If I trained in a low wing aircraft, can I fly a high wing?

Question

I want to take my mom up for her birthday, but all (2) of the FBO's that surround us only rent out the high wing cessna's.

Answer 1

High wing aircraft (such as a piper cub) are much easier to fly and more stable. Low wing aircraft are much more nimble and difficult to fly.

Answer 2

I agree with another here that this is a pretty ridiculous question for someone who is "supposed" to be a pilot. This isn't a slam...it just seems that a pilot would know he needs to be checked out in any aircraft other than what they have already flown.

Answer 3

then I won't get in with you if you ask such inane questions, because you don't understand what you're doing.  I recommend the cancellation of any and all flight licenses you may hold, for gross stupidity!

Answer 4

yes, legally,

you most likely have a private,single engine , land

certificate. No prohibition against flying ANYTHING that fits into this category provided it is not complex or over 200 hp.

(you must have training and a Instructors written endorsement first. )

Legal doesn't mean safe or smart. To rent the high wing, the FBO (and their insurance)will require a "checkout" to fly their plane. most likely it will take a few "lessons" to learn the transition to a highwing.

This very reason is why I train primary students in my cherokee, and have a few flights in a rental Cessna 152.



Flight w/ Mom is possible though , its just that she will have to sit in the back to make room for an Instructor in the right seat.

(If you have not had the time to get the checkout first.)

Not an uncommon occurrence at all.

Have fun! its doable!

Answer 5

First, to friedach, there is no such thing as a 'license'.  It's a certificate.  Funny, you called ck stupid...  And same comment to 'nick@***...'.  Cut them some slack.  Sounds like a reasonable question from someone without any experience in a high wing aircraft.

There was good response from 'Cherokee' (flyer I think) who talked about the difference between 'being legal' and 'safe' and 'smart'.  It's a great idea to take up an instructor anytime you are transitioning to a different aircraft, even if you are certificated for it.  Always best to be safe - that's just smart.

Answer 6

Any FBO that you rent from will want to do an "insurance check" before they turn you loose with one of their airplanes...  It's about an hour with one of their instructors, just to get you familiar with their airplane.  Once you have flown a check ride with them, you should be able to rent an airplane any time you want one.

One more thing... Since you are flying (and paying ) for an hour with an instructor anyway, why not kill two birds with one stone, and have the instructor sign off a BFR.

Answer 7

You need to get checked out by an instructor first. It certainly would not impress Mom if you crash landed 100 feet short of the runway because you set up the wrong approach speed. If you have some low-wing experience, then you probably also have some patience and good judgment. This is where you need to not hurry and make a dumb decision - just like in the air.

Answer 8

I believe that any reputable F.B.O. has, and will be sure you are checked-out in any type of aircraft that you intend on renting.  Worst case that I see is you may have to take an instructor with you on her birthday flight if you don't want to pay for the short check-out / training beforehand.  Good-luck and have fun.  Be sure to take the old bird out fully wet,  uh,  the plane I mean!