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Initial Pilot Checkout Guide available online

By Janice Wood · January 7, 2010 ·

bonanzaThe first American Bonanza Society/Beechcraft Pilot Proficiency Program Initial Pilot Checkout is now available free online at the American Bonanza Society website.

The training outline is especially worthwhile for new owners and pilots of Bonanza and Debonair aircraft who are unable to schedule training with a Beech-knowledgeable instructor, according to association officials.

“Historically, 20% of all Beech mishaps occur in the first year of ownership,” said Thomas Turner, ABS manager of technical services.

“As the representative type club for Beech piston aircraft, ABS works to make flying these great planes safe and enjoyable. To that end we encourage participating in the Beechcraft Pilot Proficiency Program, which is affiliated with ABS. But for when that is not an option, this guide helps new Beech owners and pilots, and their local flight instructors.”

The ABS/BPPP Guide addresses the most vital topics and operations during the critical initial checkout. Users of the guide and their flight instructors may also take advantage of a free trial membership in the American Bonanza Society, officials note.

The first guide addresses Beech Bonanzas and Debonairs originally equipped with Teledyne Continental Motors IO-520 and IO-550 engines: models S35, V35, V35A, V35B, 35-C33A, E33A, E33C, F33A, F33C, 36, A36 and G36. Guides for other Beech variants are in development.

From Bonanza.org, use the Education and Training pull-down menu and click on “Guide to Initial Checkout.” The resulting page provides links to the guide, as well as 15 appendices, supporting documents and other links for more educational content and information.

The Wichita-based American Bonanza Society represents 9,700 owners and operators of Beech Bonanzas, Barons, Travel Airs and Debonairs around the world.

About Janice Wood

Janice Wood is editor of General Aviation News.

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