Why I Cancelled My Checkride and Stopped My Helicopter Training

Sdílet
Vložit
  • čas přidán 20. 08. 2020
  • I wish it were clickbait, but things have come up recently that have caused me to cancel my helicopter private pilot license checkride and discontinue my current training altogether. Taking a look at what went wrong to make me stop training with less than 10 hours to go.
    You can donate to Lester's medical expenses here:
    www.gofundme.com/f/lester-cam...
    Looking for a good book to read? (Military/Espionage/Terrorism/Aviation thrillers)
    www.cwlemoine.com
    Check out the PIVOT CASE and Strap I use. Use Promo code MOVER to get 15% off at Pivot:
    www.flyboys.com/pivot.html
    Donate to FOLDS OF HONOR
    www.foh.org
    Lightspeed Zulu 3 ANR Headset I use:
    www.lightspeedaviation.com/pr...
    Contact me:
    www.cwlemoine.com/contact/
    #FlightTraining
    #Helicopter
    #HeloVLOG

Komentáře • 3K

  • @JTLaser1
    @JTLaser1 Před 3 lety +1595

    When a aviator feels something is sketchy and doesn’t walk away, it usually ends badly. Follow your instinct!

    • @danielhood1020
      @danielhood1020 Před 3 lety +26

      Seriously, thats a brilliant quote

    • @Kuruqan
      @Kuruqan Před 3 lety +38

      100% this. Trust your butt, it'll always keep you safe. If it's telling you to get out of there, get out. Fly again when you've got an environment you're comfortable flying in.

    • @darrell20741
      @darrell20741 Před 3 lety +9

      BEST advice right there!

    • @jerrodcorey25
      @jerrodcorey25 Před 3 lety +5

      Well said and agree 100%

    • @nhwilkinosn
      @nhwilkinosn Před 3 lety +23

      If they don't walk away... They usually don't walk away.

  • @horatiobeaker
    @horatiobeaker Před 3 lety +561

    No pilot has ever died after saying, “Nope. I’ll pass. I’m out.”

    • @nuncautnunquam6077
      @nuncautnunquam6077 Před 3 lety +30

      Maybe he died after texting it in his car to his instructor?

    • @robbynelson3
      @robbynelson3 Před 3 lety +10

      Depends on if said pilot has a ex-wife.

    • @AndrewTGreen
      @AndrewTGreen Před 3 lety +2

      Amen

    • @spvillano
      @spvillano Před 3 lety +9

      @Rícé_Duck Gaming I'm old military EMS. It's properly irreverent and humorous.
      Along the lines of, all bleeding stops, eventually...
      One way or the other.
      One grows such humor, or one decorates the ceiling with brain matter.

    • @oatlord
      @oatlord Před 3 lety +7

      Unless it was in answer to the question "do you want a parachute before you jump?"

  • @DrJerryB
    @DrJerryB Před 3 lety +370

    I would rather be on the ground wishing I was in the air, than in the air wishing I was on the ground.

    • @ckryegrass11
      @ckryegrass11 Před 3 lety +13

      Been there done that in Amarillo. Questioned guy about density altitude and 3 passengers in a cherokee that had full fuel. Fresh overhaul as well. We flew out over Palo Duro Cnayon and it was summer. Climb out was assisted by ground affect and that raised my eye brows. we got to around 1300AGL and never backed off throttle. Engine heat rose and he richened the mixture. Gave controls to me. Lost 100' altitude and i mentioned to him that i was having trouble maintaining altitude. He leaned out the mixture. I asked what the deal was and he said the engine had a fresh overhaul. I asked him to take the controls and then asked him to take us back to the airport. He protested and said that as we used fuel "it will get better". I told him i appreciated his effort to "please" but it was not worth the risk. I never went back to that airfield again.

    • @wurmenkoppie5785
      @wurmenkoppie5785 Před 3 lety +5

      Damn, that's quote worthy lol

    • @raysmith1630
      @raysmith1630 Před 2 lety +2

      Hey, I really like that. I think I'm going to write that one down. That's right up there with any landing that you can walk away from etc. etc.

    • @DrJerryB
      @DrJerryB Před 2 lety

      @@raysmith1630 We all have been there and done that.

    • @thisoldboat7393
      @thisoldboat7393 Před 2 lety

      Wise man speak 👏💖

  • @cm7862
    @cm7862 Před 3 lety +184

    Private pilot here. You definitely made the right decision. "DJ"'s attitude alone is enough to put a big red flag up. On top of that, his terrible safety record and sketchy maintenance of the aircraft.... yeah, walk away.

    • @rexblokland7778
      @rexblokland7778 Před 3 lety +8

      The saying is that every landing after wich you're able to walk away from is considered to be a good landing.... So far, despite DJ has written off a Robinson and seriously damaged a private jet with it.. he walked away....
      But bottom line: C.W made the right decision stop his adventure for now. Flight-safety is no joke.

    • @Peter_Cordes
      @Peter_Cordes Před 3 lety +8

      @@rexblokland7778 - The guy had a boot cast for a broken foot. There was *something* he didn't walk away from... although it might not have been an aircraft landing.

    • @above7833
      @above7833 Před 11 měsíci

      By by DJ…

  • @Nebula_Ultra
    @Nebula_Ultra Před 3 lety +1192

    The best pilots are the ones who know when NOT to fly.

  • @JimHiggins2069
    @JimHiggins2069 Před 3 lety +267

    A superior pilot uses his superior judgment to avoid situations which require the use of his superior skill.

    • @potatopilot1699
      @potatopilot1699 Před 3 lety +2

      Excellent wording wow

    • @GrowlingRB24
      @GrowlingRB24 Před 3 lety +1

      Sums up Movers desicion pretty well. Well phrased!

    • @josh_jc_cheng
      @josh_jc_cheng Před 3 lety +2

      @@potatopilot1699 it's from murphy's war law, pilot edition

    • @potatopilot1699
      @potatopilot1699 Před 3 lety

      Cheng YanYat ah thank you!

    • @davidh6300
      @davidh6300 Před 3 lety +2

      Yes, and this brings to mind another quote: a clever man can get himself out if a situation that a wise man would avoid.

  • @kewkabe
    @kewkabe Před 3 lety +281

    tl;dw : sketchy guy at the flight school in charge of the helicopter made him doubt the whole safety of the operation.

    • @doh1976
      @doh1976 Před 3 lety +39

      You're the hero we need

    • @GrifFungin
      @GrifFungin Před 3 lety +23

      Lol, could he have been just a little bit more long winded... 😉

    • @aka_pierre
      @aka_pierre Před 3 lety +2

      Thanks man.

    • @fight2flyphoto
      @fight2flyphoto Před 3 lety +8

      Where was this comment 13 minutes ago? lol

    • @bigal1863
      @bigal1863 Před 3 lety +9

      Old service axiom "if the wings are moving faster than the body of the aircraft, you are aboard a helicopter and therefore unsafe"

  • @WarpedPerception
    @WarpedPerception Před 3 lety +131

    I had a similar situation with a jet engine I purchased, they guy who has a reputation for being very reckless told me " I'm sending it to you soon, I just got finished ripping it apart and rebuilding it for you" I was like "no thanks, I do not want the engine" I did not feel safe...lbvs.

  • @aaronzeiger216
    @aaronzeiger216 Před 3 lety +173

    I guarantee that as much of a fan base you have, some young pilot will remember that a Viper pilot noped out of a bad flying situation and see how it takes serious balls to do that. This is the kind of talk that can save someone's life who doesn't have the aviation experience to recognize shitty people and poor maintenance practices. This is a gem of a video for flight instructors and students.

    • @bizareted
      @bizareted Před 3 lety +4

      I could not believe that a flight instructor would treat a ex-mil and current airline pilot like this. Honestly sounds like DJ was projecting a bit.

    • @aaronzeiger216
      @aaronzeiger216 Před 3 lety +4

      My point was more on movers actions by making the right call to "no go" because of the circumstances. Civilian flying has less predictability from people involved. I once took a friend who I had trained and signed off for his commercial check ride to a DP examiner I knew well. The night before the flight at the hotel room he told me his girlfriend who had stage 3 breast cancer at the time had fell down at home and was back in the hospital. We both met with my other examiner friend that night and told him it was a no go that weekend. His head wasn't in it and we flew back early the next morning. Sometimes circumstances out of our control makes the decisions for us if you want to be a good pilot and know when to say no.

  • @jamesbergman581
    @jamesbergman581 Před 3 lety +55

    50 years of flying has taught me one thing, if it doesn’t pass the smell test, don’t do it
    Good call on your part

  • @topgun9666
    @topgun9666 Před 3 lety +63

    The saying sticks in my head since day 1 of my training. It's better to be on the ground wishing you were flying than flying wishing you where on the ground.

  • @jaydubs5007
    @jaydubs5007 Před 3 lety +41

    Fellow aviator - Not sure WHY this video popped up but I watched it. I have so so much respect for your decision. Many folks don't understand how difficult those decisions can be. Good on you sir. Subbed.

  • @jfavignano
    @jfavignano Před 3 lety +586

    Sorry to hear all of the drama that interfered with you finishing however VERY smart to walk away from that operation. Hope you are able to get it taken care of in Texas!

    • @CWLemoine
      @CWLemoine  Před 3 lety +51

      Thanks, Jeff 🤙

    • @Dylan_Sterling
      @Dylan_Sterling Před 3 lety +17

      I’m pleasantly surprised to see you here Jeff!

    • @berryreading4809
      @berryreading4809 Před 3 lety +10

      Jeff! One of the star personalities from the world's greatest GTA videos ever made! 😂👍

    • @RJASE5
      @RJASE5 Před 3 lety +9

      Did not expect to see Jeff here. But I’m not complaining.

    • @sully9974
      @sully9974 Před 3 lety +6

      Holy shit, Jeff. Small world huh?

  • @stevedk3016
    @stevedk3016 Před 3 lety +107

    Get well soon Lester!!

  • @eracer1111
    @eracer1111 Před 3 lety +19

    When I first saw you say "...discontinue my helicopter training altogether" I thought something had happened which scared you so much that you'd walked away from your goal. That of course (given your experience) would have had to have been something really, really bad. Glad to see it's a temporary setback, and that you're just stepping away from a situation you just didn't trust to be safe. Best wishes to Lester, and I look forward to following your progress when you get back in the saddle.

  • @mrpickle366
    @mrpickle366 Před 3 lety +14

    Keeping life in perspective brother, "he who knows when to walk away lives to fly another day". Stay safe Mover!

  • @MrKing-nn6sb
    @MrKing-nn6sb Před 3 lety +219

    Sorry to hear that, but seems like the right decision.

    • @davidrush4908
      @davidrush4908 Před 3 lety +2

      Agreed. I made the same decision during my PP SEL training. Instructor yawd plane 45 degrees to runway as I was flaring. I called go-around. He screamed at me that I didn't have to do that. Never flew with him again. I did ultimately go back a year or so later. Flew with several really great instructors. Went 141 for my instrument.

    • @SirShoddrick
      @SirShoddrick Před 3 lety

      Use your GI Bill and go to any flight school, with no put off pocket cost. No I’m NOT a recruiter.

    • @SirShoddrick
      @SirShoddrick Před 3 lety

      Use your GI Bill

    • @josephdupont
      @josephdupont Před 3 lety

      Good call

  • @SkipTerrio
    @SkipTerrio Před 3 lety +187

    Very disappointing, but totally understandable. I look forward to more helo stuff in October (I hope). Much love to Lester for a speedy recovery (even if it takes more than a owa, owa an a half).

  • @brazeagle
    @brazeagle Před 3 lety +21

    As an Aviation Safety Officer, and due to number of accident investigation, I must say you have saved the day, great decision making.

  • @jack_k2136
    @jack_k2136 Před 3 lety +60

    As an Army vet I developed my gut instinct quickly and it never failed me. Yours obviously spoke to you. When 'DJ' inevitably ends up on the 6 o'clock news associated with some aviation related tragedy you will be glad you took the break and went with your plan B. You've also been doing this long enough to know when to walk away and not let anger make your decisions for you. Cheers.

  • @maxwellclark6992
    @maxwellclark6992 Před 3 lety +374

    The real reason he canceled helo training so so he doesn’t flex on everyone with his rotary wing skills
    But on a serious note, I am sorry mover, it sucks to have something happen to a friend, but I am glad he is ok

    • @BobbiesHobbies
      @BobbiesHobbies Před 3 lety +3

      You guys are so hard for this man

    • @lucaswoods1155
      @lucaswoods1155 Před 3 lety +1

      Maxwell Clark doesn’t flex on everyone 😂😂😂

    • @lancairw867
      @lancairw867 Před 2 lety

      More like fix wing boy couldn’t handle the rotor 😆

  • @alje311
    @alje311 Před 3 lety +70

    I wish Lester a speedy recovery, it sucks when this happens to such a good person.

  • @MrSteve2714740
    @MrSteve2714740 Před 3 lety +5

    Feel for you buddy, I’m sure you’ve done the right thing, at the end of the day you safety is paramount, as a fellow pilot I respect you honesty and your decision. Hope it all goes well in Texas. Fly and be safe.
    Regards Steve (UK)

  • @rickrickard2788
    @rickrickard2788 Před 3 lety +8

    All sounds like you had your head on straight, and thought out everything well, and proceeded as many of the pilots I met, when I was stationed at Eglin, many years ago.
    Hope you get into a better situation, I hope Lester get's fully healed, and I hope you'll be back on, before long, completing it all.
    From everything you've said? I'd be happy to have you as a pilot, any day of the week. "DJ", um, not so much. I saw some of that crash you showed... no thanks.
    God Speed.

  • @KC_Smooth
    @KC_Smooth Před 3 lety +90

    That helicopter was at the end of its service life. On top of how aggressive DJ may have flown, you made the right decision not to risk it. Sometimes the universe gives us hints to avoid bad situations, and it takes a strong will to listen to your gut and back away instead of forcing a risky situation.

  • @sb859
    @sb859 Před 3 lety +117

    Excellent lessons in: Trusting Your Gut, Risk Management, and Aerial Decision Making (even on the ground) and Finances! Well done Mover. All the best to Lester!

  • @chimparse
    @chimparse Před 3 lety +1

    Sounds like you made the right choices in the situation you faced, get well soon to Lester 👍look forward to the Heli vids when/if you proceed with it.

  • @kevinwells4986
    @kevinwells4986 Před 3 lety +7

    Glad you have a plan, of sorts, to finish your training. I hope you do reach your license. I enjoyed the helicopter videos though. Good luck Mover. I just donated 10 bucks on behalf of my past flight instructor, Carl Hittle who was killed in an experimental helicopter accident. I loved flying with him at Condron Field, WSMR.

  • @mjl1966y
    @mjl1966y Před 3 lety +69

    I once flew with a CFI doing some additional training when I was in the Navy and the minute he reached over and cranked the prop before I finished my pre-flight, we were done. Guy was always in a hurry. I grew up around airplanes and my dad trained me early on to be very disciplined with my checklists. Maybe a small thing - but if you don't feel safe with an instructor, stay on the ground.

  • @TheWabbitSeason
    @TheWabbitSeason Před 3 lety +56

    As someone who almost paid the price from someone else's unsafe flying, I applaud your decision. You are showing good leadership.

  • @stevegreen2432
    @stevegreen2432 Před 2 lety

    Wiser to walk away from an uncertain situation. Sometimes the gut feeling is the right one.
    Well done, and even better to share the story to help others in this situation.

  • @moseskelly2886
    @moseskelly2886 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Mover I'm very happy, thankful, and beyond blessed that Lester & you are doing good and that he's alive & recovering. I'm also thankful that you will eventually get to continue your helicopter training. Remember like you always say "Make Them Tell You No!" The number one rule of thumb.

  • @ryanr.7568
    @ryanr.7568 Před 3 lety +103

    Sounds like a business opportunity in your area to me. Mover helicopter school featuring Lester!! Prays out for Lester.

    • @Ripper13F1V
      @Ripper13F1V Před 3 lety +4

      This. It is most certainly an opportunity if motivated on the business end of things. Now to get a gofundme to get it off the ground, and get SBA and the VA involved.

    • @TheVikingSailor
      @TheVikingSailor Před 3 lety

      It costs a lot of money, but not impossible. It's not just the aircraft. It's insurance, Maintenance, Storage, etc. Not impossible with the right investors.

    • @muzzaball
      @muzzaball Před 3 lety +4

      Wow, now there's an angle I never thought of, I always expected Mover to fly for the Sheriff, but that's a great idea! Still, it may not fit with Mover's grand plan - but I like it!!

    • @georgiapatriot4575
      @georgiapatriot4575 Před 3 lety

      Q: How do you make a small fortune in aviation? A: Start out with a large one.

  • @MX304
    @MX304 Před 3 lety +124

    Great call. A "perfect" helicopter is sketchy. A Robinson with a sketchy owner, and questionable maintenance is deadly.

    • @TechGorilla1987
      @TechGorilla1987 Před 3 lety +4

      One just crashed a couple of miles from my house killing 2. It flew about 200 feet over my house prior to crashing.

    • @MX304
      @MX304 Před 3 lety +9

      @@TechGorilla1987 I have lost far more friends to rotary wing (mostly Robinsons) than any other form of aviation. If I am in a helicopter it is only because I fucked up badly enough to get medevaced out of somewhere.

    • @TechGorilla1987
      @TechGorilla1987 Před 3 lety +2

      @@MX304 It really seems as if Robinsons need a little extra TLC in the shop to be as safe as they can be. I don't fly myself but took a deep dive in to Robinsons when one crashed near me.

    • @tracywilkinson1820
      @tracywilkinson1820 Před 3 lety +4

      @@TechGorilla1987 Robbies are safe if you fly them per the POH. I have 1000 hours in them and never had a single issue that I did not get myself into. They are light and efficient, and they punish inattentiveness quickly to deadly effect. You have to fly them all the time, no coasting or cruising along. Wonderful ships and accessible in the price range, but will kill you in an instant if you fly outside the envelope.

    • @jcijr14
      @jcijr14 Před 3 lety +3

      Can you give an example of how you can get out of the envelope just cruising along? -a curious fixed wing guy

  • @kdmellor
    @kdmellor Před rokem +5

    This is the first time I have ever watched one of your clips. Sounds like a bad situation, but I was incredibly impressed with your impressive handling of the whole thing. The things you didn't say actually spoke volumes about the sort of person you are. Very classy!

  • @dyee1979
    @dyee1979 Před 3 lety +10

    Lester is awesome!!! He’s always got some crazy stories! So glad he’s ok! But so glad you made the right decision on pulling out on that final check ride cause “DJ” doesn’t sound safe at all...

  • @epicrob1694
    @epicrob1694 Před 3 lety +108

    An old Dominican I trained under back in the day had a saying: When you get a F***ed up hand; it is usually best to fold.

  • @chrskelsey74
    @chrskelsey74 Před 3 lety +22

    I am so glad to hear that Lester is recovering. Get well soon, sir! Mover, I'm sorry about the complications that ended up with you not completing the rating at this time, but I thank you so much for sharing your training journey. As a former flight instructor and a current safety puke I really appreciate you punching the brakes and telling us why you did it.

  • @bingosunnoon9341
    @bingosunnoon9341 Před 3 lety +29

    I have all the ratings and spent a ton of money to get them. Worked as a commercial pilot for two years. It was the best minimum wage job I ever had.

    • @kyegunn936
      @kyegunn936 Před 3 lety +3

      Should have stayed with it. 2 years put you in the "Quarter of the way to decent money" category. I'm enjoying my six figures!! Like everything, its all about paying your dues and heavy drinking! LOL!

    • @rotaryairfarer652
      @rotaryairfarer652 Před 3 lety +1

      @@kyegunn936 What do you fly?

    • @unapologetic7900
      @unapologetic7900 Před 2 lety +1

      @@kyegunn936 I'm at 6 figures flying EMS, love the Job. You can do that with Flying Tours or Offshore Oil and Gas. You need to get to about 1500 hours of which about 500 is Turbine to get in the door. As a Civilian trained Commercial Pilot ( which I am) we have to do our time as a CFI to get the hours normally.

  • @VetSemperFi
    @VetSemperFi Před 3 lety +8

    I'd like to suggest a follow-up vlog with Lester about the mishap and stuff. Hope everything works out for both of you!

  • @TheVikingSailor
    @TheVikingSailor Před 3 lety +57

    I've worked in Aviation as Aircrew in the Navy and as an A&P Mechanic after the military. I'm sitting around 18 years of experience. YOU MADE THE RIGHT DECISION!!! I see these guys like "DJ" all the time. I worked for a company that was run by a guy like that and he was involved in some really shady stuff. Eventually the FAA shut the company down because of the stuff he was doing. I'm sorry this happened to you, but keep the faith things have a way of working themselves out. Your life isn't worth it. A lot of guys would have said screw it and gone anyway, but good for you recognizing the risk. Fingers crossed it all works out. Stay safe.

  • @paulybassman7311
    @paulybassman7311 Před 3 lety +39

    Hey Mover,
    You made the right choice, absolutely! You can kick off training again at another time. Best Wishes to Lester.

  • @MGAviationNZAircraftVideos

    Wishing Lester a speedy recovery thanks for sharing this story

  • @wbuttry1
    @wbuttry1 Před 3 lety +6

    I love seeing the aviation community coming together and help a fellow pilot like him. Keep those rotors spinning my brother.

  • @youtuberson4077
    @youtuberson4077 Před 3 lety +41

    Dude 😭 I'm so sorry to hear this, it hurts to hear you sound so disappointed!

  • @5150Swordfish
    @5150Swordfish Před 3 lety +46

    Everybody laughs at the guy that walks away. The truth is typically the guy/gal that walks away can still laugh too.

  • @henerymag
    @henerymag Před 3 lety +4

    A man who takes complete responsibility even though it was not his alone. Respect.

  • @ArrowTrajectory
    @ArrowTrajectory Před 3 lety

    Sorry to hear of your experience, Mover. Sounds much like my R22 training. Sadly small businesses/flight schools sometimes have to conduct business with less-than-stellar personalities, and EVERYONE suffers because of it.
    Looking forward to hear when you finish your training!

  • @blackknightreturns1
    @blackknightreturns1 Před 3 lety +35

    when you restart your training, and in the end the break will make you a better pilot i think, you made a good call, all the best to lester.

  • @JustOneRedSoloCup
    @JustOneRedSoloCup Před 3 lety +37

    C.W. - you don’t need me to make mention of it as I’m sure you’re already aware of this, but your life experience has certainly served you well in this situation. Things happen for a reason, and when they have an influence in critical thinking within the decision-making process, then it’s time to give it 100% attention, especially when _your_ safety and the safety of others is concerned. Intuition is a significant human trait that is undervalued. Take it from an old(er) guy who worked 30-years on the streets of Los Angeles (now retired) - always prioritize your gut feeling.

  • @davidcarroll8735
    @davidcarroll8735 Před 3 lety

    Impressive video, thank you for sharing. I had to walk away from my initial fixed wing training quite some time ago, your video helped me put it in perspective, as did several wise comment contributors. Subscribed.

  • @DanCalloway
    @DanCalloway Před 3 lety

    Good on you. Keep marching forward. I'm a 20-year veteran now retired and I thank you for your service.

  • @antimatr8109
    @antimatr8109 Před 3 lety +7

    I'm glad to hear that Lester is OK and wish him a speedy recovery.
    Sorry to hear how things turned out re: training, but under the circumstances you made the right call. 👍

  • @SupernovaSpence
    @SupernovaSpence Před 3 lety +6

    Sorry to hear about Lester. I wish him a speedy recovery. He is lucky to have a friend like you.

  • @davidchicoine9209
    @davidchicoine9209 Před 3 lety +8

    You remind me of the saying, "There are old pilots, and there are bold pilots, but there are no old, bold pilots." Glad you opted out.

    • @eddyriley2055
      @eddyriley2055 Před 3 lety

      flying is dangerous,always has been,always will be,probably part of the thrill.ive noticed lately,too much"if this goes wrong,is mummy gonna catch me?"which brings me to another saying,"if you cant swing with the big boys,stay out of the trees"god help us if we were in a war.i can imagine many veteran pilots pissed off at these pussy wannabees telling their commanders"i cant do this mission,it looks a bit windy and ive just washed my hair"grow some balls or take up golf ,chicks get kicked out of nests,not lowered.

  • @mihkeltoomet213
    @mihkeltoomet213 Před 2 lety

    You made the right decision, Sir. Safety first. All the best with the heli license in Texas and speedy recovery to your buddy Lester.

  • @etarheel1
    @etarheel1 Před 3 lety +12

    Sorry this happened. Best of luck to you. I hope Lester recovers well.

  • @gwencrawford737
    @gwencrawford737 Před 3 lety +11

    My prayers are with Lester.
    It sounds like you made the right call, Mover. I wouldn't want to be in the air under the circumstances you laid out, knowing how unforgiving a helicopter can be if it's not cared for meticulously, or if it's flown by someone who likes to hang too close to the margins.
    Everything happens for a reason. End of the day, you've made a good friend, and gotten some excellent instruction to build a rotary-wing foundation... and you have now, a strong option to 'upgrade' your rotary-wing plans. In this era of Covid-19, having some extra options available, if commercial airline opportunities contract, can't hurt.
    Stay safe!

  • @evropej
    @evropej Před 3 lety +1

    As a private pilot, I completely agree with your decision! When it comes to flying, safety is first and there are no compromises. When I flew with my best friend, we both did the same pre-flight inspection on the same aircraft we flew together. And I am sorry to hear about all the bad news! I hope you pick it up in the future!

  • @donmcatee45
    @donmcatee45 Před 3 lety +1

    So similar to an experience I had years ago, my flight instructor had an MU-2 mishap, and the remaining instructor was not safe at all...
    Good call on your part.

  • @pilotpeego1820
    @pilotpeego1820 Před 3 lety +18

    Flying helicopters was one of my life's goals, but I would never allow emotions to cloud my judgment. Safety first! You made the right decision. Speedy recovery to Lester.

  • @sorakiu
    @sorakiu Před 3 lety +4

    Hey Mover,
    Really sorry to hear that things turned out this way. I wish Lester a speedy recovery. FWIW, I think you made the right decision.

  • @vettecurley
    @vettecurley Před 3 lety +1

    I'm really sorry to hear things didn't go so well. I've run into people like that and found it best to walk away. Also, people like that don't always end up so good. You did a great thing by walking away. Don't have regrets.

  • @jaimesoto7557
    @jaimesoto7557 Před 3 lety

    To say you're a consummate professional is one hell of an understatement. You have my utmost respect, sir, I use that word sparingly with others younger than myself. I'm old enough to be your Dad and then some. Thank you for all you do.

  • @Veritas1992
    @Veritas1992 Před 3 lety +62

    We call those kind of pilots “statistics” because it’s only a matter of time before they turn themselves (and most of the time) and their passengers into a smoking hole.

  • @davidhbedenham4951
    @davidhbedenham4951 Před 3 lety +4

    So sad Mover, because Lester is a great guy and we all enjoyed your interaction with him during your instruction. We all hope that Lester gets well soon and gets back to flying once more. All the best from Cyprus. Cheers

  • @johns7483
    @johns7483 Před 2 lety

    You are still here to share your experiences and story.
    It is better to live and be able to do that rather than taking a chance over what your senses tell you and not be able to share the importance of proper decision making.
    My own experience in a fixed wing qualifying ride stopped me from completing also, but for good. It was an inclined terrain versus ROC situation that left greens in the gear which stopped me, and after having a good look at my capabilities and wisdom, which included age and responsibilities (high stress factors).
    I forfitted my final ride to qualify for my license. I miss the enjoyment, but at least I'm able to miss it, and can now look back and dream again.
    Thank you for being this forthcoming with your awareness and wisdom, it will no doubt teach a few others from making decisions that could possibly end in tragedy.
    Regards.

  • @jeffgross866
    @jeffgross866 Před 3 lety +1

    Well done, sir. I'm not a pilot, but I've flown with other students and taken student flights myself. 1st instruction I ever received was that if your gut tells you to stay on the ground; stay on the ground.

  • @lw4dbe
    @lw4dbe Před 3 lety +21

    I've been in charge of a flight school some years ago, and I've known some serial rules-violators. That kind of people use to be absolutely selfish and agressive wiht their flying. The best decision any pilot can make is staying as far as possible from that kind of pilots, as they also use to be very toxic people. Great decision, hope you can complete your training somewhere else, where you find a safe environment again. Good flights!

  • @billdewahl7007
    @billdewahl7007 Před 3 lety +10

    Sounds like you made the right move Mover. God speed to Lester and even if we don't get any more helo vlogs we're still looking forward to hearing about it. Hope everything turns out good with this school in Tx.
    P.s. More DCS helo content!

  • @georgeroberts442
    @georgeroberts442 Před rokem +1

    One of the most important lessons in life is learning to listen to your gut. You did the right thing.😊

  • @JBM425
    @JBM425 Před 3 lety +17

    Perhaps this is for the best, a "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade" situation. It may require more hours and time away from home, but at least the GI Bill will help, and you may be better off in the long run with the additional training.

  • @harrisonc9095
    @harrisonc9095 Před 3 lety +6

    This is the right call Mover, we'll always be behind you.

  • @Moloko_b
    @Moloko_b Před 3 lety +15

    I’d rather it be one of these vids than the one no one wants to see. And hope Lester heals up quick ❤️🙏🏻👍🏻 Take it easy

  • @Merlin012001
    @Merlin012001 Před 3 lety

    Smart call, and be safe! always enjoy the content when i catch it!

  • @Parkinwad
    @Parkinwad Před 3 lety

    Made the right call by the sounds of it, at least for the current situation! Good luck on the continuation of it! Enjoy your vids!

  • @JW0885
    @JW0885 Před 3 lety +74

    That’s too bad man, but sounds like this “DJ” character is a bit of a loose canon and you don’t want to put yourself or anyone else in danger and especially with you being a paying customer of the program I mean, just sounds like it sucks. Hope Lester makes a full recovery, keep making these vids, you inspire a lot of people to realize that we all have potential to do whatever we want to do and as a man of your stature who wears many hats so to speak, I mean it’s really awesome. Hope all is well, and hope you get to finish the program.

  • @pchappy2.0
    @pchappy2.0 Před 3 lety +6

    First, best wishes to Lester for a speedy recovery. Second, you are practicing what you preach and people should take note of that. When I heard you say "So what's next" it made my day, you're not letting them keep you down, or tell you no. I think you made a good call, your gut never lies! Good luck going forward!

  • @davidnoel2977
    @davidnoel2977 Před 3 lety +2

    It's always best to trust your instincts. good luck with your journey. And thanks again for your service.🇺🇸

  • @richardcrossley5581
    @richardcrossley5581 Před 3 lety

    Sorry to hear this, right decision by the sound of it.
    Best wishes to Lester hope he gets well sound.

  • @SuzuranMajere
    @SuzuranMajere Před 3 lety +136

    DJ sounds like the kind of guy we'll be hearing about again in a NTSB report.

  • @Pavewy
    @Pavewy Před 3 lety +26

    The law enforcement officer in me thinks that you made the absolute best decision here. You know the drill Mover, you get to a business with an unsecured door at 3am, and just before you go in to clear the place, the hair on the back of your neck stands up and your intuition tells you to call for backup first.
    Correct decision. hands down. Trust your gut.

  • @pmh1nic
    @pmh1nic Před 2 lety

    Wow, sorry to hear about the issues but safety comes first. Glad to hear you found another option. Not ideal but you have a plan to get you where you want to go. Best to you in the days ahead.

  • @ohboy2118
    @ohboy2118 Před 3 lety +2

    When your gut is telling you "no" it is best to listen. Good call. Live to fly another day!

  • @ColinDyckes
    @ColinDyckes Před 3 lety +16

    You made the right decision Mover. You have to feel comfortable with both the machine and the instructor.
    I had a real argument with an older instructor on a day when my regular instructor wasn't available. This was 31 hours into a Fixed Wing PPL and I knew I was ready to take my GFT (= final flight test 'exam'. Minimum 38 hours to actually get a license at that time).
    Emailed the flight school asking if it was viable to continue there. Was asked to go and talk to the CFI which went so-so but he agreed to take me up for a flight.
    That flight turned out to be the GFT which I passed so then had to troll around local standard cross-country flights before license at 38 hours.
    So, it turned out well, but I changed airfield before checking out on the 172.
    You HAVE to have total confidence in your machinery and instructors or it just can't work.
    Good luck in October. With your experience you will smash it!

  • @bjohnp6241
    @bjohnp6241 Před 3 lety +4

    Oh wow! I was looking forward to doing my CPL with Lester in Spring 2021. Best wishes for a speedy recovery for Lester and Best of luck on training in Texas.

  • @MarkDavidBlack
    @MarkDavidBlack Před 3 lety

    Good call. When it comes to aviation and safety it all goes hand in hand. Stay away from any kind of sketchy situation. Great video.

  • @SidebandSamurai
    @SidebandSamurai Před 3 lety

    That was a good call. I am glad to hear you took that action. Good luck to you when you start up in Texas!

  • @Ropya
    @Ropya Před 3 lety +15

    Heli mech here.
    Lost count of the hours spent turning wrenches on Robis.
    Love the frame, but like a horse, they hide their hurts real well. Trust your gut if someone is mistreating the ship.
    That said, the way you describe DJ, wouldnt surprise me if he's disconnecting the counter before flying.
    Don't give up on it in whole, flying in a Heli is so much better than a wing. At least in my opinion.
    Good luck. Fly safe. Hope Lester keeps getting better.

  • @V1Speed360
    @V1Speed360 Před 3 lety +3

    Dude, SOOOO much respect for you brother. I am also an Air Force vet. I am the same way and its sooo difficult to hang up the towel when youre almost there. A lot of people would have pressed through but the fact you let your instincts lead you instead of impulse. Good on you brother.

  • @FormulaZR
    @FormulaZR Před 2 lety +1

    I know a guy like "DJ". He recently wadded up his R-44 into a big smoking collection of parts, he and his friend were killed. You made the right decision.

  • @ibtm
    @ibtm Před 2 lety +1

    As a 2000 hour fixed wing pilot with 40 hours of a Hughes 500 and 10 Robby 44 hours---I totally get what you are doing---AND HAVE THE UTMOST RESPECT AND TOTAL UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR DECISION. I too made the same decision because I knew how complex these machines are and I knew I could not dedicate the time and money to stay as current and fresh as you HAVE TO BE to fly these things safely!!!!!!!! Congratulations!!! Smart Guy!!!!! Total respect for you!!

  • @ScottHirons
    @ScottHirons Před 3 lety +4

    Damnit, your training was getting me through the summer. I was looking forward to you going through the check ride and seeing what was going to be on the other side for you with helicopters. I hope the school in Texas works out for you and we get some more helicopter videos.
    Prayers up for Lester. I wasn't a fan of his in the early videos that featured him. Seemed like a curmudgeon, but as we got to know him, his personality grew on me. Loved the last few that featured him, most of all the t-shirt and his reaction.

  • @MichaelSmith-il3wm
    @MichaelSmith-il3wm Před 3 lety +16

    Smart move my friend. When it feels wrong it usually is. Didn't realize how invested I was in this blog series until you said Lester had been injured and I was immediately concerned. Thanks for the honesty and insights into this adventure. Best luck moving forward.

  • @suttonmatthew
    @suttonmatthew Před 3 lety

    Great that you followed your instincts. That military intuition is invaluable.

  • @SkyBaum
    @SkyBaum Před 3 lety

    Don't give up CW. Been chasing this for four years. It's a hustle, but it's definitely worth it!

  • @ericlawrence9729
    @ericlawrence9729 Před 3 lety +5

    Great judgement Mover, as someone who has been involved with GA flying for years good call on using your instinct to avoid possible catastrophe. I have walked away from multiple situations in GA that unfortunately led to fatalities long after I parted ways. Unfortunately there is a lot of cowboy attitudes and risky behavior in GA. I hope your buddy gets well soon, it’s hard to find good CFIs. Best of luck and stay safe, love the channel.

  • @macfan999
    @macfan999 Před 3 lety +4

    Great debrief, based on the factual information I think you absolutely made the right decision. Prayers to Lester and good luck with your heli training.

  • @robertbenzon6941
    @robertbenzon6941 Před 10 měsíci +1

    Yup. As a former USAF pilot/wing flying safety officer and later as an aviation accident investigator with the NTSB for the next 27 years, I agree with your worries. Much familiarity with the limitations of the R-22 should be a requirement. I completely understand your caution.

  • @Spec62
    @Spec62 Před 3 lety

    Great overview. Thanks for the insight and perspective.