John Russell White
SAFE #: S0000388
Website: http://www.aviatorsunlimited.us
Hometown: Abingdon VA, United States
Home Airport: KVJI & 32VA
Occupation: Professional Pilot
Education: Graduate of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
Pilot Certificates: ATP, CFI
Airplanes Flying/Flown: PITTS S2C, ACA-7ECA, J3 CUB Citation Encore +
Educational Specialty: Private, Tail Wheel, Aerobatics, Spin, EMR / Upset
Q & A
What drew you to aviation?: My Father was a Pilot before and during WWII. A professional for Mobil Oil Company. The first time he let me “Feel” the controls and maneuver and airplane I fell in love with flight! I have never gotten over how an airplane feels when you fly it.
How long have you been involved in aviation education?: Forty one years ago I obtained my CFI,GI and A&P
What’s your favorite part of what you do in aviation education?: When my students start flying the airplane by feel and instinctively. Their fears , apprehensions and doubts disappear and and they become “Aviators”!
Someone in love with flight!
What’s your least favorite part of what you do in aviation education?: Trying to comply with antiquated FAA rules, requirements and guidelines that are over due for revision.
Do you have a memorable aviation experience you’d like to share?: There are a few, but I once received an award from Piper Aircraft Corporation called the, “Second Effort Award”. It was for work and flying done in the process of certifying the first Piper Cheyenne Turboprop!
Why did you join SAFE?: I felt the aviation professionals that are joining SAFE are the “Cream of the Crop” and bringing much knowledge and experience together to help reshape and improve the training of our present and future Pilots.
What would you like to see change in aviation?: Reduce regulatory mandates, cost go down instead of up, overhaul the requirements and methods used to train our Pilots. Get back to basics and develop good flying skills first and then move on.
Any suggestions on how the above might be accomplished?: Listen to the experts that are in the field doing it everyday.
Any accomplishments in, or noteworthy contributions to aviation and/or aviation education you’d like to mention?: Encourage all CFI’s to aspire to become “Masters”.
Who are your role models in aviation?: Bob Hoover is the last alive. Charles Lindbergh
Anything else you’d like to add?: Keep on the path you are on! I think your direction is good. Keep us informed and encouraged to be involved.
