scre80

For me to learn RPL, it would cost around $200 to $250 hour out of Parafield. With RAA, is around $135 with where I am doing this through. Now there is quite a few differences between the 2 in regards to what you can do. ie RAA, you can not fly in controlled airspace, Max weight is 600KG, where as RPL is 1500KG Max weight and you can fly into controlled space. If you want to fly bigger aircraft, RPL to PPL is the way to go. In terms of flying, I believe they are similar for the course structure and many of the endorsements / requirements are the same, ie VFR, aircraft control, radio, ect. For me, I just wanted to get out and have fun without breaking the bank. If I chose RPL, I would most likely not do it because of the cost. Not sure if you have seen this on the RA-Aus website: https://www.raa.asn.au/learn-to-fly/recreational-vs-private/ Also, if you want to convert to RPL later, it seems quite easy with minimal hours. See the RPL info here. http://www.casa.gov.au/wcmswr/_assets/main/lib100191/rr61_rpl_fs.pdf It states: I already hold a pilot certificate issued by RA-Aus. How do I obtain an RPL? A pilot certificate is equivalent to an RPL. To get your RPL you need to complete an application form, and follow the instructions on the form to provide evidence of your pilot certificate, submit a recent photograph and provide appropriate proof of your identity. You also need to undertake a flight review before you can use your licence. Your new licence grants you the relevant category rating, aircraft class rating and design feature endorsements. You are also granted a recreational navigation endorsement if your pilot certificate authorises you to conduct crosscountry flights and if you meet the minimum flight times.

I also looked at the RPL, but cost wise and for enjoyment, the RAA seemed to be a better fit. Also, down the track it seems easy now to transfer the RAA over to RPL.

2nd lesson today, and I was a little better. Still sooo much to get my head around!!

Hi All, Well I have completed my 1st full lesson and having my 2nd one tomorrow. Flying in the J-170D. It is not as easy as it looks!!! Looking forward to the challenge though and loving it.

Again, too young for this!!!

Bit too young for that!!

Hi Jay_1984, How do you find it as an everyday watch? Too big / thick? Thanks

I really like the Tissot T-Touch II Titanium, but more costs more than the Garmin D2.

Thanks All. I am up for a new watch and I have been thinking of a smart watch. But do not like the battery life / some of the features. The Garmin Seemed to fit what I want, and the fact I am currently training towards my Pilot's certificate, seemd to be a fit. Before I went and spend any $$, wanted to see what others have got as a aviation / pilot's watch. Out of interest, how much can you get the Garmin for? Thanks Scott

Hi, Anyone have a Garmin D2 Watch? Would be interested in hearing any comments https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/in-the-air/portable-gps/d2-/prod148289.html Anyone can recommend a different aviation watch? Thanks

Very interesting

Great writeup

Well done, Congrats. I am looking forward to when I have my first solo.

I agree, go for the quickbuild and I would also go for the aerovee turbo

Thanks Dave

Hi All Just had my TIF, what a great experience!! But bumpy in the J170 with the strong winds but still very enjoyable. Can't wait to get stuck into the training!!

Thanks Tony, If I get a free Saturday, will let you know. I will most likely be tied up with flight training on Saturdays for a few months. Cheers Scott

Thanks Tony, Yes, found that site and looked at your project, looks like a lot of fun. If I device to go down this path, I hope to see a few in person and get a good understanding of what is required before I commit, it will probably take a few years to get the wife's approval too!!. Do you know if anyone at Gawler Airfield has one? Thanks Scott

I think if you have the $$ to but this, you will not be concerned about fuel cost. Braging rights, maybe but it would be fun to fly!! That would have to be the key. Who would not want to live their boy dream and fly a single seat jet!!!

That was my thoughts. Would be fun to fly though!!

Hey All, Anyone know of the subsonex is legal in Australia? Would it be RA-Aus or CASA registered? http://www.sonexaircraft.com/subsonex/index.html Would be interested to know if anyone has purchased one to build here. A great concept but out of my price range. Thanks

Hi All, New to the whole Flying scene (Still have to get my licence!!) I really like the idea of building a sonex, but not sure I could tolerate a build from scratch. Also, have to convince the wife first!! I see they have a quick build option now. Would love to hear some current build stories, especially from anyone who has completed a quickbuild. Was the extra $$ worth it? Also, how bad was the import cost? Thanks Scott

I also like the idea of building a plane too, but depends of the wife and again $$

Wow Geoff, congrats. I will not have this much time to spare or $$$, but hoping to get my certificate in around 6 months.

Thankyou for that. So my reading of this is, if you hold an RPL, have the correct Aero endorsement and a class 1 or 2 medical plus you are in the right aircraft and you are endorsed for that, then you are good to go!!