Perfecting the Art of Go Arounds

Thinking about my last lesson on Thursday (7/26) still makes me laugh. Once again, all we did was pattern work trying to perfect the art of landing. I had other plans, though. I seriously perfected the art of go arounds. I DID manage one good landing. The rest were balked or (the few times I actually did touch down) were really bad. I even got the ultimate compliment from Justin, "That was your worst one yet!" What can I say? It was good for a laugh. If I don't laugh at myself (and keep trying with all due seriousness) I might quit. Quitting is NOT an option. I think I'll keep my sense of humor if Justin will keep his sense of bravery and patience.

Another Good Lesson

Today's lesson was in a "new" plane. It's a 172p and a little newer than the 172m that I had been flying. For the most part I really liked it. The engine has 20 less hp which I didn't expect to make much difference. Shows how much I know...lol Actually, it wasn't a huge difference, but it was noticeable. It seemed like the take-off roll was longer and it definitely didn't climb out as fast as the 180 hp that I've been flying. I think when I really get used to it, I might be able to fly it smoother than the other one. I thought steep turns and stalls were a little easier. Landings will take a little getting used to. The control wheel was a little difficult to pull back, but that has it advantages too. In what little time I flew the plane, the "stiffness" in the control wheel seemed to prevent me from jerky movements and over correcting. I'll have to evaluate that again on Thursday. Today's lesson was spent on the usual - stalls, steep turns, landings -but with an emphasis mostly on getting to know the plane. It was nice weather, little wind, a good instructor and, as always, great fun!

A Squeaker !!

During my lesson today, all we worked on were landings. I can't even guess how many times we went around the pattern - had to be about 10...at least. The wind, unfortunately wasn't in my favor, but in spite of it I feel like I did well on my landings...compared to usual. (Justin might beg to differ with me on that.) I have to admit, though, several landings were balked and we made go arounds. We were going around anyway, so what's the diff if I hit the runway or not...lol. I actually made two really BIG mistakes, though. One was popping the flaps up too fast after going full power on a go around and the other was a turn that was way too steep from crosswind to downwind. What can I say? It was definitely a learning experience and I'm actually looking forward to my next lesson. Oh, I forgot to mention "the squeaker"...the whole reason for the inspiration for this post. One of my landings was so nicely executed that Justin never touched the control wheel and I touched down with such ease and grace you would have thought I was a pro. It was THE most exciting moment so far of my flying experience. A landing TOTALLY executed by myself. There was a time when I thought I would never get to this point. There may actually be a solo in my future after all. Feeling hopeful once again!!!!