OCR Text |
Show December 3, 1996 Dixie students learn to fly By Brandy Fox THE DIXIE SUN Students not only learn to fly at Dixie College, but also learn about mechanics, aerodynamics, and the history and glamour of flight. The aviation program at Dixie College is a fast growing, high quality program that is currently receiving national attention, said student flight instructor Dellon Smith. The program was recently mentioned in the November issue of Flight Training Magazine. Author Wayne Phillips study that encompasses flight instruction and a knowledge of aircraft maintenance, said Dan Smith. Aviation students are opportugiven hands-o- n nities to learn, said Dan Smith. One of these opportunities is the flight simulator, which helps students become acquainted with the instruction panels of various aircrafts. According to instructor Charles Hawley, students are required to build a plane "from the ground up." Hawley feels build ing a plane gives students a chance to learn the materials used in assembly, and gives a broader understanding of the aircraft. Students are given the basic parts of the engine, and are asked to complete or repair the engine for a grade, said Dan Smith. Instructors of the aviation program hope to produce students who are competent in all aspects of flight, said Dan Smith. According to student Jeremiah Burkhart, indi vidual attention from instructors is helpful in creating an atmosphere for " learning. really like my instructor, John Bradv. He really makes me feel less nervous," said Burkhart. 1 Freshman student Hannah Campell commented, "The program is really great. When I'm finished here at Dixie, hope to have my private pilot's license. It is really exciting." wrote "(students) truly get up close and personal with operations in a thriving regional carrier." Smith agrees that St. George has a great atmosphere for aviation: "The weather in St. George is nice enough to fly in about 360 days out of the year," said Smith. Smith thinks students learn about the background and glamour of the flight industry, saying "Classes give students a chance to catch the vision and excitement of aviation." Program director Dan Smith feels the program gives students an excellent opportunity to learn the skills necessary to be a successful pilot. Students are given a comprehensive course of PHOTO COURTESY DIXIE COl LECE AERO TECH - Tech Student Flight instructor Dellon Smith (right) and student Eric Rowland get readv to flv a Cessna, a single engine aircraft as part of the Aeroprogram at Dixie College |