Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question that hasn't been answered here?  Call us on +353 51 873133 or email us (info@waterfordaeroclub.com) to ask us directly.

Introductory Flights

  1. What happens if I feel sick during my flight?

    Most people do not feel unwell during their flight but if you do, your instructor will show you how to deal with this and of course, you will always have the option of returning to the airport and landing to get some fresh air.

  2. What clothes should I wear?

    Comfortable clothes are a must! Please wear flat shoes and if it's a cold day, bring a warm coat. Sunglasses are advisable unless it is very cloudy.

  3. Can I bring a camera?

    Yes - you can take photos during your flight.

  4. Can I fly over my house?

    If you live locally, your instructor may be able to take you flying over your house. This is subject to airspace and other traffic.

General Flight Training

  1. What is the difference between a tach hour and a clock (Hobbs) hour?

    The tachometer is actually a measurement of engine hours. For example, at sea level, your engine’s ‘red line’ may occur at 2700 RPM – this is the engine speed which develops 100% power. If you run the engine at 100% power for 1 hour, then you have used 1 tach hour. More usually, we use 75% power and less. At most high cruise altitudes, 75% power RPM settings are very close to 100% power setting RPM's at SL, so tach time will be very close to real time in cruise configuration.

    The Hobbs meter records real time, or 'clock time', and is activated by oil pressure. For many aircraft, this means that as soon as the engine is started, the Hobbs meter is activated. This measurement of flight time is completely independent of engine RPM settings. Most instructor fees are based on Hobbs time.

    The differences between the two measurements are noticeable when, for example, you are operating from a busy airport where ground delays are common. While the Hobbs meter is ticking over in real time, the tachometer will be ticking over in accordance with idling engine speeds. In this case, the tachometer will lag the Hobbs meter. On the other hand, if you spend very little time on the ground at idle and more time in the air, tach time and Hobbs time will be very close.

    On average, 0.7 tach hours corresponds to 1 clock hour of flight time.