Learning in an RV

From Matronics

There are really two issues to consider when making this decision:

• Is it a safe thing to do?

• If it is safe, is it still a smart thing to do?

The answer to the first question is a definite yes. The RV line of aircraft are among the easiest to fly in general aviation. Their handling qualities are straightforward and honest. This goes for both nosewheel and tailwheel variants. In fact, it could be said that the RV is too easy to fly for it to be a good trainer. If you agree with that opinion, a few hours in an inferior plane will help. A 65 hp Aeronica Champ will teach you all about adverse aileron yaw.

In the interest of safety some caveats should be added. The specific RV in question should be a proven aircraft. The last thing you need on a student solo cross country trip is a problem with the aircraft.

The second question is much harder than the first, especially if you have a nosewheel aircraft. The nosegear of the "A" variants of the RVs tends to be delicate. They will not take the kind of abuse that a Piper or Cessna nosewheel will take. Several RV nose gear have collapsed because of "wheelbarrow" style landings.

When learning to fly, it is inevitable that you make mistakes. For many RV builders/owners it is worth the cost of a rental to make their mistakes in someone else's plane. This is especially true if you built your RV. If you purchased your RV, insurance can "make you whole" if you damage something in a hard landing or such. But if you built your aircraft, no amount of financial compensation will make up for a damaged airplane.

For many, the extra wear and tear of primary training, with its bounced landings, is not worth the potential savings versus renting.