On Sep 15, 10:04*am, John Smith wrote:
Darryl Ramm wrote:
I don't understand why someone would still buy an ASK21 today when you
can get a DG1000 or a Duo which offer *much* more performance for little
more money. And yes, they are perfectly suited for primary training.
I know they can and credit to places that are doing this, but I think
there is still a place for a slightly more "agricultural" primary
trainer. Especially if there is a training fleet to keep busy with
primary instruction.
...
attracting people who are likely to stay around and fly XC, buy their
own gliders, etc. - that is helped by having a more modern training
fleet and focus on XC capable ships and XC instruction/mentoring to
get people going.

You are aware that you are contradicting yourself?

BTW, in Europe, an introduction to cross country flying is a required
part of the primary training.

No, not on this (on other things I am sure frequently). Start in
ASK-21s go to DG-1000S and Duo class machines. That is not a
contradiction, its a compliment. If you can only afford one ship, then
yes the decision is more difficult.

With "more modern training fleet" I had meant to include ASK-21. It
might look old compared to a DG-1000S Club but it has decades on other
frequently used trainers here and removes most of the high-performance
glass transition issues.

I wish USA training had a progression to XC that was more structured/
mandatory than the SSA ABC badges. The ABC badge program is a good
start but many places just see to leave students lost what to do after
they have their license.

Darryl