Very rusty pilot
Posted by Sclayworth@reddit | flying | View on Reddit | 9 comments
I got my PPL back in 2006 but the last time I piloted a plane was in 2008. I've been thinking about going to the local flight school, grabbing an instructor, and seeing how well I can do. I'm 72. If I read the rules right, I can qualify for basic Med because my 3rd class med expired in 2008.
Anyone my age given it a whirl?
cazzipropri@reddit
A lot of my pilot-owner clients are in their seventies and they fly regularly and (mostly) safely.
There's also a local org called the UFO (Union of Flying Octuagenarians) - they all have thousands of hours.
You can definitely fly safely if you account for cognitive performance, proficiency and standards.
Your flight review reqs are not current anyway, so you need to get a flight review with and instructor anyway.
Make friends with one you like and start your path. You'll do fine.
aftcg@reddit
I suggest finding a CFI that's independent and has a focus on us older types. And that's older themselves. (No offense to the starving CFIs that are airline bound) These types of operators seem to know how to cater better to us.
BroomstickBiplane@reddit
I did this a few years ago. I was on a 13-14 year break and only had around 120 hours at the time. Now I have over 1200 and fly king airs.
My flight review was signed off in 10ish hours, although my IPC was considerably longer. I did AOPAs rusty pilot course to knock off some of the ground knowledge before I restarted.
I say go for it!
PutOptions@reddit
Plenty of folks at my FBO qualify for senior discounts and still living the dream. Gotta say, a lot of them are owner operators of heavier planes. My sense is none of them give up until they can't keep their medical or their INSURANCE.
SWC8181@reddit
I got my ppl in 2001 and hadn’t flown since. I started flying a couple months ago after a 24 year break. I was definately rusty and my first few trips sucked. About 15 hours in and I’m pretty much up to speed. I’m 50 if that helps.
cficole@reddit
Everyone ages differently. I know a lot of septuagenarians still flying. If you want to do it, just do it. You'll find out if you're still able. And you'll enjoy the flight with the CFI, regardless.
BrtFrkwr@reddit
It all comes back quicker than you think.
Severe_Elderberry769@reddit
As long as you have an instructor on board!
rFlyingTower@reddit
This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:
I got my PPL back in 2006 but the last time I piloted a plane was in 2008. I've been thinking about going to the local flight school, grabbing an instructor, and seeing how well I can do. I'm 72. If I read the rules right, I can qualify for basic Med because my 3rd class med expired in 2008.
Anyone my age given it a whirl?
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