Hand Controls for AG5B (or for Grumman AA5B) Tiger

[Redbarron07]

I am looking for a solution to get me back flying solo. I have a Tiger, LLC AG5B Tiger. Unfortunately, I have been experiencing neuropathy and am not comfortable with the toe brakes. I occasionally go up with an instructor, but until I come up with practical solution for the rudders, I can’t be PIC. If I could find the Union hand controls, that would be a great option. I have seen some hand controls for experimental, but don’t know how bad the approval process would be for a certified aircraft.

I have looked at some light sports aircraft with optional hand controls. But, I really love my AG5B and really want to keep her. The neurologist I have spoken to have basically said they think my condition is probably permanent, but there is not enough data for them to know with any certainty.

Any help or direction would be greatly appreciated.

 

[WDD]

Do you need hand controls for brakes, or for all rudder pedal functions - rudder and brakes?

 

[Bell206]

I have seen some hand controls for experimental, but don’t know how bad the approval process would be for a certified aircraft.

Discuss this with your mechanic as since you only need the foot control side it could be done as a minor alteration and simply adapt the exp controls to your aircraft. There was a thread on PoA a few years ago on this topic that gave some links that may be helpful. Also perhaps contact Able Flight who provides flight training for handicap pilots and they may have some input that can be applicable to your Tiger. They used to be located at Purdue but moved to a different university. Good luck.

 

[Redbarron07]

Do you need hand controls for brakes, or for all rudder pedal functions - rudder and brakes?

I primarily need it for brakes. With the Tiger having a castering nose gear, need it for ground steering. I have flown with an instructor and seem to have enough control for rudders in the air. Although, I would prefer having full rudder control.