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The P–51 Mustang, is a high-performance taildragger with a distinctive sound that always draws attention. Fly cross- country to a summer airshow at another airport, where you might see—and hear—one of these incredible airplanes in action. That could be you inside the bubble canopy one day!

What: North American P–51 Mustang
Where: Santa Monica, California
Photographer: Mike Fizer

Boeing chief test pilot calls for training overhaul

Says back to basics should be paired with advanced technology

By: Jim Moore

Boeing's chief test pilot has added his voice to a call for training overhaul.

“In my 25-year flying career—spanning military and commercial aircraft—there has been little change in training. Yet aircraft and teaching technologies have evolved exponentially,” said Mike Carriker. “We must make use of modern technology and focus our training efforts on equipping pilots and technicians with the knowledge to make the right decisions for the best, most efficient global transportation system.”

Carriker recalled a recent type rating class in which students were tasked with flying ADF, NDB, VOR circle-to-land, and ILS—“all the standard approaches from yesteryear.” What about RNAV?

“I was told that the organization who delivered the type course did not like the idea and does not allow that airline to use them. It was apparent that they were content with the 40-year-old status quo. This approach will not work with the younger generations,” Carriker said. “I also advocate that the crews hand fly the optimized guidance provided. Keep your aviating skills constantly refreshed, you never know when you might need them.”

Classroom instruction on classroom-based computers also falls short of delivering what’s needed to teach a new generation of students accustomed to working with iPads and similar devices, and Carriker wants trainers to make better use of the platforms available. When it comes to the training itself, Carriker said, it’s time to move beyond rote memorization and focus on developing competency.

Boeing, producer of some of the world’s most technologically advanced aircraft, predicts the industry will need to attract more than 1 million new pilots and technicians over the next 20 years to keep those aircraft flying.

American Flyers partners with university

Degree now available with flight training

American Flyers and Nova Southeastern University (NSU) are hoping to train more pilots at a time when many in the aviation industry have predicted a pilot shortage. The two schools have partnered to offer a bachelor’s degree in human services administration with a concentration in human factors in aviation. Two terms will be launched in the fall, the first beginning August 20 and the second October 15. The admission deadline for the August term is July 22, and the deadline for October’s courses is September 16.

Academic courses through NSU, which is based in Davie, Florida, will be completed online, while students will go through flight training with American Flyers. Students can earn their private pilot certificate and instrument rating, or they can also pursue advanced certificates and ratings for the commercial, multiengine, and flight instructor.

New 'Student Experiences' at AOPA Summit

With new experiential and interactive learning at AOPA Aviation Summit, you’ll connect with experts and new tools that will help you retain and recall critical information when you need it the most.
This October 11 through 13, AOPA is bringing more than 100 hours of education to Palm Springs, California.

Pilots in training will learn through “Ask the CFI” roundtable discussions covering topics such as making better landings, passing your checkride, women in flight training, managing risk, how to choose a CFI, learning avionics, overcoming challenges in flight training, what to do with your certificate after the checkride, careers in aviation, and more.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS

The annual meeting of the Members of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association will be held at 12 p.m. on Friday, September 7, 2012, at AOPA headquarters, 421 Aviation Way, Frederick, Maryland, 21701, located on the Frederick Municipal (FDK) airport, for the purpose of receiving reports and transacting such other business as may properly come before the meeting, specifically including the election of trustees, and specifically including the adoption of an amendment to the bylaws of the association to expand eligibility for voting membership in the association beyond pilots and owners to individuals who have an interest in advancing the cause of general aviation.

—John S. Yodice, Secretary