On Tue, 11 Mar 2008 13:07:02 -0700 (PDT), Michael wrote:

The answer comes in finding a mentor - someone who has been where you
are, is now where you are going, and can show you the way. I know of
no other path.

In an ideal world, that mentor would be your flight instructor. That
probably isn't going to happen.

You're right there, so far this hasn't happened.

Very few pilots who routinely use
airplanes for practical transportation ever become flight instructors,
and I can count on my fingers the ones I know (and that includes the
ones posting here) who are available to the walk-in primary student at
the FBO. Most will only be available if you have or can arrange for
an airplane, or by some special arrangement - one you are unlikely to
be able to make unless you are well plugged into the local general
aviation scene.

I got lucky, hanging out at Marco Island, one of the new DayJet pilots had
a turnaround down to Key West and back to Immakolee. Was picking up a
business friend, left my car keys and a "I'm sorry" note. lol Right seat,
lotsa hands/feets on time; it had been 30 years since I was flying
regularly (sans license) where I had over 300 hours on a Baron 55. One time
thing though with the DayJet guy.

You can take a shot at finding the sort of instructor who could be
your mentor (look for someone who owns an airplane that he uses for
routine all-weather travel first and foremost) but like I said, you
are unlikely to succeed. Or you can take what you get, solo (or even
get your license), and start hanging around the airport with the
owners, looking for a plane to buy (you can pretty much forget doing
any serious travel as a renter). People will come out of the
woodwork, and then you will find your mentor. He will tell you what
you REALLY need to learn, and will likely be able to teach you.

This is very good advice and true to your word, I've met more potential
mentor's this way and potential partners. I'm hoping to get lucky and find
a both in one.

Thx.
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