New Plane
#1
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From: AR
I am looking at getting a new plane to learn to fly on. The one I am currently looking at is a Great Planes PT-60 Trainer. I was wondering if this would be a good one to learn on. It seems kinda big to me (69" wingspan). All the reviews I have found on this plane says it is a good plane to start on and has good slow fly speeds. So what do you think?
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From: Payson,
AZ
The GP PT60 will be a good trainer. Even the so-called smaller trainers are fairly large. The Sig Kadet Senior has a 78" span or 80" in ARF. The Sig LT40 is 71". A lot depends on whether you want to build or buy an ARF. If you have no building experience I would recommend almost ready to fly. There are several good ARF's including the RCM Trainer from Hobby People as well as the Sig LT40. Whatever the recommended engine size step up one notch. If they say .40 go to .46. It shouldn't be necessary to increse the size of the engine in a PT60. Most importantly FIND AN INSTRUCTOR !! Go to the field where you will be flying and talk to the pilots there. They will probably have some recommendations of their own as well as pointing out the pilot who instructs. You will also see the add ons that are necessary such as fuel, starter, rubber bands to hold the wing in place and other little goodies. See what the locals are doing. If you copy them they will be pleased and flattered.
#3
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From: AR
Thanks I was looking at a GP PT-60 that is a few years old and already built with everything installed. It is in good shape as is the motor and all electronics. I got a good deal on it too bout 150 with everything shipped. Thanks again for your input.
#5
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From: Little Rock, AR
I think starting with a GP Trainer is a good idea. I have been training on the GP PT-40 and feel that is was a "great plane" to build with excellent instructions and hints. I don't have much to cmpare it with but in hindsight should have opted for a slightly larger engine for a little more power. I would think that you might want to do the same, especially with a larger scale.
KUEE
KUEE
#6
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<blockquote>Quote
<hr>Originally posted by: southern_touch99
To me the bigger they are the better they fly.<hr></blockquote>
I agree.
the larger the plane the better, a bigger plane is much more stable in the air and helps with orientation of the aircraft. I learned to fly on a Superstar 40 Select and at first disorientation was a problem for me so go with the 60 if it can fit in your car.
but THE MOST IMPORTANT thing is to learn from a qualified instructor if you live close to a flying site it just isn't worth the risk to go it alone i hope this helps.
<hr>Originally posted by: southern_touch99
To me the bigger they are the better they fly.<hr></blockquote>
I agree.
the larger the plane the better, a bigger plane is much more stable in the air and helps with orientation of the aircraft. I learned to fly on a Superstar 40 Select and at first disorientation was a problem for me so go with the 60 if it can fit in your car.
but THE MOST IMPORTANT thing is to learn from a qualified instructor if you live close to a flying site it just isn't worth the risk to go it alone i hope this helps.



