To the Lancair Mailing List
Subject: [LML]
First-Flight LIV-P - N654P
N654P flew for the first time this week on Monday,
December 19, 2005 Piloted by Charlie Kohler. Flew just
like advertised. No major issues, just a little fuel
adjustment. I am now checked out and have flown several
times this week. What a hot rod! Charlie Kohler was
excellent--thorough and very detailed as the FAA DAR. He
was also super at helping us test and train. He gave us
some great insight and tips on operation, pilotage, and
maintenance. I recommend him highly.
The bottom line--I can't wipe the smile off my face.
Stan Askren
Subject: Re: Training
Date: Sat, 03 Mar 2001 16:04:30 -0800
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Gentlemen of the List:
I too have read the thread regarding the legalities
of training on the list. Now that Charlie has put his 2
cents worth in, allow me to do so as well. I would say
to all of you to listen to what Charlie Kohler has to
say. I received about 5 hours of dual in another IV-P
before I had Charlie come and check me out in my own IVP.
I must tell you these aircraft each have their own
unique quirks and my plane bore no resemblance to the
other one in terms of flight dynamics. I am not exactly
a new pilot, having 3000 hrs, and flown King Airs,
Barons and MU-2s' The stall on the Lancair is more
startling than anything I have ever seen. It is only
sensible to have an expert TEST PILOT sitting next to
you when you experience this on your own UNIQUE plane
(emphasis added).
Also, when the engine quit on base leg, the EFIS
panel froze up, my IQ turned to 3 and portions of the
seat cushion were becoming intimate with my colon,
Charlie was there...calm, cool and collected.
Gentlemen, I would say that if your best idea is to
perform the first flight yourself, try running your car
off a cliff instead, at least your family could sell the
Lancair and give you a nice burial!
I guess what I am saying is that these planes are
very tricky in the early stages and everything happens
very fast...that includes problems.
Do not let the fact they look like a single engine
airplane fool you. Approach your training just like you
would if you were training for a turboprop or
jet...there are closer to these in flight challenges
than ANY piston plane anywhere!
Finally, I can endorse Charlie Kohler as a test pilot
and instructor. His training was excellent and frankly I
feel I know the plane and systems better than when I
attended Flight Safety for my King Air.
Good Luck
Dave
