Jerry
There is a "learnimg curve" in transitioning from a small, lighter aircraft, into a larger heavier, and more powerful airframe. In general, it's not unlike flying at higher speeds. Things take a bit more time and distance to respond to control inputs, and the pilot must be out ahead of the aircraft in his planning and anticipation. The other factor tends to be gaining a sense of the airspace your aircraft occupies. You have to learn "the edges of your envelope", in order to make sure you don't run into anything or anyone. Aside from these factors, it's mostly operating limits, emergency procedures, and mission requirements. Transitioning is always a fun time and a challenge to your skills, knowledge, and abilities.
I do recall the thrill of attempting to hover a helicopter for the first time back in flight school, at Fort Walters, TX. Flying a helicopter in level flight is not unlike flying a fixed wing. The challenge comes when you have to hover the thing. Imagine some 20 Bell 47 helicopters, operated by student pilots, under the supervision of an instructor pilot, all occupying a field of maybe 20 acres. Each is executing massive pendular swings in all directions, while trying to keep the nose in front of them with pedals, the RPM within limits using a reverse motor cycle type throttle on the end of the collective control stick which controls altitude, and stay over one spot with the cyclic stick. All while trying your best to find that "sweet spot", where the damned thing will sit still and behave. It does come to you but, it can get a bit "sporty" while you're learning in a confined space. Oh and, you're doing this in front of ALL of your classmates, some of whom are holding up cards with numbers from 1 to 10.
You do eventually master the task, and then solo the helicopter. If you do not, it's off to the infantry. But then, I would not trade one second of the experience for a million dollars, even today. It is a privilege for which I will always be grateful.
Tom
