Training programme for 'A' tests

[Phil Neale]

Some clubs do not allow anyone to fly solo unless they have attained at least an 'A' test. This is not so at CMFC but we do have a responsibility towards each other and the public to be safe at the field. It will only take one silly accident to end the security of our wonderful site. We all care and to that end an 'A' Test will give each candidate a good sound set of safety principles to employ at the site. That can only be a good thing for all of us. We fly for fun and so we should be able to do so in a relaxed atmosphere. We don't want to have someone barking 'club rules' in our ear every five seconds. I am very confident that 'A' tests throughout the club will promote our relaxed happy atmosphere. We are all safety officers. I also believe that learning the 'A' test drill is a good introduction to aerobatic flying. This takes a progression toward the 'B' test. Have one of those and you can fly at most shows. It's an individuals choice. Are you interested?

[Santrix]

As I already have mine I am going to have to say I agree that we should all do it 

I hope you don't mind Phil, I've extended the time for the poll to 21 days... I expect the uptake to the forums is going to be a bit slow, so it would be a shame if the poll expired before anyone had the chance to vote! 

[brummy]

I agree with what is said. But!

The A test is something that should be made mandatory after a given time after starting flying.
It should include firstly the ability to think on your feet, once in trouble being able to explain your next actions and giving out any alarms to other people within the flying field.
Also what should be learnt is what the plane is doing at a given time and what to do in the situation of a Dead Stick.  Most pilots today have a hard time to getting the plane back to the strip because they do not understand the actions of what to do. i.e airspped,hight, wind direction etc.
When I took my A test, you had to cut the motor, you had to get it right.
I have also taken my LMA test, some people make comments that the flying required is less than the A test.  Yes this can be true but the thing above the A test is that you have to explain what you are doing in the event of a dead stick and where the dangers are. It also includes other situations as well.

After flying on the show circuits for the last three years, just because you have a B Test does not give you the ability to be able to fly in front of a big crowed.  I have seen good club pilots buckle at the knees on the flight line. 

Having a A test does not stop the accidents but it does help in many ways.