Whether you have considerable flying experience or you are just learning how to fly, you will find it well worth your time to really get to know your aircraft before even contemplating leaving the relative safety of the ground. In this section will be posted information that we hope will help you achieve this goal.

Transition Syllabus

1. Overview

   The objective of transition training is for a pilot to develop the knowledge, skill and proficiency to operate a heretofore unfamiliar model of aircraft. The training should not be limited to flight training but should also include ground training.
   The syllabus used should be effective and tailored to the student's individual experience and needs. Previously learned skills may be useful in the learning process but differences should be emphasized.

   At the end of the course, the transitioning pilot should be able to demonstrate having reached the objective and meeting the standards by the use of oral, written and flight testing.

   The training should include but not be limited to:

   • The aircraft systems specific to the make and model of aircraft.
   • The flight characteristics and limitations
   • The care and cleaning of aircraft made from modern materials.
   • Modern aircraft engines
   • Responsibilities of Owners and Operators of Light Sport Aircraft.

   Information pertaining to transition training can be obtained from government publications as well as from leading industry organizations.

2. Objective

   The over all objective of the transition training is to obtain the required knowledge and skill level to safely operate a Flight Design CTSW.

3. Completion Standards

   At the end of the course, the transitioning pilot should be able to demonstrate having reached the course objectives and meeting the completion standards by the use of oral, written and flight testing. The student will demonstrate knowledge of the Aircraft Operating Instructions manual, the aircraft systems and limitations, and the regulations pertaining to Light Sport aircraft and airmen. The demonstration will include emergency as well normal procedures.

4. Areas of Operation and tasks

   In a manner similar to Practical Test Standards put forth by the FAA, the instructor will establish Areas of Operation corresponding to specific areas of knowledge and/or skill needed by the student to complete the transition training. Within each Area of Operation the instructor will identify specific Tasks that can be completed by the student in order to demonstrate proficiency.

5. Ground training

   Systems and Limitations

   The instructor should not only provide an overview of the aircraft, but also an in-depth description of the aircraft systems, their operation and their limitations. The description should include a discussion on how the systems may be different from what the student has previously experienced.

   Areas of operation

   1. Aircraft overview
   2. Flight and system controls
   3. Flight Instruments
   4. Performance and Limitations
   5. Powerplant
   6. Electrical system
   7. Fuel System
   8. Landing Gear
   9. Weight and Balance
   10. Specific avionics installed
   
    

6. Flight training

   Preflight

   The purpose of a preflight inspection is to determine the airworthiness of an aircraft in preparation for flight. The transitioning student must learn asses the overall condition of the aircraft and establish its maintenance status. Items of note are: documents, placards and inoperative equipment.

   Flight training standards

   Upon completion of flight training, the student will demonstrate a skill level appropriate to the Light Sport Pilot Practical Test Standards or to the level of pilot certificate held, if higher.

   Areas of operation

   1. Flight planning for Light Sport Aircraft
   2. Preflight procedures
   3. Surface operations
   4. Takeoff, Landings and Go-Arounds
   5. Navigation
   6. Slow flight
   7. Emergency procedures
   8. Post flight procedures