Back in December we ran an article describing a remarkable undertaking by Able Flight pilot Randy Green, who born without hands or feet would be undergoing King Air 350 Type Rating training at FlyRight during February of 2016. After seeing that he had successfully complete the two weeks course, we reached out to Randy for a quick Q&A session to learn how the experience went for him.
Q: Congratulations Randy! A King Air 300 series type rating is a great achievement! Tell us a little bit about Able Flight/FlyRight and how this opportunity came available to you?
A: Last year, I was awarded a scholarship from Able Flight for the flight portion of my ATP rating. I completed the ATP rating in April 2015. Needless to say I felt honored to receive the scholarship. Late in 2015 I was approached by Charles Stites, Executive Director of Able Flight about the opportunity to get my type rating in a King Air 350.
Not yet known to me, Matt Hapgood of FlyRight had generously donated the King Air training to Able Flight. Then Able Flight used funding provided by the TBMOPA Foundation to cover the lodging and transportation expenses while I attended the course. Honestly I nearly fainted upon hearing the news! (More information can be found) about these outstanding organizations at www.ableflight.org and www.FlyRightinc.com.
Q: Needless to say, we’re big fans of the King Air. What is your history/interest with the aircraft and why did you wish to earn a King Air 300 series type rating?
A: Up until this course I did not have any history with a King Air other than looking at them on the ramp, hoping to be employed by a company that operates one. One major issue standing in front of me was the fact that I had no turbine experience. The King Air 300 series type rating seemed correct the issue of experience, at least to a certain degree.
Q: What all is involved in the two week course at FlyRight? The typical schedule?
A: The course is actually 17 days for the initial. The first week is ground training followed by the next 10 days of simulator training in 2 hour blocks. They also have a training room for the Proline 21 equipment – I spent a lot of time in that room!
Image by AbleFlight
Q: Looking over your achievements it’s obvious you haven’t allowed your physical disabilities to hold you back – what are your thoughts concerning this?
A: I really don’t consider myself disabled even though I was born without hands or feet. I really don’t know any different, growing up I learned to use ”my hands” just like any other child would do. From my earliest memories my parents never treated me any different than my brother. Over the years I have had challenges with certain things but I have always figured out how to overcome and adapt.
I am very proud to say that I do not use or require any special devices to fly.
Q: With this achievement, what does the future hold for you? Immediate goals?
A: Earning a King Air series type rating has now given me the opportunity to log turbine time. I’m hoping that doors will open allowing me to use my newly acquired rating. I certainly am looking for an opportunity!
We wish you all the best, Randy – any company would be incredibly fortunate to have you!