Posted: 5/20/2007 11:28:29 AM EDT
| Didn't see an "introduce yourself" forum, so I thought I'd say hi here. Former fed intern, did a short stint with a PD before becoming an airline pilot (flown since I was a kid), currently in the FFDO process, and considering future service as a reserve or pilot with CBP. Any law enforcement pilot-types on here? |
| I just graduated with an aviation degree, but am fixing to start at a local PD. I may try getting into their aviation program if I ever get a chance. The CBP pilot jobs look like a blast, but the flight experience requirement will probably keep me from ever being one. |
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In late '99 I spent a few days in Texas to sample one of Larry Bell's products for Police use in the UK. During a practical evaluation session, or rather at the end of it, we were transiting back to Fort Worth when the Demo Pilot/Instructor asked if I'd like to fly the machine to see how it handled. Silly question. So I spent 15 or 20 minutes general handling en route back to the base. On entering the circuit(pattern) I expected him to take it back but he just let me carry on, apparently unconcerned. However, as we were coming down final approach I was very conscious of the fact that if I bent this machine, one of only two available in the World at that time, it could be a bit embarrasing. So with fifty feet to go and me thinking about flaring for the landing I dropped in the comment '..I'm really enjoying this, but I really ought to mention I haven't flown a helicopter in 18 years...' There was a nanosecond of panic across his face before his Instructor Cool kicked in and he calmly took it back for the landing. After he shut down he didn't say much but was polite enough to say my long abstention didn't show. Then he went for a lie down in a quiet room........ 
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