This is one of the most valuable videos I have come across on UA-cam. Thanks for sharing your experience and perspective. It is indeed a "community service" for potential pilots! A setback is only one step away from success! Good Luck!
I am honestly so proud of the fact that you showed so much resilience to such a moment of adversity. I wish you the best of luck to you and your flying career, and I wish you the best of success in your future endeavors. As Shyam said, a setback is only one step away from success.
Way to stick with it! It's not for the faint of heart. You have to tap into your passion and keep pushing through. Congrats on making it that far! Quite the accomplishment!
You should never be allowed to fly if you failed 3 times! My God, you have a book with the answers in it! And no, you are not about to be a commercial pilot, you are probably about to take your commercial test...which you have a LOT more to do to actually be a commercial pilot. Which I hope you never become! My goodness....unbelievable...
@@MikeM275 Ah give him a break. Even if he failed his written a few times, doesn't mean he can't grow. I know plenty of people who were once pretty poor pilots during their training days who eventually became competent airline captains. Flying is an art, and it takes time to grow into it. Yeah, some people don't make the cut, but there are plenty who eventually do.
It is so refreshing to see someone do such a service to the community by sharing a mistake they made in their quest for career success in aviation. As a former Captain (NWA/Delta), current corporate pilot and DPE, just let me say I would be proud to have you in my cockpit as a trusted crewmember. Do not fret the hiccup in your journey; as a former member of an airline hiring board, you are just the person I always looked for in the selection. Keep up the good work!!
Thank you so much for such a thoughtful and kind response. I appreciate your perspective and I’m glad the intention of sharing my experience was well received!
Bo Corby As a pilot for 30 years and one who did my private testing on steam gauges only, I had to comment on your post here. For you to take the time to post the detailed words of support and encouragement here, is not only impressive, but kind of you. With endless comments on here, yours will never be forgotten by this pilot. I am so glad I randomly wound up here, to see the impressive ownership of errors by this pilot, then have the honor of reading your supportive post. Yes, this was time well spent, so thank you both. Safe skies !
I was thinking exactly the same way as you Bo Cordy. I stumbled on this video by accident but I'm very glad I watched. It was very refreshing to see this young man put forth such a professional effort. As a former CFI/CFII/MEI corporate pilot and current commercial airline captain for a combined 30+ years, I don't believe I remember ever seeing this much knowledge and professionalism in someone with his level of experience. I would say to Captain Charlie Bravo, I believe your CFI may have let you down some in your training on this particular subject.
Hey CB, sounds like you had a DPE that couldn't overlook a minor problem on a flight check that sounded like you had 99 % nailed. As an ATP commercial retired pilot I can say to you that you will ultimately accomplish your goal!! I failed my first instrument check ride do to a blotched go around but went on to fly for the next 40 years accumulating 30,000+ hrs. The fact that you were able to accept the DPE's recommendation says volumes about who you are. Hang in there, you have an exciting career ahead of you.
@@CaptainCharlieBravo Yes I am. I was flying corporate jets for a while but now I am involved with a flying club here in Northeast Florida. It's in the blood. ;-))
I failed my PPL checkride. Passed on the second ride. I failed my CPL checkride. Passed on the second ride. I passed my IR on the first ride. I failed my Instructor Rating checkride, passed on the second ride. ... I am now a 20,000 hour airline pilot. “Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan Press On! has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.” ― Calvin Coolidge
That seems extreme. I remember on my checkride (20 years ago), I somehow forgot my sectional and only noticed on climb-out. How the DPE didn't notice up to then, I don't know. I 'fessed right up and said "I may have blown this before we even got going. I don't have my sectional." I then radioed the tower for an immediate return to the airport. We get back on the ground, I'm beyond dejected, he walks in with me, I see my sectional sitting right there on the table. He says, "OK, let's go." Long story short, he passed me. In the end, he said he had the right to declare it a fail, but based on how I reacted to it, how I handled it, and how I resumed the flight without losing it, that was truly what being a PIC was about.
As an examiner for the British CAA, I can say you did everything correct and deserved a pass. I am still staggering about this video "programmed my GPS" what a dick
@@tringalijthat's so dumb especially since the sectionals and even terminal charts rarely change and if it does it won't be a change that's going to affect you the chances of some airport or airspace being affected right where you are is slim to none. The requirement for a new sectional and ESPECIALLY terminal charts is idiotic. Just release an update bulletin which says what part of the sectional is affected or which approach/arrival/departure/enrojte charts are affected. Guaranteee you each cycle maybe 1 thing at MOST changes, and for most pilots that one thing won't affect them.
I'm starting my pilot course next month. I've never seen someone so humble in a mistake - but I'm more thankful that you shared this with us. I hope you made it in the end and I wish you all the best in your aviation career!
I also busted my checkride on my first time around as well. The flight was going pretty good for the first 40minutes, but then we got to the steep turns. I was feeling pretty confident about steep turns because it was one of my favorite maneuver, but as I rolled into the turn i became anxious and continued even though I probably should’ve stopped. I rolled out of the steep turn and he looked at me and he said that sadly doesn’t meet ACS standards. I took a deep breath and he asked me if I wanted to continue my flight I looked at him and I said yes. I finish the rest of my check ride landed the plane and felt nothing but disappointment in myself. Later that week we went up again and I completed the steep turns with high confidence in myself. The moral of the story is never give up. If this is truly what you want to do for the rest your life or is something that you are extremely passionate about keep pushing yourself to the limits keep moving forward.
Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and press on. As a retired F-14, airline captain of the 727, A-300, MD-11, and B-777 we’ve all had a stumble along way. Keep going.
For some unknown reason, your video popped up on my screen this morning and I had to watch (Congratulations, btw, for passing your check-ride). My career is winding down (45 years in the profession with the last 24 as an expat contractor). With 12 type-ratings I never endured a 3 1/2 to 4 hour Oral and though each pre-flight was thorough they were not as intense as yours. Many of us admire your dedication, study, and preparation but each of us equally appreciate and admire your humility. As a former Gulfstream PPE (FAR 91), DCA (UAE), and Line Check Airman (KSA), it was an opportunity for a candidate to hopefully learn something but they would somehow elevate my perspective as well. My personal opinion but you obviously provided her with insight and knowledge she could use to enhance her career! At age 68 and having quadruple bypass surgery last August, I'm not sure if the FAA will approve a re-issue for my medical but, I have been approached to set-up and manage a new operation to consist of a VIP 787, three Gulfstreams, and three Sikorsky S76Ds - it may never come through but if it does, you would be welcome in our organization (select group of retired professionals from American, Pan Am, and VIP expat operators). Take care, all the best ....
Thank you! Sorry to hear about your medical...that's rough after a life of flying. I'd love to hear more about your opportunity should it come to fruition. Send your contact info to captaincharliebravo@yahoo.com. I'd love to network once I'm qualified! Thanks for the kind words and taking the time to watch!
The last thing I wanna hear is that nobody fails their checkride. I'll gladly fly with someone who failed and ultimately passed, because I think they have a deeper appreciation for the knowledge.
@@CaptainCharlieBravo You should, it all adds to your personal confidence, which is critical. We never learn so much as when we fail, and we certainly learn when we teach, so you've gained from both directions by sharing it. Thanks for posting this.
If everything the lad says is so then it was not fairly assessed. It is one thing to fail for a bonehead mistake that makes you say to yourself boy I screwed that up but it is another to fail under such circumstance. There will be plenty other chances to fail in a legitimate fashion during a lifetime, but to carry something on your record is not acceptable. Although I will say most airplanes do use some degree of flap for a soft field takeoff. I think a more appropriate response by her would have been to let you do a short field landing to a full stop then left you do another soft field takeoff with some flaps. I know its a check ride but there is some leniancy given to the DPE in some circumstances. Thats all I have to say on the subject. Carry on.
Gotta say man, I clicked this video assuming you made some dumb mistake. I stand corrected, your DPE definitely graded you unfairly. If it went as you say it did, your DPE is not looking at the evaluation correctly and you should never use her again. Your experience is not normal. Your maneuver was not unsafe and your decision making was sound. She essentially failed you on minor techniques. Don't take this one too hard. I'm a former military instructor/evaluator pilot (now just flying for fun on weekends) and this whole story just sounds outrageous.
I agree. My oral and check ride were nothing like that. It certainly was much much more than kick the tires and don't crash but wow. People who do not instruct or evaluate student pilots continually will not remember all the stuff we're required to learn during our PPL training. A good DPE will know this and will mostly make sure you're safe, know that the information exists, and you know where to get the information. Nobody has the entire FAR book memorized and anyone can fail anyone else on something minor like you were dinged on. You should have passed your check ride.
Yeah, that is simply unfair. Of course a student trusts his instructor. If the instructor confirmes they trained that way there is only one fair solution: Tell them you expect something different and let the student do that right now. It is not his fault. Maybe this can mean trouble for the instructor but why the student? How is that fair. I always trusted my instructors and I don't feel naive.
@Rourke Beuchel You are exactly right, she graded him unfairly especially by quizzing you extra hard like that. This experience you had with her was not normal at all. Do not fly with this particular check ride instructor again.
Your tempered response to this experience helps my faith in humanity, or at least towards fellow aviators. You were clearly well prepared, and it might suck to fail. But good response! I don't agree with your DPE, but technicalities have killed before. (This wouldn't likely have ever even lead to an incident). And great video! I wish everyone would post their fail videos, failure is a great instructor! (Expressly when it doesn't kill or maim you). People that are hot with words about this DPE, grow some emotional temper, like C'apin Charlie Bravo here.
Like you, I had to find a DPE who could fit in my plane; I never could. My instructor actually called a FAA Director, and he conducted my check ride. Also, just like you, I flubbed my short field takeoff. He did not fail me over that. He did have my instructor go over it with me again. The oral part lasted about an hour, and the check ride was an hour as well. Congratulations on passing it later. After watching the video; I feel certain, you were better prepared than I was.
These comments are so supportive and inspirational. Amidst all the negative stories we hear about social media and the like, this is rather heartening.
I can't tell you how impressed I am with you... your modesty regarding your checkride experience, and your maturity to learn from it. I would fly with you as my fellow crewmember anytime. Bravo. I have no doubt at all that you will be a very successful professional aviator.
If what you said is true: Yes, I agree with examiner on one point. A soft field should be with some flap. You need to transfer the weight off the wheels and onto the wings as soon as possible. In Canada I would give you a “2” out of 4 on that. ( passed with a briefing) What you did was not unsafe. This examiner is way out of line. There are issues with her that could be an entirely different conversation. She is abusing her tittle. This is a private pilot ride, not a shuttle launch. The lesson learned here is that you got a bad examiner and that’s too bad. This unfortunately happens. I have done over 70 check flights in my career and I got one or two people who should not be in those positions. You sound like a very descent competent pilot. Put this behind you, keep going and do not fly this this examiner ever again, she is the problem, not you. Hans Juergensen
I’m also training in a C150 and my CFI and I have discussed this very issue. If there’s a 50ft obstacle, no flaps. I agree total crap that you got busted for that. Apparently if you did your checkride in a cub you’d fail automatically because there are no flaps 🙄
You have demonstrated one of the most important skills in being a good pilot. Owning your mistakes, learning from them, and sharing with others so that they don't make the same ones. So many are scared to admit their failures (and we all have them). This is a skill I've seen mamy experienced pilots fail at time and time again!
I failed for having flaps 10 instead of 25’ for the soft field. The last maneuver I needed so was able to do it the next day, flew up for 3 min. Took the joy from getting my license
Through your pain & disappointment you have helped others embarking at this stage. I'm currently at the mock check ride stage. This contact was helpful. Thanks for sharing.
Like others have said, it's great to own the mistake, recover, and ace it next time. But, prior to flying with that examiner again, I would dive into the POH and the regs, and verify her basis for disapproving of a maneuver. Then discuss your findings. We have regs and POH for a reason, and an examiner has to follow both, just as they expect you to do. The fact that you successfully completed the maneuver in a safe manner tells me you were correct and within the limits of the aircraft. Her response was subjective, and incorrect.
That’s precisely what my CFI and I did. We went back and forth for a few days but she stuck to her guns and maintained her disapproval. I went back a few weeks later, nailed the 4 maneuvers left to demonstrate, and got my ticket.
WOW...THANKS FOR SHARING THIS !! I'm probably a month or so out before taking my check ride so I am trying to wrap my head around it all sooner then later. Also so awesome to read through the comments posted here. It for sure goes to say anything worth having in life is worth the hard work / fighting for. I have to agree with so many others here...yes very humbling...but I would no doubt feel much safer flying with a person like yourself than someone who just might feel a bit more full of themselves. Its obvious you are a articulate, smart, determined individual and I believe there is no doubt you will persevere and go on to continue and accomplish your goals to become a great aviator ! Best of luck !!
That's great of you to share your experience, I am a pilot, but feel you did a great thing by sharing your story. I'm confident that you will have your license very soon, and this will all be a fantastic memory. Good luck, stay safe, and happy flying!
Thanks for the kind words! Those are hard to find on UA-cam comment sections these days. If you check the more recent uploads, you’ll be happy to see I passed my retest and am loving every minute of it!
I have a feeling that you are becoming an excellent pilot. Anyone who is this honest and introspective about a setback like this is destined to be better for it. This was very articulate and incredibly helpful to those of us at the very beginning of this journey. Thanks very much.
Turned out my DPE had worked with my dad 20 years prior (USAF C141) We didn’t know who each other was until a week later. Took my check at 42 hours. He asked me to give him our position (1995 no gps at the time). So I called approach and ask for a speed and location check, which I received. The dpe laighed, “good one” he said then ask he to do it the “hard way” using map and gbr. Regardless of outcome each flight is a learning experience. Good way to handle it.
Took a lot of guts for you to do this video so candidly and openly. Thanks for the lesson. Great advice. I'm planning to do my check ride in 3-4 weeks.
Nice! Congrats! Since then I’ve got my tailwheel endorsement (which I highly recommend), and I passed my written for my instrument last March, moved to Kentucky, and just started up flying again last week. I just linked up with an instructor to start my instrument. Now at 135 hours and looking to take my check ride by the end of the year.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I passed on my first private checkride attempt. But it wasn't pretty. I had well over 160 hours by that date and it was my third flight school. Was at ATP (2nd school) and was completely demoralized after I had trouble with my landings and was basically told I was not going to make it there. I started four months later to a different school and after 7 mos (lots of bad weather) I finally passed my private. I'm still nervous about the rest of the checkrides coming, but all we can do is prepare!
Sorry about the soft field landing issues kinda a bad situation. I passed my private checkride today. Winds were 17kts gusting 23 but blowing direct down runway. Issue was we did the landings at the diverted airport and had to use the grass runway to avoid major crosswind and luckily performed it well. This is for sharing your story and keep chasing it. I think I saw a add in that you passed so congrats.
Those winds are way above what I’m comfortable doing on a checkride. That’s why I rescheduled since the winds were like 19G24 the day I originally had it. Knocked out the oral easy and finished flight portion 3 days later with ideal conditions.
Congrats on passing! Those winds are no joke...even being headwinds. I still haven't landed on a grass runway. That's on the list of goals for this year. I did pass! Thanks for sharing your story!
Thank you for sharing, it says a lot about your character to own this situation. Kudos to you. Your information here is useful to me and I imagine many others. Thanks again!!
Your approach and attitude is perfect - humble and learn from mistakes. That said, sounds like you had a real stickler for a DPE. Hoping to do my own in the next 90 days so thanks for all the tips. I'd fly with you anytime
AWESOME video, thank you for sharing your experience. This was EXTREMELY HELPFUL. I'm 58 yrs young and have 38 hours in my log book. Recently soloed. I'm a long way way from doing my check ride. Your video is very inspirational and educational on many levels. An experienced Private pilot once told me "learning to fly is a journey, not a destination". You'll do FINE on the last few maneuvers on your next check ride. 👍👍 Again, THANK YOU for sharing. Definitely subscribing, looking forward to following your "journey".
Brian Berezowski that’s so awesome, Brian! I’m glad to help! Congrats on the solo! Best feeling ever, right?! I’m super stoked you’re here and look forward to making some more videos . If there is something you want a video for, put your suggestions in the comments. Let me know when you get that ticket!
First of all, I commend you for making a video of this nature, i don’t believe I’ve seen a video like this where someone is mature enough to turn a checkride bust into an educational and informative video for thousands of aspiring aviators. When you get to the airlines they love asking questions about prior failures and they want to hear how you learned from them and moved forward. What happened is unfortunate, and I feel today more than ever DPEs are cracking down on Private Pilot checkrides, the ACS is the ACS and im aware standards need to be held, and this is a big foundation moving forward in your aviation career...after listening to you speak its apparent that you worked extremely hard, you are very passionate and have a great understanding of the materials you were required to know. I feel like I wasn’t nearly as prepared as you when I took my private ride back in 2004...but the DPE looked at me as he gave me my temporary cert. and he said “This is your license to learn now” and was he ever right. You will continue to learn, re-learn and fine tune your skills and flying for the rest of your career. We all make mistakes and have uncertainties at every possible level of flying, but we learn and grow and move onto the next. You may also want to consider a new DPE next ride, my CFI initial wasnt even a 4 hour oral! A little excessive in my opinion. I also find DPEs with a high pass rate get the FAA a little suspicious, so perhaps she was being extremely picky and found just enough to get you, and even out her P/F rate. Also keep in mind it is your right to discontinue a checkride and any point you deem necessary! Just for future reference. Thats just my 2 cents. Congratulations on passing your ride! Congratulations on continuing to pursue your passion, dont let anything stop you! This is an incredible industry, despite the things happening today, it will bounce back stronger than ever! The old saying is true, do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life! Hope to see you in the terminals soon. Best of luck to you!
I really appreciate your thoughtful feedback! I’ll be choosing a new CFI and DPE for my advanced ratings. One would hate to think someone would fail just for the sake of a P/F statistic but I can’t say it hadn’t crossed my mind. I’ve never found something I’m so passionate about and you’re absolutely right. I don’t plan on working another day in my life once I become a professional pilot. I’ll continue to remain humble, learn as much as I can from every flight and experience, and work towards being a valuable addition to the world of professional aviators. Thanks again for watching!
I was ready to throw up by the time my check ride was complete. Maybe one of the most stressful events of my life. Was sure I failed, but I didn't. Your story was really interesting. Your attention to detail is great and you seem to know your stuff. This video was posted 9 months ago. I hope you've had success by the time I'm viewing this. Cheers! [edit: I also think the examiner was wrong for failing you]
Yeah...pretty nerve wracking to have someone you don't know scrutinizing every move you make. I made it through and have since gotten my tailwheel endorsement and currently am working on my instrument. Thanks for watching!
Great attitude. This will not hamper your ability to get hired at an airline. I'm a FedEx pilot and with over 7600 HRS I'm still always learning. Good luck with the rest of your training and checkrides
That’s pretty crazy. Especially since you explained the aerodynamics and everything. It’s not like you just didn’t know what to do. I have seen people pass who didn’t even know what a forward slip was or how to do one which is crazy
I’ve heard of worse stories than mine with a passing grade. The numbers say we are safer pilots as the years progress so maybe it’s a good thing not everyone is passing. I’m trying to take what I can and learn from it.
I can't speak about the check rides these days because mine was in 1967. But from what I have read there are those CFI's and DPE's out there that want to show how great their skills are, and build hours at any cost. It is a disservice, to say the least, to all the study and training it takes. I was very fortunate to have one CFII for all my 40 hrs of training. He soloed me in 6 hrs ( I thought he was overly optimistic LOL) in a C-150. We did all the dual cross country training and my solo cross countries in an older Hershey bar Pa-28-140. My DPE lived in Dalhart Tx. I just barely had the 40 hrs when John sent me to Cecil Ingram for my check ride in the 140. The oral was, he said " plan a trip from Dalhart to Santa Fe NM in the PA-28140. It was summer. This was back when they had actual F.A.A. weather guys you could talk to next door to the FBO. Cecil looked over my flight plan and just said "I just wanted to see if you would have tried to fly over the mountains". We did all the required maneuvers, hood work etc, and the only thing I screwed up was a power off, 50 degree 180 . I stalled a Cherokee, such as a stall was in one. He just said, right before the stall warning lights and buzzers went off "your stalling it". I recovered from the stall, made a decent landing and as we were walking into the FBO, and he said "I hope you fly a little better from now on, you just have a license to learn."
I’m getting ready for my private pilot check ride. Thank you for sharing this experience. It was not something easy to put out there but you had the self confidence to do it hoping that you may help someone else.
If we all were in the habit of sharing our failures some of us might be able to avoid them for ourselves. That’s the same reason I watch NTSB investigations all the time. Good luck on your ride! Let me know when you pass!
Dude, you are my new hero. People who tell the truth and are honest with their self and others and don't deflect or try to blame others, to me are stellar. You'll be fine and you know that. It's obvious to me. It's obvious to others. Thanks for sharing. I'd love to pet that doggo of yours.
Thanks man! I’m just trying to keep it real. Failing sucks. Helping others makes me feel good. And the pooch...he happens to be a big fan of “the pets”. 😎🐶
My POH says the same thing “no flaps for short field takeoff with obstacle”. My checkride is tomorrow so I will definitely be clarifying that with my DPE. Thank you for this video!
My two cents: a. Your DPE made the right call b. You handled her decision (and your disappointment) professionally c. I'm confident you know by now that your next check ride will be very short and completely successful -- and your learning journey will continue Congrats and safe travels!
Wow...I took my check ride in 1982 in a C150 and this video brought back memories! I actually had a DPE pull back on the yoke when I was on short final at the numbers where I yelled at him WHAT THE HELL!!! I still had control of the plane and throttled up for a go-around. He answers me that he felt I was coming in too hot and heavy and he feared for our safety. He could tell that I was pretty pissed at him but we continued on for another 45 minutes to complete the exam. I thought for sure he was going to fail me. When I did a soft-field landing on my final return, I made sure it was slow and extra soft. He signed me off and I went and had a beer! Your DPE was probably intimidated by your stature and professionalism to the point of jealousy and had something to prove. Glad you got through it...happy flying.
I'm prepping for my commercial checkride now and even having done a private and instrument ride already, these are the kinds of issues I'm always kind of worried about. I'm pretty confident in my overall piloting ability. It's the idea that some technical issue will come up like this and I'll get failed on it even though I know it was a pilot discretion call. Vast majority of DPEs I know are very kind, fair minded individuals, but this happens sometimes. It's frustrating because there isn't much you can do when it does.
Just pulled the POH to look at the soft field procedure and you’re totally right. I would appeal the discontinuation. The use of flaps for the soft field is an “if” not a “must”.
@@CaptainCharlieBravo If you plan to pursue a commercial use of your license, I would 100% appeal it. Beyond that, if you ever crash and burn, blancoliro and Dan Milican and the rest of the peanut gallery reporting on your accident will cite “the pilot having a discontinuation on his record. Is that a contributing factor? We’ll never know 😉😉😉🤷♂️”. Either way, I feel for you man.
Wow. This was not my experience at all. It’s been like 15 years, but you seem way more prepared than I remember being. I can’t imagine passing the checkride with the four hour ground portion and the way you’ve described your DPE.
I’m about to fly my XC Solo eval on Monday and have been anxious for everything ahead. I’ve made some mistakes along the way (as we all do) and really needed to see that I’m not alone. Thanks for sharing!
Lauren Ascher that’s awesome!!! My cross country was kind of interesting because I’m on the coast. I planned on taking a trip from Carlsbad up to Torrance and about a half an hour before I left, the coastal marine layer started to move east. Luckily I had already planned an alternate to San Bernardino but that was also interesting since I had never been there. Flying on your first cross country to an airport I’d never even seen before was a solid test of my ability. I wish you the best of luck and I’d love to hear an update about how it went!
Hi Charlie. I felt your heartbreak man. I had a similar experience where I made an error in the traffic pattern and failed my first Private checkride too. Learn from it and more importantly, grow from it. Be a better pilot bcos of your errors. A good pilot is always learning, remember that.
You're going to make a fine Pilot. Very impressive knowledge for the actual hours flown. Good Luck. I watched this because I expected you have made a major mistake. Great advice. Tough inspector.
That Dpe is nuts.. 3-4 hour Ground /oral. ..insane. My IFR Oral was 1.5 hours @ Embry Riddle. Longest oral ever. You are a very impressive pilot. Thank you
'It is better to make a mistake that makes you humble than achievements that make you arrogant'. I made a mistake on my first solo out of the circuit pattern (to the practice area). I flew Terminal altitude within the control zone (airspace matters). In Canada they can issue a cador but they didnt.
Like Bo below...I too am a private, USAF, NWA/Delta Captain with over 20,000 hrs., now retired. Great self-analysis and learning. You'll go far in aviation... from one aviator to another--all the best!
Yep the part about “are you sure”... Don’t ever go against the FAA even if you can explain it. I’ve seen cases of Aviators trying to hold on to their pride knowing they’re right but it never goes well.
Just found this video and it’s excellent. Thank you for explaining exactly what happened and how you would approach it in retrospect. It’s really helpful. I have a lot of respect for you as a person and pilot for how you handled this situation.
Good talk. I remember doing the faa check ride. I honestly at the end had absolutely know idea if I passed in fact I thought it may be a fail. The lady chatted to me down a corridor about the effects of stress on people just general chit chat and then said oh by the way you did pass. Took me half hour to sink in.
Your DPE wants you to be firm and confident in your duties as Pilot In Command. I'm not saying what she did was right but as a PIC, think about what is required for a soft-field takeoff - Get off (gopher holes, etc) stay in ground effect and get to Vx and Vy. If the POH is ambiguous, you're right - ask. Barring that, use your best judgement and be confident in your decision to do what you did. You will eventually be out in the real world, alone or with family and the decisions you make will affect real life. Thank you for your honesty and a great video - this will go a long way towards helping other students prepare for the check ride. Remember, if the DPE signs off on you and you turn around and hurt someone then it's her butt on the line so they want to be confident in YOUR confidence lol. Fly safe and know we're rooting for ya! 800+ hour pilot here ;)
I think the fact that a short field takeoff calls for no flaps gave me the impression that it doesn’t help you get off the ground any sooner; or help the climb to a 50’ obstacle. But, at the end of the day you’re right. I am the pilot in command and my decisions won’t only affect me if they turn out to be hazardous. I have since obtained my PPl and continue to learn every time I fly. Thanks for the great feedback!
Great video. Love your dog. I have my checkride in 6 weeks. I just went to my POH and saw that my short field doesn't say 10 degrees of flaps and I've been using 10 degrees for short and soft field takeoffs. I will be sure to clarify all of that now. Thanks again!!
I flew c150’s year's ago. I still have two owners manuals. 1968 and a 1977 BOTH say no flaps. 1968 ”wing flaps UP”, 1977 ”Wing flaps ZERO”. For a maximum performance take off. There is no misinterpretation to it. Normal take off is also flaps zero. I believe you got scammed. Looking at the manual again now there isn't an instance where flaps on takeoff is required.
G Nash Sometimes I guess we all draw the short straw...but at least I didn’t let it stop me! Do your manuals say no flaps for soft field and short field takeoffs?
The manuals call both ”maximum performance takeoffs”. There is that paragraph that y'all pondered over that said you could use 10% but you loose climb ability. You could get off the ground a few feet sooner to hit the trees.
Flying a C172M and it states flaps up for maximum performance as well. It doesn't outline soft field, but after discussing it with others it is designed to have 10 deg flaps for soft field. The concept is that it will keep weight off the wheels as reviewed in the video. Ideally, soft fields should be long enough that the reduced climb performance makes no difference; a maximum performance shouldn't have to be combined with a soft field.
Its not all nad news. Thank God people don't bet passed easily. Peoples lives are depending on the skills. My dad was a CFI and it makes people understand where they need work. Thanks for sharing. Its no badge of shame for failing. Lots to know and do. Best of luck in your flying career
I totally agree! I don’t wanna be flying around with a bunch of wannabes that got their ticket on easy street. I’m glad to share my struggles as I’m sure I’m not the only one. Thanks so much for the best wishes!
I failed my instrument due to an improper hold, made me understand the concepts weren't clear to me and I should've spoken up when I didn't fully understand something. Very humbling experience indeed. Funny, I ask my instructor for a hold or two every time we get a chance now. And no training flights until May due to the virus, I better figure something out quick.
Congrats on passing. Was your instructor a young guy? Surprised he didn’t know the flap settings on a 150. pretty much standard practice to get an airplane as light as possible when taking off or landing on a soft surface (for any model). I commend you for sharing your experience. Check rides are something most every pilot remembers, good or bad. Good luck on you pilot career path.
My instructor was a 35 year pilot with 20,000+ hours. We read the POH, asked around and spoke to many other professional resources and there were a lot of mixed opinions on this. We collectively came to the conclusion it was discretionary and not mandatory, DPE didn't agree. Either way, it was corrected for, demonstrated, and deemed satisfactory on the second run. Thanks for taking the time to watch and share your thoughts!
I recently just got my Commercial MEL in February, prior to my disapproval I only had a single engine ILS left on my initial checkride and unfortunately botched it. DPE told me that all we had to do was just the single engine ILS retest and that was it. Afterward it did kick me and left me with a lesson to learn from. My private ride was about the same other than I botched a power off stall. Your DPE sounded almost like you were given a commercial checkride, oral of 3-4 hrs sounded pretty brutal, some stuff we do have to know but it's really a starting point. Keep up the work and never give up! Safe flying
For sure. It’s not the end of the world and I’ve learned such an amazing amount of information and technique in the last year it’s unbelievable. It’s crazy to think that it’s just the starting point but then again, that’s why I love it so much. Thanks for watching!
First of all, 10/10 for creating a learning experience for others from your own personal experience. I did my early training on a C150 back in 1972. Both your examiner, and the little voice in your head, were correct. Use 10 deg of flaps for a soft field take-off. In my opinion, if something does not make sense to you, then question it, extensively and repeatedly, until it does, or until you arrive at a different conclusion. I understand that you and your instructor discussed this and concluded that you should not use flaps. But still, you understood that aerodynamically, this was wrong. Always listen to the wee voice in your head, never continue with doubts. Glad to hear that you are not discouraged by this experience.
I’ve definitely learned a lot in the next 100 hours of flying. That’s one of the things I love most is every flight and experience is a learning opportunity. Thanks for watching!
I passed my RPP check ride, but barely. During taxi, I forgot to check that my compass was free and floating, and that my heading indicator was tracking. It’s the small things like that that can almost fail you! Good luck!
Jonah Sohmer to be honest, I take pride in the fact that not everyone has what it takes to be a pilot. Being this hard makes it all worth it in the end. If it was too easy, I wouldn’t love it as much!
I remember school days and tests and trying to get into the head of the teacher to understand what answer they were expecting. It was frustrating knowing the answers but not being sure which answer the teacher was looking for. Hey, I would ride with you any time and feel confident in your abilities. May your skies be blue and your winds calm.
I just love that you own it. I'm studying for my checkride and close to 80 hours... Took 50 hours just to figure out my landings... I'm not happy with that but I got my landings down now..at least I'm not nervous about them anymore. Knowledge I got but memory is not my strong suit. My brain is fried now so I'm watching videos. Your oral sound horrid. Can't imagine flying after all that!
@@CaptainCharlieBravo The DPE I had for my private checkride was actually quite helpful. Most of them WANT to pass you. She was looking to see that I was safe and competent, NOT perfect. As has been said many times, the private pilot certificate is your license to LEARN.
In the early 1980' when i was on training, i had a HER cfi , didnt take me long to see her agenda, dumped HER and aquired a male instructor, things quickly improved,
You know, I was nervous until the actual day of the ride. The one thing I felt a little weak in was VOR tracking so the flight I took the day before was focused on that particular task. Is there anything in particular you’re nervous about? Steep turns? Power on/off stalls? Emergency decent? Let me know and I might have some tips that will help you nail it. When’s you’re check ride?
I actually don’t have a specific date for the check ride quite yet. The only requirement I have left is my long solo cross country. I’m not as concerned for the oral portion of the test but I’m mainly worried I’ll blow it on a steep turn or something. Thanks for the help.
Excellent video! You did a service to others by making this video. What amazes me is how some people gave this a thumbs down. What could they possibly have to complain about this video? Thank you again for making this!
My checkride was with a DPE that was known to be tough, which made me nervous. I fly out of HWD so I feel your pain on the busy airspace. What made me think I had blown the checkride was that on two occasions the examiner took control and showed me ways to execute maneuvers that were different than how I had been taught. I thought he was showing me the correct way to do them. Back on the ground I was sure I had failed. I was already anticipating the humiliation of facing my CFI. I was seriously upset. Turns out I passed. The examiner thought I flew well and was showing me new things. I was not expecting that! It really spun my head up. My CFI thought that was pretty funny. I was so relieved!
Wow that seems incredibly hard , you must have been exhausted after the ground check, not sure what they do in uk but I feel for you , I used to be a tram driver and the check drive was really hard for them but your check seems very hard , I wish you best when you re-do it , let us know how you get on
Great vid and honest cause most people are scared to say they failed, so kudos to u. She was definitely tuff and I would spread the word on her so they don’t use her again.
I'm still fairly early on in my training (just soloed!) and I've noticed the same lack of clarity for takeoff with flaps in the POH for the 172. Surprised that caused you to fail the entire checkride - but I'll definitely be brushing up on ALL of my knowledge as much as possible before I reach that point. It sounds like you had done the same, and from the comments it sounds like you may have had a VERY thorough DPE.
Congratulations on your solo! That’s the best feeling in the world. There’s general characteristics of aerodynamics that standardize configurations in almost all airplanes. It’s important to fully understand all of the variables you’re dealing with in each individual situation to ensure you mitigate as much risk as possible. When in doubt, ask. I wish you good luck and safe flying through your training!
Captain CB, I really liked the video and the tips you suggested-particularly when you mentioned bringing up question to the DPE before the checkride! As a CFI, trust me we get the same heart-sinking feeling when one of our students unfortunately has a disapproval on a checkride. I failed my Instrument flying portion, and now am starting a job at a regional airline in the US. Hang in there, and work to ace the rest of your rides, keep in mind you’re starting toward your flying career goal at a great time. Best of luck to you
When I took my check ride my CFI held me back until I had at least 60 hours as the local DPE was notorious for finding and accentuating flaws leading to the disapproval of candidates short of that experience level. Just sayin'. Appreciate the candor and detailed analysis.
Am about to take my checkride for my Cherokee 235, am on hold for the corona virus. Using the delay for extra study . Thanks for the video. It was at once helpful and anxiety producing. God Bless and happy flying !
Ahh man! This virus is messing EVERYTHING up! I’m glad GA hasn’t been shut down. Good luck on your ride! Let me know when you pass! Shoot me a photo at captaincharliebravo@yahoo.com of you passing and I’ll share it on the channel. I’d like to start celebrating my subscriber successes!
Sorry Charlie, I just read my 1975 and 1969 C150 manuals and the language was pretty clear to me in both. they stated: "Therefore the use of 10 degree flap is reserved for minimum ground runs or for take-off from soft or rough fields with no obstacles." What did your manual say for the 1975 Mike model?
It says, “IF 10° flaps are used on soft or rough fields with obstacles ahead (as in the ACS 50’ obstacle reference for short field operations), it is preferable to leave them extended rather than retract them in the climb to the obstacle.” It was the “IF” that got me in trouble.
Captain Charlie Bravo I have to agree with Bill, reading it it says flaps should be reserved for soft and rough feilds, but short field it is not suggested. As for the failed chdckride on resume, you have the right thinking. And you will do better next time.
And to me it stands to reason that with more lift, you get the load off those wheels post-haste and right-away-like. Without POH guidance this would be a judgement call but if I'm about to bounce over furrows or gopher holes then logic tells me to get the weight off those wheels right away, accelerate in ground effect and zoom away (barring an obstacle in which case the whole takeoff decision is in question). The main gear keeps your a*s off the ground and the nose gear is nothing more than something to keep the prop from hitting the ground (as an old, but wise old-geezer instructor once told me). Great video and New Sub here!
Here is the pertinent excerpt from an online C-150M manual: "FLAP SETTINGS Normal and short field takeoffs are performed with flaps up. The use of 10° flaps will shorten the ground run approximately 10%, but this advantage is lost in the climb to a 50-foot obstacle. Therefore, the use of 10° flaps is reserved for minimum ground runs or for takeoff from soft or rough fields.If 10° of flaps are used on soft or rough fields with obstacles ahead,it is preferable to leave them extended rather than retract them in the climb to the obstacle. The exception to this rule would be in a high altitude takeoff in hot weather where climb would be marginal with flaps 10°. Flap deflections greater than 10° are not approved for takeoff" If there is no disqualifying element, e.g. high density altitude, then 10 degrees should be used. This is what your instructor should have told you and what you should have told the DPE. I always enjoyed soft field T.O. In real life, if there is tall grass or snow on the runway, it's quite possible the plane will never accelerate to rotation speed unless the nose wheel is out of the obstruction. BTW, on my way to ATP I failed my instrument ride...and I deserved to fail. Live and Learn - you seem to have done this. Good for you!
This is very helpful to me - thank you! You will look back on this "failure" as something that ended up being very positive for you (if you don't already).
I'm a student pilot and have a long way to go before the checkride. Thanks for this informative video. It sounds like she has an issue or something given your tone of voice and the comments of other pilots below. Don't the instructors know about which examiners are ball busters and which are not? It sounds like the checkride is more about optimal test taking techniques than pure airmanship. My instructor is emphasizing "being one with the plane" and "getting a feel for the airflow". It sounds like your experience was more about the FAA bureacracy. Glad you eventually made it but I would have just turned the controls over to her and gotten another examiner.
Flying by feeling is OK but as you start stepping up into larger and more complex aircraft you really need to be able to fly things by the book. I’ve learned my lesson and look forward to that progression. Thanks for watching!
Examiner attitude is everything. If you get the wrong one, or if they are having a bad day, you will have a bad day - sad but true - but your mindset is also crucial. I was fortunate enough to pass all check rides on the first shot - private, commercial, instrument, multi-engine, CFI, CFII then all USAF UPT check rides. The one I looked forward to the most, and aced the hardest was commercial - I took it with a guy who was a former Polish AF MiG pilot. My goal was not just to pass - it was to inundate him with such an abundance of information (knowledge and performance) indicating that I was ready for those wings, that he would have no choice but to pass me. That's the same way I was given the opportunity to fly in the military - I joined a unit as an enlisted guy and no-kidding sent a letter to the wing commander - a one-star general - and told him in no uncertain terms that I was going to fly his jets. "Mysteriously" , 3 years later, even though I had not yet even applied for the pilot slot that opened, I was "somehow" already on the list. Even if you get an examiner who is a hard-ass, you can often win them over by overwhelming them with evidence of your confidence and preparation - don't ever be intimidated by an examiner or a ride - go in with the attitude that you are going to kick their ass and leave them no choice but to give you the wings you are pursuing.
It's a hard line to walk. On one hand you want to demonstrate your knowledge without appearing like a showoff, on the other hand the general consensus is less is more and to make the examiner dig if they want more out of you. I felt very prepared, ready to fly the maneuvers, but didn't have the sign of on how I was trained. I was actually excited for my ride and look forward to my future ratings and rides! Thanks for watching and taking the time to share your thoughts!
I failed my first check ride. Definitely warranted. Forgot to pull carb heat when the DPE pulled back the throttle for the Emerg Landing. It caused icing which we had to declare as an emergency and land. He later explained that he had to fail me. My test was going into the evening and he gave me an opportunity to continue. I was able to finish all but 3 maneuvers. On the retest 3 weeks later it was much shorter. The three remaining maneuvers + 2 I had difficulty with earlier. Everything was done in about 45 minutes. Much better experience. I thought the DPE was very professional. If you haven’t finished yet - keep at it you’ll do fine!
That's crazy! Show off...LOL. The rest of us only simulate! I did go back and finish and like yours, took very few minutes to complete. Thanks for the support!
You explaining yourself experience shows you’re an intelligent individual, so I don’t fought you’ll ACE every check ride you do from here on out. I have to be honest, I was a bit distracted watching this video because you have one of the cutest dogs, lol👍
Interesting story. Sorry you failed, but you owned the results and I have infinite respect for you. Personally think that the examiner was pretty short about the event. It clearly wasn’t dangerous because she let you accomplish the maneuver without intervention. She could have discussed the matter with you on the spot and have you reaccomplish the takeoff. Then had a chat post flight to make sure you understood her concerns. I say all this because of your professional demeanor and attitude is that you are obviously all about learning and understanding. I’m sure all this is behind you now and thanks again for the video.... best luck!
Thanks for your support! Yeah...I felt the same way. Apparently these DPE’s have had to be real tight because of how many students our pilot factories are putting through the system. I’ve even heard of some having their DPE being examined as well during their check ride so it could have been worse! 😬
Captain Charlie Bravo Giving a check ride is a hard thing to do, it requires you to extend quite a bit of judgement into a situation. My main focus is on attitude and demeanor, because that is the actual driver for current and future learning, as well as to the level of care and caution that one possesses in the air. Coupled with the fact the young pilot has been signed off and observed in a training environment by normally several other instructors, the default result should lean towards passing. Unfortunately, not all see it the way I do, and will down a pilot for one mistake. There is ALWAYS more to the story, on both sides. So take everything with a grain of salt. But watching your demeanor I would happily sit beside you on a four day trip and we could talk flying till we bleed. I wish this virus fiasco wasn’t screwing up our livelihood like it is, so time will tell on that. Have faith and hang in there. It’s an amazing profession, just weird as all getup.
I’m a 75/76 captain, been flying for over 25 years now, and I’m sure I’d fail a private check ride if I took it today. Only difference is I’d give her a good piece of my mind afterwards.
@@CaptainCharlieBravo l want that exactly as my next item and then to be able to checkout an at6 Texan or a pt17 Stearman some day. Some cool programs that do it. But not much in San Diego
I thought about it...but I have too much self respect to bash. My energies are better spent chasing that next rating than messing with FSDO. But at least I know better now!
I’m sorry, but she sounds like a power hungry bitch. I promise she gets enjoyment out of failing peoples check rides. You need to report her please so they can evaluate her pass/fail rate. If no one ever complains, nothing gets done. I’d also like to know if she had any personal vendettas or bias against you, I.e. like being a feminist. Unfortunately, we live in the most divided time of our country, and politics and other shit comes into all aspects of life- even getting a pilots license
Captain Charlie Bravo ...I’m sorry, but she sounds like a power hungry bitch. I promise she gets enjoyment out of failing peoples check rides. You need to report her please so they can evaluate her pass/fail rate. If no one ever complains, nothing gets done. I’d also like to know if she had any personal vendettas or bias against you, I.e. like being a feminist. Unfortunately, we live in the most divided time of our country, and politics and other shit comes into all aspects of life- even getting a pilots license
This is crazy, your video got recommended to me by the algorithm. I’m a 43 hr pilot about a few weeks away from my check ride so I click on your video and immediately notice the Verizon denim shirt. I worked at Verizon for 5 years as a solution specialist and left to pursue a career in aviation. Small world, great video man thank you!
You handled the aircraft safely and knowledgeable. You explained WHY you did what you did, its not like a C150 needs over 2000' lol. She could've corrected your logic and sent you on your way IMO. Your Private is a ticket to continue to learn. Good luck next time!
![Lp. Сердце Вселенной #60 РОЖДЕНИЕ ЛОЛОЛОШКИ [Финал] • Майнкрафт](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/YoR0pAV9FVQ/mqdefault.jpg)
This is one of the most valuable videos I have come across on UA-cam. Thanks for sharing your experience and perspective. It is indeed a "community service" for potential pilots! A setback is only one step away from success! Good Luck!
Wow, thank you! That's quite the compliment! I'm glad you found it helpful!
Its wierd how some airlines care soo much about traffic tickets and checkride failures, where other ones dont
I am honestly so proud of the fact that you showed so much resilience to such a moment of adversity. I wish you the best of luck to you and your flying career, and I wish you the best of success in your future endeavors. As Shyam said, a setback is only one step away from success.
I failed my PPL written 3 times before passing on the 4th try. I’m now about to be a commercial pilot. Strong work on sharing this !
Way to stick with it! It's not for the faint of heart. You have to tap into your passion and keep pushing through. Congrats on making it that far! Quite the accomplishment!
What’s going to be your first commercial airplane?
So it looks like you are not a natural pilot. Was that the DPE's or your fault??
You should never be allowed to fly if you failed 3 times! My God, you have a book with the answers in it! And no, you are not about to be a commercial pilot, you are probably about to take your commercial test...which you have a LOT more to do to actually be a commercial pilot. Which I hope you never become! My goodness....unbelievable...
@@MikeM275 Ah give him a break. Even if he failed his written a few times, doesn't mean he can't grow. I know plenty of people who were once pretty poor pilots during their training days who eventually became competent airline captains. Flying is an art, and it takes time to grow into it. Yeah, some people don't make the cut, but there are plenty who eventually do.
It is so refreshing to see someone do such a service to the community by sharing a mistake they made in their quest for career success in aviation. As a former Captain (NWA/Delta), current corporate pilot and DPE, just let me say I would be proud to have you in my cockpit as a trusted crewmember. Do not fret the hiccup in your journey; as a former member of an airline hiring board, you are just the person I always looked for in the selection. Keep up the good work!!
Thank you so much for such a thoughtful and kind response. I appreciate your perspective and I’m glad the intention of sharing my experience was well received!
Bo Corby As a pilot for 30 years and one who did my private testing on steam gauges only, I had to comment on your post here. For you to take the time to post the detailed words of support and encouragement here, is not only impressive, but kind of you. With endless comments on here, yours will never be forgotten by this pilot. I am so glad I randomly wound up here, to see the impressive ownership of errors by this pilot, then have the honor of reading your supportive post. Yes, this was time well spent, so thank you both. Safe skies !
I was thinking exactly the same way as you Bo Cordy. I stumbled on this video by accident but I'm very glad I watched. It was very refreshing to see this young man put forth such a professional effort. As a former CFI/CFII/MEI corporate pilot and current commercial airline captain for a combined 30+ years, I don't believe I remember ever seeing this much knowledge and professionalism in someone with his level of experience. I would say to Captain Charlie Bravo, I believe your CFI may have let you down some in your training on this particular subject.
Your buddy on the couch knows how to deal with setbacks . Take a nap. All will be good.
Real talk...🐶 therapy
This is literally the best piece of advice I’ve ever read.
Hey CB, sounds like you had a DPE that couldn't overlook a minor problem on a flight check that sounded like you had 99 % nailed. As an ATP commercial retired pilot I can say to you that you will ultimately accomplish your goal!! I failed my first instrument check ride do to a blotched go around but went on to fly for the next 40 years accumulating 30,000+ hrs. The fact that you were able to accept the DPE's recommendation says volumes about who you are. Hang in there, you have an exciting career ahead of you.
I appreciate the support! You still flying now that you’re retired?
@@CaptainCharlieBravo Yes I am. I was flying corporate jets for a while but now I am involved with a flying club here in Northeast Florida. It's in the blood. ;-))
I failed my PPL checkride. Passed on the second ride.
I failed my CPL checkride. Passed on the second ride.
I passed my IR on the first ride.
I failed my Instructor Rating checkride, passed on the second ride.
... I am now a 20,000 hour airline pilot.
“Nothing in this world can take the place of persistence. Talent will not; nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent. Genius will not; unrewarded genius is almost a proverb. Education will not; the world is full of educated derelicts. Persistence and determination alone are omnipotent. The slogan Press On! has solved and always will solve the problems of the human race.” ― Calvin Coolidge
Love me some Coolidge! Thanks for the encouragement!
That seems extreme. I remember on my checkride (20 years ago), I somehow forgot my sectional and only noticed on climb-out. How the DPE didn't notice up to then, I don't know. I 'fessed right up and said "I may have blown this before we even got going. I don't have my sectional." I then radioed the tower for an immediate return to the airport. We get back on the ground, I'm beyond dejected, he walks in with me, I see my sectional sitting right there on the table. He says, "OK, let's go." Long story short, he passed me. In the end, he said he had the right to declare it a fail, but based on how I reacted to it, how I handled it, and how I resumed the flight without losing it, that was truly what being a PIC was about.
What a great story! Put a smile on my face while reading it.
As an examiner for the British CAA, I can say you did everything correct and deserved a pass. I am still staggering about this video "programmed my GPS" what a dick
That was a cool DPE, my roommate busted his check ride because the sectional expired the previous day. Done.
Yes, that is a fair DPE. you did the correct thing. You did nothing unsafe and you went back to get your sectional.
@@tringalijthat's so dumb especially since the sectionals and even terminal charts rarely change and if it does it won't be a change that's going to affect you the chances of some airport or airspace being affected right where you are is slim to none. The requirement for a new sectional and ESPECIALLY terminal charts is idiotic. Just release an update bulletin which says what part of the sectional is affected or which approach/arrival/departure/enrojte charts are affected. Guaranteee you each cycle maybe 1 thing at MOST changes, and for most pilots that one thing won't affect them.
I'm starting my pilot course next month. I've never seen someone so humble in a mistake - but I'm more thankful that you shared this with us. I hope you made it in the end and I wish you all the best in your aviation career!
That’s awesome! It so fun and challenging. I’m glad you liked the video and I appreciate you following along! Thanks!
I also busted my checkride on my first time around as well. The flight was going pretty good for the first 40minutes, but then we got to the steep turns. I was feeling pretty confident about steep turns because it was one of my favorite maneuver, but as I rolled into the turn i became anxious and continued even though I probably should’ve stopped. I rolled out of the steep turn and he looked at me and he said that sadly doesn’t meet ACS standards. I took a deep breath and he asked me if I wanted to continue my flight I looked at him and I said yes. I finish the rest of my check ride landed the plane and felt nothing but disappointment in myself. Later that week we went up again and I completed the steep turns with high confidence in myself. The moral of the story is never give up. If this is truly what you want to do for the rest your life or is something that you are extremely passionate about keep pushing yourself to the limits keep moving forward.
Pick yourself up, dust yourself off and press on. As a retired F-14, airline captain of the 727, A-300, MD-11, and B-777 we’ve all had a stumble along way. Keep going.
Damn...you've flown some sweet birds. Thanks for the encouragement!
Flying dog boxes after an F-14 must be a real letdown :(
For some unknown reason, your video popped up on my screen this morning and I had to watch (Congratulations, btw, for passing your check-ride). My career is winding down (45 years in the profession with the last 24 as an expat contractor). With 12 type-ratings I never endured a 3 1/2 to 4 hour Oral and though each pre-flight was thorough they were not as intense as yours. Many of us admire your dedication, study, and preparation but each of us equally appreciate and admire your humility. As a former Gulfstream PPE (FAR 91), DCA (UAE), and Line Check Airman (KSA), it was an opportunity for a candidate to hopefully learn something but they would somehow elevate my perspective as well. My personal opinion but you obviously provided her with insight and knowledge she could use to enhance her career! At age 68 and having quadruple bypass surgery last August, I'm not sure if the FAA will approve a re-issue for my medical but, I have been approached to set-up and manage a new operation to consist of a VIP 787, three Gulfstreams, and three Sikorsky S76Ds - it may never come through but if it does, you would be welcome in our organization (select group of retired professionals from American, Pan Am, and VIP expat operators). Take care, all the best ....
Thank you! Sorry to hear about your medical...that's rough after a life of flying. I'd love to hear more about your opportunity should it come to fruition. Send your contact info to captaincharliebravo@yahoo.com. I'd love to network once I'm qualified! Thanks for the kind words and taking the time to watch!
The last thing I wanna hear is that nobody fails their checkride. I'll gladly fly with someone who failed and ultimately passed, because I think they have a deeper appreciation for the knowledge.
ZOANOM I totally agree. I’m a better pilot because of it. Plus I feel proud of my accomplishments that much more.
@@CaptainCharlieBravo You should, it all adds to your personal confidence, which is critical. We never learn so much as when we fail, and we certainly learn when we teach, so you've gained from both directions by sharing it. Thanks for posting this.
If everything the lad says is so then it was not fairly assessed. It is one thing to fail for a bonehead mistake that makes you say to yourself boy I screwed that up but it is another to fail under such circumstance. There will be plenty other chances to fail in a legitimate fashion during a lifetime, but to carry something on your record is not acceptable. Although I will say most airplanes do use some degree of flap for a soft field takeoff. I think a more appropriate response by her would have been to let you do a short field landing to a full stop then left you do another soft field takeoff with some flaps. I know its a check ride but there is some leniancy given to the DPE in some circumstances. Thats all I have to say on the subject. Carry on.
definately
Would you say the same about driving a car?
Don't sweat it. I breezed thru my private pilot written with a 98 and aced my check out ride, BUT failed my first CDL drivers license test at the DMV!
😭😭
Funniest thing I have heard😂
bROOOO The pre-trip inspection is brutal!!!
What did you use to study?
Gotta say man, I clicked this video assuming you made some dumb mistake. I stand corrected, your DPE definitely graded you unfairly. If it went as you say it did, your DPE is not looking at the evaluation correctly and you should never use her again. Your experience is not normal. Your maneuver was not unsafe and your decision making was sound. She essentially failed you on minor techniques. Don't take this one too hard. I'm a former military instructor/evaluator pilot (now just flying for fun on weekends) and this whole story just sounds outrageous.
Yeah. It had me spun up for a minute but it’s all good. I passed, I still love flying, and learned a thing or two about testing prep and performance.
I agree. My oral and check ride were nothing like that. It certainly was much much more than kick the tires and don't crash but wow. People who do not instruct or evaluate student pilots continually will not remember all the stuff we're required to learn during our PPL training. A good DPE will know this and will mostly make sure you're safe, know that the information exists, and you know where to get the information. Nobody has the entire FAR book memorized and anyone can fail anyone else on something minor like you were dinged on. You should have passed your check ride.
Yeah, that is simply unfair. Of course a student trusts his instructor. If the instructor confirmes they trained that way there is only one fair solution: Tell them you expect something different and let the student do that right now. It is not his fault. Maybe this can mean trouble for the instructor but why the student? How is that fair. I always trusted my instructors and I don't feel naive.
@Rourke Beuchel You are exactly right, she graded him unfairly especially by quizzing you extra hard like that. This experience you had with her was not normal at all. Do not fly with this particular check ride instructor again.
Your tempered response to this experience helps my faith in humanity, or at least towards fellow aviators. You were clearly well prepared, and it might suck to fail. But good response! I don't agree with your DPE, but technicalities have killed before. (This wouldn't likely have ever even lead to an incident). And great video! I wish everyone would post their fail videos, failure is a great instructor! (Expressly when it doesn't kill or maim you). People that are hot with words about this DPE, grow some emotional temper, like C'apin Charlie Bravo here.
Like you, I had to find a DPE who could fit in my plane; I never could. My instructor actually called a FAA Director, and he conducted my check ride. Also, just like you, I flubbed my short field takeoff. He did not fail me over that. He did have my instructor go over it with me again. The oral part lasted about an hour, and the check ride was an hour as well. Congratulations on passing it later. After watching the video; I feel certain, you were better prepared than I was.
I feel pretty good about how well I prepared. At least I’m taking something with me to my next ride!
These comments are so supportive and inspirational. Amidst all the negative stories we hear about social media and the like, this is rather heartening.
I can't tell you how impressed I am with you... your modesty regarding your checkride experience, and your maturity to learn from it. I would fly with you as my fellow crewmember anytime. Bravo. I have no doubt at all that you will be a very successful professional aviator.
I really appreciate your support! Thanks for taking the time to watch!
If what you said is true:
Yes, I agree with examiner on one point. A soft field should be with some flap. You need to transfer the weight off the wheels and onto the wings as soon as possible. In Canada I would give you a “2” out of 4 on that. ( passed with a briefing) What you did was not unsafe. This examiner is way out of line. There are issues with her that could be an entirely different conversation. She is abusing her tittle.
This is a private pilot ride, not a shuttle launch. The lesson learned here is that you got a bad examiner and that’s too bad. This unfortunately happens. I have done over 70 check flights in my career and I got one or two people who should not be in those positions. You sound like a very descent competent pilot. Put this behind you, keep going and do not fly this this examiner ever again, she is the problem, not you.
Hans Juergensen
I appreciate the kind words! I also felt a solid debrief would have had the same impact on my actions going forward. Thanks for watching!
spoiler alert, I'm not a pilot but I would make sure I got this examiner again, she made sure you knew your stuff......
I’m also training in a C150 and my CFI and I have discussed this very issue. If there’s a 50ft obstacle, no flaps. I agree total crap that you got busted for that. Apparently if you did your checkride in a cub you’d fail automatically because there are no flaps 🙄
Agree👍
@@warwickmcdowall6611 No.
You have demonstrated one of the most important skills in being a good pilot. Owning your mistakes, learning from them, and sharing with others so that they don't make the same ones. So many are scared to admit their failures (and we all have them).
This is a skill I've seen mamy experienced pilots fail at time and time again!
Its tough to do but my life and others lives depend on me performing at my best. I like the challenge and look forward to the new ones that lie ahead!
I failed for having flaps 10 instead of 25’ for the soft field. The last maneuver I needed so was able to do it the next day, flew up for 3 min. Took the joy from getting my license
I'm about to start my PPL training. This was a very upfront and honest video that will help me very much. Thanks for sharing!
Through your pain & disappointment you have helped others embarking at this stage. I'm currently at the mock check ride stage. This contact was helpful. Thanks for sharing.
Like others have said, it's great to own the mistake, recover, and ace it next time. But, prior to flying with that examiner again, I would dive into the POH and the regs, and verify her basis for disapproving of a maneuver. Then discuss your findings. We have regs and POH for a reason, and an examiner has to follow both, just as they expect you to do. The fact that you successfully completed the maneuver in a safe manner tells me you were correct and within the limits of the aircraft. Her response was subjective, and incorrect.
That’s precisely what my CFI and I did. We went back and forth for a few days but she stuck to her guns and maintained her disapproval. I went back a few weeks later, nailed the 4 maneuvers left to demonstrate, and got my ticket.
@@CaptainCharlieBravo Hey, that is great! Congratulations on getting your license!
@@CaptainCharlieBravo Can you take legal action? I would never let a DPE cheat me out like that. I'm probably too argumentative.
WOW...THANKS FOR SHARING THIS !! I'm probably a month or so out before taking my check ride so I am trying to wrap my head around it all sooner then later. Also so awesome to read through the comments posted here. It for sure goes to say anything worth having in life is worth the hard work / fighting for. I have to agree with so many others here...yes very humbling...but I would no doubt feel much safer flying with a person like yourself than someone who just might feel a bit more full of themselves. Its obvious you are a articulate, smart, determined individual and I believe there is no doubt you will persevere and go on to continue and accomplish your goals to become a great aviator ! Best of luck !!
I appreciate the support! I wish you the best on your ride! let me know when you pass!
That's great of you to share your experience, I am a pilot, but feel you did a great thing by sharing your story. I'm confident that you will have your license very soon, and this will all be a fantastic memory. Good luck, stay safe, and happy flying!
Thanks for the kind words! Those are hard to find on UA-cam comment sections these days. If you check the more recent uploads, you’ll be happy to see I passed my retest and am loving every minute of it!
That’s awesome! Enjoy the wonderful joys of being PIC, keep learning, stay safe, God bless!
I have a feeling that you are becoming an excellent pilot. Anyone who is this honest and introspective about a setback like this is destined to be better for it. This was very articulate and incredibly helpful to those of us at the very beginning of this journey. Thanks very much.
Turned out my DPE had worked with my dad 20 years prior (USAF C141) We didn’t know who
each other was until a week later. Took my check at 42 hours. He asked me to give him our position (1995 no gps at the time). So I called approach and ask for a speed and location check, which I received. The dpe laighed, “good one” he said then ask he to do it the “hard way” using map and gbr. Regardless of outcome each flight is a learning experience. Good way to handle it.
That’s awesome! Nothing wrong with using your resources.
Took a lot of guts for you to do this video so candidly and openly. Thanks for the lesson. Great advice. I'm planning to do my check ride in 3-4 weeks.
How’d your check ride go?!
@@CaptainCharlieBravo I made it! Thanks for asking. I will build some VFR hours before I start IFR training. Are you done also now?
Nice! Congrats! Since then I’ve got my tailwheel endorsement (which I highly recommend), and I passed my written for my instrument last March, moved to Kentucky, and just started up flying again last week. I just linked up with an instructor to start my instrument. Now at 135 hours and looking to take my check ride by the end of the year.
Thank you so much for sharing your experience. I passed on my first private checkride attempt. But it wasn't pretty. I had well over 160 hours by that date and it was my third flight school. Was at ATP (2nd school) and was completely demoralized after I had trouble with my landings and was basically told I was not going to make it there. I started four months later to a different school and after 7 mos (lots of bad weather) I finally passed my private. I'm still nervous about the rest of the checkrides coming, but all we can do is prepare!
Sorry about the soft field landing issues kinda a bad situation. I passed my private checkride today. Winds were 17kts gusting 23 but blowing direct down runway. Issue was we did the landings at the diverted airport and had to use the grass runway to avoid major crosswind and luckily performed it well. This is for sharing your story and keep chasing it. I think I saw a add in that you passed so congrats.
Those winds are way above what I’m comfortable doing on a checkride. That’s why I rescheduled since the winds were like 19G24 the day I originally had it. Knocked out the oral easy and finished flight portion 3 days later with ideal conditions.
Congrats on passing! Those winds are no joke...even being headwinds. I still haven't landed on a grass runway. That's on the list of goals for this year. I did pass! Thanks for sharing your story!
Thank you for sharing, it says a lot about your character to own this situation. Kudos to you. Your information here is useful to me and I imagine many others. Thanks again!!
Brian Beckman I appreciate the kind words my man! Few things feel as good as hearing this kind of feedback. Thanks to you for watching!
Your approach and attitude is perfect - humble and learn from mistakes. That said, sounds like you had a real stickler for a DPE. Hoping to do my own in the next 90 days so thanks for all the tips. I'd fly with you anytime
AWESOME video, thank you for sharing your experience. This was EXTREMELY HELPFUL.
I'm 58 yrs young and have 38 hours in my log book. Recently soloed.
I'm a long way way from doing my check ride.
Your video is very inspirational and educational on many levels.
An experienced Private pilot once told me "learning to fly is a journey, not a destination".
You'll do FINE on the last few maneuvers on your next check ride.
👍👍
Again, THANK YOU for sharing.
Definitely subscribing, looking forward to following your "journey".
Brian Berezowski that’s so awesome, Brian! I’m glad to help! Congrats on the solo! Best feeling ever, right?! I’m super stoked you’re here and look forward to making some more videos . If there is something you want a video for, put your suggestions in the comments. Let me know when you get that ticket!
First of all, I commend you for making a video of this nature, i don’t believe I’ve seen a video like this where someone is mature enough to turn a checkride bust into an educational and informative video for thousands of aspiring aviators. When you get to the airlines they love asking questions about prior failures and they want to hear how you learned from them and moved forward. What happened is unfortunate, and I feel today more than ever DPEs are cracking down on Private Pilot checkrides, the ACS is the ACS and im aware standards need to be held, and this is a big foundation moving forward in your aviation career...after listening to you speak its apparent that you worked extremely hard, you are very passionate and have a great understanding of the materials you were required to know. I feel like I wasn’t nearly as prepared as you when I took my private ride back in 2004...but the DPE looked at me as he gave me my temporary cert. and he said “This is your license to learn now” and was he ever right. You will continue to learn, re-learn and fine tune your skills and flying for the rest of your career. We all make mistakes and have uncertainties at every possible level of flying, but we learn and grow and move onto the next. You may also want to consider a new DPE next ride, my CFI initial wasnt even a 4 hour oral! A little excessive in my opinion. I also find DPEs with a high pass rate get the FAA a little suspicious, so perhaps she was being extremely picky and found just enough to get you, and even out her P/F rate. Also keep in mind it is your right to discontinue a checkride and any point you deem necessary! Just for future reference. Thats just my 2 cents. Congratulations on passing your ride! Congratulations on continuing to pursue your passion, dont let anything stop you! This is an incredible industry, despite the things happening today, it will bounce back stronger than ever! The old saying is true, do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life! Hope to see you in the terminals soon. Best of luck to you!
I really appreciate your thoughtful feedback! I’ll be choosing a new CFI and DPE for my advanced ratings. One would hate to think someone would fail just for the sake of a P/F statistic but I can’t say it hadn’t crossed my mind. I’ve never found something I’m so passionate about and you’re absolutely right. I don’t plan on working another day in my life once I become a professional pilot. I’ll continue to remain humble, learn as much as I can from every flight and experience, and work towards being a valuable addition to the world of professional aviators. Thanks again for watching!
I was ready to throw up by the time my check ride was complete. Maybe one of the most stressful events of my life. Was sure I failed, but I didn't. Your story was really interesting. Your attention to detail is great and you seem to know your stuff. This video was posted 9 months ago. I hope you've had success by the time I'm viewing this. Cheers!
[edit: I also think the examiner was wrong for failing you]
Yeah...pretty nerve wracking to have someone you don't know scrutinizing every move you make. I made it through and have since gotten my tailwheel endorsement and currently am working on my instrument. Thanks for watching!
@@CaptainCharlieBravo She sounds like a hard-core beeyotch. Glad you are doing well!!!
Great attitude. This will not hamper your ability to get hired at an airline. I'm a FedEx pilot and with over 7600 HRS I'm still always learning. Good luck with the rest of your training and checkrides
That’s pretty crazy. Especially since you explained the aerodynamics and everything. It’s not like you just didn’t know what to do. I have seen people pass who didn’t even know what a forward slip was or how to do one which is crazy
I’ve heard of worse stories than mine with a passing grade. The numbers say we are safer pilots as the years progress so maybe it’s a good thing not everyone is passing. I’m trying to take what I can and learn from it.
I can't speak about the check rides these days because mine was in 1967. But from what I have read there are those CFI's and DPE's out there that want to show how great their skills are, and build hours at any cost. It is a disservice, to say the least, to all the study and training it takes. I was very fortunate to have one CFII for all my 40 hrs of training. He soloed me in 6 hrs ( I thought he was overly optimistic LOL) in a C-150. We did all the dual cross country training and my solo cross countries in an older Hershey bar Pa-28-140. My DPE lived in Dalhart Tx. I just barely had the 40 hrs when John sent me to Cecil Ingram for my check ride in the 140. The oral was, he said " plan a trip from Dalhart to Santa Fe NM in the PA-28140. It was summer. This was back when they had actual F.A.A. weather guys you could talk to next door to the FBO. Cecil looked over my flight plan and just said "I just wanted to see if you would have tried to fly over the mountains". We did all the required maneuvers, hood work etc, and the only thing I screwed up was a power off, 50 degree 180 . I stalled a Cherokee, such as a stall was in one. He just said, right before the stall warning lights and buzzers went off "your stalling it". I recovered from the stall, made a decent landing and as we were walking into the FBO, and he said "I hope you fly a little better from now on, you just have a license to learn."
No better feeling than earning that license to learn! Thanks for sharing your story!
I’m getting ready for my private pilot check ride. Thank you for sharing this experience. It was not something easy to put out there but you had the self confidence to do it hoping that you may help someone else.
If we all were in the habit of sharing our failures some of us might be able to avoid them for ourselves. That’s the same reason I watch NTSB investigations all the time. Good luck on your ride! Let me know when you pass!
Dude, you are my new hero. People who tell the truth and are honest with their self and others and don't deflect or try to blame others, to me are stellar. You'll be fine and you know that. It's obvious to me. It's obvious to others. Thanks for sharing.
I'd love to pet that doggo of yours.
Thanks man! I’m just trying to keep it real. Failing sucks. Helping others makes me feel good. And the pooch...he happens to be a big fan of “the pets”. 😎🐶
Congratulations bro. I am currently doing my flight training and there's much to learn. Keep trucking.
That’s an understatement! The learning never stops!
My POH says the same thing “no flaps for short field takeoff with obstacle”. My checkride is tomorrow so I will definitely be clarifying that with my DPE. Thank you for this video!
What happened? Did you pass? What did the examiner say?
My two cents:
a. Your DPE made the right call
b. You handled her decision (and your disappointment) professionally
c. I'm confident you know by now that your next check ride will be very short and completely successful -- and your learning journey will continue
Congrats and safe travels!
Thanks so much!
Wow...I took my check ride in 1982 in a C150 and this video brought back memories! I actually had a DPE pull back on the yoke when I was on short final at the numbers where I yelled at him WHAT THE HELL!!! I still had control of the plane and throttled up for a go-around. He answers me that he felt I was coming in too hot and heavy and he feared for our safety. He could tell that I was pretty pissed at him but we continued on for another 45 minutes to complete the exam. I thought for sure he was going to fail me. When I did a soft-field landing on my final return, I made sure it was slow and extra soft. He signed me off and I went and had a beer! Your DPE was probably intimidated by your stature and professionalism to the point of jealousy and had something to prove. Glad you got through it...happy flying.
Yeah, what happened to "My controls". DPE every heard of a 3 way exchange? Glad to hear you made it. I bet that was a damn good beer after that!
I'm prepping for my commercial checkride now and even having done a private and instrument ride already, these are the kinds of issues I'm always kind of worried about. I'm pretty confident in my overall piloting ability. It's the idea that some technical issue will come up like this and I'll get failed on it even though I know it was a pilot discretion call. Vast majority of DPEs I know are very kind, fair minded individuals, but this happens sometimes. It's frustrating because there isn't much you can do when it does.
Except appeal with the FSDO...but who wants to bark up that tree!? Good luck on your ride! Let me know how it goes!
Just pulled the POH to look at the soft field procedure and you’re totally right. I would appeal the discontinuation. The use of flaps for the soft field is an “if” not a “must”.
I read it that way too. Not sure if the appeal is worth it? What do I really have to gain at this point?
@@CaptainCharlieBravo If you plan to pursue a commercial use of your license, I would 100% appeal it. Beyond that, if you ever crash and burn, blancoliro and Dan Milican and the rest of the peanut gallery reporting on your accident will cite “the pilot having a discontinuation on his record. Is that a contributing factor? We’ll never know 😉😉😉🤷♂️”.
Either way, I feel for you man.
Wow. This was not my experience at all. It’s been like 15 years, but you seem way more prepared than I remember being. I can’t imagine passing the checkride with the four hour ground portion and the way you’ve described your DPE.
Hey, I'm just glad to find this helpful video without the typical hip-hop or other irritating music in the background.
I’m about to fly my XC Solo eval on Monday and have been anxious for everything ahead. I’ve made some mistakes along the way (as we all do) and really needed to see that I’m not alone. Thanks for sharing!
Lauren Ascher that’s awesome!!! My cross country was kind of interesting because I’m on the coast. I planned on taking a trip from Carlsbad up to Torrance and about a half an hour before I left, the coastal marine layer started to move east. Luckily I had already planned an alternate to San Bernardino but that was also interesting since I had never been there. Flying on your first cross country to an airport I’d never even seen before was a solid test of my ability. I wish you the best of luck and I’d love to hear an update about how it went!
Hi Charlie. I felt your heartbreak man. I had a similar experience where I made an error in the traffic pattern and failed my first Private checkride too. Learn from it and more importantly, grow from it. Be a better pilot bcos of your errors. A good pilot is always learning, remember that.
True story. Months have passed now and so has the disappointment. Just a speed bump.
You're going to make a fine Pilot. Very impressive knowledge for the actual hours flown. Good Luck. I watched this because I expected you have made a major mistake. Great advice. Tough inspector.
Thanks Don! I appreciate the kind words. I look forward to my continued training and growth.
Spot on Sir ,say know more
That Dpe is nuts..
3-4 hour Ground /oral. ..insane.
My IFR Oral was 1.5 hours @ Embry Riddle. Longest oral ever.
You are a very impressive pilot.
Thank you
Crazy...Thanks! I appreciate you watching and taking the time to comment!
'It is better to make a mistake that makes you humble than achievements that make you arrogant'.
I made a mistake on my first solo out of the circuit pattern (to the practice area). I flew Terminal altitude within the control zone (airspace matters). In Canada they can issue a cador but they didnt.
So true! Arrogance has no place in aviation.
Like Bo below...I too am a private, USAF, NWA/Delta Captain with over 20,000 hrs., now retired. Great self-analysis and learning. You'll go far in aviation... from one aviator to another--all the best!
Thank you! 20,000! That’s awesome. What was/is your favorite aircraft to fly?
Yep the part about “are you sure”... Don’t ever go against the FAA even if you can explain it. I’ve seen cases of Aviators trying to hold on to their pride knowing they’re right but it never goes well.
Absolute power corrupts absolutely I guess.
Just found this video and it’s excellent. Thank you for explaining exactly what happened and how you would approach it in retrospect. It’s really helpful. I have a lot of respect for you as a person and pilot for how you handled this situation.
Glad it was helpful! I appreciate your support and you taking the time to watch!
Good talk. I remember doing the faa check ride. I honestly at the end had absolutely know idea if I passed in fact I thought it may be a fail. The lady chatted to me down a corridor about the effects of stress on people just general chit chat and then said oh by the way you did pass. Took me half hour to sink in.
Thanks! That must be why they say fly it all the way to the car. Test isn't over until they say so!
Captain Charlie Bravo ha ha true
Your DPE wants you to be firm and confident in your duties as Pilot In Command. I'm not saying what she did was right but as a PIC, think about what is required for a soft-field takeoff - Get off (gopher holes, etc) stay in ground effect and get to Vx and Vy. If the POH is ambiguous, you're right - ask. Barring that, use your best judgement and be confident in your decision to do what you did. You will eventually be out in the real world, alone or with family and the decisions you make will affect real life. Thank you for your honesty and a great video - this will go a long way towards helping other students prepare for the check ride. Remember, if the DPE signs off on you and you turn around and hurt someone then it's her butt on the line so they want to be confident in YOUR confidence lol. Fly safe and know we're rooting for ya! 800+ hour pilot here ;)
I think the fact that a short field takeoff calls for no flaps gave me the impression that it doesn’t help you get off the ground any sooner; or help the climb to a 50’ obstacle. But, at the end of the day you’re right. I am the pilot in command and my decisions won’t only affect me if they turn out to be hazardous. I have since obtained my PPl and continue to learn every time I fly. Thanks for the great feedback!
You had a tough DPE. Don't let it discourage you.
For sure. I took it on the chin and passed 3 weeks later. Been flying all over for months.
Great video. Love your dog. I have my checkride in 6 weeks. I just went to my POH and saw that my short field doesn't say 10 degrees of flaps and I've been using 10 degrees for short and soft field takeoffs. I will be sure to clarify all of that now. Thanks again!!
I flew c150’s year's ago. I still have two owners manuals. 1968 and a 1977 BOTH say no flaps. 1968 ”wing flaps UP”, 1977 ”Wing flaps ZERO”. For a maximum performance take off. There is no misinterpretation to it. Normal take off is also flaps zero. I believe you got scammed. Looking at the manual again now there isn't an instance where flaps on takeoff is required.
G Nash Sometimes I guess we all draw the short straw...but at least I didn’t let it stop me! Do your manuals say no flaps for soft field and short field takeoffs?
The manuals call both ”maximum performance takeoffs”. There is that paragraph that y'all pondered over that said you could use 10% but you loose climb ability. You could get off the ground a few feet sooner to hit the trees.
Flying a C172M and it states flaps up for maximum performance as well. It doesn't outline soft field, but after discussing it with others it is designed to have 10 deg flaps for soft field. The concept is that it will keep weight off the wheels as reviewed in the video. Ideally, soft fields should be long enough that the reduced climb performance makes no difference; a maximum performance shouldn't have to be combined with a soft field.
Its not all nad news. Thank God people don't bet passed easily. Peoples lives are depending on the skills. My dad was a CFI and it makes people understand where they need work. Thanks for sharing. Its no badge of shame for failing. Lots to know and do. Best of luck in your flying career
I totally agree! I don’t wanna be flying around with a bunch of wannabes that got their ticket on easy street. I’m glad to share my struggles as I’m sure I’m not the only one. Thanks so much for the best wishes!
I failed my instrument due to an improper hold, made me understand the concepts weren't clear to me and I should've spoken up when I didn't fully understand something. Very humbling experience indeed. Funny, I ask my instructor for a hold or two every time we get a chance now. And no training flights until May due to the virus, I better figure something out quick.
Bummer...good idea to keep current on the weak points. I practice each maneuver every time I fly now.
Thanks for making this video. You are a bigger man than I or probably most people out there. Glad to see you are doing well!
Congrats on passing. Was your instructor a young guy? Surprised he didn’t know the flap settings on a 150. pretty much standard practice to get an airplane as light as possible when taking off or landing on a soft surface (for any model). I commend you for sharing your experience. Check rides are something most every pilot remembers, good or bad. Good luck on you pilot career path.
My instructor was a 35 year pilot with 20,000+ hours. We read the POH, asked around and spoke to many other professional resources and there were a lot of mixed opinions on this. We collectively came to the conclusion it was discretionary and not mandatory, DPE didn't agree. Either way, it was corrected for, demonstrated, and deemed satisfactory on the second run. Thanks for taking the time to watch and share your thoughts!
I recently just got my Commercial MEL in February, prior to my disapproval I only had a single engine ILS left on my initial checkride and unfortunately botched it. DPE told me that all we had to do was just the single engine ILS retest and that was it. Afterward it did kick me and left me with a lesson to learn from. My private ride was about the same other than I botched a power off stall. Your DPE sounded almost like you were given a commercial checkride, oral of 3-4 hrs sounded pretty brutal, some stuff we do have to know but it's really a starting point. Keep up the work and never give up! Safe flying
For sure. It’s not the end of the world and I’ve learned such an amazing amount of information and technique in the last year it’s unbelievable. It’s crazy to think that it’s just the starting point but then again, that’s why I love it so much. Thanks for watching!
Thank you dude! Heads up, cheers from Portugal !
🇵🇹 🌎 🇺🇸 !!! Cheers!
First of all, 10/10 for creating a learning experience for others from your own personal experience. I did my early training on a C150 back in 1972. Both your examiner, and the little voice in your head, were correct. Use 10 deg of flaps for a soft field take-off. In my opinion, if something does not make sense to you, then question it, extensively and repeatedly, until it does, or until you arrive at a different conclusion. I understand that you and your instructor discussed this and concluded that you should not use flaps. But still, you understood that aerodynamically, this was wrong. Always listen to the wee voice in your head, never continue with doubts. Glad to hear that you are not discouraged by this experience.
I’ve definitely learned a lot in the next 100 hours of flying. That’s one of the things I love most is every flight and experience is a learning opportunity. Thanks for watching!
I passed my RPP check ride, but barely. During taxi, I forgot to check that my compass was free and floating, and that my heading indicator was tracking. It’s the small things like that that can almost fail you! Good luck!
Jonah Sohmer to be honest, I take pride in the fact that not everyone has what it takes to be a pilot. Being this hard makes it all worth it in the end. If it was too easy, I wouldn’t love it as much!
I remember school days and tests and trying to get into the head of the teacher to understand what answer they were expecting.
It was frustrating knowing the answers but not being sure which answer the teacher was looking for.
Hey, I would ride with you any time and feel confident in your abilities.
May your skies be blue and your winds calm.
Yeah, we've all had "that" teacher growing up. Guess some things never change! Thanks for your support!
I just love that you own it. I'm studying for my checkride and close to 80 hours... Took 50 hours just to figure out my landings... I'm not happy with that but I got my landings down now..at least I'm not nervous about them anymore. Knowledge I got but memory is not my strong suit. My brain is fried now so I'm watching videos. Your oral sound horrid. Can't imagine flying after all that!
It turned out to be a good test of my nerves. I took on a heavy work load and kept my composure. Good to know for developing improved task management.
Such a mature way of dealing with that erm differing opinion on flap deviation. You seem sanguine about it...I think you will go far with that.
I appreciate the feedback. Thanks for watching!
I wonder what this particular DPE's fail rate is.
Maybe the FAA needs to give HER a check ride.
Man...if only that data was public...
@@CaptainCharlieBravo The DPE I had for my private checkride was actually quite helpful. Most of them WANT to pass you.
She was looking to see that I was safe and competent, NOT perfect.
As has been said many times, the private pilot certificate is your license to LEARN.
@@bryansimmons4550 , correct thats what my instructor told me, now that you have your ticket; now go learn to fly!😉👍
In the early 1980' when i was on training, i had a HER cfi , didnt take me long to see her agenda, dumped HER and aquired a male instructor, things quickly improved,
She kinda said. Use flaps. He’s sounds like a great pilot just had a bad day. We all have that.
Thanks for the humility and heads up!
Thanks for watching!
Wow. This is making me extremely nervous for my checkride...
You know, I was nervous until the actual day of the ride. The one thing I felt a little weak in was VOR tracking so the flight I took the day before was focused on that particular task. Is there anything in particular you’re nervous about? Steep turns? Power on/off stalls? Emergency decent? Let me know and I might have some tips that will help you nail it. When’s you’re check ride?
I actually don’t have a specific date for the check ride quite yet. The only requirement I have left is my long solo cross country. I’m not as concerned for the oral portion of the test but I’m mainly worried I’ll blow it on a steep turn or something. Thanks for the help.
Willing to bet failing a private pilot check ride, especially for something like this is not a black mark. Hang in there.
@@johnelliott4521 Not at all regardless of people telling you otherwise. What matters is 135 , 121 checkride's.
Excellent video! You did a service to others by making this video. What amazes me is how some people gave this a thumbs down. What could they possibly have to complain about this video? Thank you again for making this!
Never give up! a "mistake" is a learning experience.
It was an experience to remember!
My checkride was with a DPE that was known to be tough, which made me nervous. I fly out of HWD so I feel your pain on the busy airspace. What made me think I had blown the checkride was that on two occasions the examiner took control and showed me ways to execute maneuvers that were different than how I had been taught. I thought he was showing me the correct way to do them. Back on the ground I was sure I had failed. I was already anticipating the humiliation of facing my CFI. I was seriously upset. Turns out I passed. The examiner thought I flew well and was showing me new things. I was not expecting that! It really spun my head up. My CFI thought that was pretty funny. I was so relieved!
Wow that seems incredibly hard , you must have been exhausted after the ground check, not sure what they do in uk but I feel for you , I used to be a tram driver and the check drive was really hard for them but your check seems very hard , I wish you best when you re-do it , let us know how you get on
It was tough for sure but that's why I love it. I went on to pass a few weeks later.
Great vid and honest cause most people are scared to say they failed, so kudos to u. She was definitely tuff and I would spread the word on her so they don’t use her again.
I appreciate the support and I’m glad you enjoyed the video!
I'm still fairly early on in my training (just soloed!) and I've noticed the same lack of clarity for takeoff with flaps in the POH for the 172. Surprised that caused you to fail the entire checkride - but I'll definitely be brushing up on ALL of my knowledge as much as possible before I reach that point. It sounds like you had done the same, and from the comments it sounds like you may have had a VERY thorough DPE.
Congratulations on your solo! That’s the best feeling in the world. There’s general characteristics of aerodynamics that standardize configurations in almost all airplanes. It’s important to fully understand all of the variables you’re dealing with in each individual situation to ensure you mitigate as much risk as possible. When in doubt, ask. I wish you good luck and safe flying through your training!
Captain CB, I really liked the video and the tips you suggested-particularly when you mentioned bringing up question to the DPE before the checkride! As a CFI, trust me we get the same heart-sinking feeling when one of our students unfortunately has a disapproval on a checkride. I failed my Instrument flying portion, and now am starting a job at a regional airline in the US. Hang in there, and work to ace the rest of your rides, keep in mind you’re starting toward your flying career goal at a great time. Best of luck to you
Thanks so much! I can’t wait to make it there myself!
When I took my check ride my CFI held me back until I had at least 60 hours as the local DPE was notorious for finding and accentuating flaws leading to the disapproval of candidates short of that experience level. Just sayin'. Appreciate the candor and detailed analysis.
Rick Randall yeah...I imagine some may be turned off by the thought of a 40 hour pilot. 🤔
That DPE is a money grubber. I had some DPE's that did the same thing, and they didn't work for me for very long.
Rick R That is BS. He is making you spend over 2 thousands dollars more even if you are good now at say 42 hours.
Am about to take my checkride for my Cherokee 235, am on hold for the corona virus. Using the delay for extra study . Thanks for the video. It was at once helpful and anxiety producing. God Bless and happy flying !
Ahh man! This virus is messing EVERYTHING up! I’m glad GA hasn’t been shut down. Good luck on your ride! Let me know when you pass! Shoot me a photo at captaincharliebravo@yahoo.com of you passing and I’ll share it on the channel. I’d like to start celebrating my subscriber successes!
Sorry Charlie, I just read my 1975 and 1969 C150 manuals and the language was pretty clear to me in both. they stated: "Therefore the use of 10 degree flap is reserved for minimum ground runs or for take-off from soft or rough fields with no obstacles." What did your manual say for the 1975 Mike model?
It says, “IF 10° flaps are used on soft or rough fields with obstacles ahead (as in the ACS 50’ obstacle reference for short field operations), it is preferable to leave them extended rather than retract them in the climb to the obstacle.” It was the “IF” that got me in trouble.
Captain Charlie Bravo I have to agree with Bill, reading it it says flaps should be reserved for soft and rough feilds, but short field it is not suggested. As for the failed chdckride on resume, you have the right thinking. And you will do better next time.
And to me it stands to reason that with more lift, you get the load off those wheels post-haste and right-away-like. Without POH guidance this would be a judgement call but if I'm about to bounce over furrows or gopher holes then logic tells me to get the weight off those wheels right away, accelerate in ground effect and zoom away (barring an obstacle in which case the whole takeoff decision is in question). The main gear keeps your a*s off the ground and the nose gear is nothing more than something to keep the prop from hitting the ground (as an old, but wise old-geezer instructor once told me). Great video and New Sub here!
Here is the pertinent excerpt from an online C-150M manual:
"FLAP SETTINGS
Normal and short field takeoffs are performed with flaps up. The use of 10° flaps will shorten the ground run approximately 10%, but this advantage is lost in the climb to a 50-foot obstacle. Therefore, the use of 10° flaps is reserved for minimum ground runs or for takeoff from soft or rough fields.If 10° of flaps are used on soft or rough fields with obstacles ahead,it is preferable to leave them extended rather than retract them in the climb to the obstacle. The exception to this rule would be in a high altitude takeoff in hot weather where climb would be marginal with flaps 10°. Flap deflections greater than 10° are not approved for takeoff"
If there is no disqualifying element, e.g. high density altitude, then 10 degrees should be used. This is what your instructor should have told you and what you should have told the DPE. I always enjoyed soft field T.O. In real life, if there is tall grass or snow on the runway, it's quite possible the plane will never accelerate to rotation speed unless the nose wheel is out of the obstruction.
BTW, on my way to ATP I failed my instrument ride...and I deserved to fail. Live and Learn - you seem to have done this. Good for you!
This is very helpful to me - thank you!
You will look back on this "failure" as something that ended up being very positive for you (if you don't already).
I'm a student pilot and have a long way to go before the checkride. Thanks for this informative video. It sounds like she has an issue or something given your tone of voice and the comments of other pilots below. Don't the instructors know about which examiners are ball busters and which are not? It sounds like the checkride is more about optimal test taking techniques than pure airmanship. My instructor is emphasizing "being one with the plane" and "getting a feel for the airflow". It sounds like your experience was more about the FAA bureacracy. Glad you eventually made it but I would have just turned the controls over to her and gotten another examiner.
Flying by feeling is OK but as you start stepping up into larger and more complex aircraft you really need to be able to fly things by the book. I’ve learned my lesson and look forward to that progression. Thanks for watching!
Examiner attitude is everything. If you get the wrong one, or if they are having a bad day, you will have a bad day - sad but true - but your mindset is also crucial. I was fortunate enough to pass all check rides on the first shot - private, commercial, instrument, multi-engine, CFI, CFII then all USAF UPT check rides. The one I looked forward to the most, and aced the hardest was commercial - I took it with a guy who was a former Polish AF MiG pilot. My goal was not just to pass - it was to inundate him with such an abundance of information (knowledge and performance) indicating that I was ready for those wings, that he would have no choice but to pass me. That's the same way I was given the opportunity to fly in the military - I joined a unit as an enlisted guy and no-kidding sent a letter to the wing commander - a one-star general - and told him in no uncertain terms that I was going to fly his jets. "Mysteriously" , 3 years later, even though I had not yet even applied for the pilot slot that opened, I was "somehow" already on the list. Even if you get an examiner who is a hard-ass, you can often win them over by overwhelming them with evidence of your confidence and preparation - don't ever be intimidated by an examiner or a ride - go in with the attitude that you are going to kick their ass and leave them no choice but to give you the wings you are pursuing.
It's a hard line to walk. On one hand you want to demonstrate your knowledge without appearing like a showoff, on the other hand the general consensus is less is more and to make the examiner dig if they want more out of you. I felt very prepared, ready to fly the maneuvers, but didn't have the sign of on how I was trained. I was actually excited for my ride and look forward to my future ratings and rides! Thanks for watching and taking the time to share your thoughts!
As the old adagio says: making a mistake is human, persevering is evil. Thanks for your video it was very inspirational. Cheers from Italy
I’m glad you enjoyed it all the way in Italy! 🇮🇹 🌎 🇺🇸
Why is perseverance evil when all else fails perseverance prevails?
@@silverfoxidm because it does
I failed my first check ride. Definitely warranted. Forgot to pull carb heat when the DPE pulled back the throttle for the Emerg Landing. It caused icing which we had to declare as an emergency and land. He later explained that he had to fail me. My test was going into the evening and he gave me an opportunity to continue. I was able to finish all but 3 maneuvers. On the retest 3 weeks later it was much shorter. The three remaining maneuvers + 2 I had difficulty with earlier. Everything was done in about 45 minutes. Much better experience. I thought the DPE was very professional. If you haven’t finished yet - keep at it you’ll do fine!
That's crazy! Show off...LOL. The rest of us only simulate! I did go back and finish and like yours, took very few minutes to complete. Thanks for the support!
You explaining yourself experience shows you’re an intelligent individual, so I don’t fought you’ll ACE every check ride you do from here on out. I have to be honest, I was a bit distracted watching this video because you have one of the cutest dogs, lol👍
That’s my boy! He’s always trying to photo 💣!
Thank you for sharing and taking us on your journey to ATP certification. Hope you continue posting ...Best of luck in your future check rides..
Thank you! Will do! I love sharing my experiences. It is a good way to document them for myself and hopefully it entertains a few along the way!
Interesting story. Sorry you failed, but you owned the results and I have infinite respect for you. Personally think that the examiner was pretty short about the event. It clearly wasn’t dangerous because she let you accomplish the maneuver without intervention. She could have discussed the matter with you on the spot and have you reaccomplish the takeoff. Then had a chat post flight to make sure you understood her concerns. I say all this because of your professional demeanor and attitude is that you are obviously all about learning and understanding.
I’m sure all this is behind you now and thanks again for the video.... best luck!
Thanks for your support! Yeah...I felt the same way. Apparently these DPE’s have had to be real tight because of how many students our pilot factories are putting through the system. I’ve even heard of some having their DPE being examined as well during their check ride so it could have been worse! 😬
Captain Charlie Bravo Giving a check ride is a hard thing to do, it requires you to extend quite a bit of judgement into a situation. My main focus is on attitude and demeanor, because that is the actual driver for current and future learning, as well as to the level of care and caution that one possesses in the air. Coupled with the fact the young pilot has been signed off and observed in a training environment by normally several other instructors, the default result should lean towards passing. Unfortunately, not all see it the way I do, and will down a pilot for one mistake. There is ALWAYS more to the story, on both sides. So take everything with a grain of salt. But watching your demeanor I would happily sit beside you on a four day trip and we could talk flying till we bleed. I wish this virus fiasco wasn’t screwing up our livelihood like it is, so time will tell on that. Have faith and hang in there. It’s an amazing profession, just weird as all getup.
My man is very constructive of failure, if you fail at something enough you will be a master of it. Great job buddy.
Well said! The trick is to keep the failures small so you can live to tell about it!
I’m a 75/76 captain, been flying for over 25 years now, and I’m sure I’d fail a private check ride if I took it today. Only difference is I’d give her a good piece of my mind afterwards.
My older pilot buddies have all said the same. I guess things have tightened up over the years in the name of safety statistics.
17 hours in to my training and flying out of Carlsbad as well. Excellent video sir. Appreciate the info and tips.
Awesome! did you get your PPL yet?
@@CaptainCharlieBravo yes sir!
@@miketrask7559 congratulations! If I could make a recommendation, get your tailwheel endorsement. It made me such a better pilot.
@@CaptainCharlieBravo l want that exactly as my next item and then to be able to checkout an at6 Texan or a pt17 Stearman some day. Some cool programs that do it. But not much in San Diego
@@miketrask7559 Are you part of Pacific Coast flyers by chance?
I think you got the shaft. I would be spreading the word on that DPE.. In fact, I would have lodged a complaint with the FSDO.
I thought about it...but I have too much self respect to bash. My energies are better spent chasing that next rating than messing with FSDO. But at least I know better now!
I’m sorry, but she sounds like a power hungry bitch. I promise she gets enjoyment out of failing peoples check rides. You need to report her please so they can evaluate her pass/fail rate. If no one ever complains, nothing gets done. I’d also like to know if she had any personal vendettas or bias against you, I.e. like being a feminist. Unfortunately, we live in the most divided time of our country, and politics and other shit comes into all aspects of life- even getting a pilots license
Captain Charlie Bravo ...I’m sorry, but she sounds like a power hungry bitch. I promise she gets enjoyment out of failing peoples check rides. You need to report her please so they can evaluate her pass/fail rate. If no one ever complains, nothing gets done. I’d also like to know if she had any personal vendettas or bias against you, I.e. like being a feminist. Unfortunately, we live in the most divided time of our country, and politics and other shit comes into all aspects of life- even getting a pilots license
This is crazy, your video got recommended to me by the algorithm. I’m a 43 hr pilot about a few weeks away from my check ride so I click on your video and immediately notice the Verizon denim shirt. I worked at Verizon for 5 years as a solution specialist and left to pursue a career in aviation. Small world, great video man thank you!
Ol’ VZW…I hated those denim shirts. Lol. Good luck on your ride! Don’t rush, take your time, and give it your best.
You handled the aircraft safely and knowledgeable. You explained WHY you did what you did, its not like a C150 needs over 2000' lol. She could've corrected your logic and sent you on your way IMO. Your Private is a ticket to continue to learn. Good luck next time!
Thanks for your support!
It's been already 2 years, this video really makes me feel alive. Thanks for your advice!