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Free Checkrides at Marfa, Texas
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Burt Compton - Marfa
Sep 16, 2013, 2:12:00 PM9/16/13
to
Free Checkrides for Glider Ratings and a Free Room at Marfa, Texas.
(Including Flight Instructor-Glider renewals and reinstatements.)
For immediate publication and distribution from Burt Compton, CFI and Designated Pilot Examiner.
Here's the deal. We need to "grow soaring" and one method is to facilitate the checkride process in order to help SSA members finish their FAA Private, Commercial glider ratings (initial or "add-on" to your FAA Pilot Certificate.)
FREE. After you have met the FAA part 61 requirements, I'll offer a FREE FAA Practical Test ("checkride") in my new ASK-21 glider for QUALIFIED applicants between now and March 31, 2014.
FREE. This means NO Examiner Fee, NO Tow Fee, NO Glider Rental Fee for the checkride flights. This would be a savings of about $600.
FREE. In addition, I'm offering a FREE ROOM in my studio cottage or guest house (two beds, kitchen and dining / study area) next to my house in Marfa, just 3 miles from the Marfa Airport (KMRF), a savings of about $60 to $140 per night in a local motel. Figuring on 5 nights, this is a significant savings.
Bottom Line: YOUR CHECKRIDE IS FREE. YOUR ROOM IS FREE.
(16 applicants took advantage of this free offer in 2013.)
Location: Marfa is located on a grassy plateau at 5,000' above sea level, near the scenic Davis Mountains and between Carlsbad and Big Bend National Parks.
Airlines serve El Paso (ELP) and Midland (MAF), Texas.
Good training conditions: In fall and winter we have fewer thermals than summer, so you may enjoy less turbulence aloft. Marfa has three long runways and very little airplane traffic. I have a huge hangar and two towplanes ready to work.
"One of these days" is NOW.
"Someday I'll finish my glider rating" can happen for you NOW at Marfa.
Note: "Free" does NOT mean we will shortcut the FAA Practical Test Standards. Your checkride will be comprehensive and "by the book". Do your homework, read the PTS, get Bob Wander's "Checkride Made Easy" book along with my other recommended texts and handouts.
E-mail me today at marfagliders at aol dot com to start working out the dates and details for your glider pilot rating or CFI-G renewal / reinstatement. First come, first served.
Note: All SOLO flight requirements must be met before coming to Marfa. Dual instruction and the "sign off" endorsements might also be accomplished at Marfa. Foreign pilots are welcome for the US glider pilot certificate.
So spread the word . . . free checkrides and a free room to March 31, 2014 for qualified applicants.
Burt Compton, SSA Flight Instructor, FAA Designated Pilot Examiner
Marfa Gliders Soaring Center, west Texas
Site of the 1970 World Soaring Contest, the 15th National Landmark of Soaring and the location of "The Sun Ship Game" film of the 1969 national contest.
www.flygliders.com
CLewis95
Sep 16, 2013, 7:08:07 PM9/16/13
to
Curt Lewis - 95
soar...@gmail.com
Sep 17, 2013, 1:30:53 AM9/17/13
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On Monday, September 16, 2013 11:12:00 AM UTC-7, Burt Compton - Marfa wrote:
> Free Checkrides for Glider Ratings and a Free Room at Marfa, Texas.
Burt,
> Free Checkrides for Glider Ratings and a Free Room at Marfa, Texas.
Thanks a whole bunch for this fine offer. You do so much for our Soaring Community.
I plan to publish your offer again in our Seattle Glider Council News letter, Towline
Heinz
soarboy at comcast dot net
Burt Compton - Marfa
Sep 21, 2013, 11:37:46 AM9/21/13
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Thanks, Curt & Heinz.
Just sharing the skills and knowledge I learned from my many mentors, including my late father, Fritz Compton. I still have his 1968 Open Cirrus, airworthy in my hangar -- it never left the family.
Inquiries are coming in to book free checkride dates and some optional (paid) pre-training in my ASK-21 at Marfa. Offer good to March 31, 2014.
Hope to see you at the SSA Convention at Reno, Feb 25 - March 1. Don't miss our Soaring Safety Foundation (SSF) CFIG clinic on the 25th and 26th, also open to non-CFI's, and the SSF annual Training and Safety Seminar on Wednesday evening during the convention.
Burt Compton, SSF Trustee / FAA DPE
Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Just sharing the skills and knowledge I learned from my many mentors, including my late father, Fritz Compton. I still have his 1968 Open Cirrus, airworthy in my hangar -- it never left the family.
Inquiries are coming in to book free checkride dates and some optional (paid) pre-training in my ASK-21 at Marfa. Offer good to March 31, 2014.
Hope to see you at the SSA Convention at Reno, Feb 25 - March 1. Don't miss our Soaring Safety Foundation (SSF) CFIG clinic on the 25th and 26th, also open to non-CFI's, and the SSF annual Training and Safety Seminar on Wednesday evening during the convention.
Burt Compton, SSF Trustee / FAA DPE
Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Burt Compton - Marfa
Sep 27, 2013, 11:09:50 AM9/27/13
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Congrats to Jacob Elledge on his successful Private Glider checkride with me at Marfa, Texas.
Jacob was an "ab initio" student pilot, starting from scratch. Who's next for the free offer?
Jacob was an "ab initio" student pilot, starting from scratch. Who's next for the free offer?
Jason R
Oct 4, 2013, 12:32:36 PM10/4/13
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I took Burt up on this offer in February of 2013. I wasn't far enough along to finish my checkride then (or maybe I didn't allow enough time in Marfa). Still, it was a great experience and I learned a lot from Burt. He runs a first class operation and wants to help you become a safe and proficient glider pilot.
I finished up my checkride this summer back home.
I finished up my checkride this summer back home.
Sean F (F2)
Oct 6, 2013, 10:18:28 AM10/6/13
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How about an annual SUNSHIP GAME contest at Marfa!?!
If you build it I will come!
Sean
F2
If you build it I will come!
Sean
F2
Burt Compton - Marfa
Oct 11, 2013, 10:41:53 PM10/11/13
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Some good news from the FAA regarding CFI renewals and expired CFI reinstatements.
Starting NOV 15, 2013 (although the Gov't "Slimdown" may affect the exact date) a CFI who renews (or reinstates) their Flight Instructor Certificate by a Practical Test a/k/a "checkride" with an examiner can count this event as a 24 month Flight Review.
Before this amendment to FAR 61.56, renewing a Flight Instructor Certificate was NOT counted as a full Flight Review (mistakenly called "Biennial" and even "Biannual" Flight Review) although I know some CFI's thought it did renew their Flight Review (therefore in violation of -- oh never mind.) However, if a renewing CFI convinced the examiner to also endorse their pilot logbook as a Flight Review, specifically quoting FAR 61.56, then it counted, but it was not automatic.
Renewing your Flight Instructor Certificate at a Flight Instructor Refresher Clinic (FIRC) or by an "administrative action" type of renewal by your local FAA office will not count for the full Flight Review (although a FIRC does renew your CFI for another 24 months.)
For the automatic Flight Review you gotta actually fly with an examiner, meaning a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) or a FAA Inspector qualified and current in gliders. Always a good idea to actually fly the maneuvers and demonstrate that you can still "teach to proficiency" once in a while.
Therefore my offer of FREE CFI (glider category) renewals and CFI reinstatements in my new ASK-21 sailplane with me as your DPE at Marfa, Texas, will automatically include the "free" Flight Review. And a free room at Marfa. Your checkride will be thorough per the FAA PTS for CFI. (Pre-checkride training for PVT, COM, CFI checkrides is available at my regular rates, unchanged since 2010.) Just get yourself to El Paso and then drive southeast past the scenic mountains to the grasslands of the Marfa Plateau (5,000' msl.) No oil out here -- just big skies. (No Wally-marts either.)
My offer expires March 31, 2014. For my available dates and more information please e-mail me at marfagliders at aol dot com
Burt
Marfa, southwest Texas
"Where yesterday's 'USA TODAY' arrives tomorrow."
Starting NOV 15, 2013 (although the Gov't "Slimdown" may affect the exact date) a CFI who renews (or reinstates) their Flight Instructor Certificate by a Practical Test a/k/a "checkride" with an examiner can count this event as a 24 month Flight Review.
Before this amendment to FAR 61.56, renewing a Flight Instructor Certificate was NOT counted as a full Flight Review (mistakenly called "Biennial" and even "Biannual" Flight Review) although I know some CFI's thought it did renew their Flight Review (therefore in violation of -- oh never mind.) However, if a renewing CFI convinced the examiner to also endorse their pilot logbook as a Flight Review, specifically quoting FAR 61.56, then it counted, but it was not automatic.
Renewing your Flight Instructor Certificate at a Flight Instructor Refresher Clinic (FIRC) or by an "administrative action" type of renewal by your local FAA office will not count for the full Flight Review (although a FIRC does renew your CFI for another 24 months.)
For the automatic Flight Review you gotta actually fly with an examiner, meaning a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE) or a FAA Inspector qualified and current in gliders. Always a good idea to actually fly the maneuvers and demonstrate that you can still "teach to proficiency" once in a while.
Therefore my offer of FREE CFI (glider category) renewals and CFI reinstatements in my new ASK-21 sailplane with me as your DPE at Marfa, Texas, will automatically include the "free" Flight Review. And a free room at Marfa. Your checkride will be thorough per the FAA PTS for CFI. (Pre-checkride training for PVT, COM, CFI checkrides is available at my regular rates, unchanged since 2010.) Just get yourself to El Paso and then drive southeast past the scenic mountains to the grasslands of the Marfa Plateau (5,000' msl.) No oil out here -- just big skies. (No Wally-marts either.)
My offer expires March 31, 2014. For my available dates and more information please e-mail me at marfagliders at aol dot com
Burt
Marfa, southwest Texas
"Where yesterday's 'USA TODAY' arrives tomorrow."
Burt Compton - Marfa
Oct 24, 2013, 9:47:35 PM10/24/13
to
On Monday, September 16, 2013 11:12:00 AM UTC-7, Burt Compton - Marfa wrote:
> Free Checkrides for Glider Ratings and a Free Room at Marfa, Texas.
>
Congratulations to Roberto Nin, who added the Glider category rating to his US Private Pilot Certificate with me at Marfa.
> Free Checkrides for Glider Ratings and a Free Room at Marfa, Texas.
>
My free checkride and free room offer continues for PVT, COM certificates and add-on ratings and Certificated Flight Instructor (glider category add-on, renewal or reinstatement) to March 31, 2014.
Towpilot training and endorsements per FAR 61.69 and your 24 month towpilot re-currency endorsements are also available in my two seat towplane.
Marfa is located between Carlsbad Caverns and Big Bend National Parks near the Davis Mountains of southwest Texas. KMRF field elevation is almost 5,000' msl. Closest airline terminal is El Paso, TX (ELP.)
Burt Compton - Marfa
Nov 13, 2013, 9:29:45 PM11/13/13
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On Sunday, October 6, 2013 9:18:28 AM UTC-5, Sean F (F2) wrote:
> How about an annual SUNSHIP GAME contest at Marfa!?!
>
The former WWII training air field 10 miles east of Marfa (Texas) where "The Sun Ship Game" was filmed in 1969 has "returned to nature" and is part of a private ranch. I was there crewing for my Dad Fritz Compton in his Open Cirrus at that 1969 Nationals (I still have his Cirrus) while Robert Drew shot miles of film. Over 80 sailplanes competed and that huge ramp area handled all easily, much like the airport at Hobbs. My "Marfa Gliders" soaring operation is small (on purpose for profitability and safety) and located on the Marfa Municipal Airport (MRF), 3 miles north of town. Find it on Airnav.com Tows for private sailplanes (you must bring a crew) are possible when I am in town (I travel about 50 days a year) so advance appointments are a must for soaring with me at Marfa. (No tows while I'm away.
> How about an annual SUNSHIP GAME contest at Marfa!?!
>
wkcso...@gmail.com
Nov 13, 2013, 11:54:38 PM11/13/13
to
I think this is about as generous as a guy can get! Thank you for offering this up for the sport of soaring. You are awesome.
Wade
On Monday, September 16, 2013 11:12:00 AM UTC-7, Burt Compton - Marfa wrote:
Wade
On Monday, September 16, 2013 11:12:00 AM UTC-7, Burt Compton - Marfa wrote:
Burt Compton - Marfa
Nov 18, 2013, 6:29:27 PM11/18/13
to
Congratulations to Ariel Szafir of the Evergreen Soaring Club near Seattle, Washington, who passed his Private Pilot Glider checkride today with me at Marfa, Texas. Ariel learned to fly sailplanes with his father in Argentina and has met some of the Argentine pilots (and crews) who competed at the 1970 World Soaring Championship at Marfa (first ever held in the USA.)
My free checkride and free room offer continues to March 31, 2014 for PVT, COM glider pilot certificates or add-on ratings and Certificated Flight Instructor (glider category add-on, renewal or reinstatement.)
Pre-checkride training and orientation flights in my new ASK-21 at Marfa are available.
Marfa is located between Carlsbad Caverns and Big Bend National Parks near the Davis Mountains of southwest Texas. KMRF field elevation is almost 5,000' msl. Closest airline terminal is El Paso, TX (ELP.)
E-mail marfagliders at AOLdotcom for more information and my available dates in DEC and JAN.
My free checkride and free room offer continues to March 31, 2014 for PVT, COM glider pilot certificates or add-on ratings and Certificated Flight Instructor (glider category add-on, renewal or reinstatement.)
Pre-checkride training and orientation flights in my new ASK-21 at Marfa are available.
Marfa is located between Carlsbad Caverns and Big Bend National Parks near the Davis Mountains of southwest Texas. KMRF field elevation is almost 5,000' msl. Closest airline terminal is El Paso, TX (ELP.)
Ariel Szafir
Nov 19, 2013, 11:37:22 AM11/19/13
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Thanks Burt for making it possible for us–students ready to take the practical test–to come fly in Marfa, learn, and do the checkride.
For anyone considering it, the flying was a lot of fun and the crew is very helpful and just nice folks to hang out with. I would do this again –and probably will, even if it’s not for a checkride–. Also, the economics are quite good when factoring in Burt’s offer of no fee for the checkride and the free housing.
For anyone considering it, the flying was a lot of fun and the crew is very helpful and just nice folks to hang out with. I would do this again –and probably will, even if it’s not for a checkride–. Also, the economics are quite good when factoring in Burt’s offer of no fee for the checkride and the free housing.
Burt Compton - Marfa
Dec 6, 2013, 1:06:58 AM12/6/13
to
More CFIG's! I'm getting many inquiries from former US glider Flight Instructors looking to reinstate their expired Flight Instructor (Glider) certificate. This CFI checkride as well as PVT and COM is free with me at Marfa, Texas until March 31, 2014. (Unlike your FAA Pilot certificate, Flight Instructor certificates expire after 24 months if not renewed.)
More CFIG's returning to the tribe! This is good, and I will help them get up to date with new procedures, rules, endorsements, along with polishing some teaching skills. You gotta talk AND fly the demonstration of maneuvers on the Flight Instructor checkride!
After a good pre-flight ground lesson using a model glider (and towplane), I find that a demonstration in flight is essential for all students, no matter what their flying background. Even as a long-time CFIG trying to incorporate "economy of words", I cannot talk fast enough to explain many maneuvers, so I show the student the maneuver and explain what I am doing, seeing, hearing, feeling, then let them try the maneuver. If they don't get it at first, and they usually won't, I hold off on talking them through it and demonstrate it again (and again) as needed. I keep a cheerful demeanor, never showing frustration, hoping to give the student positive reinforcement on the segments of the maneuver they are getting correct. Demonstration works especially well when teaching the aerotow, rope breaks, slips and the various goal oriented landing patterns.
Like teaching a musical instrument, slow the song down into segments and don't let them practice mistakes! And as my CFI Dad used to tell me, "Smile, you'll fly better."
I highly recommend Bob Wander's "Safer Soaring" booklet. It's his "Reader's Digest" compilation of some of Bob's most thoughtful seminar topics, including pattern planning, the effect of sinking airmass on gliders of any rated performance, parallel versus series thinking and more. A must-read for CFI's and students alike. It is so good that I give this book away to anyone who comes to train with me at Marfa, Texas!
Did You Know? Renewing or reinstating an expired Flight Instructor certificate renews ALL categories of aircraft on that certificate.
More CFIG's returning to the tribe! This is good, and I will help them get up to date with new procedures, rules, endorsements, along with polishing some teaching skills. You gotta talk AND fly the demonstration of maneuvers on the Flight Instructor checkride!
After a good pre-flight ground lesson using a model glider (and towplane), I find that a demonstration in flight is essential for all students, no matter what their flying background. Even as a long-time CFIG trying to incorporate "economy of words", I cannot talk fast enough to explain many maneuvers, so I show the student the maneuver and explain what I am doing, seeing, hearing, feeling, then let them try the maneuver. If they don't get it at first, and they usually won't, I hold off on talking them through it and demonstrate it again (and again) as needed. I keep a cheerful demeanor, never showing frustration, hoping to give the student positive reinforcement on the segments of the maneuver they are getting correct. Demonstration works especially well when teaching the aerotow, rope breaks, slips and the various goal oriented landing patterns.
Like teaching a musical instrument, slow the song down into segments and don't let them practice mistakes! And as my CFI Dad used to tell me, "Smile, you'll fly better."
I highly recommend Bob Wander's "Safer Soaring" booklet. It's his "Reader's Digest" compilation of some of Bob's most thoughtful seminar topics, including pattern planning, the effect of sinking airmass on gliders of any rated performance, parallel versus series thinking and more. A must-read for CFI's and students alike. It is so good that I give this book away to anyone who comes to train with me at Marfa, Texas!
Did You Know? Renewing or reinstating an expired Flight Instructor certificate renews ALL categories of aircraft on that certificate.
Burt Compton - Marfa
Dec 18, 2013, 7:17:15 PM12/18/13
to
Congratulations to John Gonthier of Park City, Utah, who completed his Commercial Glider "add-on" checkride with me today at Marfa, Texas. My "free checkride, free room" offer continues to March 31, 2014, with a week-long break for the Soaring Society of America convention in Reno, FEB 26 - March 1.
Hope to see you here, or see you there!
Burt
Marfa, west Texas
Hope to see you here, or see you there!
Burt
Marfa, west Texas
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Dec 29, 2013, 9:41:11 AM12/29/13
to
On Monday, September 16, 2013 1:12:00 PM UTC-5, Burt Compton - Marfa wrote:
> Free Checkrides for Glider Ratings and a Free Room at Marfa, Texas.
>
Congratulations to Cade Woodward on earning his Commercial Glider (added the glider category rating to his COM Pilot Certificate) with me in my ASK-21 at Marfa. We enjoyed some good winter thermal soaring on one of his flights up to 9500' msl. So clear we could see the mountains down south in Big Bend National Park. Some Lennies over the Davis Mountains to the north.
> Free Checkrides for Glider Ratings and a Free Room at Marfa, Texas.
>
Who's next for a free checkride and free room?
"Someday" is NOW! Contact me for details.
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Jan 15, 2014, 8:42:55 PM1/15/14
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Another Glider Flight Instructor is now active as Dave Treinis of Wyoming reinstated his expired instructor certificate with me at Marfa in my new ASK-21.
I have some days available in February before I attend our SSA Convention in Reno, then several days in March. My free checkride and free room offer ends March 31, 2014.
Enjoy our mild weather on the high Marfa Plateau, near the Davis mountains of southwest Texas. Check the forecast -- I am southeast of El Paso about 180 miles, where yesterday's "USA Today" arrives tomorrow.
Ready to escape to someplace quiet and finish your glider rating?
Let's talk.
I have some days available in February before I attend our SSA Convention in Reno, then several days in March. My free checkride and free room offer ends March 31, 2014.
Enjoy our mild weather on the high Marfa Plateau, near the Davis mountains of southwest Texas. Check the forecast -- I am southeast of El Paso about 180 miles, where yesterday's "USA Today" arrives tomorrow.
Ready to escape to someplace quiet and finish your glider rating?
Let's talk.
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Jan 25, 2014, 11:02:58 PM1/25/14
to
Another Glider Flight Instructor! Mike Nichols has added the glider category to his (airplane) Flight Instructor Certificate at Marfa. Mike is from the Central Indiana Soaring Society and escaped the cold winter up north to finish his training down here in southwest Texas, then take his free checkride with me in my new ASK-21 sailplane. Being well-prepared and motivated, Mike finished a bit early in the 7 days he allotted at Marfa so he is staying in my free guest house for 2 more days to enjoy the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park before his airline flight out of El Paso.
So contact me to discuss my free checkride offer. I have some availability in mid-February before our SSA Convention in Reno (Feb 26 - March 1) and some dates in March, before my offer expires March 31, 2014.
So contact me to discuss my free checkride offer. I have some availability in mid-February before our SSA Convention in Reno (Feb 26 - March 1) and some dates in March, before my offer expires March 31, 2014.
CLewis95
Jan 25, 2014, 11:56:23 PM1/25/14
to
On Saturday, January 25, 2014 10:02:58 PM UTC-6, Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas wrote:
> Another Glider Flight Instructor! Mike Nichols has added the glider category to his (airplane) Flight Instructor Certificate at Marfa. Mike is from the Central Indiana Soaring Society and escaped the cold winter up north to finish his training down here in southwest Texas, then take his free checkride with me in my new ASK-21 sailplane. Being well-prepared and motivated, Mike finished a bit early in the 7 days he allotted at Marfa so he is staying in my free guest house for 2 more days to enjoy the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park before his airline flight out of El Paso.
>
>
>
> So contact me to discuss my free checkride offer. I have some availability in mid-February before our SSA Convention in Reno (Feb 26 - March 1) and some dates in March, before my offer expires March 31, 2014.
That's AWESOME what you're doin' Burt! Congrats to Mike!
> Another Glider Flight Instructor! Mike Nichols has added the glider category to his (airplane) Flight Instructor Certificate at Marfa. Mike is from the Central Indiana Soaring Society and escaped the cold winter up north to finish his training down here in southwest Texas, then take his free checkride with me in my new ASK-21 sailplane. Being well-prepared and motivated, Mike finished a bit early in the 7 days he allotted at Marfa so he is staying in my free guest house for 2 more days to enjoy the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park before his airline flight out of El Paso.
>
>
>
> So contact me to discuss my free checkride offer. I have some availability in mid-February before our SSA Convention in Reno (Feb 26 - March 1) and some dates in March, before my offer expires March 31, 2014.
Curt Lewis - 95
mpni...@gmail.com
Jan 26, 2014, 2:34:05 PM1/26/14
to
The people, accommodations, the attitude of all involved, thorough training and check ride made this a great experience....thanks Burt.
Mike Nichols
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Feb 11, 2014, 11:08:01 PM2/11/14
to
>That's AWESOME what you're doin' Burt! Congrats to Mike!
>
> Curt Lewis - 95
Hi Curt,
>
> Curt Lewis - 95
Had a fun flight in my ASK-21 with your son Trace last week at Marfa.
Sure would enjoy helping him finish his glider category add-on to his CFI.
I have a week open FEB 14-21 and again for the 3 weeks in March after the SSA Convention in Reno.
I return to Marfa around March 6.
I'll accept up to two applicants at a time to finish their glider checkrides.
Free checkride / Free guest room until March 31, 2014.
Thanks,
Burt
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Feb 12, 2014, 12:31:27 PM2/12/14
to
In response to several e-mails today . . . to clarify, these free checkrides are for qualified applicants (all of your minimum required solo's completed per FAR part 61) who may need some dual and ground school preparation, then a free FAA Practical Test ("checkride") per the PTS for Glider Private, Commercial and CFI 24 month renewal or reinstatement for expired CFIG's.
jben...@metroaviation.com
Feb 12, 2014, 2:44:09 PM2/12/14
to
Burt,
How do I get a hold of you?
How do I get a hold of you?
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Feb 12, 2014, 3:55:47 PM2/12/14
to
On Wednesday, February 12, 2014 1:44:09 PM UTC-6, jben...@metroaviation.com wrote:
> Burt,
>
> How do I get a hold of you?
>
e-mail to marfagliders at a o l dot com
> Burt,
>
> How do I get a hold of you?
>
John Gonthier
Feb 13, 2014, 12:46:22 PM2/13/14
to
I took advantage of Burt's offer and completed my Commercial Glider Pilot addon in Dec. 2013 at Marfa, Texas. Burt runs a first class operation with an emphasis on safety. I had completed all my solo flights in a SGS 2-33 and 1-26 at my home glider port Cedar Valley Airport, Eagle Mountain, UT before heading to Marfa. I struggled a little to get comfortable with the higher performance ASK 21 but Burt worked to relax and ease my tensions. Burt has a well trained crew (tow pilot, and wing runner) which made the made the training flights run very smoothly gave me additional insight and safety concerns in the running of a glider operation (I fly the tow plane at Cedar Valley and my goal is eventually get the CFI-G and run a glider operation). The oral and checkride were thorough, complete and fair following the PTS.
This was my first visit to Marfa and West Texas which is spectacular scenery and very mild Dec. tempertures. We even did a little thermalling! The accomadations while not necessarily high end they were very clean and comfortable and best of all they were FREE! Thanks Burt (helped with the descision to go to Marfa as money is always a concren). Marfa is funky little town where cowboys and ranchers meet artists and hipsters. Lots of art galleries, shops, hotels, good restuarants and people watching. I hope to get back down to Marfa again.
For those people who are close to finishing their glider rating I highly recommend taking Burt up on his offer.
This was my first visit to Marfa and West Texas which is spectacular scenery and very mild Dec. tempertures. We even did a little thermalling! The accomadations while not necessarily high end they were very clean and comfortable and best of all they were FREE! Thanks Burt (helped with the descision to go to Marfa as money is always a concren). Marfa is funky little town where cowboys and ranchers meet artists and hipsters. Lots of art galleries, shops, hotels, good restuarants and people watching. I hope to get back down to Marfa again.
For those people who are close to finishing their glider rating I highly recommend taking Burt up on his offer.
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Mar 11, 2014, 8:08:34 AM3/11/14
to
"One of these days" is NOW.
David is from Germany, learned to fly sailplanes in the UK, now a professor at Penn State and flies his Standard Cirrus at Ridge Soaring.
Mark Gartner from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is also visiting me at Marfa to upgrade his soaring skills and learn some of the "Compton family thermaling secrets" passed down from my late father, Fritz Compton. How about that! (Nice thermals yesterday to 9,500' msl.)
David Reitter
Mar 12, 2014, 10:07:15 PM3/12/14
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Well, that was a fun spring break. Big thanks to Burt for making me (plus company!) feel at home. A great opportunity to do the checkride and associated prep in modern equipment and at a fine airport.
We came from and returned to low-20's Pennsylvania. The landscape around Marfa was sensational; the restaurants, art and life music were enjoyable, and of course you get a kick out of flying the same sky where The Sunship Game was filmed in 1969, with someone who crewed back then.
- David
We came from and returned to low-20's Pennsylvania. The landscape around Marfa was sensational; the restaurants, art and life music were enjoyable, and of course you get a kick out of flying the same sky where The Sunship Game was filmed in 1969, with someone who crewed back then.
- David
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Mar 22, 2014, 9:19:06 AM3/22/14
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Yet another glider flight instructor returns to soaring! Congrats to Retired USAF Lt. General Robert Dierker for passing his Flight Instructor "Reinstatement" practical test with me in my ASK-21 after being "dormant" for many years (as a CFI.) Robert came to Marfa from Maryland and plans to contribute to the renovation and growth of his home soaring club.
More than half of the applicants who took advantage of this winter's free room / free checkride offer have been CFI's, along with several Private applicants (glider only.) Most came to west Texas from the northern states this winter to fly with me.
If you are ready to finish your glider rating, now is the time to prepare at your home club. Get all of your solo flights completed and work with your CFIG to log the requirements for a FAA practical test (checkride) for PVT, COM, CFI (renewal or reinstatement) per the applicable FAR in part 61. Pass the "written" test (if applicable) and then contact me about a checkride this summer at Marfa, or next fall / winter.
Happy to chat with you about your goals and how I may facilitate your glider pilot checkride.
"Someday" is NOW.
Burt Compton, Master CFI / FAA Designated Pilot Examiner
www.flygliders.com
Marfa, west Texas
USA
More than half of the applicants who took advantage of this winter's free room / free checkride offer have been CFI's, along with several Private applicants (glider only.) Most came to west Texas from the northern states this winter to fly with me.
If you are ready to finish your glider rating, now is the time to prepare at your home club. Get all of your solo flights completed and work with your CFIG to log the requirements for a FAA practical test (checkride) for PVT, COM, CFI (renewal or reinstatement) per the applicable FAR in part 61. Pass the "written" test (if applicable) and then contact me about a checkride this summer at Marfa, or next fall / winter.
Happy to chat with you about your goals and how I may facilitate your glider pilot checkride.
"Someday" is NOW.
Burt Compton, Master CFI / FAA Designated Pilot Examiner
www.flygliders.com
Marfa, west Texas
USA
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Mar 25, 2014, 12:11:08 AM3/25/14
to
Yet another active Glider Flight Instructor returns to the tribe!
Matt Michael of Iowa reinstated his expired Flight Instructor Certificate last Saturday in my ASK-21.
Besides the verbal portion of the FAA Practical Test, we also soared to 12,000' msl (Marfa airport field elevation is almost 5,000' msl.) We also did 3 flights including (but not limited to) aerotow signals, boxing of the wake, slack rope recoveries, slips to accuracy landings with no airbrakes, all the stalls using Tom Knauff's "6 signs of the stall, in the order in which they occur" and much more. Of course Matt had to play instructor to me acting as a student (at the Commercial checkride level.) Lots of fun and now that our really strong season is here, I'm looking forward to some fun soaring by myself in my DG-1000.
Then again, it has two seats . . .
Matt Michael of Iowa reinstated his expired Flight Instructor Certificate last Saturday in my ASK-21.
Besides the verbal portion of the FAA Practical Test, we also soared to 12,000' msl (Marfa airport field elevation is almost 5,000' msl.) We also did 3 flights including (but not limited to) aerotow signals, boxing of the wake, slack rope recoveries, slips to accuracy landings with no airbrakes, all the stalls using Tom Knauff's "6 signs of the stall, in the order in which they occur" and much more. Of course Matt had to play instructor to me acting as a student (at the Commercial checkride level.) Lots of fun and now that our really strong season is here, I'm looking forward to some fun soaring by myself in my DG-1000.
Then again, it has two seats . . .
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Apr 9, 2014, 2:27:11 PM4/9/14
to
Yet another flight instructor gets a free checkride with me at Marfa, Texas.
Cade Woodward passed his CFI glider category "additional rating" practical test yesterday. Cade is also an active power instructor with his Cessna 172, Cessna 180 and Piper Super Cruiser tailwheel airplanes. His younger brother Colton is next in line for more training in my ASK-21 and eventually an "add-on" glider rating to his Private Pilot certificate.
Who's next?
Burt
at Marfa Gliders, near the Davis Mountains of southwest Texas, where the "The Sun Ship Game" was filmed and . . . "Where yesterday's 'USA Today' arrives tomorrow."
Cade Woodward passed his CFI glider category "additional rating" practical test yesterday. Cade is also an active power instructor with his Cessna 172, Cessna 180 and Piper Super Cruiser tailwheel airplanes. His younger brother Colton is next in line for more training in my ASK-21 and eventually an "add-on" glider rating to his Private Pilot certificate.
Who's next?
Burt
at Marfa Gliders, near the Davis Mountains of southwest Texas, where the "The Sun Ship Game" was filmed and . . . "Where yesterday's 'USA Today' arrives tomorrow."
Burt Compton - Marfa Gliders, west Texas
Apr 28, 2014, 10:32:50 AM4/28/14
to
Just a reminder . . . if you want a free FAA Practical Test ("checkride") and free room in the fall of 2014 or winter of 2015, you need to arrive at Marfa with ALL of your FAA minimum SOLO FLIGHTS accomplished at your home soaring site. Feel free to exceed the FAA minimums!
So this summer and early fall is the time for you to get prepared by logging ground / flight instruction at home and log those solo flights per FAR part 61 depending on which glider rating (ab-initio or "add-on" for PVT, COM, CFI) that you are seeking. I can offer pre-checkride instruction at Marfa to polish your skills before the checkride, get some stick-time with me in my new Schleicher ASK-21 sailplane and acclimate to the Marfa airport environment (KMRF is at 5,000' msl.)
CFI "add-on", renewals and reinstatements also qualify for my free checkride offer.
Foreign glider pilots wanting to make the US FAA pilot certificate are welcome!
Contact me for more details on how to prepare, some travel suggestions to get to Marfa in west Texas, my rates for the pre-checkride instruction here at Marfa, additional tourist activities in the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park and much more.
How many times do I need to say it? "Someday is NOW!"
Get those solo flights done then get on down here next winter and have some fun.
Before I retire . . .
Burt
www.flygliders.com
So this summer and early fall is the time for you to get prepared by logging ground / flight instruction at home and log those solo flights per FAR part 61 depending on which glider rating (ab-initio or "add-on" for PVT, COM, CFI) that you are seeking. I can offer pre-checkride instruction at Marfa to polish your skills before the checkride, get some stick-time with me in my new Schleicher ASK-21 sailplane and acclimate to the Marfa airport environment (KMRF is at 5,000' msl.)
CFI "add-on", renewals and reinstatements also qualify for my free checkride offer.
Foreign glider pilots wanting to make the US FAA pilot certificate are welcome!
Contact me for more details on how to prepare, some travel suggestions to get to Marfa in west Texas, my rates for the pre-checkride instruction here at Marfa, additional tourist activities in the Davis Mountains and Big Bend National Park and much more.
How many times do I need to say it? "Someday is NOW!"
Get those solo flights done then get on down here next winter and have some fun.
Before I retire . . .
Burt
www.flygliders.com
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