How did the 46 AX get to be the "perfect choice"? The perfect choice for about the first 15 years of the kit was a plain bearing 35, and then it was the 40 FP for years afterward. It flew great that way; I know because I flew one and trained people on it. Now suddenly it needs twice the power? Why?

I think the 46 AX is perfect for pilots who are already proficient. But most of them don't keep flying Cadets. I've watched many pilots crash over powered trainers. You could say that they came off the buddy box too soon. But the goal should be to get off the buddy box and not be dependent on an instructor so that the student can fly when he wants and get in more time. That's dangerous with a high powered trainer. It is much safer with less power once the student solos. People keep saying that high power can "get you out of trouble". But it gets people INTO trouble too, when they don't have much experience.

That's my opinion after 25 years in my club and about 5 years as an instructor. You're free to differ, of course, but I could do without all the !!killing me!! stuff. I'm not killing you, I am disagreeing.

Jim