EGPFlyer
23rd Jul 2001, 16:16
There I was doing circuits this morning minding my own business when my FI decided it was time to give EGPFlyer a heart attack... The words 'I have control' came as a bit of a surprise as I raised the flaps preparing for the next takeoff. 'tower, GZO, can you take a student first solo just now?' ...Ah ****... Instantly all the moisture in my mouth lept to the palm of my hands and i think my heart missed a few beats..
After dumping the FI at the tower (so he can go and have a good look at me messing this up, I thought), off to Romeo1 I trundled...I dont think i've ever taken so long to do the pre takeoff checks in my life! After holding for, what seemed like ages for a 737 to land, off I went. What they say about as soon as you hit 60 and pull back the 1st thing to go through your mind is 'oh crap..i've gotta land this thing' is true!
Off i went round the circuit with no probs, all the while, humming something that I think was written by Beethoven!'. I turned final a little high but losing a bit of power sorted that..called final and then surprisingly (for me anyway!) I had a nice flare and touch down. The first thing that came to mind was relief as I vacated first right followed by a 'well done' from the nice chap in the tower. Off i went to pick up my FI, a firm handshake and then a 10 min taxi to the club ( its a very big airport!). Post flight checks and then it was over :)
After paying 164 quid (for the first time not really caring how much it cost), I was given a certificate for the solo... I hope my mum doesnt mind me me swapping this for the picture over the mantle piece :D
Anyways, I have rabbled on a bit now but I just wanted to share this experience with those who have still to do it...Dont give up.... This day, when it comes will make it worth it, and make you more determined to continue towards your goal. Cheers AS, and everyone else who helped me get this far...only 37 hours to go :)
Im off to the pub ;)
After dumping the FI at the tower (so he can go and have a good look at me messing this up, I thought), off to Romeo1 I trundled...I dont think i've ever taken so long to do the pre takeoff checks in my life! After holding for, what seemed like ages for a 737 to land, off I went. What they say about as soon as you hit 60 and pull back the 1st thing to go through your mind is 'oh crap..i've gotta land this thing' is true!
Off i went round the circuit with no probs, all the while, humming something that I think was written by Beethoven!'. I turned final a little high but losing a bit of power sorted that..called final and then surprisingly (for me anyway!) I had a nice flare and touch down. The first thing that came to mind was relief as I vacated first right followed by a 'well done' from the nice chap in the tower. Off i went to pick up my FI, a firm handshake and then a 10 min taxi to the club ( its a very big airport!). Post flight checks and then it was over :)
After paying 164 quid (for the first time not really caring how much it cost), I was given a certificate for the solo... I hope my mum doesnt mind me me swapping this for the picture over the mantle piece :D
Anyways, I have rabbled on a bit now but I just wanted to share this experience with those who have still to do it...Dont give up.... This day, when it comes will make it worth it, and make you more determined to continue towards your goal. Cheers AS, and everyone else who helped me get this far...only 37 hours to go :)
Im off to the pub ;)