Flight Training

Education is one of the most important aspects of model aviation and it's one of the AMA's primary objectives.  In the process of learning to build, fly and maintain aircraft, modelers will encounter aerodynamics, electronics, mechanical systems, physics, technical specifications and more.  Many of these disciplines incorporate Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) competencies - valuable knowledge and skills in the classroom and on the job market. 

The NNPRCC encourages people of all ages to take up this challenging and rewarding hobby - you'll have fun, make some memories and learn from your experiences.  The best part is, you can start right now by learning about radio controlled flight online!  Check out the Flite Test RC Planes - Beginner Series videos and AMA Education resources.  Another great investment in your aeronautical education is a high quality RC flight simulator, such as RealFlight.

Learning to fly with an experienced flight instructor by your side ensures your safety and eventual success.  The NNPRCC has a diverse team of experienced volunteer instructors available to help you take your model aviation skills to the next level.  Whether you're a new member or an experienced flyer, take advantage of FREE flight training from NNPRCC volunteers to learn the fundamentals of flight, aerobatic maneuvers or challenge yourself to master multiple types of aircraft.  Download a FREE copy of the NNPRCC Pilot Training Program course materials so you'll know what to expect when working with a flight instructor.

Note: The following document is in PDF format; if you don't have a program on your computer or device that can view PDF files, you can download a free reader from Adobe.

FIXED WING FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS

Tony Gorgone
  757-880-9287
  Expertise: Basic & Advanced Flight
  Availability: Monday - Friday Evenings

Federico Jones
  757-596-9160
  Expertise: Basic & Advanced Flight
  Availability: Any Day

Steven Kolet
  757-345-0887
  Expertise: Basic & Advanced Flight
  Availability: Any Day

Owen Perkinson
  757-887-3630
  Expertise: Basic & Advanced Flight
  Availability: Saturdays & Sundays

Gary Sambuchi
  757-867-1088
  Expertise: Basic Flight
  Availability: Call to Schedule

Todd Smith
  757-369-5986
  Expertise: Basic Flight
  Availability: Saturdays & Sundays

Bruce Thompson
  757-599-6811
  Expertise: Basic Flight
  Availability: Saturdays & Sundays

 

ROTARY FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS

Bruce Thompson
  757-599-6811
  Expertise: Helicopter & Multi-rotor
  Availability: Saturdays & Sundays


FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR EXPERTISE DEFINITIONS

  • Basic Flight: Available and interested in teaching students using industry-standard trainer aircraft. These instructors have the time, patience and skills necessary to get a new pilot flying.
  • Advanced Flight: Authorized to instruct using advanced aircraft such as tail-draggers, scale airframes, aerobatic planes and so forth. Advanced instructors can help you fly basic pattern maneuvers, conduct test flights utilizing advanced aircraft or help you set up a computerized radio system.
  • Ducted Fan: Instructor with the knowledge and expertise to teach proficient fixed-wing flight students the fundamentals of operating these unique propulsion systems and accompanying airfares.
  • Helicopter: Instructor with the knowledge and expertise to teach new pilots the fundamentals of helicopter flight.
  • Multi-rotor: Instructor with the knowledge and expertise to teach new pilots the fundamentals of multi-rotor flight.

Indoor Flying

During Fall and Winter months, NNPRCC members have several opportunities to fly indoors at the Boo Williams Sportsplex.  Please note that indoor flying is only permitted on certain announced days; you can not go the facility on any given day and fly.  Indoor flying is held in the Howard White Pavilion; this is to the left once you enter the facility.  Be sure to check the EVENTS page for upcoming indoor flying opportunities.  You can also sign up for email notifications by sending a message to: wssaltzg@vigyan.com

Visitors, spectators and guests are admitted FREE.  Pilots will be charged a fee proportionate to how long they used the facility:

  • 30 minutes – $3.00
  • 1 Hour – $6.00
  • 2 Hours – $10.00
  • Full Event (4 hours) – $20.00

Indoor Flying Rules:

  • Indoor flying is restricted to a maximum of 5 concurrent forward-flying aircraft
  • Helicopters are restricted to 400 class or smaller due to the potential floor damage
  • Pilots must display a current AMA or Park Pilot membership
  • Tractor propellers must provide some form of floor protection

Need directions?  Check Boo Williams Sportsplex web site or use Google Maps.