Introduction:
Welcome to Get Your Wings, it’s been far too long since my last post! Today, we embark on an exhilarating journey through the skies as we delve into the world of a Microlight Assistant Flying Instructor. Join me as I recount my experience of passing the full microlight Flying Instructors test and my unforgettable adventure to the picturesque town of Tallard, nestled in the breathtaking French Alps.
1: Taking Flight as a UK Microlight Assistant Flying Instructor
Becoming a Microlight Assistant Flying Instructor was a dream come true for me. From the very beginning, I was captivated by aviation and the incredible freedom it offers. Sharing my passion for flying with enthusiastic students has brought me immense joy and fulfilment over the past 5 years. Although the old saying of the job of a flying instructor is to work out how a student, unwittingly, plans to kill you and stop them from carrying it out, does seem to have some foundation in truth, maybe I will share some of the stories in the future!
2: Preparing for the full microlight flying Instructor’s test
With a burning desire to expand my horizons and take on greater responsibilities, oh and being made redundant from my main job, I set my sights on obtaining the full microlight Flying Instructors (FI) rating. Months of preparation followed, involving a deep dive into the intricacies of teaching, theory and practical skills.
To achieve this, I studied extensively, sought information from experienced instructors, and engaged in countless hours of revision using flashcards, books, YouTube and rehearsing lesson plans. I don’t think I have ever put so much into preparing for a test, but it was worth it in the end.
3: A Journey to Tallard, France
“What have I done, have I gone mad”, were the thoughts going through my head as I set out to France to take my test with a person I have never met, in a country I have never flown in, in an aircraft type I have never flown and all because I love mountains (we all have our peculiarities), maybe I had gone mad.
The pinnacle of my quest to become a full-fledged Microlight Flying Instructor arrived when I travelled to Tallard, France, to take the test. Situated in the heart of the majestic French Alps, Tallard is renowned for its stunning scenery and its vibrant aviation community.
As I embarked on this adventure, I was filled with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The thought of flying amidst the snow-capped peaks and breathtaking valleys of the French Alps was both awe-inspiring and humbling.
4: The Test and Exploring the French Alps
The testing process was rigorous, as it should be, to ensure that only the most competent and skilled instructors receive their FI rating. The examiner was thorough, assessing my theoretical knowledge, teaching capabilities, and flight proficiency with meticulous attention to detail.
The day of the test was long, starting with the normal weather and NOTAM briefing, followed by a lesson of the examiner’s choice to be given and then flown, additionally during the flight a number of other manoeuvres were asked to be demonstrated. Back on the ground and thinking that it hadn’t gone too badly I prepared myself for the intense questioning session which would run for a few hours and cover all the subjects. This seemed to go well also, there were a few very deep technical questions asked, which as a BMAA inspector, I had the answers readily to hand. I have deliberately chosen not to cite any of the questions here.
Upon successfully passing the test, I was overwhelmed with a sense of accomplishment. The world of microlight aviation had opened up to me in a whole new way. Eager to explore the captivating surroundings, I took the opportunity to embark on exhilarating flights in the French Alps.
5: The Unforgettable Beauty of the French Alps
Flying through the French Alps was an experience beyond words. The stunning landscapes, adorned with towering peaks, deep gorges, and picturesque villages, stretched out beneath me like a canvas of natural wonder. both flights were mesmerizing adventures, immersing me in the raw beauty of the Alps.
From the tranquil serenity of Lake Serre-Ponçon to the grandeur of the mountain peaks, the French Alps offered an endless array of scenic wonders. The joy of sharing these experiences with my students and friends reinforced my passion for aviation and microlight flight instruction.
Conclusion:
My journey to Tallard, France, allowed me to not only achieve my professional goals but also discover the unparalleled beauty of the French Alps from the air. If like me you have a thing for both flying and mountains I can recommend a visit to Pegasus Flight training, their website is pegasusfrance.co.uk, don’t forget to mention my blog!
As I continue my adventure as a certified instructor, I eagerly look forward to guiding and inspiring the next generation of microlight aviators