After seeing a decline in the pilot populations AOPA decided to research why only 20% of those in flight training complete the program. AOPA hired APCO Insight to conduct the research that surveyed 1,000 people who had taken flight training that included flight instructors, pilots, student pilots and lapsed student pilots.

Prior to the study most believed that time and cost were the biggest factors for students dropping out of flight training. However, the study unveiled that educational quality was actually the biggest reason. Another was that the students wanted a “sense of community” with more encouragement and support.

Are you a flight instructor or a flight school operator? What do you think of the research? Will it change the way you teach or organize the programs? What would you have changed about your own experience during flight school?

You can find out more about the study on the AOPA’s website.

Here are a few ideas for how to make use of the AIRHAWK year-round.

1) Bleacher cushion

The winter months are prime seasons for several sports. Whether you’re watching football, hockey, basketball, wrestling, or figure skating the AIRHAWK makes those bleachers bearable to sit on. The added bonus is that if you’re outside it helps to keep your bum protected from those freezing metal seats.

2) Office cushion

Instead of throwing your AIRHAWK in the saddle bag, carry it into the office. It adds comfort to those office seats after 8 hours of sitting each day.

3) Snowmobile cushion

AIRHAWKs aren’t just for the two-wheeled vehicles; test out the two-tracked machines. Take it with you on the snowmobile whether you’re working or just out having fun.

4) Wagon/Sleigh cushion

One of my favorite things each year was our sleigh rides with the whole family. Maybe that’s not a tradition for you, but the cushion is always a bonus when sitting on a cold sled.

5) Travel cushion

The winter months usually include a lot of traveling to visit family for the holidays. Whether you’re driving or flying, take the cushion with you for the trip. The cushion can easily be deflated and stored for light packing.

6) Dining Room Chair Cushion

Don’t be afraid to use the AIRHAWK for some added comfort while you’re eating one of those holiday feasts. While playing a round of Texas Hold’em you can focus on your poker face instead of your sore bum.

7) Ice fishing cushion

If you’re an ice fisher, you know that it means you’ll be doing a lot of sitting. Why not bring the AIRHAWK along?

 8) Deer Stand Cushion

Deer hunting is long hours of sitting and waiting. Give your bum some comfort to prevent the squirming that might spook the deer.

9) Garage Stool Cushion

Pull out the AIRHAWK while you’re working in the garage or assembling the Christmas toys for the kids.

10) Cushion while sitting on the floor wrapping gifts

Why not sit in comfort while you’re wrapping presents? The cushion can be used on almost anything you can sit on, even the floor.

What other ways do you use your AIRHAWK during the winter months?