Learning to fly, or thinking of learning? Post your questions, comments and experiences here

Moderator: AndyR

#1760727
Evening all

I was hoping to get some advice on types of aircraft for students. I have what’s called winging scapula, which means I am unable to raise my arms up to face-height without throwing them up there (and then can’t keep them up there). I passed my medical but on the proviso that I could physically control the aircraft.

All was well with feet and arm controls in the Cessna 172, until I had to control the aircraft direction and reach for the radio controls at the same time (I usually have to use one arm to lift the other, but couldn’t take my other hand off the controls).

So my question was on what the best type of aircraft I might be able to learn in that didn’t have cockpit controls too high up? Is there such a thing? I’m guessing a helicopter is out if the question as I think I’ve seen controls above the head.

It gets further complicated that I’m 6’5” tall and have issues with walking and leg weakness, so smaller aircraft or anything that involves climbing will be a no go.

Thanks in advance for any advice. I live in Wiltshire and am willing to travel up to about 50-60 miles. Just hoping to get up in the air in something with 2+ seats!
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By Dave W
FLYER Club Member  FLYER Club Member
#1760728
Have you spoken with Mike Miller-Smith's team at Aerobility, based at Blackbushe?

If there's a way, I bet they can find it.
By riverrock
FLYER Club Member  FLYER Club Member
#1760733
Unfortunately I can't think of a training aircraft which doesn't have a radio on the panel in front of you. However the height within the panel will vary between aircraft. It might be a case of sitting in and trying a number to see if any particular work for you once the lockdown is over.
Note that in more basic PA28s the trim handle is in the ceiling, which sounds like wont work for you.

Aerobility would be a great group to chat things through with
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By Paul_Sengupta
FLYER Club Member  FLYER Club Member
#1760736
riverrock wrote:Note that in more basic PA28s the trim handle is in the ceiling,


Not exactly more basic ones, but the older ones, sort of pre-1974-ish when the Warrior 1 came out, though I think they carried on making the Cherokee 140 until 1977 which seems a little strange to me.
#1761204
Aerobility do some stuff out of Tattenhill also. Please do get in touch with them, they will do their best to find something that works for you.

Edit: I see you’re Wiltshire so that’s probably even further from you. But it’s worth speaking to them. You might not want to do the journey to the Bushe all the time, but they may be able to make something work from somewhere closer.
#1761621
I don’t mean to pry, but I presume you are getting help/advice on your ailments.

I had a winging scapula due to an injury to my back, luckily I’m married to a physio and it all works as it should now.

I only ask as I work with a chap who has an ailment which means he cannot lift his arm above head height, yet insists it’s pointless going to see a Physio, as all they’ll do is give you exercises!

I know from my wife’s degree and understanding of anatomy, it’s a bit more than “exercises”!
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By PeteSpencer
FLYER Club Member  FLYER Club Member
#1763766
I'm sure either of those organisations will find a way:

Talk to them first.

Without wishing to sound trite in anyway there is a lady in USA who is a licensed pilot with no arms
Google Jessica Cox.

Good luck and please post your progress.

Peter :thumright: