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Disabled Pilots

Asked by: 3291 views , , ,
Private Pilot, Student Pilot

Hi there,

First of all, great website!  Came across it after googling "Runway heading true or magnetic".

 

Second, have either of you ever trained or talked to a student pilot with a physical disability?  I have cerebral palsy myself and use a wheelchair most of the time but I do have limited use of my legs.  This makes the preflight fuel level check, ground braking, and crosswind landings much more challenging than normal but my instructor has been fantastic so far in working with me on these issues.  Just wondering what your experience has been with your students in this area.

 

Thank you!

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1 Answers



  1. Jonathan Seitz on Apr 11, 2013

    I used to teach at a flight school that had a whole program dedicated to pilots without the use of their legs. Some war veterans, some parapalegic since birth. The trick is using a low-wing aircraft like a Piper Warrior, it makes everything much easier. There is a special rudder bar that can be used with your hand to activate the rudders, and many of the new LSAs have hand operated brakes. I would encourage you to scoutn around, even if there is not a special program in your area, you may be able to find someone willing to work with you.

    Honestly, your toughest challenge with CP is going to be getting a Medical Certificate. That will be an uphill battle, but if you are able to do that, the flying part should be no problem.

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