Learning to Fly a Pipistrel Alpha Trainer

[@MannyCamRS]

Nothing like a roll of toilet paper on the dash...just in case. Works for me.

[@scienceobrien8335]

Hey, thanks for posting this video. I’m transitioning to the Alpha trainer for fun, after flying the Airbus A320 and MD-80 for the past 20years. I’m amazed at how far the technology has come since the old Cessna 150! Back when I was instructing in the Cessna 150/152 it seems like aviation technology was never going to change!

[@Captainomni]

Thanks for the comment ! I think you'll really enjoy your time in the Alpha :)

[@dinizen]

i suppose that toilet paper on the dashboard is just in case of.. umm.. emergency.

[@ShatNdd]

This is standard equipment from factory. Included into pre-flight check list as well.

[@scottpeters3]

Great video...I am just learning to fly the Pipistral Sinus Flex

[@Captainomni]

Sounds like fun! Good luck!

[@afdsadf147852369]

landing was a bit close hahah looks like a fun plane to fly

[@MannyCamRS]

+afdsadf 147852369 LOL....looks like he came in a bit shallow.

[@frez777]

You seem to be an excellent instructor!

[@flexairz]

Really? No hands on throttle on take-off. No EFATO check before entering the runway. Hands free flying with a new student with no experience. Diving down, idle throttle into probably turbulent air, no respect for Va. Crashing high speed into downwind, forward slip on final about to hit the grass. Nobody is perfect, but these are critical safety things.

[@robzettel550]

Too shallow an approach. Students should be taught to strive for a 3 degree glide-path since that’s pretty much what all precision instrument approaches are predicated on as well as VASI/PAPI guidance. Also, please allow for a touchdown aimpoint a bit further from the runway end. These aren’t good habits to be teaching or allowing to be flown. Just my 2¢ after a career of instructing in the military and major airlines and 19,000+ hours of actual flying.

[@d.howerton9273]

I agree, Rob. The approach was too shallow. One other thing that bothered me was the descent to pattern entry. The descent should have been completed to pattern altitude before beginning the 45 degree entry to downwind. USAF fixed/rotary wing IP/FE

[@romeodelta4275]

Hi Alex.. I'd like to obtain your félins about the Alpha trainer . Do you think it could be a good airplaine for a private pilote ? Not to fragile ? Tanks Alex for your answers Richard

[@Captainomni]

Roméo Delta Hello - the Alpha trainer is a very safe and easy to maintain aircraft. Since it is a trainer it is very sturdy. Overall, a great value. Thanks for your message!

[@Avgeek1564]

Is the loo roll an integral part of the flight control system?

[@jeeps7er]

Yes but the Pipistrel has an outside toilet unfortunately.

[@seba.d]

man, it is just like being in a pilot's seat. :D Totally like the video. Alex, i see you are an instructor, can you tell me approximately how long does it take to get a pilot licence in USA and the cost?

[@MannyCamRS]

+sands1973 FAA minimum requirement of 40 hours of flight/ground training. Usually 60-75 hours at $125-$150 with CFI depending on individual abilities.

[@seba.d]

+Manuel Saldivar (Manny) thank you. This price is in the states?

[@MannyCamRS]

Yes. Price for U.S.

[@Captainomni]

This is a sport pilot aircraft so the minimum requirement for sport pilot license is 20 hours@@MannyCamRS

[@TM-tw1py]

Looks extremely easy to fly!

[@flexairz]

Well, it isn't.

[@ExtremeRecluse]

The fuel burn must be very small for this little bird

[@Captainomni]

It is very efficient and uses 87 octane

[@gabestorm7150]

10000 feet altitude with no supplemental oxygen?

[@gvrose1]

Does your Alpha have air breaks? If not, how is it for short field landings? Gord.

[@Captainomni]

It does not - I don't know the stats on short field landings though - thanks!

[@flexairz]

@@Captainomni I've landed an Alpha on a 250 m runway, that's 820 ft. Would not recommend anything shorter.

[@F111BMATHIS]

I love the way you talk about every step. My instructor was less informative.

[@N41J4]

Ayone else see tommy from chucky in the window 5:21

[@sw3w537]

Where can I learn to fly the pipistrel.. I have everything completed except solo and my ppc. 40 recent hours

[@Captainomni]

Sorry I don’t know. The person from whom I received my training is no longer available.

[@bsaleem97]

Seeing this old post. Where are you? Still looking to fly a Pipistrel?

[@sw3w537]

@@bsaleem97 yes In the usa

[@bsaleem97]

@@sw3w537 what state?

[@sw3w537]

@@bsaleem97 Virginia, but I have to travel to Europe and South America a lot

[@rfresh1011]

I'm surprised you have to turn around so much to get to the flap handle...not a good design...head down, turning around, isn't good to get to anything a pilot needs in flight...

[@kristensorensen2219]

Alex, watched your instruction video. You said and did almost NO clearing maneuvers and forgot to reenforced constant vigilance by looking for other aircraft!?!?!!! Shame and negligent ! Just ask the FAA!!! This is exactly why there are VFR mid air collisions.