BUT, before you take off for loops, spins and barrel rolls, there are some things you need to know so you’re prepared for your first aerobatic flight.

What to expect during your aerobatics flight

Your pilot will take you through a number of rollercoaster-type manoeuvres, and you will  be able to enjoy the sensation of free-falling.  Not only that, you’ll witness breathtaking views as you soar through the skies of Western Sydney at high speeds. The experience is so exhilarating, many of our customers return time and again.

As with any activity where your body is moving at speed in numerous directions and altitudes, you may feel disoriented or dizzy during or after your flight, and your stomach may feel like it’s done a few flips.  You may also find that you’ll warm up and even break a sweat.  This is quite normal, and for most, these sensations do not overshadow the sheer joy, excitement and FUN.  Once you’ve done a few aerobatics flights, these feelings tend to minimise.

At Curtis Aviation, you’re in the hands of highly-experienced aerobatic pilots (among the best in the industry).  We start with gentle aerobatics first and then progress to the more advanced manoeuvres. Should you feel unwell or unsafe, just let your pilot know and he will adjust accordingly.

What to wear for your aerobatic flight

Make sure you wear loose, comfortable clothing (it’s a bit like a workout!).  And you will need to be CLIMBING in and out of a small aircraft.   For your safety, flat closed in shoes are recommended (no sandals, high heels or thongs).  Runners are ideal!

What to bring for your aerobatic flight

It’s pretty simple……nothing is required!  You will be provided with a flight suit if required as well as headphones and head protection if required.

You are welcome to bring family or friends with you to watch from the ground if you wish, but much of your flight may be out of sight of the airfield. (bring binoculars)

Loose items in the cockpit can be hazardous, so we do ask that you do not bring any loose items with you (including what’s in your pockets).

Cameras are permitted, but they need to be secured before aerobatics begin.  (Check with your pilot prior to the flight).

We do offer an option to use our GoPro to record your aerobatic flight experience.

Physical fitness for an aerobatic flight

• You do need to be reasonably fit as there is climbing involved and the nature of aerobatics means you should consider taking some preventative steps if you’re prone to airsickness. (Your local pharmacist can suggest some suitable treatments.)
• It should go without saying, but you are also expected to have a ZERO alcohol limit and not affected by any medication or other substances. We also suggest you do not fly if you are unwell or have a hangover.
• We find people tend to feel better with something in their stomach rather than an empty one, so just eat normally prior to the flight. However, AVOID energy and fizzy drinks.

Safety measures for aerobatic flights

At Curtis Aviation, all our aerobatic aircraft are well-maintained, and your pilot is an aerobatics expert and will be conducting safety checks prior to taking off.  (In fact, we’re not just expert aerobatics pilots, we teach other pilots to fly aerobatics too!)

With any type of flying, there are risks.  To minimise these, you will be required to take part in a safety briefing prior to your flight so please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.  (We’re located at Camden Airport, South-West Sydney).

Types of aerobatic flights

We have two popular aerobatics flying experiences:

• Ultimate Aerobatics in a Pitts Special
• Ultra Aerobatics in a Super Decathlon

Both aircraft are considered aerobatics royalty, and super fun.

Visit our Flying Experiences Shop for more unique flight options (including our vintage Warbird Experience for a nostalgic, open cockpit experience featuring upside down flying, IF you desire!).

Relax and enjoy the ride

Most importantly, to make the most of this extraordinary flying experience, remember to relax, enjoy all the sensations, and remember all the amazing stories you’re going to be able to share after your flight!

We do need to caution you, though….

WARNING! Acrobatic flying is addictive. Once you start, you may never want to stop!

Ready to see the world from a whole new perspective?

Book Your Sydney Aerobatic Flight Now or Call 02 4655 6789 (Intl + 61 2 4655 6789).

When you arrive at the flying school, you’ll get to meet your instructor, who will guide you through some paperwork so we suggest you arrive 15min early to get a head start. It’s all necessary documentation as part of ensuring your safety and compliance with aviation regulations.  If you’re learning to fly with us at Curtis Aviation (Camden Airport, South-West Sydney), you can rest assured we’ll be doing our utmost to make easy for you.

Once the paperwork is out of the way, your instructor will provide you with a pre-flight briefing and introduce you to the aircraft you’ll be flying.  They’ll give you a rundown of the cockpit layout, including the controls, instruments, and safety features. Take this opportunity to ask questions and familiarise yourself with the plane – it’s your first step towards becoming a pilot.  At Curtis Aviation, our ACA Citabria is one of the most popular aircraft types to learn in.

Before takeoff, your instructor will handle the pre-flight checks and taxiing. As you prepare for departure, they’ll explain the basics of flying, such as

• how the aircraft controls work and
• what to expect during the lesson.

Pay close attention – this knowledge will come in handy once you’re in the air.

Once airborne, you’ll experience the thrill of flight first hand. Your instructor will guide you through various manoeuvres, from climbing and descending to making turns and maintaining straight and level flight. They’ll provide guidance and feedback as you practice these skills, helping you gain confidence with each passing minute.

Throughout the lesson, don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification if something isn’t clear. Flying can be complex, especially for beginners, but your instructor is there to help you every step of the way.

As your lesson comes to an end, your instructor will talk you through the landing procedure. Landing can be one of the more challenging aspects of flying, so they will take over the controls. Focus on observing and learning – you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice landings in future lessons.

Finally, as you taxi back to the hangar and shut down the engine, take a moment to reflect on your experience. You’ve just completed your first flying lesson, and the journey ahead is full of possibilities.  Your instructor will also conduct a debrief after the flight to run through important learnings and answer questions.

Whether you’re pursuing a career in aviation or simply exploring a new hobby, you’re off to a fantastic start.

So, embrace the adventure, keep learning, and most importantly, enjoy the freedom of flight. Your journey as a pilot has just begun, and the skies await your exploration. Safe travels, and may your future flights be filled with clear skies and smooth landings.

And, above all, have fun.

At Curtis Aviation we have been teaching private adventurers and future commercial pilots to fly for over 25 years.  To find out more about your first lesson or how we can help you achieve your flying goals, no matter how big or small!, call our friendly team today.

We look forward to flying with you!

Check out our article How to Get a Private Pilot Licence or our on-demand webinar replay Get Your Private Pilot Licence for helpful information and insights about getting a pilot licence, including minimum requirements.

Today we’re stepping you through what you need to do to be a career pilot in Australia (flying aeroplanes) and introduce you to a myriad of career flying possibilities you may have never considered.

First things first!

What is a professional pilot?  What is the difference between a commercial pilot and an airline pilot?

A professional pilot is anyone who gets paid for flying.  And contrary to popular belief, it’s not all glamour.  But just about any career pilot will tell you that, although it can be at times an unpredictable and challenging career (with ups and downs!), being a pilot for many becomes part of their DNA.

As the saying goes…. if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life. That is the case for many professional pilots.

In order to work as a professional pilot, you need a Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) with the appropriate level of experience, ratings and endorsements for the type of flying you’re doing and type of aircraft you’re flying.  There are several different pathways to attain a commercial pilot licence, including those offered at Curtis Aviation.

As a commercial pilot, you can be in command of an aircraft in both private and commercial operations, except air transport/multi-crew operations like airlines.  As a commercial pilot you can however co-pilot in any operation.

In the case of multi-crew operations an Air Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) is required.  (Attaining this licence is not easy, but don’t be alarmed.  If you’re hoping to be an airline pilot trainee, you’re not expected to have this licence. Airlines all have different requirements and take on trainees at different points of pilot/aviation degree training.  More about this another time.)

Flying for the Australian Defence Force (ADF) is different again, however we often see ex-military pilots transition across to work in the civil aviation field.

Specific details about the various pilot licences can be found on the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) website.  Refer to aviation industry employer websites for their requirements and recruitment processes.

Types of Commercial Pilot careers

 The possibilities for a commercial pilot are endless.  Options include adventure and executive charters (such as those in our stunning King Air C90GTi), or flying to remote locations and using dirt or grass landing strips for agriculture and mining industries.

Commercial pilots may also fly to help with medical emergencies (like the Royal Flying Doctor Service), carry out deliveries, transport people and provide tourist flights (unscheduled), be involved in surveillance and search and rescue missions, firefighting and aerobatic demonstrations and joy flights, to name but a few.

A quick look online will show you the immense variety of flying roles available, and the type of companies and organisations needing professional pilots.

Many commercial pilots will continue their training to become professional flying instructors where there is no end of variety, challenge, and satisfaction (…and, dare we say it, real flying and fun!).  As both a flying school and charter operator, you’ll often find Curtis Aviation flying instructors (who are also commercial pilots) teaching one day, and off on a charter the next, including our around Australia flying expeditions for students.  In fact, we are often on the lookout for professional instructors to join our team or those ready to undertake an instructor rating (instructor training).

Once qualified as a commercial pilot, you may need to take on flying roles as your first steps to building up the experience and flying hours needed to further your career. These can often set you on a new, surprising and rewarding trajectory you could of never imagined.  (It happens more than you may realise!)

Many commercial pilots go on to successfully start their own aviation business.

How to train as a commercial pilot

At Curtis Aviation, for instance, we have THREE commercial pilot training pathways:

• Commercial Pilot Licence Non-Integrated Course (200 hour)
  This is the perfect option if you are looking for flexible training where you fly when it suits you.
• Commercial Pilot Licence Integrated Course (150 hour)
  If you’d like to fast-track training and save on flying hours, this is for you.
• Aviation Degree
  If you are wanting to take a university path, we partner with CQUniversity so you can complete your studies online and do your flying training locally with us at Camden Airport, Sydney.

Before you undertake any commercial pilot training, it’s important you chat with a reputable flying school before you go too far down the track so you’re clear about what you’re in for, and other important considerations. These include budget, is the chosen pathway suitable for your employment ambitions, and making sure you meet the medical requirements for the highest level of licence you’re aiming for.  This is especially CRITICAL if you have your sights on joining an airline.

You may also need to factor in additional ratings and aircraft endorsements you’re going to need to increase your employment options, such as instrument ratings and twin-engine aircraft endorsements.  Think of it a bit like training to be a doctor.  Once initially qualified you move onto specialist training.  Curtis Aviation is a ‘one school, many skills’ trainer where you can do your commercial pilot training plus attain other qualifications.

Some employers do want their commercial pilots to have an aviation degree, such as the CQUniversity program we partner with.
For those not in a position to take on the full commitment of commercial pilot training straight away, they may start with private pilot training and progress from there when the time is right.

Regardless of which professional pilot path you choose, we cannot stress enough the importance of carefully looking at employer websites (especially the airlines) for recruitment requirements, processes and your prospects, and chatting with industry experts, like the commercial pilot instructors at Curtis Aviation.

Our on-demand information webinar, Getting a Commercial Pilot Licence and Exploring a Career as a Pilot, will also help.

>> WATCH IT NOW.

What does a commercial pilot do?

As a commercial pilot, there’s never a dull moment and you exercise a wide range of skills and take on many responsibilities.  These include:
Make flight plans and establish flight times

• Review and analyse weather, and assess other possible influences on air travel

• Plan your flight in conjunction with air traffic control
• Make sure that the aircraft’s equipment, such as the engines, fuel levels, and hydraulics are operating correctly prior to take-off

• Check all systems on the aircraft during flight

• Communicate with passengers prior to take-off and landing, ensure their safety and comfort, and keep them informed of changes in flight status and conditions

• Follow safety rules and operating procedures, including applicable laws and aviation regulations

• Maintain accurate records of flights (such as passenger information), trip documents and engine maintenance

• Report any incidents through proper channels
• Maintain professional qualifications (renewals, endorsements and checks), and ongoing learning
• And sometimes have to roll up your sleeves (such as when needing to load luggage).

What skills does a commercial pilot need to have?

As a commercial pilot, you need to have a deep understanding of aircraft operations and equipment (including aerodynamics), have the ability to problem solve and do mathematical calculations quickly.  You also need excellent English language skills (reading, writing, speaking and comprehension).

Soft skills are also important, such as
The ability to remain calm and composed when dealing with high-pressure situations

• Be effective at decision-making, particularly in times of stress
• Communicate well with air traffic control, other aircraft and your passengers
• Possess leadership and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrate strong attention to detail

• Be professional and courteous, and
• Have excellent situational awareness.

Many employers, such as airlines, may also put you through cognitive, coordination and psychological/behavioural assessments.

Is there a minimum education requirement to be a commercial pilot?

The great news is, there is NO MINIMUM EDUCATION requirement to train as a commercial pilot licence.  As detailed above, you do need English proficiency, be able to undertake examinations, and be aware that without a minimum level of high school maths to at least year 10 level (and many would say also physics), some areas of learning could be a stretch.

Although it would be fair to say that the majority of employers are going to expect successful completion of high school or an aviation degree, there are ways you can achieve your dream of being a professional pilot without those academic qualifications.  (Believe it or not, there are employers that recognise and value your character and dedication over the certificates!)

Where to from here?

 At Curtis Aviation, we live and breathe flying and have come to realise that if you have the passion for flying and are prepared to persist, being a professional pilot could be a realistic possibility.

Start by speaking with a qualified instructor or other industry expert so you’re clear about your options and the path/s that will help you reach your flying career goals.  When it comes to training, choose pilot training experts that are committed to providing you personalised support and have the training resources and expertise you need.

Here’s to your career as a professional pilot!  To chat with one of our commercial pilot trainers and find out what your training options are, get in touch today.

What makes the CSIP approval so special?

Cirrus Standardised Instructor Pilots (CSIPs) are flight training professionals that are Cirrus factory-trained experts who ensure you receive the same Cirrus factory-level experience and service.

It is an exclusive group, and today (at time of publishing) there are only FOUR qualified Cirrus Standardised Instructor Pilots (CSIPs) in Greater Sydney – and TWO (2) of them are RIGHT HERE at Curtis Aviation (Camden Airport)!  They are David White and Rob Marshall who are qualified Cirrus Standardised Instructor Pilots (CSIP), approved by Cirrus in Knoxville, Tennessee.

In fact, for an instructor to become a CSIP they need to be a leader in their field before even getting started.

What Cirrus training is offered at Curtis Aviation (Camden Airport, Sydney)

 The Cirrus is a high-performance aircraft with unique characteristics so requires a special rating to fly it.  Curtis Aviation offers introductory to advanced transition programs on the Cirrus SR-20 and SR-22 to help you develop the skills and confidence to master the Cirrus aircraft.

About the Cirrus SR-20 and SR-22

Both aircraft are easily manageable for new pilots and perfectly suitable for business use.  With the power to spare, the latest Garmin avionics and luxury features, the Cirrus aircraft seat up to four people and are AN–ABSOLUTE—JOY—TO—FLY …. when you have been trained by the right expert!

The Cirrus SR-20 and SR-22 feature the comfort you and your passengers will love, head turning styling, stand out features and the performance that sets this aircraft apart.  Although the SR22 does deliver more power with a larger wing and larger fuel capacity, make no mistake, our SR-20 is one hell of an aircraft too, is extremely popular and holds its own.

How to get your flying skills upgraded to be able to fly the Cirrus SR-20 and SR-22 airplanes?

 So, if you’re ready to experience flying a high-performance aircraft that is revered the world over, get in touch with Curtis Aviation to arrange a chat with a qualified Cirrus Standardised Instructor Pilot (CSIP) today.  They can explain what is involved, and the most suitable Cirrus training program for you.

Here are a few insights to make taking the first step easier for you and to gain a better understanding of what’s involved.

Do pilot licences require a lot of effort to obtain?

Before you get started, chat with an experienced instructor about your flying goals so you understand what is required and the degree of difficulty at every stage.  Most importantly, they can guide you on the best, and most cost-effective, way to go about it, including the private pilot licence.

When learning to fly, licences are attained in stages starting with the Recreational Pilot Licence (RPL).  Although it is somewhat restrictive (especially in terms of where you can go and type of aircraft you can fly), it’s a popular choice for many pilots.

If you’re looking for more flying freedom and adventure, and a base for further flying training, the Private Pilot Licence (PPL) is for you, however does also present some new challenges.  Our private pilot students come from all walks of life, from school students to professionals to retirees, and how long it takes to reach minimum requirements to sit for the private pilot licence

• varies from person to person, and
• depends on frequency of lessons.

In terms of how hard it is, we find most people who come to our flying school have the ability to get their PPL if they choose to.  What tends to be the key indicator of success is how strong the desire and determination to push through and persist when things get a bit trickier and uncomfortable.

The next licence is the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL).  Before you start any commercial pilot training, make sure you fully understand the skillset, level of commitment (time, effort and investment), medical requirements and other considerations of holding a Commercial Pilot Licence before going too far down the track of commercial pilot training.  At Curtis Aviation we have helped many people become career pilots and can step you through the commercial pilot training options, including our integrated and non-integrated commercial pilot training programs, the Bachelor of Aviation, and the recommended additional endorsements and other training to broaden the employment opportunities for you, including instructor rating.

Should pursuing a career as an airline pilot be your goal, it is an ENTIRELY DIFFERENT BALL GAME.  At Curtis Aviation we can guide you on the different pathways that help prepare you, such as the university Bachelor of Aviation program we proudly partner with.  It’s also a good idea to look on airline websites about requirements and programs (which do change) and be realistic about your prospects because there are no guarantees of employment.  If anyone tells you otherwise, be wary.

About the private pilot licence

The private pilot licence allows you to fly any plane for which you have been rated, and to fly on your own or with no-paying passengers in visual flying conditions (VFR, visual flight rules).

To hold a private pilot licence you need to:

• Be 17 years of age, however you can start your private pilot training at 16 years of age (For the recreational pilot licence, your first licence, there is no minimum age for starting training, however you are unable to hold a recreational pilot licence until you are 16, and not permitted to fly solo until you are 15 years of age)
• Be proficient in English (reading, writing, talking and comprehending).  English is the language of aviation and your safety, and that of others, depends on it.

• Hold a medical certificate Class 3

• Be competent in basic arithmetic
• Pass an oral and written test
• Pass a flying test

What are the requirements to get your private pilot licence?

You will need to meet some Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) requirements, including identity verification and medical.  Your flight instructor will step you through these at your first lesson and as you progress through the licences.  They can also provide information about costs and fees and a list of approved medical practitioners that can carry out your medical.  (As a word of advice, there can sometimes be a delay getting into your preferred designated aviation medical examiner (DAME) so booking as early as possible is suggested.)

 What are the theoretical and practical elements of private pilot training?

Your flying lesson will involve a pre-flight briefing, flight instruction in the air, and a post-flight debrief with your instructor.  Much of the theory is self-study, however your instructor is there to explain many of the concepts and to keep you on track.

The aim of your training is to ensure you have the necessary technical understanding and practical experience in the field, and that you have the required theoretical knowledge of flight and control.  You’ll also receive practical training on preparing your aircraft to fly and performing basic and more complex procedures.

As a private pilot student, you will gain theoretical and practical knowledge about the science and theory of flying, including:

• The theory and the science behind aerodynamics

• Regulations that affect aircraft flying

• Mechanical and technical understanding of the aircraft

• Procedures for safety

• The management of passengers

• Flight planning, weather, and other factors, and

• Navigation

Once you have your Private Pilot Licence, you can expand your flying horizons with further training, such as instrument flying, night flying, twin engine aircraft flying, aerobatics and even formation flying.  In fact, with a Private Pilot Licence you’re allowed to fly just about ANY aircraft a commercial pilot can as long as you have the appropriate endorsements and ratings.

To maintain private pilot flying privileges there are some requirements.  There are a number of variables that come into play, so it’s best to have your instructor explain these to you.

How to get started flying

If you’re thinking of taking up flying, there’s nothing like getting up in the air and putting your hands on the controls.  Booking a trial instructional flight is the ideal and affordable way to find out if flying is for you.

A trial instructional flight is also a fantastic way of getting a feel of a flying school’s culture and their level of professionalism.  Here at Curtis Aviation, we are a “one school, many skills” flying school located at Sydney’s Camden Airport with our motto being “flying is fun”.  We have built a loyal and dedicated flying community that makes Curtis Aviation such a unique, supportive and popular place to learn and fly.

We also happen to be great at training competent, confident and successful pilots!

Ready to take to the skies?  Book a trial instructional flight or find out more today.  You just may surprise yourself!

Did you find this article helpful?  Then check out our popular ON-DEMAND VIDEOS:

• Get your Private Pilot Licence.  >> Access Now
• Get your Commercial Pilot Licence and Explore a Career as a Commercial Pilot.  >> Access Now.

Looking at its popularity, it’s not hard to see why many believe the King Air is the most successful business aircraft ever designed.

King Air production began way back in 1964.  The King Air has morphed into a variety of models over the years and is widely regarded as the perfect high capability charter aircraft. It performs in virtually every country around the globe.

They serve as airborne ambulances for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and transport Government, military and business personnel for all sorts of work.  Here at Curtis it is a popular choice for charters, including executive charter and grass strips.

Curtis Aviation’s King Air

VH-TRW is a 2010 King Air C90GTi.  It’s a high-performance twin turboprop, ideal for business and pleasure.

What’s so impressive about this aircraft, your destination can be a remote grass strip or a major city airport. When the weather closes in and it’s time to return home, you will be glad you chose the turbo prop C90GTi King Air over a piston powered airplane and it  can fly over most bad weather systems.

Our King Air’s features

Our King Air C90GTi has a big quiet vibration free cabin that seats up to seven passengers.

Flying at up to 30,000 feet and cruising around 270 knots, it also features

• Pressurised cabin and cargo area,
• Twin turbo prop with jet engine reliability, and
• An impressive 1,300 nautical mile (2,407km) range.

King Air endorsements Sydney

If you’re looking to add a King Air type rating to your pilot qualifications, we can help you with a King Air endorsement here at Curtis Aviation, Camden Airport (South-West Sydney).  While you’re on the King Air endorsement page, check out the video.

Business Charter, Executive Charter, Bush Strips, Private Groups and Unique Getaways

King Air is a highly sought-after aircraft for charters Australia-wide.  At Curtis Aviation, for instance, the King Air allows us to cater to a broad range of charter needs and destinations, from cities to rural and outback properties.  If there’s a suitable landing strip, you can get there in the King Air.

King Air aircraft hire Sydney

King Airs are also available for private hire.  It does require the right qualifications, and individual owners may also have some additional criteria before hiring one out.  If you are interested in hiring a King Air, it’s a good idea to have a conversation with the aircraft operator well in advance to understand their conditions.  At Curtis Aviation, our team are happy to run through our King Air hire requirements with you.

To find out more about getting a King Air endorsement, chartering a King Air or hiring the King Air for your next trip, contact our team today.

Let us introduce you to VH-WRW and the other 182’s in the Curtis Aviation fleet.

What is the Cessna 182T used for and why such a popular aircraft?

The Cessna 182T is fully IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) ready with a 235hp engine.

Here at Curtis Aviation, Cessna 182s are our MOST POPULAR choice when people want to travel or fly charter around Australia. With all the comforts of a Mercedes-Benz,

• four people can enjoy the scenery with
• plenty of leg and arm room and
• knowing you can carry at least 5 hours of fuel travelling at over 140 knots per hour.

About the Curtis Aviation Cessna 182T fleet

This is such a much-loved aircraft, at Curtis Aviation we have four modern Cessna 182T’s available for training, hire and charter, including our legendary Air Safari trips.

• VH-BXO, our featured aircraft, along with VH-BMJ are C182T model aircraft fitted out with Garmin avionics glass cockpits and auto pilots. BMJ is a beautiful 2006 models. BXO is a 2007 model with an integrated Garmin autopilot.
• VH-BMX is a 2004 model C182T with leather interior, Bendix King GPS, auto pilot and a conventional avionics suite. Perfect for Commercial Pilot Licence training, IFR training and as a touring aircraft.

Can the Cessna 182T handle bush strips?

For anyone wanting to fly to lesser-known destinations and airstrips, our 182’s are the ideal aircraft for bush strip operations training and a great aeroplane to experience Australia’s outback.

Would you like to know more about flying a Cessna 182T, contact us today to chat with one of our team members.

It’s difficult to spot the difference between a SR22 and SR20 when looking at them, but when you take your seat, buckle up and get going, that’s when the technological innovation and stellar performance of the SR22 comes into its own.

Why fly a Cirrus SR22?

The moment you step into the cabin of the SR22, you know you’re flying first class all the way.  It won’t take long to notice the luxurious comfort of the leather seats and modern lifestyle comforts such as airconditioning and easily accessible USB ports to keep your mobile devices charged during the flight.

Everything you love about the timeless Cirrus SR20, and more.  The Cirrus SR22 is a powerhound that will take you

• further and
• faster

when compared to its SR20 sibling.

It also comes with outstanding integrated safety features and aircraft parachute to help keep you and your passengers safe.  You also can haul more than the SR20.  The offset is that with greater horsepower and performance, you can expect to burn more fuel.

It is a 4 to 5 seat aircraft (depending on the size of passengers and load).

Is the SR22 a better aircraft than the SR20?

Asking that question is like asking to pick a favourite child as both have their special place and function.

If you’re after a brand new aircraft that’s

• engineered and styled to impress,
• gives you access to the latest in creature comforts and technology and
• will get you where you need to be fast,

it’s hard to beat the SR22.  It’s also a great aircraft for a wide range of flight training purposes, especially if you’re wanting to cover a lot of ground and love the idea of doing it in ultimate style.

Want to take friends sightseeing?  They’ll be surprised by the roominess and luxury of the cabin so you couldn’t blame them for thinking they’re getting a taste of life as a movie star!  (By the way, if you do an online search, you may be surprised to find out who flies a Cirrus so your friends may not be too far off the mark!)

How fast is the Cirrus SR22?

Flying the Cirrus SR22 you can enjoy a max speed of 186 kts (344 kms/hr), normal cruise speed of 180 kts (333 kms/hr) and an economy cruise of 161 kts (298 kms/hr).  Rate of climb is 1,400 fpm (426.7 metres per minute).

Ready to get started training in a Cirrus SR22 or after a Cirrus endorsement?  Contact the Curtis Aviation team today to find out more.

Would you like to also learn about the Cirrus SR20, the SR22’s popular sibling?  Check it out here.

What is the ACA Decathalon?

The Super Decathlon is a tandem two-seater, tailwheel, dual-control light aircraft which can be used for personal recreational flying or the ideal aircraft to master aerobatic flying. This model was built for and flown by aerobatic champion and display pilot, Greg Coontz of Birmingham Alabama, before being sold to Curtis Aviation in mid 2023.

It features:

• An impressive Lycoming AE10-360-H1B, 180HP engine
• Invertor oil and fuel systems
• Constant speed unit (CSU), and
• Is able to sustain aerobatic stresses for next level flying fun (+6/-5g)

If you enjoy flying its predecessor, the legendary Citabria (still one of our favourites to fly and train in), you’re going to be absolutely thrilled by how much further you can take your flying skills in the Super Decathlon.

What training and endorsements are done in the Super Decathlon?

At Curtis Aviation (Camden Airport, Sydney), we use the Super Decathlon for:

• Tailwheel training/courses and endorsement
  Being able to fly a tailwheel is pure flying enjoyment and a fantastic skill to have, with many pilots telling you that you’ve never really flown until you fly a tailwheel, and
• Aerobatics Training/Courses and Endorsement where you get to see the sky from every angle and build NEXT LEVEL flying skills. Many would also say that the aerobatic training Curtis Aviation offers, including training in the Super Decathlon, also makes you a safer pilot.

How to become an aerobatic pilot

At Curtis Aviation, you have basic and advanced course options.  Whether you’re new to flying or an ‘old hand’ wanting a new challenge, we suggest you contact the aerobatics training team at Curtis Aviation to discuss suitable flying and aerobatic training for your needs, including training in the Super Decathlon.

What is great about doing your aerobatic training at Curtis Aviation is that it includes Upset Prevention and Recovery Training (UPRT) which is a specialised course that shows you how to avoid potentially dangerous situations and handle the unexpected.

Aerobatic joy flights and aerobatic scenic flights

If you like the idea of aerobatics but prefer someone else taking the controls, why not consider an aerobatic scenic joy flight.  The Super Decathlon and Pitts SB2 joy flights we offer are perfect for thrill-seekers and sightseers alike, and an ideal gift for someone special.

How to embark on your aerobatic journey

Whether you are wanting to fly yourself or have someone else fly for you, the Curtis Aviation team can guide you through the most suitable aerobatic training or joy flight options for your needs and budget.

New thrills and adventure are waiting for you right now.  Chat with Curtis Aviation today and discover for yourself just how much fun and rewarding aerobatics can be.