In reply to:
Hello, I will soon begin flight instruction for my private pilot license in South Florida. There enough airports and schools around that I can have my choice of aircraft. I could chose to start training on a Cirrus or learn on a more traditional plane like the Cessna and then undergo additional training to make the transition. I was wondering if anyone could offer some advice on the choices I have.
Best regards,
Phil
Phil,
You’ll probably solo sooner in a 172 because there are insurance requirements precluding solo less than “x” # of hours in a Cirrus. Find our what this # is with your training school. The Cirrus has a higher hull value so you have to navigate these insurance benchmarks.
IMO, you are more likely to move on to an instrument rating from a PPL in a Cirrus than a PPL in a 172 G1000. A CFI will typically help you get your PPL first in a Cessna glass or not. A CSIP (cirrus CFI) will teach you all the systems simultaneous with your PPL while meeting insurance required benchmarks. YMMV. Comprehensive use of the Cirrus avionics will naturally get you on your way towards an instrument rating.
So, if you want your PPL ASAP…do it in a 150 or 172. If you like the Cirrus and also want to be well rounded in Garminology (430s), Glass, Auto-Pilot, HSI, GPS MFD Awareness, Traffic, WX, Metars…then do it in the Cirrus.
If you intend to fly Cirrus then consider buying. If you are unsure what you intend to fly then rent.
Good Luck with your private!!!