Frequently Ask Questions
Why should I do the training in my aircraft instead of the FTD (Flight Training Device)?          
Multiple reasons: Besides operating your aircraft in actual flight conditions, radio/navigation operations and traffic awareness
 
1.   Ground operations:
Walk Around, Normal and Non-Hard Surface and Taxi

2.   Flight operations:         

 

3.   Flight Review (formally BFR) and Instrument Proficiency Check

Regional airports, takeoff and landing configurations, air work, simulated emergency procedures incorporated while executing instrument approaches.

Standard sign-off's with successful completion of training. The WINGS / Flight Review sign-off is currently NOT offered via the FTD (Flight Training Device) due to changes by the FAA regarding the WINGS program.

 
Why is ACFT Services referring to Simcom's PC12 trainer as a Flight Training Device and not an Airplane Simulator?

By FAA definition "an Airplane Simulator requires a force (motion) cueing system, which provide cues at least equivalent to that of a three degree of freedom-motion system" unlike a

Flight Training Device which does not require a force (motion) cueing system. Simcom's PC12 FTD provides a "Realistic sensation of motion" via a 180 degree  floor-to ceiling visual system

and flight control feedback loading but is non-motion   FTD-Simulator Definitions pdf

 
Do all Insurance Underwriters approve ACFT Services?  
Yes. However, individual policies may not allow in-aircraft due to liability limits. ACFT Services can contact your Broker/Underwriter to confirm.
 

Is ACFT Services manufacturer (Pilatus) approved?

No. Due to contractual agreement with Simcom Pilatus will not officially approve any other source for training.

 
Does ACFT Services offer PC12 NG training?

Yes. Just as with all series PC12's you will need to check with your insurer. Also, if a new purchase/upgrade from another PC12 ACFT Services offers differences training along with the Recurrent Course.

Note: With a new purchase comes training vouchers that can be redeemed only at Simcom or Pilatus. If you wish to use ACFT Services you can request, prior to delivery, a refund of the voucher equivalent from the aircraft sales center.
 

Does ACFT Services offer other types of aircraft training?

No. One of the primary reasons for leaving my previous employment was to concentrate fully on the PC12 and not have the potential for "cross-contamination"- mixing other aircraft systems / flight knowledge into the operations of the PC12 as being similar when usually not applicable.

 
How do I save money doing the training in my aircraft?
In the business world, time is money. Since ACFT Services usually travels to your location the time spent by you traveling to/from the training facility, not to mention the flexibility,  can be used more judiciously and allows for better concentration on training when it begins. Course Cost comparison chart
 
Does ACFT Services offer Initial Training for the PC12?
Yes. However, if your prior aviation background does not include turbine operations I will not undertake the initial training (better to use the FTD), and your insurance underwriter would probably not allow it as well.
 
What is Transition Training?         
If you are new to turbine and high altitude operations you will probably be required by your insurance underwriters to receive additional transition (dual) training in your aircraft, usually 20-25 hours. This can be accomplished with any qualified PC12 pilot; however it would be wiser to undertake this training with a qualified PC12 Instructor. Regardless of insurance requirements this is a prudent step to undertake if not familiar with long-range, high altitude cross country, high-density airports, high country (mountains) and density altitude environments.
 

How do you (ACFT Services) maintain currency?

I fly for individuals as a Pro Pilot, about 250 hours a year, which gives me ample left seat time when not conducting training. I also have fellow PC 12 instructor/pilots who "check" me in PC 12's that they operate.

 

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