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Chris,
I haven't taught or flown in a few years. But I do fly a 737-400 in MS FS2002!
From 1977 to 1981, I went from instructing to air freight (small packages and checks) to flying a King Air F90 as captain and a Lear 23 mostly as F.O. and instructor. My last charter was as captain of the Lear. Yes, I've my ATP with Learjet type rating.
Airplanes flown included various Barons, the Aztec, Cessna 310, 402, and various single engine Cessnas, Beechcraft, Pipers, and a Rockwell 112. At one point, I flew the four-engined DeHavilland Heron and a Beech D18 and have some experience with the Grand Commander. And I briefly flew a Cessna 185. It was a three-bladed version and was a delight to fly. Fun airplane with plenty of power and good handling.
I accumulated 4300 hours total with over 700 of it at night and just over 500 in turbine aircraft. Rotorcraft experience was limited to hovering a Bell 47 and flying a Coast Guard full motion simulator. I experienced an engine failure (partial power but unable to hold altitude) in a Cessna 172 and prevented a failure in a Baron and other aircraft by being very attentive to cylinder head temps and unusual sounds, etc. Mechanics learned to expect a cylinder problem when I brought one in with a write-up.
Chris, please tell me about the Trinidad. How's it handle? Did you like it?
In 1981, I went to work for the FAA at the Jacksonville Air Route Traffic Control Center. In 1993, I transferred to Atlanta Center and retired in 2001 after 20 years and one month. During my ATC career, I found it difficult to maintain instrument currency. Although my flying experience was instrumental in saving some lives, I tended to project myself on the flight deck too much. And the job was mentally exhausting, especially in Atlanta.
In 1996, I developed rheumatoid arthritis (RA). That combined with gastric problems and stress, effectively ended my career in 2000. The last year I was on medical restriction and not actively working traffic but was able to take a normal retirement in November of 2001. For that, I am grateful.
I haven't even tried to pass a medical. And recently, I had a possible TIA and don't feel comfortable acting as PIC, much less driving on Atlanta's freeways. Come to think of it, I'm probably better off in the air!
Allyn
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