Chapter 1: Introduction to T-34C Contact

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION TO T-34C CONTACT

100.

INTRODUCTION

This Flight Training Instruction (FTI) is a Naval Air Training Command directive in which the

Chief of Naval Air Training (CNATRA) publishes information and instructions relative to all

instructors and student naval aviators operating T-34C aircraft in the Primary Phase of training in

the Naval Air Training Command. It is very important that the factual material contained herein

be thoroughly studied and retained.

The process by which a student is transformed into a skilled naval aviator is both complex and

demanding. It can be accomplished only by intensive instruction, in the air as well as in the

classroom. Success, for the most part, depends upon the student's attitude, cooperation, and

attention to detail. The degree of skill attained by students depends largely upon their ability to

understand new material and to work hard. Those students who cannot measure up to the high

standards required throughout the various phases of training, because of either their lack of

motivation or ability, must and will be attrited.

This FTI does not contain all the information necessary for a student pilot to become a

professional aviator. Rather, this instruction provides a focal point and reference manual for all

other sources of technical information, outlining and amplifying the flight procedures where

necessary. This manual is designed as a training tool and is not meant to establish policy

concerning fleet operations. However, every effort has been made to remain in accordance with

current fleet procedures and techniques wherever possible and to provide references in NATOPS

publications for all applicable areas. It is important to note that the emergency procedures shown

are to aid in the topic discussion. For all emergencies, the NATOPS is the final authority.

Through this cross-referencing and organization of information, the student pilot should be able

to develop a thorough understanding of the manual and flight procedures that form the backbone

of an aviation career.

Congratulations on your commencement of primary flight training. Your hard work and

determination has earned you the unique opportunity to become part of the most elite team of

aviation warriors in the world today. The United States Naval Aviator is a highly trained

professional. The tremendous level of skill demanded by the naval air community can only be

obtained through total dedication and sustained maximum effort. It is, therefore, imperative that

every student naval aviator apply himself or herself completely. Anything less than your best

effort is unacceptable. Best of luck in your endeavor to earn your "Wings of Gold."

Terms that would be included ordinarily in a glossary for T-34C Contact training are defined as

they are used throughout the text.

101.

HISTORY OF CONTACT TRAINING

Naval aviation training has come a long way since 1910 when Lieutenant T. G. Ellyson was

ordered to flight instruction to become the first Naval Aviator. Soon thereafter, the U.S. Navy

purchased its first airplane, the Curtis Triad, at a cost of $5,500. Since that time, naval aviation

INTRODUCTION TO T-34 CONTACT 1-1