A great perspective on why a commercial rating makes sense and recurrent training is so valuable - by Tom Nasser who keeps his Cirrus SR22 at Indianapolis Executive Airport:

 

"I’ve been flying since 1978 and got my instrument rating in 1979.  I bought my Cirrus SR22 in 2005 and fly mostly for pleasure.  I made the decision to get my commercial rating not because I want to fly for compensation or hire but only because I want to become the best and safest pilot I can be.  I just passed the commercial check ride Friday with flying colors.  Although I’m self motivated and studied my ass off I also want to thank my instructor, Cliff Izer.  He’s very professional and teaches safety and precision to the extreme.  I can honestly say I’m now the safest and best pilot I’ve ever been.  This rating really takes your flying skills to a much higher level.  I know COPA is all about safety so I encourage everyone to take the next step and get this rating.  The maneuvers are very rewarding after you practice them and understand the smoothness and coordination of how to perform them with precision.  You really do become the ultimate master of the aircraft.  I also agree with the recent article in COPA magazine by Matt McDaniel about instrument currency and how important it is to maintain your currency.  I want to continue getting recurrent training every 6 months not only for myself but for all my passengers that fly with me.  I’ve been to 3 or 4 CPPP meetings and a few CDM seminars just for the review.  Never stop learning.  If anybody wants to contact me via phone or email I’m happy to give suggestions on how to get this done and give more details on how the check ride goes.  It’s worth the time, effort, and money.  You’re life may depend on what you learn from this and it is FUN!!!  Hope to see most of you in Duluth at M10!!!  Fly safe...Tom

 

Tom Nasser N222TN 2005 SR22 GTS #1615 @ KTYQ."