonstrate emergency and rapid decompression exercises during these flights. All GPS, AP/FD, and other integrated flight operational equipment are operated during the high altitude flight to ensure operational compliance at altitude.
We teach pilots judgment on weather decisions, choice of flight altitudes considering wind and turbulence, and the appropriate engine power settings depending upon range or aircraft speed requirements. We demonstrate descent planning and ATC high altitude arrival procedures, such as STARs. In order to ensure pilots can operate in IMC conditions, we teach a variety of instrument approaches, holds, partial panel, and unusual attitude recoveries.
Pilots will demonstrate proficiency in all areas of aircraft operations, at the discretion of the instructor. He must be convinced that the client pilot possesses the ability to handle the aircraft in a multitude of situations where the safe outcome of flight is never in doubt.
Upon completion of the initial training course, client pilots receive a certification of completion, biennial flight review, and instrument proficiency check.