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SkyWest JJ · 07-03-2008

Hi Jose,

I can't complain about life--things are going pretty well. As for the 172s--they do not have the Garmin GNS 430. You will not need to learn how to use the GPS during your private pilot training. Your private training is really developing flying skills and Visual Flight Rule (VFR) situational awareness. The GPS is more a tool for your instrument training (or in an emergency when you get lost and have no idea where you are--but there are other tools for that you will learn). So--during your first phase you will learn to look outside to tell where you are--using a chart, old-fashioned pilotage and dead-reckoning.

Your whole career will be flown using automation and some form of GPS-type navigation---so take advantage of this time when you figure out where you are based on where a mountain peak is or where the railroad tracks lead you.

I searched the SkyWest forums--and didn't find any recommendations for an AME in Dallas--but we don't have too many Texas pilots. Maybe Bob has a recommendation from anyone at Expressjet?

Congrats on coming home soon!! I hope you have a great Fourth of July!!!

07-03-2008	#2 (permalink)
SkyWest JJ Pilot Career Coach Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Los Angeles Posts: 704	Hi Jose, I can't complain about life--things are going pretty well. As for the 172s--they do not have the Garmin GNS 430. You will not need to learn how to use the GPS during your private pilot training. Your private training is really developing flying skills and Visual Flight Rule (VFR) situational awareness. The GPS is more a tool for your instrument training (or in an emergency when you get lost and have no idea where you are--but there are other tools for that you will learn). So--during your first phase you will learn to look outside to tell where you are--using a chart, old-fashioned pilotage and dead-reckoning. Your whole career will be flown using automation and some form of GPS-type navigation---so take advantage of this time when you figure out where you are based on where a mountain peak is or where the railroad tracks lead you. I searched the SkyWest forums--and didn't find any recommendations for an AME in Dallas--but we don't have too many Texas pilots. Maybe Bob has a recommendation from anyone at Expressjet? Congrats on coming home soon!! I hope you have a great Fourth of July!!!