Here it is May 2021, this information and firsthand account in this video is priceless! Thank you for sharing your experience and thoughts on learning the sport of PPG. Undoubtedly the cost of training is one major factor in people getting involved in the PPG world. While it is expensive, it also will help keep you safe and teach you the basics of what is needed to keep you flying.. I truly appreciate you making this video!👍

So marks the beginning of "WOLFGATE". Most people don't get to experience it the way you have, they train one time and that's it. You realize that you're gonna get a lot of pushback from the kool aid drinkers so keep a thick skin. The people who don't get good training never realize what they have missed. I agree completely that every student has different needs and there is no perfect training. My training experience was less than perfect too. I opted for a less expensive school locally because it was in my budget and I could start immediately. I only realized the difference after spending time with other schools and instructors. I applaud you for sharing this experience David. This is the type of information I searched for when I was getting interested in paramotors. This is a GREAT service to the new folks coming into the sport, thanks for sharing it!

@577buttfan

4 жыл бұрын

@@DellSchanze I never thought he was this bad man, I was better off studying how you fly and train your students then teach myself than go to him. Oh yeah Dell I gotta give you a shout soon about that xs.

@577buttfan

4 жыл бұрын

@@DellSchanze Yeah Dell,Im self trained Im sure you know that,I own a Dominator,and out of all the skills I learned the ones you taught me are the best with pressure management and glider control...Im sure its not like going to Super training but it was all i could do at the time,thanks for sharing what you do man. Bump bump!!

This should be required viewing for all new people looking to get into this sport. As a newbie myself, I appreciate videos like this and find it extremely valuable. Thanks!

Wow! I knew Flight Junkies was bad, but I didn’t know he was THAT bad. I’m so glad I paid for training. You really do get what you pay for!

@ctsteve1967

4 жыл бұрын

that guy comes across as an ASS

So glad to hear an unbiased opinion David. Thank you for sharing this with us all. Stay safe and Crazy!

Thank you for sharing! You are definitely doing the PPG community and those looking to join it, a great service with this video.

Wonderful video. I looked for information about this specific thing late 2018 early in 2019 and found bits and pieces but nothing so bold as this. $3,500 is a lot of cash to pass over for training when your offered a "free" class as an alternative. I am so thankful I decided to go professional (3,500) instead of amateur (free). My life and the life of those my activities affect are worth more than 3,500 bucks. Dont cheap out on your life! Training for me at Aviator PPG starts December 7th 2019!! WOO HOO!! Thanks for the video David. At the least your saving some people heartache, at most you probably saved a life. I bet that feels great!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Wow Mike I am humbled by your words. THANK YOU. So happy for your to get trained at Aviator. That is awesome. Good luck and feel free to reach out to me if there is anything I can do for you.

@russelgarman5384

3 жыл бұрын

@@FlyingCondor1 how dose covid stop you from flying? I'm thinking you've got the 6ft thing down

Very informative well thought out, 'needed' video that will help out newbie pilots forever! Thanks Dave. I expect you will get a lot of blow back from this but I believe from the comments that the majority of people know it was your unbiased opinion and came from your heart. Good job, keep the videos coming!

It's nice to hear a straight forward unbiased classy video on this subject! I have been obsessed, researching this sport, instructors and schools trying to sift thru all of the in's and outs and in one video you have answered a lot of my question and concerns! Thank you so much!!!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you and good luck. Feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions. Love every minute of this journey you are about to start!

A HUGE THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO OPEN UP LINES OF COMMUNICATION . WITHOUT THE CUTTING .. THIS SPORT NEEDS MUCH MORE OPEN DIALOG BETWEEN PEOPLE WHO ARENT AT EACH OTHERS THROATS ...

For a couple of months I have been watching (many many many) videos of paramotoring and never have I, before now, been able to figure out the question of free vs paid training. All i could do was listen to the bashing of one trainer or another to fill my brain with more questions. That ended the minute your video ended. The truth has finally found my brain. THANK YOU

@michaelringer7060

4 жыл бұрын

Ditto

@goldwingerppg5953

4 жыл бұрын

If a school or instructor is bad mouthing another school/ instructor or recognized certification program run.

David, This video will help so many people make the correct decision for their own situation. I know you have helped me move forward with my PPG pursuit in a way that will make me confident in my decision making process. Thanks you, it is greatly appreciated!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Kurt L thank you and good luck in the sport!

Dave, I found your narrative to be genuine, informative, and respectful of all. I really appreciate a persons ability to comment without personal attacks. Thank you for yours. As I continue to get into this sport I expect to eventually be asked to comment on the training at other sites and I think your post is a good model to follow. I suppose I should get then Risk and Reward video since the ground training depended so heavily on it.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

JimCR120 Thankyou I appreciate it.

Very much appreciate this video, thank you!

At last... the truth behind the hype. Thank you for helping newbies see through the nonsense and get a true picture of what is involved in becoming a fully rounded pilot rather than an experimenter.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Paul Shotan thanks Paul

@paulshotan278

4 жыл бұрын

No, the thanks are all down to you. I recently spoke out about the hype and false claims made Flightjunkies and was shot down in flames by his supporters, abused and treated like an idiot, but that seems to be the way adult "debate" is handled online these days and especially in this sport with a clear rift between the supposedly soft, nerdy "study guys" and the macho he-men self-trained crew. Each to his own but I would hope most people would have learned that there's no such thing as a "free" lunch and very rarely any truly "free" training unless amongst friends. You get exactly what you "pay" for and to be sent into the air without full training and practice is, to my mind, akin to potential manslaughter. Thanks again for your eloquent, well tempered and unbiased report. I'm sure it will help many others and possibly save some lives?

👍🏻 thanks David. I enjoyed hearing about your personal experience with it.

As an owner of a USPPA school in the USA, I am always learning about new material, weather, and safety procedures all the time. I think the most important thing we can learn in this sport, is to be able to learn from each other. Valuable tool. Excellent video! Thank you for sharing.

This is very helpful. You just help me make my decision. I like the idea of having more knowledge.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Scott Ledford glad I could help you with what ever decision you make. Good luck and enjoy every minute of PPG!!!

@scubatrucker6806

4 жыл бұрын

@@David_Wolfe I watched a lot of flight junkies vlogs and always wonder if he's training be worth it or not. One of my problem with Kurt is that he's always bashing other Ppls equipment. But that what's used car salesman do. With your experience with Flight Junkie it sounds like he'll get you in the air but really don't educate you properly on everything you really need to know. It would be smart to do like what you did and spend the money and get probably trained.

Hi Greg, You hit the nail on the had, I trained with Kurt about the same time as you, but did not progress very well due to weather. I am still stuck to me 5 flights but seriously looking to get real training. All your comments are 100% applicable to my training. Love to watch you on your podcast.

@thejp2269

4 жыл бұрын

Would he know if I was playing with myself up there ?

Finally had a chance to watch this. Very interesting, thank you. I've heard similar testimonials from several other people. Well done not bashing anyone, I couldn't have done that lol. 🤙

Thanks for posting this Dave. I believe you have helped allot of future PPG pilots with this post. There is a old saying, "nothing worth value in business is free" or " you get what you pay for. " I've have seen my share of students that have received this free training. In most cases they needed allot of corrective instruction on how to properly foot launch and basic knowledge of safe flying. At one fly-in a few years ago I watched a graduate of the Flight Junkies who attempted over 12 forward launches with no success of getting into the air. He was being laughed at and several other pilots tried to help him. At that point I approached him and his wife and told them that he needed to go get some real training from a qualified trainer. I called Eric Dufour and asked him to work with this individual. What a difference a week of proper training with a qualified instructor makes. This individual is now a very accomplished PPG pilot. Again you get what you pay for!!!! Proper training is worth ever penny. (How much is your life worth?). Here is a link of some of the training you should receive from one of the best if not the best trainer that I know. This video only shows about a quarter of the training Bob received. Thanks again Dave for sharing your post. Welcome to the Brotherhood of PPG

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Tim Gaskins thanks for saving him and pointing him in the right direction.

Great info. Thank you.

Dave, hey bud, I met you today (Saturday) at the Live Oak Fl. fly in, you gave me a Paramotor Crazy sticker and told me to watch this video. Excellent video, straight forward, and itlooks like you got more than I did out of your visit to FJ. I want to go see Kyle in the coming months, I beleive he uses a similar syllabus as youdescribed that covers everything. Thanks again, great to meet you.

Great video and awesome info to consider ! Thanks for sharing Brother!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Captain Rick my pleasure.

Great video. You really hit on some honest truths about the sport and the training available. I am so glad I did the research about schools first. The information and wisdom from a professional instructor is so important, I cant imagine attempting to launch without it. Personally I attended FLYPPG and I cant be more satisfied. From the classroom to the field, they made sure everything I needed to know was covered. Best wishes, See you in the sky...

My instructor trained with him 15 years ago and almost lost his hand. He has since got USPPA certified, but he reuses to talk bad about anyone. I think it’s important for people to expose these pariahs in the sport.

Excellent, honest review. Thanks for the video. I had similar questions about where to train before I picked an instructor. I’m sure your video and sincerity will help newcomers to the sport make their decision.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Wednesday Karting & Flying Club Thank you I appreciate your feedback.

Thank you for this information!!

Thanks for shedding some light on this subject. Thumbs up True wisdom is knowing what you don't know. --Confucius

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Absolutely!

Thanks for a great video. I’m an airplane pilot about to get into the sport. You described essentially the difference between learning to fly the aircraft (easy) vs. learning to be a pilot (much more involved). That syllabus matches the FAA’s ACS (Airman Certification Standards), and that’s a good thing.

Great video. I went to FlyMiPPG the training there was amazing. Justin, Mike, and Bob give you all the tools you need to be a safe proficient PPG pilot. I did months of research before deciding to go with them and I’m so glad I did. My first flight after class I was so nervous, but I followed my training and my flight went great. I would recommend them to anyone. My wife is talking about training with them .

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

John Knecht thank you for your testimony and I have referred many people their way for the same reasons.

I really enjoyed this video thank you for the information

I appreciate your making this video and your honesty. You are very respectful in how you present the information, yet you are truthful. I too was in a rush to get in the air and was mesmerized by Flight Junkies videos, so I contacted Kurt and purchased a Monster Fresh Breeze with a Trike and a 1997 design Power Atlas wing. I ordered my equipment at the end of May 2019 and was told it should arrive in Ohio in 4 to 5 weeks. After the second week in July, I had not heard from Flight Junkies so I called and made arrangements to spent the last full week in July out there for training. I spoke with Kurt the day before I made the 14 hour trip out there and he gave me directions on how to get there. He NEVER mentioned anything about my equipment not being there. I arrived the next day and Kurt was not around,so I called him and he said he would not be available til later in the afternoon. When he finally showed up at the field, all he could say was my equipment hadn’t arrived and I should not have come. I was so infuriated that all I could do was politely ask him to ship the equipment to my home address when it finally arrived, and I left. When the equipment finally arrived at the beginning of September, I used the Flight Junkies videos to assemble it and started kitting on my own. After many videos and reading the PPG Bible by Goins, I took my first “uninstructed “ Flight in April 2020. I’ve had 12 flights since and after a couple of hard landings, I’ve decided that $3,500 is a good price to spend to get REAL TRAINING.

@David_Wolfe

3 жыл бұрын

William Wever I am so sorry to hear that this was your experience and really not at all surprised. Where did you end up going for training how many flights have you made since then?

@williamwever9875

3 жыл бұрын

Paramotor Crazy, so far I’ve got 9 flights in. Plan to go to Fly PPG in Illinois next spring for training. Thanks for the time you put into the videos. Keep it flying!

Nice video David - my experience with Kurt & Flight Junkie training was identical I.e. no where close to what I expected. The fact that I was already a licensed private pilot with 200+ hrs of sailplane experience meant that I didn’t really need much of the missing pieces in his syllabus or lack there of. Still I came away with many holes or gaps in my training - but still I did learn how to takeoff & land. Thanks for being kind and complementary on the good aspects of Flight Junkies and at the same honest and accurate about what you don’t get from free training.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

ppgbobfather Thanks Bob. I have heard much the same from many Flight Junkies but as I said in the video I only wanted to speak for myself.

I am planning to take up the sport and I had decided a while back that I will go to a school and learn as much as I can because when something goes wrong you are your only solution. I have jumped in the military and civilian so I am a bit familiar with parashoots and heights but I would never do this without some good training. The one thing that scares me when watching is the SIV training videos so that is not something I am looking forward to doing but I do recognize that it will have to be done someday. Great video. Keep safe.

Perfect! Right now I am a wannabee. This was perfect. Thank You!

Hi Dave and these are my comments. I like you have watched countless videos and again like you am drawn in to flight junkies. I was supposed to start training local here in SW Florida but due to rainy season and airport closer from same and now unexpected arm and hand surgeries and upcoming trip my training won't start until mid November at the earliest. The great thing I fortunately have been welcomed by PPG GORILLA and Ground and Sky Pirates and drive 90 minutes each way to help and learn from them. This I believe has been a great learning experience and has answered many question. One thing though I still like the Fesh Breeze equipment but seeing the Moster 185 has me continuously looking at equipment. I really take to heart all your comments and this great video. I also subscribe to paramotor nation and support resurgence ppg which again was lead to by PPG GORILLA. Thanks again for one of the best informative vides.

@dogofwisdom7945

4 жыл бұрын

You are better off having friends mentor and train you than Kurt.

EXCELLENT and HONEST. THANK YOU!!!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

brent nevius Thanks Brent

This is live saving info. I watch and eat ppg, this is first class information made my flight license in Germany for hang gliders and be certified trainer in Germany. All points you speak from clouds, Wetter pattern, safety and rules ar importend not only for you self also to all others sharing the sky. You don’t know the regulations and rules don’t try fly with friends or a group. Stay by your self and don’t bring others in danger. Well done and perfect execution on your info. Thanks and save flying.

It seems to me that you received virtually no training at Flight Junkies. No wonder the training was free!!

Well that was probably the most honest thing I’ve read on KZread regarding PPG. Thanks for not bashing Kirt and flight junkies but rather saying actual facts and your impressions. Every fake keyboard warrior out there should take a lesson and stand up for something using their own name like you guys do. Instead of all the name calling and rhetoric. You guys both deserve a lot of credit for this video and the pinned post by Eagles. Very well done. Very cool! 🤘

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Thanks I appreciate that.

I took Dell Schanze’s training in March last year. I have to say my experience with Dell was much more informative, and was focused mostly on learning the wing. How to handle the wing, and mostly how to feel what the wing is doing, learning not to stall it, so that as you’re flying you know how to react. Essentially teaching muscle memory, so when something weird happens you’re better prepared to react when it truly counts. He spends an hour or two each day as a group going over safety issues, and gotachas that could lead to potential problems. He explains in great detail how the wing functions, what an airfoil is and why it works, and how a soft fabric wing becomes an airfoil. He talks about the engine, but he doesn’t go into great detail about maintenance. I’m personally not really a huge fan of the engine, but I do believe the frame is awesome. The quick release is something I won’t fly without since there’s a fair amount of water where I live. Thinking about the amount of time Dell gives compared to Kurt, well there’s just no comparison. Dell spends all day on site with his students. He stays out as much as 10 hours a day all 10 days, and never takes a break except to go to the bathroom. He is constantly imparting information to his students and is never rude as he continues moving from one student to the other while they’re either kiting or leaning to kite their wing. He supplies all of the equipment, and has a large assortment of wings. Newbies start kiting on 14 meter wings and graduate to larger wings as they progress, and their skills improve. He does his training at a beach were there’s always a 5 to 15 mph wind that is somewhat laminar. Some people argue that it doesn’t really help you with zero wind launches, but to compensate he goes out early some mornings with little to no wind as well. Mostly what he’s teaching people in the first week is to understand the wing, and how it reacts to inputs like brake inputs, or weight shift. How to become comfortable with controlling a 22 meter or larger wing with confidence even in medium to high wind. Understanding how it feels when the wing wants to move one way or another, and how to react. Things I think are less a great about Dell’s training would be his tendency to badmouth others in the sport. I’m never a fan of that sort of behavior, and even less so in a professional setting. Granted some in the sport open themselves up to critical comments through their own actions, and people are going to comment, but I don’t think is has to be done in a demeaning or belittling way. Ground school is pretty much non-existent since Dell just gives everyone a recording of this ground school, and if you’re like me you’ll start falling asleep within 5 or 10 minutes of listening to a recording. He says he does it like that because he doesn’t want to take away from people getting hands on training as much as possible. I get that, but classroom training is invaluable especially when you’re talking about a sport that has the potential of putting yourself, and other aviators at risk when you don’t follow the rules. All in all I thought it was good training, but I’m considering taking another class from someone else to get a different perspective or to establish different skills. Thank you for putting this video out there. It’s a great eye opener for those of us who considered Flight Junkies.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Brad Richmond That was a fantastic review about another instructor who is under fire quite a bit. I really appreciate your honesty and how you review your experience. I hope as people read through all of these comments that they don’t skip yours. I will be talking about this to a lot of people and mentioning it this Sunday night on Our Paramotor Nation. THANK YOU AGAIN!

@fairbanksairriders

4 жыл бұрын

It’s been interesting to watch the evolution of paramotoring over the last 20 years. In general paramotoring is much easier and safer today, thanks in large part to Jeff Goin author of the Powered Paragliding Bible. Some people need to be more thankful for what Jeff has accomplished. Hopefully paramotoring will continue to become more accessible with self kiting single surface gliders and electric motors with ducted or enclosed propellers. Smooth Skies and then we Fly!

@jimcr120

4 жыл бұрын

As a newb who has only done some kiting and an introductory course in a sport where the risk is real, insight is so invaluable. I suspected as much about Dell. He obviously has skill and can impart it. He also obviously has an opinions but I find his style of articulating them distasteful. I really appreciate a persons ability to comment without personal attacks. Thank you for yours.

@Brian.Garceau

4 жыл бұрын

@Fairbanks Air Riders Great point. One of the first things that I did after rejoining FB after about 15 years away from it, was to seek out, friend and then thank Jeff Goin for authoring that book. I read it over several times, went back and carefully studied sections on ground-handling as I waited for training (I also bought a wing and harness ahead of class so I could practice ground-handling over the summer - also highly recommended!) That book is INVALUABLE. Just as useful is the manual that comes with your wing.

@gregpearsall3344

4 жыл бұрын

Brad Richmond hi mate from down under. Great to hear a honest review on Dell, all I ever hear is people ragging him out. Sounds like he does have some good characteristics in his training. Thanks for the insight into this guys training.

Thanks for sharing your experiences. First I am 59 years old. I already flew Fixed wing, Hang Glider trikes, PPC, & Hang Gliders before I trained on Paramotors. I trained with Jiri at Paragliding Unlimited in Pierron IL. He trains at My field Gateway Airpark. I watched them fly PPG for several years. I final had to find out what it was all about. Jiri has a through sibyls. His training is complete. He provides everything you need to learn and make solo flights. He does tow training with both foot launch and Trikes/ Quads. It was a great experience. I made my first PPG solo March 23 this year. Did I mention it was a great experience. I have been flying PPG and learning ever since. I have about 60 flights and about 45 hours in as of now . I am looking forward to many more years of flying thanks to Jiri at Paragliding Unlimited. This is the most fun you can have with your clothes on and sometimes off... OK shorts on. I really enjoy your videos. It was great meeting you at Dave Purdin's fun fly.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

It was great meeting you to Kieth. Thanks for sharing your amazing experience with us!!

Great job David. This will save a lot of people countless hours and dollars. You did a great job of staying in your lane and being fair. More fair than Kurt deserves considering how he is in his videos. Still, some people will see it as a bargain and that's OK. I saw you having as much fun as anyone else at Bad Apples. Now you know what you didn't know but don't know now what you don't know. We never stop learning.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

VB Willy Never stop learning!!!! Thanks!

Nice honest review. I bet this will make people really think about who trains them how to do a sport that can kill you if not done properly. Great video

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Mike S thank you.

First off great job Dave on the video I think it is very important for anyone looking to get into this sport to have a video such as yours available to help them make an informed decision. I also want to thank you for the invitation to share my experiences with your audience. I was also trained by Kurt at flight junkies almost 6 yrs ago now, and it breaks my heart to hear he still conducts his training in the same manner he did 6 years ago :( you said it best in the video, as a new pilot you dont know what you dont know.. and what you dont know can kill you in this sport. Knowing what I know now, I can without a doubt tell you that the me, a rookie pilot of 6 years ago should have never been in the air and flying with the limited knowledge I got from flight junkies, it was dangerous and reckless. I also never got a syllabus, I was never taught weather, kiting, airspace, legalities, safety or maintenance. I never even was shown the video risk and rewards during my initial training, I only watched the video when I went back months later because I felt I needed some more training and seen a couple of his current students watching it, and I asked what is that ?? And he told me I should have watched that video when I was here the first time... like I messed up and it was somehow my fault he didnt show me the video lol :) anyone who has watched my videos will know Kurt absolutely does not like me, simply because I was honest with my opinions in my videos and he is not one to be told he is wrong, I didnt share with youtube many of mine and Kurt's private conversations on the phone but believe me .. he is not the kind and caring person he portrays in his sales pitch...he has a dark side for sure. I have over the years and will continue to talk with anyone who contacts me about my experiences at flight junkies, just message me I'll always answer...7 days a week between 8am and midnight lol ;) I know your video was very unbiased and you didnt want to persuade people one way or another, but I'll say it loud and clear.... please dont train at flight junkies !!! Spend the extra money and get trained properly please... your life is worth more than money please....you dont know what you dont know... but you need to know the things you will learn with proper training. Dave thank you again for creating this platform for people to share their experiences with each othe..see ya in the skies guys..Scary Berry out !!! ;)

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Bart Berry thank you for sharing your experiences and appreciate you taking my call anywhere in the 50 states!

@gregpearsall3344

4 жыл бұрын

Bart Berry well said mate.

@awaitingthetrumpetcall4529

4 жыл бұрын

Bart Berry, I've watched some of your videos. What I remember is the problem with the fuel leak and the amount of time devoted to repair as opposed to flying. Thanks for the education. I'll leave it at that.☺

@richardludwig8389

4 жыл бұрын

Bart, you and Dave Wolf are absolutely correct about training. Hey how about we all meet and you can train me. Kurt and I had a falling out when I wanted to video my training. I still don't have a flight junkies# yet. I'll probably end up self training.

@n2daair23

3 жыл бұрын

Sounds EXACTLY like the so called training I received at BLACKHAWK PARAMOTORS!!! No syllabus, no trainers around most of the day, no air space knowledge, didn’t even tell me about applying a little bit of brake pressure to help with your launch. CRAZY STUPID!!!

Nice video, great info!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

JT Wardle thank you.

thanks for your video , I love you

Great video, I've just done my Paramotor training at home in the UK . I did my training at the Parajet factory in Dorset with their recommended instructors and it was superb. It was run over a week to cover the ground handling, air law, weather, motor etc with our first flights scheduled for the last day subject to the weather. Unfortunately on our last day the weather wasn't perfect (these were the only conditions they deemed suitable for our first flights) so we didn't get to fly. We did however arrange another week with the same instructors in Spain to finish off the course and get our first flights in. The qualification was to a set standard called the Club Pilot rating which is a syllabus devised by the sports governing body in the UK the BHPA (British Hang gliding and Paragliding Association) I really don't think the training could have been any better and I certainly would not have felt confident enough to fly with anything less than this. Personally I would rather pay for the training and get a thorough understanding of every aspect of the sport rather than be rushed into the air because the trainer doesn't want to invest their time in you. Thanks! Mark

Thanks for an honest video. Telling it straight is much more important than being concerned with offending someone. People have become too thin skinned. The bottom line is that we are talking about peoples lives. It is much more important for us to pass on our real experiences rather than sugar coat things or not mention them at all. If we can give a glowing review of a person or place of business, then we have every right to give a scalding review as well...... as long as it is honest and unbiased. Thanks again, your experience is greatly appreciated. Stay safe.

great vid mate, Thank You

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

The Flying Swagman thank you brother!

Great video David! You nailed it 😁

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Brandon McCloud Thanks Brando I appreciate it.

I think this video will save Lives as well as $ , helped me rethink how I want to enjoy the Sky 🌎

Good video. I think each student is unique. The more mature you are and the more wisdom you bring to the table the better. I used to fly a single engine DA20 Katana. I had a number of instructors working with me at the flight school because they were essentially on a waiting list to get a chance to be hired by the airlines. So, they would be there temporarily and then they would be gone. My one best instructor was the one that told me something like this: "I'm here to make sure you don't get hurt because of what you don't know. Sure, I can and will teach you to fly, but you're on your own private journey to learn to be a SAFE pilot. I'll be the guide but you must be the one to come up with and ask the questions".

I trained at an Aviator alliance school and am very happy with the thoroughness of the training. At the time, it felt like alot to absorb but in hindsight, I know i am a much safer and more confident pilot. Very good review!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

MrCrdub I agree in many ways. FlyMiPPG is also an Aviator Alliance school.

@grahamlockley4435

4 жыл бұрын

@@DellSchanze OK Mr Schanze, how about you publish your syllabus ? Let us know EXACTLY what SUPER TRAINING is going to deliver ? No, didn't think you would, can't have verifiable information get in the way of good troll rant. Cant let reality get in the way of selling outdated equipment. Meh, the BS is strong with this one.

Wow ! I was really considering goin over there to FJ. Thank you so much buddy !!! I’m in Southern Utah (Saint George) hope to find a good and affordable school around here. …and I will buy the equipment trough them anyways I guess 🤷‍♂️ Again thank for a excellent informative video.

@David_Wolfe

Жыл бұрын

backcountryppg.com/products/training?gclid=CjwKCAjw1ICZBhAzEiwAFfvFhPFFfgNRr9ik9L0JWXPkPWAtWI8QajG9rYKbR-tWvg272ZAHuD5jlRoCkz4QAvD_BwE

Great video!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

John Rivera Thank John!

Thanks for doing this video David. I was about to do the FJ training route and now I am looking elsewhere.

I trained with Kurt over 15 years ago. Your training, with Kurt, was ten times BETTER than I got.

This video has helped me see through the the smoke thanks

Awesome upload.

What would be hilarious is if Captain Kurt had you watch a Dell Schanze training video for Kurt's training.

Trained with FlyMIPPG. They are great. Nothing but good things to say.

The funny thing is you can get free training but it's all about who you know, you got people who don't care about others and you have some that do, but people that help for free that truly care is a rare thing! And your son in his hands shmm, I have a son, your video inspired me to help others with good information on this topic, glad you and your son are still flying and safe!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

avugiak thank you and blue skies to you always!

I'm a former/lifetime student of FlyMIPPG, and I can tell you my experience was far beyond what I expected. Not only do you get top-notch training, you become part of the family. Some of my favorite memories were watching other people go through the process and fly, not just myself. I've made some lifelong friends, and learned how to fly safely. The most important thing you can do in this sport is always be a student and learn as much as you can. You definitely get what you pay for, and so much more. Thanks for the video. Welcome to the family. Hope to share the sky with you someday.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

thank you for your comment. I hope we get to fly together in the future. I did have the opportunity to fly with several Michigan guys this year at the Dave Purdin Fly In.

@off_road_rider

4 жыл бұрын

I am attending the MI class in July 👍🏻

enjoyed your video from Birmingham Al.

WOW, excellent unbiased video Dave! Free Training, You get what you pay for. I would like to add a few things that happened to me or that I witnessed. People may not know but I was a Flightjunkie too. I encourage all Flightjunkie's too also leave a comment about their experience at Flightjunkie's or any other school or trainer they had. This can only benefit the PPG community. To start with, I will quickly give my background why I got into the sport. It was around June of 2013 and my son Derrick, sent me a link on my cell phone for a video from a guy from Florida state flying a with a motor and paragliding wing. My son said "Dad, we gotta do this." "Its called powered paramotoring." My son and I always did different sports together, Motor-cross, Surfing, Snowboarding/skiing, etc. Anything to have fun we did it together. I told him we should do it soon. We made some loose plans to go see it in person. Unfortunately, my son at age 25 passed away on 9-11-13. He died of a heart attack in his sleep. At that point and for many more years, I didn't feel like doing anything, let alone trying a new sport. Years passed and I watched some more videos online once in a while. That's when I came across the Flightjunkie videos. I was starting to get interested again and I loved the idea about free training. Hell anything free was ok to me because I was working a lot, paying a lot of bills and I didn't have much extra spending money. I decided to call Kurt at Flightjunkie's. He answered the phone and he gave me a good sales pitch. The only thing stopping me was the money. Then Kurt said he does "Layaway". $1000 down and you have a year to pay it off. Well now I was really interested. I saved up and sent my down payment around Feb 2018. Once I did that, I got very serious about saving and finding money to buy my Fresh Breeze Equipment. I will say this: If not for Flightjunkie's free training and law-away plan, I probably would not have got into this sport. Saving $12.5K was not an easy thing to do for me. Fast forward a few months, I took vacation and went to Ohio. When I got there I was excited to get up in the air. By then I had watched hundreds of videos and also watched Kurts instructional videos multiple times each. As Dave stated in his video, we assembled our equipment the first day. It was then that I realized that the 4 bolts needed to mount the comfortable (eyes rolling) "boat seat:" to the Flypod were missing. Kurt told me to go buy some in town at the local hardware store. I couldn't understand why he didn't provide the bolts and why I had to go get them? I got the feeling he would have eventually got around to buying the bolts himself but I also felt that if I waited for him to do it, it would have greatly delayed my first flight. So i went and bought the bolts with money from my own pocket. When you arrive there, all you do is think about your first flight. It's an obsession. You are willing to do anything, once you see your brand new equipment and other people taking their first flights, it's like a drug. You are in a great mood, period. Continued:

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

13 Eagles PPG Thanks for sharing your perspective as well. This is great information for everyone coming in to our amazing sport! Thank you again for taking the time be as detailed as you were and putting so much thought in to what you wanted to say. It shows how much you care about other people.

@dogofwisdom7945

4 жыл бұрын

@@CFP246 If you have 150 trike flights there is no reason you can't foot launch. All you need to do is find a couple competent pilots to Mentor you.

@cjmallory40

4 жыл бұрын

Well first and foremost my condolence go out to you and your family about the son. I cannot even begin to imagine what it would feel like to lose a child. Both of my girls are schoolteachers one teach fifth grade, and the other teach kindergarten and my son is in the Air Force in Langley Virginia I cannot imagine what it would be like to lose a child. So my deepest deepest condolence for you and your family I think that was the hardest thing that I’ve read out of everything that you said publicly.. and good for you for landing back on your feet and pursuing one of the dreams that you and your son set out to do it sound like you guys had a very good relationship. I must say this is very hard for me to see this video because I was a flightjunkie Kool-Aid drinker until I read your testimony. I’m a Christian and what’s even more disturbing to me is that, I’m starting to wonder, when he prayed before the students fly I wonder if that is all for show now. Very disturbing.... for me.. That was one of the things that I liked about Captain Kurt but now I’m starting to wonder if it’s all smoke and mirrors. I am very interested in the sport and I always wonder what it’s like behind the scenes at flightjunkies. I’m with you, he has a very good sales pitch in fact I wouldn’t be surprise if he can sell snow to an Eskimo he has a very good sales pitch. I was a student pilot back in the late 90s I have about 40 hours of flight time on my belt I have cross-country solo, all of my training was in a piper tomahawk however I never did get my pilots certificate for a whole multitude of reasons at the time. Fast forward to now this sport intrigues the devil out of me and training is everything. After Dave went over the syllabus in the video I guess I will spend that $3500 at the school in Florida. Anyway thanks for the insight this was very helpful I know which direction I need to go going forward. The only other thing now I don’t know is what motor will be best to buy because after your video now I am questioning everything flightjunkies has put out there. Again thanks for the inside and my deepest condolence.

@mikobleble2256

4 жыл бұрын

Hi son I now feel like I missed growing up with a dad who was as adventurous as you are. And if I hadn’t abused my body with those damn cigarettes for far too many years I would be flying with my number one son, cheers, A dad

@CFP246

4 жыл бұрын

bruce sweatman III probably not a good idea to reply to posts when your high? 😂🤣

I learned to fly at the Blackhawk ranch with my believe it or not Flat Top Ninja. I made the mistake of purchasing gear before I completed training. We covered the full syllabus and lots and lots of ground school, endless kiting practice, weather training, airspace, tow line training, set up and pack up, hang point, engine care and maintenance, well before we even took our first flights. Then once we were in the air we did endless touch and goes. I still feel the pain of all that hard work but I am so glad we were pushed as hard as we were for those 9 days. I really gotta thank blackhawk for giving me all the tools I need to finally get my butt in the air. They were completely willing to train me on gear that was not there own and were completely unbiased about it. Training was $2500 at Blackhawk at the time for me.

Just finished up my training with Kyle O. Was pretty cool as I'd watched so many of his videos for the 6 months prior. Mark and Alayna Huneycutt visited that weekend. Got to hang out with them for a couple of days. Had no idea who they were until we got back home. Made for a great week.

@David_Wolfe

3 жыл бұрын

That’s awesome welcome to the Paramotor and family.

After seeing this is am so happy I signed up for the class with Mike Cotter!

Great video...very diplomatic..LOL.. I will say this, I like Kurt..he is a real character..but no everyones 'cup of tea" I am also a flight junkie. I agree 100% with your comments on the training at the FJ school. I expected more...sadly I only managed 2 flights in December 2018 at the Florida local due to high winds. I will say this, I like his videos..I find them very informative and a great resource. Thankfully I am not an 18 year old full of piss and vinegar but a mature 63 year old who had his PPL at age 17..and spent 21 years jumping out of USAF air craft with the 82nd Abn Div as a Parachute Rigger...some sky diving and some hang gliding. So safety / weather were not new topic for me. I bought and read the PPG Bible before going to Fla..I watched all kurts video's multiple times. I opted for the Fly Pod and Simonini 202 with the Air design easy medium wing. I am a very fit 150 lb 63 year old but decided running with a motor on my back was not for me..and that triking would better in the long run as I aged!.. I did my research on Fresh Breeze and liked the German engineering / quality. So here I am 10 months on and not flown yet...I have a field nr me and now the weather has calmed down I will start again. I am looking at doing some formal training in the near future.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Martin Fano sorry it has taken me this long to reply. Based on your aviation background you probably did not need more extensive background that I did so FJs may have been a good fit for you. I am really sorry to hear that you have not flown yet. If you reach out to me on Facebook Messenger and let me know where in the country you live, I can try and put you in touch with some people who fly in your area and possible help you complete your training. Thanks for your comments.

Good job brother!

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Jason Rooks - PPG Thank my friend

My opinion is if you can’t afford quality training, keep saving. It should be budgeted into your aviation dreams. Flying is unforgiving of mistakes and training is key to reducing the mistakes you make. FlyMIPPG is awesome. I trained there too. They genuinely treat you like family.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Very well said!

You should see captains rap sheet. I assume that is why he misspells his name on person. Super long arrest record, domestic violence, theft, etc. disorder conduct, long long list

About 2,000 hours of KZread research, hundreds of hours of kiting and hundreds of flights has taught me how important training is. My school will be up and running this year.

Thanks for your sharing, I am 75yrs old flying is my one and only Bucket list.. money is tight, sounds like I should take up a cheaper hobby LIKE KNITTING, wow! I'm to old. Thanks for your honesty. Safe flying my friend. 😁🤙🤙

@David_Wolfe

3 жыл бұрын

Jack Sword Please don’t give up on the dream. This is no more expensive then getting a motorcycle

I taught myself 1993 without issues. Learned to pg off a mountain then added the backpack motor 🙃

IN life beware of people who saythings are FREE cause they are not. Or they are INTELIGENT cause they are not. Or they are the BEST cause they are not. Good, best and intelligent people don't have too

Well at least one thumbs down, was surely expected! You Sir David, are a man of intense integrity. The honest and direct personal report of your experiences as a flight junkie will absolutely save some lives. I first witnessed PPG in 1998 during recovery rehabilitation, after a motor vehicle accident had me at a life changing point in my teens. (Left BKA was the outcome of a leisurely ride to work one day) At the time I had wished there was a way I could get more information about what I had witnessed fly by the care center I was living at for the year. Little over 11 months was spent there, before I was able to walk out the front doors. Years went by and "that thing" I witnessed fly by had been forgotten a few times in between. Nearly twenty years after the initial sighting, I too was drawn into the flight junkies youtube videos and the enticement of free and unlimited training in all fifty states. This is something that is hard to pass up, "Is this guy for real?" I asked myself. So I found every video I could on flight junkies, along the way I realized that the bashing and methods shown in the capt's videos was slowly turning me off to the further pursuit of training. Not just from him but almost altogether, as a whole. Something just rubbed me the wrong way with the never ending message I heard over and over in every video! Thankfully I decided to dig deeper into the possibility of respectful and structured training options. I had found there was an almost endless amount of training options available around the country, and it seemed the costs varied enough to fit many budgets. There was something that kept coming to mind, that I was once told "the most important decision you will make about education is where to get it" In the end and after much more research I had decided to take the year and a half wait list for Aviator PPG. A long time to wait, but patience for proper and structured training was something I was willing to do. Only 6 months went by when I was contacted by Aviator and asked if I would take the First course of the new year in. It was on! and in only a third of the time expected to wait. I do have to admit there is one other guy where I live that flies a trike. I knew him, but only as a GA pilot. Never knew he flies ppg. I saw him one day and expressed my excitement for upcoming training. He offered some of his time and a wing to show me some kiting. Obviously I was most grateful to take advantage of that. This proved most beneficial, combined with the PPG bible series training was something more of a review and fine tuning. With a main dish of you dont know what you dont know. Training at Aviator was solidly structured, patient, and all instructors and visiting instructors where extremely calm and thorough from first day to last. We went through the syllabus without haste and if anything was not clearly understood by an individual or as a class, it was reviewed again without any feelings of irritation or intimidation from peers. Never was there any directive of sales or bashing of other products not sold or carried by them. In fact we had been encouraged to try all the gear we could before making a decision to buy any gear at all. Each and every student and instructor felt completely confident in one another by first flights, this makes for a far better experience by all involved, and as a sport in whole. When the PPG community says that this sport is "truly life changing" It absolutely is referred too this way in the most positive way. The Bashers, one uppers, haters, and owl kickers will always be the negative side of PPG. But its this positive message of honesty, integrity, and community that is encouraged here which makes the truly life changing experiences possible for all future students. To that Mr.Wolfe, We tip our hats to you! Thank You! Support Resurgence PPG Support our Troops

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Craig Taylor I am overwhelmed. I don’t feel I worthy of all this praise especially coming from a hero of mine. Thank for you kind words but even more so for your story of your background and your experience getting in to PPG. Forever supporting our troops!

I am a Brit and the rules here are pretty much the same here. I can strap a paramotor to my back and go fly without any training or insurance. But you, with your sincerity, have convinced me to pay the price and learn to fly properly.

Dave your video was very helpful I was a flight junkie Kool-Aid drinker until I heard your testimony I will be rethinking everything now thanks.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Where ever you go, what ever trainer is the right fit for you I wish you the best of luck and feel free to reach out if there is anything I can do as you embark on the greatest journey!!!

@niconico3907

4 жыл бұрын

Flying sports are not a thing you can be cheap about. Dont save money on quality gear and training, your life will depend on both. I bought the same reserve parachute the test pilots use when testing new wings to certify them. I think they know what they are talking about.

Good video. You get my sub.

I just started training. I've paid the $3,000+ to begin. I've been twice, but the weather has canceled a couple weekends. In the meantime, I've learned about "The PPG Bible" and found more affordable instruction options. I wish I'd purchased the PPG Bible & read it before beginning.

i'm from the uk .I had very good training £1,300 you could train 7 day a week lots of syllabus to. so lucky to have him

My 12-year-old son (Parajet Maverick Atom 80) and I (51-year-old and future Fly Products Vertigo trike flyer) took training at Lone Star Paramotors in Texas this past August 2019. Ron Toran and Randall "Parker" are the two main instructors. Ron is the owner and Parker is a former sky diving instructor. The 10-day training we received was excellent, they followed the syllabus, had several classroom studies and still plenty of ground handling, towing and flying. Also, they are an affiliate of Aviator PPG in case that helps anyone, that was originally why I chose them. We live 12 hours away from LoneStar Paramotors and passed 2 other PPG schools along the trip just to use them. What is more interesting is Ron was also a"Flight Junkie 800 something or another" and may had some similar experiences it sounds like, but what is truly amazing is the fact Ron has been training the trainers for Aviator PPG in Florida. Ron is a retired 2nd-grade teacher and an excellent instructor with the patience of Job. Another instructor is Jeff Fletcher (A retired U-2 Pilot). Jeff was a student of Ron's turned trainer, his stories are worth the price of admission. We trained on the beach in Corpus Cristi for 2 days, trained close to Austin for the remainder at Kitty Hawk field. Overall it was a wonderful experience. {EDIT - I was not once hit up to buy any of the products while we were training, no strong-arm tactics, no pressure, and all gear was provided with the training. We decided to purchase my sons while we were there and I ordered my trike a month or so after, still waiting for it to arrive} --Also thanks for the video, you just gained a new sub...

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

Thank you for subscribing. I just met Ron last week at the Suwannee fly in.. He is a class act through and through!!

I knew there was something missing at FJ...i watched dozens of videos but not even one about basics, you confirmed my suspicions about the training. i am a private pilot for almost 20 years, even knowing what a know about weather, aerodynamic regulations, etc. i definitely would like to learn every thing about the new animal it will take me off the ground.

Even though captain Kurt says free training, but isn’t he putting the price into the gear you buy? 👍🏻✌️

@timgarvey3870

4 жыл бұрын

The best way I can answer this is-- Call Sothern Skies and get a price on a unit (not the whole set-up) then call Kurt and get a price. I bet it will be the same price. Yes, he gets them for wholesale and that's where he makes $ . Southern Skies and others will still tack on training. I think

@grahamlockley4435

4 жыл бұрын

Look up TANSTAAFL

@goldwingerppg5953

4 жыл бұрын

Tony Marzano that’s exactly right. He appeals to human nature of greed, just like any good con man would.

@bobbysisco320

3 жыл бұрын

He’s selling the Flypod for I think $2300,00 I can tell you, from my review it’s way over priced and little thought of quality and safety were put into it. Might have $150-$200 in material and labor.

Oh Dave, you're way too nice. That kurt pos will get someone hurt bad someday. I know this will help some ppl to stay away. He has such an acidic personality, I don't see how ppl consider him in the first place. Great video... well said.

Thank you for the video. Training and selling are the two hardest topics in this sport. I have had paid training with two different instructors. I can say that it was like two entirely different experiences. I did learn something different from both. One was Planet PPG and the other with Dell, super training. Seems like I have a way of picking the worse weather to train in. Lots of rain and wind both times that I trained. I learned a lot more classroom tpe information at Planet PPG. It was very helpful. However, I received a lot more hands on training with Dell. I felt that classroom training was really just up to me with Dell. Not much information on part 103, motor knowledge, weather knowledge, or just rules in general. But I did learn to kite well, but not a whole lot of flight time due to weather. Still worth the money for me. Amazing how many different flighting styles there are out there and different ways people train. I have a very heavy FB 122 and a flattop. If you buy a FB it will be worth half as much as soon as you get it. Very little demand for them. Check used prices if you don't believe me. Kirk never mentions that. They are super heavy units. If I were to buy now, I would go for something as light and strong as possible. With electric start and a clutch. Just me.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

David H great Feedback. Thanks

So in the end you list Learn to fly in a proper sense ove3r the easier way to get up there. I have but one question. Equipment.. Is the Fresh Breeze worth it or there are better packages out there?

@David_Wolfe

Жыл бұрын

I would not buy another FB. I had a few issues with mine. Very difficult to start in cold weather. Very heavy. I have almost no issues with my Moster. It is very reliable, not very heavy and much easier to transport.

Im a flight Junkie #764. I was trained by Kurt in 2013..I was happy with my experience. I traveled from Ohio to Kurt's Florida home in February . I had 4 training days as a foot launcher and I was his only student during that time.. All my training was hands with lots of kiting and wing control. I was pretty sore and my arms were black and blue from doing forward launch practice. I've had good and bad landings and takeoffs over the years and the freshbreeze has taken a beating and still runs like a champ...I think because Kurt is pushing everyone to buy the flypod he is skipping alot of the training plus training several students at one time,.I was on a tight budget and I got out of it what I wanted and I'm still enjoying flying at age 54.

what a gorgeous person you are. Striking eyes, and personality to match.

Thank You.

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

F Hayes thanks for watching.

So, With a year of experience what is you opinion of the fresh breeze PPG you purchased first. Would you buy it again? Why or why not?

@David_Wolfe

4 жыл бұрын

William Parson great question. I still fly it with the trike. I have had two motor outs, one caused by the breathing tube on the fuel tank sealing which was never taught as a part of my pre-flight check, and the other because the Stater was saturated with oil inside of the engine. Also I had the pull chord somehow get jammed around the shaft in the engine. Other than that it has been fairly reliable and I am happy with it however it is he-he-heavy and at my body mass there is no way for me to foot launch it. Southern Skies is great help for getting parts and answering maintenance questions. It is a good motor but I believe there is no BEST motor. The all have positives and negatives. As of now I am thinking I may plan to sell the motor and trike next year and get a second foot launching unit for my son but we will see. Thanks again for asking.

I am so thankful that you made this video I've talked to Curt on the phone inquiring about getting a trike then I got to wondering he says free training but yet he wants 15600 for a trike whereas the motor only cost a little over 5 grand crazy and then he says he's the best number one trainer in the US I'm glad you said what he really does thank you so very much so I can make a better informed decision. Plus another thing turned me off on the trike he sells he must make it himself it has just a boat seat in it thank you

@David_Wolfe

3 жыл бұрын

My pleasure... feel free to reach out to me if I can help in any way.

I'm also a flight flunkie that had to pay for some actual training elsewhere!

I, too, attended Flight Junkies school for the same reasons you did and with a similar overall experience. I did not buy Kurt's gear, so my training was $1,000, which I view as reasonable. I took the class in Florida. There were other students when I arrived and Kurt had been working with them for a week, but progress was slow due to terrible weather. Kurt lets you show up anytime, so he has a group of students with varying levels of progress in their training. Kurt has no help, so it's hard for him to keep track of who has done what. In our group there were trike flyers and foot launchers. I assisted in the assembly of 5 or more Fresh Breeze rigs and I have to agree they are good quality units. I thought the trike was a little flimsy, but I never used one so take that for what it's worth. Kurt utilized the Risk & Reward video as part of the ground school. I believe he did utilize a syllabus, but the ground school was lacking compared to additional training I obtained. He did not cover air space regulations at all. He did spend spend a good amount of time talking about wings and flying safety tips. He also utilized some of his own videos. Because I'm a foot launcher and others were as well, Kurt took us to a beautiful park with ample space and worked with us on kiting. His kiting instruction alone was worth the $1k I paid for training. (my opinion) Kurt's style of teaching is a bit like boot camp, but I didn't mind it at all. If he was yelling about something it was because I was doing something that was unsafe or or I was not following the teaching and was instilling in myself bad habits. There were a few times that the group waited outside of Kurt's home in the morning. I agree with David's assessment that Kurt appeared to value his time more than other people's. However, Kurt hauled us around in the Flight Junkies shuttle if we needed anything and he devoted most of the entire day, everyday to his students. A one-man operation is bound to encounter a few interruptions throughout the day due to phone calls and life in general. Kurt is serious about safety and would not permit flying or kiting if he thought the weather was not suitable. He does try to get you in the air as soon as possible so that you can experience a first flight. He has a good communications radio and did an excellent job walking me through my first flight. He was as excited as I was about my first flight and he appeared that way for all of us. Overall, I felt Kurt truly cares about his students and has a great ability to teach. In my view, there is a lack of organization to the process which in inherent in his allowing students to arrive whenever is convenient for the student. I did not get a flyable day until 5 or 6 days in due to the terrible weather. I don't fault Kurt for that. I had to leave before I could get another flight. Kurt told me I was not ready to fly on my own and wanted me to come back so he could work with me more. I never felt that he got his money and was eager to get rid of me. I ended up getting training near my home at Apex PPG because I was not ready to fly after my Florida trip to train with Kurt. If I had more time with Kurt, maybe he could have gotten me to a level of competence to fly solo. I do not remain in contact with Kurt but I will always consider him a friend due to the time spent together and feel absolutely welcome to go back if if ever needed. All said, would I recommend free training for the FJ experience, or would I recommend paying for a more structured environment? I would recommend paying for a more comprehensive course, no question about it. If you like the Fresh Breeze gear and you can get some free training, do it, but don't have unrealistic expectations about the level of training you'll get. I really wish Kurt was part of a more organized program because he is an excellent instructor when it comes to the field work.

Like you, I trained under Capt Kurt. I was sold on his sales pitch, and yes, I did my due diligence. I liked the idea of free training for life! It was much better sounding than all the other sites where training was any where from 1,500 to 4,00. I contacted him, probably a year before purchasing, mostly because I didn't trust anyone with that kind of money, secondly, I wasn't sure I really wanted to put that much money into something that was just for fun. I had learned to fly single engine fixed wing airplanes about twelve years prior and loved it but the cost of renting a plane and fuel cost skyrocketed from 35 dollars soaking wet to 300 and hour! I chose not to fly anymore and had looked in to purchasing a hang glider, and actually did some hang gliding in Chattanooga, Tennessee. I loved hang gliding but alas, I live in North Florida, so I decided that hang-gliding wasn't the best choice for me. I happened upon a group of PPG pilots near Gainesville and was immediately mesmerized, which only stoked my desires to go forward with purchasing a unit. I did some research on line and found a lot of really great things about Flight Junkies and an equal not so good things, but nobody who trained had any feed back that wasn't great, so I chose to go forward. I contacted my banking institution and got a loan for the amount, had a check cut and sent it to Kurt. I was nervous but at least a certified check could be traced. After speaking to Kurt about the bad knee and my age, 53, I decided that a trike was my best fit. So I left it up to him and he ordered me the monster Fresh Breeze and the Xl Wing, I did weigh 240 pounds. I made arrangements to come up to Ohio, since I didn't want to wait until he returned to Daytona. I arrived and he allowed me to stay in his bunk house, which I thought was very nice. I think maybe an air conditioner would have been nice for the day time hours, I almost sweat to death, lol. The nights were very cool and comfortable and I had plenty of covers. I always got up before the sun and I didn't mind taking a shower outside, it helped to wake me up. I would gather my things together and wait for Kurt to come out. The first day he had me in the shed watching a video. He then took me to his living room and we sat and talked, he shared about his life and some intimate details about his conversion to Jesus Christ and though he seemed to be open about his life. We eventually went to the hanging device he had and he fitted me into the trike and where I would hang my wing. I was getting excited but also very nervous. I eventually made it on the field, I had my first launch and I got up and flew around the field and landed, he came running over to interview me after safely arriving on the ground. I was elated, nervous and terrified all at the same time. He put me on video and I of course touted the training and the experience. I flew several times through ought the seven days I was there, but not as much as I wished I could, however the weather did prevent me from flying many times. At the end of the week, I felt comfortable enough to do this on my own when I returned to Florida. I offered to take him and his new wife out for dinner, after all they had been very gracious and kind to me. We did eat out, but Kurt secretly picked up the tab. I enjoyed getting to know Kurt and his lovely wife, I understand they were both recently married, so it was obvious they were in the fantasy stage of any relationship, not a bad thing at all. On my way home, someone broke into my car and stole my wing! I didn't even notice it was gone until I got home and started unpacking. I panicked, hoping I had left it at the training field, but alas I didn't and I did remember packing it in the car. They not only got my wing, they took my personal leather bag with all my camera equipment and medicine in it. So I lost about 4,000 dollars of my stuff and the caveat is that whom ever stole the wing, couldn't even have known what they had and most likely threw it away. I contacted Kurt about replacing my wing and couldn't' get a hold of him. He was training some people out in Utah, so I had the information he gave me on who I could purchase Fresh Breeze equipment from and so I took it upon myself to call and so I ordered a new wing, 2,900 dollars! My wife was ready to divorce me, not really but she wasn't crazy about the expense. I wasn't crazy about the expense either but without a wing, I couldn't fly. It took a while to get over the extra expense but I finally was able to relax and enjoy the flying aspect. Kurt had told me that he could get me a wing at his cost, 2,900 dollars, so I was a little surprised that I could also get it for 2,900. I figured I must have not heard him correctly. Later he called me and asked if I had purchased the wing yet, I said, I couldn't get a hold of you, so I took it upon myself to order it. He responded, I could have saved you 400 dollars! I said, really, you could get it for 2,500? He said, no my price, because I am a dealer is 2,900. I said, well I actually paid 2,900 for the wing. He said, really? I am surprised they gave it to you so cheaply. I didn't belay the point, I thanked him again for his training and promised to keep up, when I got to Florida. He asked if I would let the company know that I wanted him to be credited with the purchase of the wing, he said he got points and that without my approval, he wouldn't get it. I understood this was his living and I didn't mind at all giving him what ever credit for the purchase, so I immediately sent an email and asked them to credit this wing to Kurt, their response was, we already did. I let Kurt know and that was the last time we spoke, that was back in August of 2020. I began my own flying in a field across from my church, it was used for radio controlled aircraft and so they had a nice grass runway for me to use. I had two failed attempts and then got up. I flew low around the field, no more than about 50 feet above the ground, I wanted to get the hang of flying again before attempting to go higher. I eventually had many flights after that one and got up each time. I will say this for Kurt's training, the way he teaches you to lay your wing out has always got me up the first try, after my first two attempts on my own, lol. I have flown out of that airport many times, both in the evening and morning. I am getting better at feeling confident in my abilities. I was invited by some flyers in a neighboring county and flew out of a controlled field there and did great. I have flown several times out of the field I use now and my maximum height to date is 710 feet. I want to keep increasing my altitude until I get to 5,000 feet, that is my limit, for now. Now as for feeling like I didn't have adequate training, I didn't know what I was missing, since I had never had training in the past and didn't have a perspective to reflect on or compare it to. I didn't get a whole lot about weather from Kurt, I also didn't kite my wing, now to give him credit, my XL wing is huge and I have tried to kite it here and its a beast! He might have decided it would be too difficult for me. I felt like he wasn't around as much as I wished he had been and me and other trainers did a lot of waiting on him to come out, time that we felt, in retrospect could have been used to fly. I understand human behavior well and so I picked up on Kurt's persona right away. He is large and in charge at all times. He is a successful man with many toys and a beautiful trophy wife to boot, so I could understand his peacocking around all of men. His wife was bubbly and sweet and honestly, I couldn't have asked for better hosts. Kurt is one of those men who don't sugar coat much and he speaks his mind and this can be seen as offensive to some people, for me, I wasn't offended by Kurt at all, on the contrary, I was allowed to see a side to Kurt that revealed his true nature and though he keeps that hidden form public eye, he is a good and decent man. I left feeling confident in my flying skills and though he may not have done as much as I think he should have, he teaches the bare bones of flying and in my opinion prepares you for your basics in taking off and setting up yoru wing. I agree with you, I need to seek additional information and or training on weather and what conditions are good to fly in. I apologize for the long dissertation, but I had to explain and i am a wordy person. I also wanted to thank you for your video, I have subscribed and will tune in for more videos. I would love to chat with you one day and pick your brain some more, if you would be willing. 865-315-3502

@David_Wolfe

3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for taking the time to write all this. This was a great assessment of your experience and I appreciate it. As long as you get to 5000... go another 280 so you can tell everyone you hit the mile mark. I will be in touch. Thanks for watching!

@johngrota717

3 жыл бұрын

How has your equipment been since since you started?

@willw.7697

Жыл бұрын

I’m going for training 8/10 at FJ. I did not buy equipment so sent a check. You have given me some hope here. Weather and airspace regs I can learn other places. I need good fundamentals with the equipment, then hopefully find some others locally to be mentors.

Kiting and ground handling are a huge part of learning to fly PPG. Thorough training is hands on, 95% of the time you are there. I’ve read enough stories about this guy Kurt at Flight Junkies. No WAY I would go to him. What happened to you is common with him. He flies outdated, heavy gear and tries to upsell everyone who can’t fly it, to a trike. That’s where he makes his money. It’s why the majority of his students end up on trikes.

When I saw Kurt tell his student not to do anything when he was experiencing an oscillation that did it for me,he really has to change up his training protocol from bottom up,even taking a few tips from ole Dell wouldn't hurt him :)