A Kiss From The Aviation Gods

Thursday, October 09, 2014 — 10:00AM

Flight Lesson #4

Instructor: Matt Kiener

Ground school was a lecture regarding the how and why to compensate for the loss of vertical lift during 45-degree turns. We also discussed the steps taken to enter and exit slow flight configuration and it’s effect on the controls, and how the horizontal component of lift is a major component of turns.

Are you sure we should be taking this plane in the air? I don’t feel good about this.

I had some trouble cranking the engine over. I know it’s something that happens but it hadn’t happened to me yet. Although I was confident the plane was airworthy, it’s a scary feeling. I then questioned every little ‘putt’ and ‘spat’ of the engine until we were airborne.

No traffic in the pattern. Taxiing to the runway for takeoff.

I taxied into position on the runway and had a mini panic session right there; which is completely the wrong time and place to do so. I felt like I was forgetting something even though I’d carefully gone through the run-up checklist and knew what steps were needed for take off. After a little “What the heck are you doing?” from Matt, I took off and climbed until we hit smooth air.

Lets review 45-degree turns. Would you like me to demonstrate first?

No need, I got this. Check for traffic. Clear to the left. Turning left. I know the steps, I know what I need to look for, it’s just a matter of practicing, especially using the throttle to help with altitude instead of more backpressure. I proudly hit my prop wash during turns in each direction. I was told it was a kiss from the aviation gods because I had done well. 

I’m going to introduce you to slow flight, a fundamental component of landing.

Matt configured the plane for slow flight while I read the steps out loud. I took the controls back, flying straight and level while maintaining 60 knots, and practiced some shallow turns. We returned to normal flight and I practiced configuring for slow flight. I’ll need more review but as I was reminded, this was my first introduction to it. 

There’s the bridge and island!

I’m becoming more familiar with the landmarks used to get us back to N40. Even though I’ve been flying out of the airport for years, the use of a GPS has made it so I never had to look.

My next lesson won’t be until Tuesday. I am slightly nervous about having four days off from flying but I know some rest and relaxation is needed.  

To the sky...

Sarah