Most chapter active members own an aerobatic aircraft. This gives them the freedom to practice, improve their skills, and compete in contests. But not all members have the skills or the equipment to participate unaided. The Mentor Program was conceived to bring chapter members with the aircraft, insurance, and qualifications together with pilots who are new to the sport but wish to learn the ropes. The Mentor instructors teach a number of skills, building towards competition flight. Some of these skills include:
| Step | Description |
| 1. Tailwheel Endorsement | Since many (though not all) aerobatic airplanes are of the tailwheel design, an endorsement is required to act as pilot in command.* |
| 2. Type Training | Most aerobatic airplanes by their nature are very responsive to control inputs and each has it's own "personality." So type-specific training may be necessary to increase skills in takeoff, landing, and ground handling beyond the basics, especially if the pilot plans to purchase his/her own aircraft in the future. |
| 3. Upset Training | To the new aerobatic pilot, unusual attitudes can be disorienting and confusing. Some basic upset recovery training is useful to boost the pilot's skills and confidence for later maneuvers. It also serves to build up tolerance to the sensations and g-forces encountered while conducting maneuvers. |
| 4. Aerobatics | Basic and advanced maneuvers, alone and in combination, are the basis for aerobatic sequences at every level of competition. Building upon a solid base to ever-more-complex and difficult sequences is what the progression through "categories" of competition is all about. |
| 5. Competition | Knowing how to fly maneuvers and sequences is a great skill. But flying in front of judges' critical eyes in a 3,300-foot-square block of airspace in weather you cannot control adds a whole new level of difficulty to the exercise. But that's what competition is about. Learning from a Mentor is a great way to prepare for competition. |
We are fortunate to have members with aircraft that are ideal for aerobatic instruction. They arrange and conduct all flights directly with interested pilots, so call them and set up an appointment to start building your skills today!
Elgin Wells owns a Decathelon 8KCAB which he flies in airshows around the country. He offers introductory flights as well as Aerobatic coaching. Elgin flies out of Lawrenceville (LZU) Airport. See his web site for additional details.
* Some Mentors may wish to do all ground handling, takeoffs, and landings during initial or ongoing instruction. This should be discussed while the pilot and Mentor set goals.