Back In The Saddle Again

After a hiatus from the left seat, how can you get back into your groove? Flying something that’s not typical for you might help.

Jim Wolper

Thursday, December 26, 2024 at 05:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By: Omar Filipovic

Textron's new single-engine turboprop. Textron

Key Takeaways:

Returning to fly an aircraft after a long break requires significant re-familiarization, as pilots cannot simply pick up where they left off and often need dedicated instruction.
Thorough preparation involves in-depth review of the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), practicing normal and emergency procedures (including physical motions), and understanding any updated avionics.
Helicopters, especially Robinson models, have unique handling characteristics and safety regulations (e.g., SFAR 73 regarding low-g maneuvers) that necessitate specialized re-training due to their critical differences from fixed-wing aircraft.

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The instructor looked at me out of the corner of her eye and said, “Okay, you try the cyclic, I’ve got the collective and the pedals.” I hadn’t flown a helicopter for almost 10 years, and I really didn’t know how much I remembered.

We went through the usual three-step exchange of flight controls. “You have the cyclic.” “I have the cyclic.” “You have the cyclic.” Positive exchange of controls is important in every aircraft.