First CFI-Weight-Shift (Trike) Instructor Authorized By A Non-FAA Employee

On April 19, 2005, the first trike (weight shift control) CFI (authorized sport pilot trike flight instructor) examination was successfully completed by Terri Sipantzi of Forrest, VA.

“Terri was entirely prepared with all of the FAA answers to the questions required of the Pilot Testing Standards listed in PTS for Weight shift control, Land,” said FAA Designated Pilot Examiner John Ballantyne (pictured, right).

“Mr. Sipantzi did a wonderful job of illustrating his skill as a pilot and instructor,” said the FAA Designated Examiner. ‘He passed both the sport pilot and sport instructor oral and flight test examinations with flying colors,” FAA Examiner Ballantyne continued.

ANN asked Ballantyne about the new test for which he responded, “The test is not overly complicated for those who are requesting passenger-carrying privileges over American cities. ‘The Practical Test Standards are very clear, and may be obtained by anyone at the internet address, http://afs600.faa.gov/AFS610.htm. ‘It was a privilege to have Mr. Sipantzi as the first test applicant. ‘He was delightful to fly with,” said DPE Ballantyne.

FMI: ballantyneaviation@earthlink.net