jump pilot

[MC208B 0]

Hi all. I recently checked out as a jump pilot at the good old local dropzone flying 182's. Anybody have any good advice for me? Noticed at higher altitudes, actually, any altitude, after linging up on the runway, can't see the zone! I do use landmarks on the horizon to stay on that heading but as for as below, what's the best method? Also, have any of you had trouble with the feds as to Private vs. Commercial licenses? Thanks, Mike

[wingnut 0]

well, i'm not a jump pilot but......you can always use the jumpers in the plane as extra eyes. they should be telling you where to go anyways so they don't rely on you for the spot. they can see a whole lot better through the open door, then after some experiance you should beable to do it without thier help, or minimal if that.
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Edited by wingnut on 3/31/01 11:42 PM.

[miked10270 0]

Hi Mike,
When you're the pilot think "Chauffer"... Trust the JM. He's the one with his head out of the door & looking straight down, so he says which way to go & when the passengers get out.
Mike D10270.

[miked10270 0]

Oh, BTW, check out
http://www.skydivemag.com/aug99/spotting.htm
Hope this helps... Getting the guys out in the right place is teamworkMike D10270.

[Aviatrr 0]

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Also, have any of you had trouble with the feds as to Private vs. Commercial licenses?

I hope I am reading this incorrectly, but are you stating that you are flying a jump plane on a Private ticket? If so, you are illegal.. Don't do it.. A Commercial ticket or higher is required to fly "for compensation or hire".. Even if you are not being paid, you are flying for compensation(flight time) in the FAA's eyes.. If a fed drops by, and finds out, you will be violated for it..
Mike

[Patkat 0]

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Even if you are not being paid, you are flying for compensation(flight time) in the FAA's eyes

an excellent point, Av. I believe the FAA's viewpoint is that even if they (the jumpers) are not paying you, they are paying for the ride, and carrying them requires a commercial rating. At my DZ, we require a commercial rating plus 50 (I think) hours in type (Cessna 182). Otherwise, no flying jumpers.
Why? We don't want pilots to have their ratings yanked, and we want pilots who are comfortable and capable in our planes. It ain't exactly normal flight procedures, mushing along just above stall speed with four guys hanging off one strut, then letting go.