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Expert: - 11/21/2007


Question
I am, sadly, preparing an eulogy for a very good friend who just passed away.  I was astonished to discover that he flew at total of 86 different types of aircraft from single engine piston to multi-engine jets, helicopters of all sorts etc.  He logged just short of 13,000 hours.  Is this as remarkable as I think it is?

Answer
First, let me express my condolences for the loss of your good friend.  Yes, I think flying 86 types of aircraft and nearly 13,000 hours is, indeed, remarkable.  His record indicates a great deal of versatility and expertise, and I suspect, a strong passion for flying.  The number of flight hours is not altogether uncommon for commercial pilots (spread over 35 years, it's about an hour a day) but 86 different aircraft is quite unusual, even for experienced pilots.  Again, I'm sorry for your loss, I hope the confirmation that he was unusually accomplished is a source of a small amount of comfort.

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Jeff Davis

Expertise

I can answer questions about general aviation, learning to fly, how to get started, and how to buy an airplane. Area of specialty is aerobatic flying. I do not have any expertise in flight training opportunities for students outside the USA, and I am not qualified to offer advice on becoming an airline pilot.

Experience

I am no longer active in aerobatic flying, but was formerly a professional airshow performer and aerobatic flight instructor, with extensive experience in Decathlon and Pitts aircraft and light experience in other types. I also competed in IAC sanctioned competition through the Advanced level.

Organizations
No longer active, past member of Experimental Aircraft Association, International Aerobatic Club, International Council of Air Shows, and Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

Publications
World Airshow News

Education/Credentials
Commercial and instrument rated, certificated flight instructor since 1986

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