We met at the ATP apartments, which actually exceeded my expectations. They were fully furnished, and included everything from pots and pans to a washer and dryer. The apartments are about 20 minutes from KRAL (Riverside Municipal Airport), and thankfully pass by all sorts of shopping centers with modern conveniences like an Starbucks and Target. The walls of the apartment were covered with aviation charts, maps, checklists, and photo’s of aircraft flight controls. This was not merely for looks, but rather it was validation of how intense the environment at ATP was going to be. While the occupants of the apartment sit and eat dinner, they don’t watch The Godfather and play Playstation, they look at aviation charts and photo’s of the plane. In my opinion, this is perfect. Training to fly at this level is not something that can be done “when you feel like it.” It should encompass every waking moment of your existence.
The ATP offices at the airport were simple, yet modern. They included several lounges, two HUGE realistic aircraft simulators, and some classroom areas. Overall the place was empty of students, which was a good sign. Everyone was flying!!!!!
Once we saw the offices, we went out to see the aircraft I would be flying. The Piper Seminole is a twin engine trainer with all the modern conveniences of today’s general aviation aircraft. It has 4 seats, two separate GPS systems, and of course, all the lights and radios I’ll need in the busy LA airspace at night. Fun Fun Fun!!!
Overall, the trip was a great adventure. We got up at 530am, and were back to Vegas by 500pm. Its exactly 250 miles from the condo in Summerlin to the apartment in Riverside. Not bad for those quick runs home for some good food and some QT with the loved ones.
Below is a picture of a Piper Seminole belonging to ATP that I will be flying once the program begins.
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