NZFF

Hey guys

Just looking for a bit of advice / knowledge / background info/ experiences etc from any of you guy that have done a C-Cat part-time........

Due to work and family commitments I can't or won't be doing a C-Cat at one of the 'big' schools in one hit. Most people seem to think this is in no way a bad thing so I've no worries there. What I'm not sure about though is how it all "fits" together!

I'll do an ITC at a recognised provider, I'm hour building at the moment (currently up to a mammoth 130 PIC ), should I get the 150PIC requirement before I start or leave a little slack for the course? The course though, how does that work? What is the flying component? Is there usually ground school or is it back into self study - will that be sufficient? I understand there is something in the region of 50 lessons to 'memorises'! Lots of questions not many answers are coming to mind.......

Thanks for any pointers.

Just from my experience, for something as intense and demanding as an instructors rating, it really deserves your attention every waking moment. I wouldnt do it part time. The examiner could ask you to demonstrate anything from the CPL flying syllabus so from effects of controls through to instrument flying. The schools are great as you usually get a book of briefings to practise with and there is usually a lot of experienced people on hand to offer advise or abuse. Not too sure about a fixed wing test but I found the helicopter P of F was much easier than I expected. I did so much study that I ended up teaching P of F and airtech at the college. I advise doing it at a school just for the total immersion factor but thats just my opinion.

Hi Chopper Nut

Thanks for the reply and advice. Unfortunately it's just not an option for me, same with PPL/CPL flying & theory I had to do it all part-time in the evenings or at weekends. I know there are plenty of people out there that have successfully completed a C-Cat part time and are now instructing so I know it 'can' be done. It's certainly not going to be easy street but then CPL part-time wasn't a holiday!

Cheers