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Old 22nd January 2003 | 22:06
  #31 (permalink)  
samson.
20 Anniversary
 
Joined: Aug 2001
Posts: 32
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From: United Kingdom
Hi Samir,

Please don't get put off by some of the supercilious posts above, crossing the channel should be fun, and it definitely isn't rocket science as they would have you believe.

The most difficult part about the whole thing is the paperwork (customs, flightplan etc), and for that reason alone, it is quite nice to go with someone who has done it before. That is exactly what I did. If you know anyone who is a channel-crossing veteran, do try and go with them because it will definitely build your confidence (or take up one of the kind offers posted here).

I read quite a good book by Nigel Everett called (I think) 'Beyond the PPL' and it made the very important point that you should try to give yourself a bit of a challenge with your PPL. Before I get shouted at, obviously safety is the first priority. For example, try getting a few MATZ clearances, cross the channel, land at a busy airport etc. This will really build your confidence - anyone can fly the easy route from A to B, but try getting clearance through some class D or some Special VFR clearance to get from A to B next time. Much more interesting, and much more educational.

Best of luck, and don't stick to your quiet Norwich airfield - there is much more to flying than that!

Samson.
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