PHI Aviation Bell 407 Scholarship

Completed at Flight Safety in Lafayette, LA

By WG#1941 Amy Hartt

I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity provided by the PHI Aviation Bell 407 Scholarship. This experience has significantly furthered my knowledge and skills as a pilot, and I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this possible.

During my time at FlightSafety, I received comprehensive instruction in various subject areas including aircraft systems, hydraulics/flight controls, avionics, flight planning, performance, emergency procedures, and inadvertent IMC conditions.

Each day, we applied the classroom knowledge in the simulator. Our instructor would randomly introduce failures in the Flight Training Device (FTD), and I had to execute the correct procedures. The training was intense, typical of most flight programs, but by the end of the course, I had committed the emergency procedures to muscle memory through repeated practice in the FTD.

Though the course focused on the Bell 407, I found many aspects applicable to the Bell 206, which I currently fly for our local sheriff's department. The training provided invaluable knowledge that I can now utilize in my daily operations with the Bell 206.

Additionally, it had been several years since I had engaged in any IFR flying while training. My previous experience was under VFR while earning my instrument rating. The FTD allowed me to experience simulated IFR conditions and transitioning from VFR to IFR, which was a new and enlightening experience for me. Even in training, the peripheral vision offers some stability, but the simulator presented a realistic challenge.

Looking ahead, I plan to pursue opportunities with companies operating the Bell 407, continuing to leverage the valuable skills, insights, and training I received.

Thank you once again for this incredible opportunity. The experience was immensely beneficial, and I am excited to apply what I've learned to enhance my aviation career.