On 2005-04-03 07:00, Nomen Nescio wrote:
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From: Mark Morissette

The fact that there was such a large number of spin training related
accidents in the USA makes me wonder if perhaps alot of instructors
are just not quite up to their task?


I don't think instructors should shoulder the entire burden, although I will
admit that they can be a contributing factor. I tend to believe the problem
may lie in the definition of "suitable for spin training". There are just some
GA trainers out there that, while certified for spins, are really NOT suitable
for spin training. The limits in aerodynamics and control authority make
it too easy for spins to get out of hand, especially with a student at the
controls.
Now, I'm a strong proponent of spin training for everyone who flys. But I think
the training should be done in a plane that's designed, built, and certified for
aerobatics. 'Cause, make no mistake about it, spins are aerobatics. Sure,
bad things can still happen in aircraft designed for aerobatics. But it gives
a good instructor a little wider aerodynamic margin to bail a student out of
something stupid.
Then, after the training, during that brief moment of inattention that should never
occur but does, the pilot may instinctively add that one little control movement
that stops a spin one microsecond after it begins and keeps his Cessna from
winding up like an end mill and plunging a hole in the ground.
Of course, the problem with that thought is that there are so few qualified
instructors and even fewer qualified aircraft.


Well, spin training isn't required for PPL in Sweden either, but my club
encourages every student to take a spin-lesson with one of our
acrobatics instructors in a plane suited to the task.
(i.e. no intentional spinning in the Pipers or Cessnas)

/Rolf