Please click (above) on the lesson type you are interested to find detailed FAQ's and recommended reading. If your question has not been answered please email us at Aerodragger@gmail.com We will promptly answer your questions and add them to our FAQ section for future aviators!

Aero Dragger Ltd. was founded with the mission of educating and training aviators of all skill levels. Our core focus is to foster a culture of safety and reignite the passion that drives individuals to pursue flying. We offer comprehensive training in tailwheel, spin, upset, and aerobatics to the Central Pennsylvania region. Our commitment lies in ensuring that the training process is educational, enjoyable, and convenient for our fellow aviators.

To prepare for training with Aero Dragger, follow these steps: 1. Review FAQs: Visit Aero Dragger's website and review this FAQ section, focusing on the specific training you're interested in completing. 2. Schedule Your Flight: Use the provided links on Aero Dragger's "Home Page" to schedule your flight. Provide any special requests or training goals via the schedule form to help tailor your experience. 3. Prepare for Your Flight: Before your scheduled flight, ensure you're ready by reviewing any pre-flight materials recommended by Aero Dragger. Familiarize yourself with the training objectives to maximize your learning. 4. Arrive at the Designated Location: On the day of your flight, arrive at the location provided by Aero Dragger at the designated time. Be sure to bring your logbook! 5. Meet Your Instructor: Upon arrival, you'll meet your instructor who will provide pre-flight briefings and instructions. They'll guide you through the training session, ensuring your safety and progress. 6. Enjoy Expanding Your Skill Set: Take advantage of the training session to expand your skill set and contribute to making the aviation community safer. Enjoy the experience of learning and improving your abilities under the guidance of Aero Dragger's experienced instructors. By following these steps, you can effectively prepare for and enjoy your training experience with Aero Dragger, contributing to your aviation proficiency and safety.

We are located at: Reigle Airport (58N) 1805 S Forge Rd Palmyra, PA 17078 We are conveniently located in Central Pennsylvania: Hershey, PA - about 10 minutes Harrisburg, PA - about 25 minutes Lancaster, PA - about 40 minutes York, PA - about 50 minutes Reading, PA - about 1 hour Baltimore, MD - about 1 hour 30 minutes Philadelphia, PA - about 1 hour 45 minutes Washington, D.C. - about 2 hours 30 minutes New York City, NY - about 3 hours Pittsburgh, PA - about 3 hours 30 minutes Additionally, we have numerous accommodations available around the Hershey area for those visiting.

Yes! All of the training provided at Aero Dragger Ltd. is focused on improving pilots proficiency and safety. Our flight training utilizes the FAA WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program allowing us to seamlessly complete the requirements of FAR 61.56. Please let us know that you plan to complete a Flight Review during your training before you arrive. Your Flight Review will be complete a "Phase" of the WINGS Program. Please complete the knowledge activities you choose before arriving to fly. Attached below is a few of our recommended activities.

Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Section 61.31(i) specifies the required maneuvers and procedures for aviators seeking endorsement to fly tailwheel aircraft. It mandates that flight training must cover: Normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings; Wheel landings (unless advised against by the manufacturer); and Go-around procedures. This regulation underscores the competencies aviators must achieve to be proficient in operating tailwheel aircraft. At our Aero Dragger, we guide students through a meticulously designed syllabus using proven techniques. Our aim is to facilitate a smooth and safe transition to tailwheel aircraft, ensuring the process is not only efficient but also thoroughly enjoyable.

Aero Dragger, our flight school, emphasizes proficiency-based training for tailwheel endorsements. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) doesn't specify a minimum flight hour requirement for this endorsement. Instead, we focus on achieving proficiency in maneuvers outlined in FAR Section 61.31(i), prioritizing safety. Typically, most students who regularly fly tricycle gear aircraft require approximately 5 to 8 hours of flight time to attain the necessary skills. However, individual progress may vary based on factors such as prior experience, aptitude, and consistency of training.

Citabria Training Rates and Lesson Structure (As of 1 July 2024) Hourly Rate: The hourly rate for Citabria training is $250. The Citabria training rate covers the aircraft, fuel, and flight instruction. Ground Instruction: Ground instruction is at a rate of $75 per hour. Lesson Structure: Tailwheel lessons are typically booked for a two-hour block. This block includes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours of flying time and 0.5 to 1.0 hours of ground instruction. This structure allows for a comprehensive learning experience that combines practical flying skills with essential ground knowledge. Payment Methods: Aero Dragger accepts cash, check, and credit/debit card payments for training. Please note: Appropriate taxes & 2% service fee for credit/debit card transactions are not included in pricing.

Regrettably, due to insurance constraints, we are unable to offer solo aircraft rental services at this time.

Before each flight, Aero Dragger ensures a comprehensive preflight briefing, covering the necessary ground knowledge and reviewing the profile for the day's flight. To optimize your preparation, we recommend reviewing the following prior to your arrival:

CFI spin training, designed for Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs), involves comprehensive instruction in spin recognition, prevention, and recovery techniques. Here's an overview of what CFI spin training typically includes: Ground Instruction: CFI spin training begins with thorough ground instruction covering the aerodynamics of spins, factors contributing to spins, spin entry and recovery procedures, spin prevention techniques, and the limitations of the aircraft. Regulatory Knowledge: CFIs learn about the relevant regulations, guidelines, and limitations associated with spin training, including Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) and Advisory Circulars (ACs) related to spin training and instruction. Aerodynamic Principles: CFIs delve into the aerodynamic principles underlying spins, including the critical factors affecting aircraft stability and control during spin entry, rotation, and recovery phases. Spin Entry Techniques: CFIs are trained to recognize and understand the various scenarios that can lead to spin entry, including stalls in different flight configurations and the effects of adverse yaw, uncoordinated flight, and asymmetric thrust. Spin Recovery Procedures: CFIs practice spin recovery techniques, emphasizing prompt and correct actions to arrest the spin and regain control of the aircraft. This includes proper use of flight controls, reducing angle of attack, coordinated rudder inputs, and appropriate power settings. In-Flight Training: CFIs receive hands-on in-flight training with a qualified instructor to experience and practice spin entries, recoveries, and spin avoidance techniques in a controlled environment. Teaching Techniques: CFIs learn effective teaching methods and strategies for instructing spin awareness, recognition, and recovery to their students. This includes developing instructional materials, conducting ground briefings, and providing in-flight guidance and feedback. Safety Considerations: CFIs gain insights into the safety considerations and risk management principles associated with spin training, including the importance of proper aircraft maintenance, suitable weather conditions, and pilot proficiency. Regulatory Endorsements: Upon successful completion of CFI spin training, CFIs may receive endorsements or qualifications to provide spin training and instruction to student pilots, as permitted by regulatory authorities. Overall, CFI spin training equips instructors with the knowledge, skills, and instructional techniques necessary to effectively teach spin awareness, recognition, and recovery to student pilots, fostering a culture of safety and proficiency in aviation.

At Aero Dragger, we pride ourselves on making spin training accessible to all pilots, regardless of their intention to become Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs). This specialized training equips aviators with essential skills and knowledge to recognize, prevent, and recover from spins, thereby contributing to enhanced flight safety and proficiency. Our CFI spin training program is designed to accommodate aviators of various experience levels and backgrounds. Whether you're a recreational pilot looking to expand your knowledge or a professional aviator seeking to refine your skills, our training program offers comprehensive instruction in spin recognition, prevention, and recovery techniques. Led by experienced instructors, our CFI spin training covers ground instruction, in-flight practice, and hands-on coaching tailored to individual learning needs. Through engaging and interactive sessions, pilots learn about the aerodynamics of spins, regulatory requirements, spin entry, and recovery procedures.

CFI Spin Training Rates and Policies (Current as of 1 July 2024) Flat Rate: CFI spin training at Aero Dragger is offered at a flat rate of $600. Comprehensive Instruction: This flat rate includes comprehensive instruction in spin recognition, prevention, and recovery techniques, along with ground instruction and in-flight practice tailored to individual needs. Training duration: Most CFI spin endorsements are completed in half of a day (approximately 3.0 hours). Makeup Fee: In cases where all training cannot be completed during the initial lesson, a $250 makeup fee applies. The makeup fee covers scenarios such as airsickness, although extreme care is taken to prevent such occurrences during training sessions. Payment Methods: Aero Dragger accepts cash, check, and credit/debit card payments for training. Please note: Appropriate taxes & 2% service fee for credit/debit card transactions are not included in pricing.

The CFI spin endorsement outlined in FAR 61.183(i)(1) does not expire. Once a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) receives the spin endorsement, it remains valid indefinitely. However, it's essential for CFIs to maintain their currency and proficiency in spin training techniques to effectively instruct their students and ensure flight safety.

Before each flight, Aero Dragger ensures a comprehensive preflight briefing, covering the necessary ground knowledge and reviewing the profile for the day's flight. To optimize your preparation, we recommend reviewing the following prior to your arrival: