Barry
Eison of Tennessee has grand plans for his hovercraft. And since he’s a ‘first
things first’ person, Barry based his future plans on a strong foundation of
training: “My biggest concern is being
able to safely operate the craft.” So, naturally, his first step was to
enroll in an HTC training course.
Barry
trained during the coldest winter in a century: “We trained in the most adverse conditions I have ever encountered, but
Chris’ determination and patience was exemplary and made it that much more
enjoyable.”
.jpg) |
Barry
Eison (right) accepts his Hovercraft
Pilot Certification from HTC Senior Instructor Chris Fitzgerald.
|
Barry
trained during the coldest winter in a century: “We trained in the most adverse conditions I have ever encountered, but
Chris’ determination and patience was exemplary and made it that much more
enjoyable.”
After his
training course, Barry emailed HTC to share his thoughts. They’re full of
wisdom about the importance of training, and definitely worth sharing –
especially for those of you who might be considering buying a hovercraft and just
jumping in on your own. Barry says …
1) Training is absolutely necessary. If you
don’t know how to use it, stay off of it!
2) A hovercraft is a flying machine. Its
capabilities must be learned and it takes time to learn to operate it.
3) If one gets too “cocky” or arrogant in their
familiarization with the craft, you can get hurt or damage the machine!
4) It’s important to learn to feel the response
of the craft and recognize that it doesn’t take much to alter its flight.
5) Anticipate the path you will take when
you’re executing turns or other maneuvers.
6) Think, think, think! Starting, stopping - every
move requires thought until you know it by heart.
7) Do not overreact when responding to changes.
8) Learn the machine – inside and out, front to
back.
Barry also wanted to
be sure he purchased a state-of-the-art hovercraft – so he chose a Neoteric HoverTrek™, the craft we use
exclusively at HTC. “I’ve looked at just
about every hovercraft out there. If you go online and look at reviews,
Neoteric is the only one that doesn’t have a single negative review.”
But what
about Barry’s future plans? He says, “I
have a motive; it’s not just that I want a toy to play with.” Yes, he plans
to use his hovercraft for hunting, fishing, etc., but
he also plans to turn it into a business. From sportsmen and rice farmers, to
first responders and game wardens, Barry says “I already have 14 people who are interested in taking test flights. One guy wanted to buy one sight unseen. I told him to hold off!”
That’s
because Barry Eison keeps first things first – and thoroughly understands how
important it is to fly before you buy!
What are your future plans? Opportunity hovers …
