FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Where are you located?
I am located at 46D Sams Point Rd in Beaufort, SC. The airport identifier is KARW.

Do I have to have the Knowledge test passed before I arrive for the IFR rating course?
Yes.

Is your IFR program guaranteed?
Of course not. I'm teaching you to be a safe, competent pilot, not just pass the checkride. All a "guaranteed course" means is that the school charges extra and hopes you pass on the first attempt. If not, they fly with you until you pass it or go home frustrated. I'd rather just give you excellent instruction so you know what you are doing. Passing the checkride is easy after that.

What other type of flight training do you do?
I concentrate on teaching the owner/pilots of high performance single and multi-engine airplanes. I do not offer Private Pilot training nor do I offer any type of "pinch hitter" course. I teach an accelerated, advanced IFR course to motivated individuals.

Do you offer private pilot training?
No.

Where can I get a rental car?
Sensible Rent-A-Car at (843) 521-9498 or Enterprise at (843) 524-0494.

For a Taxi, call Yellow Cab (843) 522-1121.

Why should I choose your school?
90% of my new students are referred by my former students. My goal is to train safe, proficient pilots. I'm not interested in just getting you through the checkride. I'm also consistent. I don't want another job. I had my airline career. I am not trying to build flight time. I enjoy teaching and I'm the only person teaching here.

Will you fly to my location and start the training on the way to Beaufort?
No.

Will you train me at my location?
No. My simulators are not portable.

What inspections does my airplane need for training?
Please verify that all required avionics are operating properly prior to arrival. Please verify that the annual inspection, Pitot-static inspection, transponder inspection and all AD's have been completed.

Do I need to list you on my insurance?
Yes, please list me as an additional insured.

How much do you charge?
The program costs are listed on the individual training pages.

How do I contact you?
Cell: 843-521-9412 (If I'm flying, leave a message)
Email: dscarmody@safepilot.com.

How long have you been instructing and how can I check up on you?
I have been instructing since 1973 and am happy to send you a list of former students. Also, you may review my testimonials.

What should I do to prepare for training?
Please read the following books if you are taking instrument training:

Airman's Information Manual Chapters 1-6
Instrument Procedures Handbook Instrument Procedures Handbook FAA-H-8261-1
Instrument Flying Handbook FAA-H-8083-15
Aviation Weather AC 00-6A
Aviation Weather Services AC 00-45E
Instrument Practical Test Standards

They are published by the FAA and can be downloaded free. Be sure to bring these books to class!

What's your style of instruction?
Low key, humorous, and professional with very little screaming or yelling. Training is in an informal atmosphere.

Are there any other fees or costs?
No, except your hotel, FAA Examiner Fee and rental car (if needed)

Can I rent an airplane there to do the training with you?
No.

Is a hanger available?
No, Beaufort County does not offer hangers.

Do you have a simulator?
Yes, I have a Garmin 430 equipped full-size simulator.

When does the IFR course start?
Courses start at your convenience and can be split into several sessions if necessary.

How far in advance should I book?
I stay booked approximately 4 weeks in advance.

How many students do you accept a month?
I accept no more than 1 student a month based on mutual agreement. I do not accept everyone that applies.

What syllabus do you use?
I prepare an individual training program based on your experience and your airplane's equipment.

What time do you normally start training?
Each session starts at 8:30AM and finishes around 4:00PM. This gives you the afternoon for study.

What hotels are available in Beaufort?

Budget Hotels include:
Days Inn Beaufort 843-524-1551 «« Comfort Inn Of Beaufort 843-525-9366, ««« Sleep Inn 843-522-3361 ««« Red Carpet Inn 843-521-1121. These motels aren’t anything special but are acceptable.

Moderately priced motels include:
Best Western Sea Island Inn 843-522-2090 ««« Hampton Inn 843-986-0600 ««« Ramada Limited 843-524-2144 ««« Country Inn and Suites 843-379-4000 ««« Comfort Suites 843-379-9400.

Bed & Breakfasts include:
Beaufort Inn 843-521-9000 ««« Rhett House Inn 843-524-9030.

Make your reservations early as most places fill up during Marine Corp graduations which occur each week. Ask for the weekly rate!

For more information about Beaufort visit www.beaufortonline.com/tourist/index.html.