AOPA’s Pinch Hitter Course

Most pilots want nothing more than to share their passion with someone they love, but many aren’t able to do that.

Why? Are the right-seat passengers afraid? Are they simply not interested? 

AOPA’s Pinch Hitter course is designed to help nonflying companions learn how to safely land an aircraft in the unlikely event of pilot incapacitation. 

It bears repeating that incapacitation is an “unlikely” event—it’s exceedingly rare—and so the course includes an introduction to the principles of flight, a basic overview of the instruments, and radio communications. The goal is not to frighten nonflying companions, but rather to help them be more knowledgeable and better prepared in the event of an emergency.

All participants will attend the ground school course and must choose either an hour of flight simulator time or an hour of aircraft time — with an instructor — following the course.

Simulator Package: $145

Aircraft Package – 172: $225

Aircraft Package – Saratoga: $280

Non-GCA Aircraft Usage: $75

To register, please call our office at 504-246-2700 or email us at info@gulfcoastaviation.com

***In order to finalize scheduling for the aircraft and instructor availability, there will be no refunds on cancellations made within 24-48 hours of the event. Funds can still be used for future reservations. However, no reschedules or refunds will be allowed for cancellations made within 24 hours.

Once registered, you will be given access to the online course that you MUST complete before you arrive. We will also send you the syllabus to review beforehand. 

Lunch will be provided.