[MarkG]

I have gotten a couple of private messages asking similar questions. I figured I would answer those here as well. As always if this post doesn't answer your question or if you have a question not addressed here feel free to contact me with a private message.

How hard is the PA30 to fly?
The PA30 is not a difficult airplane to fly. Just like with any other airplane you need to plan ahead. Ours have a critical (left) engine, later models have counter rotating props and an STC is available for converting existing PA30s to Counter rotating. I feel a true critical engine is a benefit to training.

How fast is the PA30?
TAS I plan for 164 KTS.

Do I need Complex experience?
Although complex experience will greatly help, it isn't required to start training. I have trained several students in the PA30 as well as other multi-engine aircraft, who were private pilots with little or no complex experience. I have also trained private non-instrument rated pilots for a VFR only MEL rating.
*Personal Opinion*
- Although it is legal to train multi-engine students without an instrument rating it is not the best way to train. The Instrument rating teaches a pilot a lot about systems (both aircraft and airspace) that is built upon in the multi rating. If you decide to do it this way I will discuss it with you on a case by case basis. If you want my other reasons, feel free contact me.

How long does it take?
That depends on you. The course teaches to standard and not just the test.
*Personal Opinion*
-Remember the PTS is the minimum standard not a goal. In the end, the lives of your passengers, your life and certificate may one day end up depending on what you know and your level of proficiency. Would you want a doctor operating on you that knew the bare minimum or would you prefer one who wanted to be as proficient as he could in his chosen profession?
As a pilot you need to be a critical thinker and seek out information. You should read everything you can get your eyes on and then question and attempt to verify what you have read. Just because it is in a magazine, book or on the internet doesn't mean it is true. Verify your information whether it is from an individual or the media. The same goes for your training, every license or rating is just a license to learn. The license just means that now you can learn with passengers on board.

Thanks for your time and feel free to contact me.

Mark