Learning to Fly

[Tonish]

My son is 16 and wants to try flying. I thought I could tie in his first lesson with our trip to Florida over Christmas as a surprise.

Does anyone have any knowledge of the flying schools based there, any recommendations?

Also, I'm completely ignorant about learning to fly - is there anything I need to know that I don't know that I need to know, if you know what I mean!

[CERICROWLEY]

Tonish

You may be able to book a small trip in a light aircraft, but after the incidents of the September 11th and the bombers that had flying lessons, you might find it near impossible to do, as they may want some searches done on your character etc. etc. Not intirely sure though.

[Katys Grandad]

I can't help with the question but will you be my dad as well?

[blott]

You need to know that he needs to be specifically insured for private flying as it's usually not covered on 'normal' travel insurance policies - read the small print very carefully.

Just checked out some online flying schools in the area and he would need a medical examination certificate (obtainable in Florida) and also to apply here https://www.flightschoolcandidates.gov/ for registration.

If you manage to get all through that, then this one in Kissimmee looks good. http://www.sunstateaviation.com/index.html

[floridadreamvilla.co.uk]

I'm a PPL and have rented aircraft in Kissimmee. I used Kissimmee Aviation but the main school there is Orlando Flight Training and is one I've heard good reports of. The website is http://www.flyoft.com/

Hope he enjoys it - it will be a fabulous experience and he should be allowed a good go at the controls, even on a trial flight as they treat it like the first lesson in the PPL syllabus (which is how to fly straight and level).

Blottie's advice is good - you need very specific travel insurance otherwise you won't be covered.

[Robert5988]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:You may be able to book a small trip in a light aircraft, but after the incidents of the September 11th and the bombers that had flying lessons, you might find it near impossible to do, as they may want some searches done on your character etc. etc. Not intirely sure though.[/quote]

The 9/11 terrorists trained to fly in Florida at Melbourne - about 60 miles from Orlando.

[floridadreamvilla.co.uk]

Can we try and keeping things on topic please [msnsmile]
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Robert5988

The 9/11 terrorists trained to fly in Florida at Melbourne - about 60 miles from Orlando.
[/quote]

[Robert5988]

My intent was just to point out that they might need extensive pre-checks - especially for a Non-US citizen.

[floridadreamvilla.co.uk]

As far as I know you don't for a trial flight - to train for a PPL you would almost certainly be checked though. My best advice is to ask the flying school about this at the time you book a trial lesson.

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Robert5988
My intent was just to point out that they might need extensive pre-checks - especially for a Non-US citizen.
[/quote]

[Tonish]

Good advice folks, thanks very much.

Don't want any more children just yet KG, but may be interested in a swap if you're past the "are we there yet" stage!