I Finally Married a Jet

Dr. Ken Wolf

Tuesday, June 28, 2011 at 12:41 AM ET

Verified

** Dr. Ken Wolf (left) and his instructor, Jim
Loranger.**

Key Takeaways:

The author transitioned to flying a CitationJet (CJ) after a previous aircraft plan dissolved, undertaking an intensive two-month training program to earn his type rating.
Mastering the CJ involved a steep learning curve focused on its complex integrated flight management system (FMS), electronic displays, and extensive pre-flight checks, often uncovering intricate "gotchas."
Despite a challenging check ride experience, he successfully qualified, realizing that while hand-flying the jet is docile, the core challenge lies in managing automation and the significantly more rigorous pre-departure planning required for jet operations.
He ultimately found deep satisfaction in flying the CJ, highlighting the expanded skills and profound procedural differences compared to his previous, less casual flying experiences.

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The title of this article is a bit strange, so I will explain. For six years I was “engaged” to an Eclipse VLJ, but the romance dissolved when the originally promised range did not materialize. I sold my delivery position (see the July 2008 Flying article “My Torrid Affair with a VLJ”). I continued to fly my MU-2 Solitaire for the next couple of years but ultimately could not resist the siren song of a jet at 50 cents on the dollar, thanks to the great recession. I proposed and the bride’s father accepted my offer. A beautiful young thing in the form of a 1996 CitationJet appeared on my ramp. It was love at first sight and first flight!

Just 30 miles from my home lived Jim Loranger, an FAA-designated pilot examiner for the CJ. He agreed to train me at night and on weekends until I was ready for the type rating exam.