AvGas

I did all of my homework…I read the POH, I read articles on how to make the perfect landing. Did it help? NO! Tuesday’s lesson was a frustrating one, with nearly everything being difficult. It was also the first time I had actually flown anywhere (other than SQL pattern work) in over 3 weeks. We were in Piper Archer 4319D (no more Warriors). Here’s how it went:

1. Almost stalled on takeoff…Karl took over.
2. Over Sunol Golf Course, Karl simulated an engine loss…I couldn’t remember a damn thing about emergency procedures.
3. Karl asked for a steep turn; I don’t think we ever made it past 30 degrees of bank.
4. On initial call-up to LVK (our route was SQL-LVK-SQL), I couldn’t speak English…Karl took over.
5. At LVK we did T&G…which much more closely resembled Karl’s “Crash and Dash” euphemism.
6. Things were looking up on final into SQL, until it came time to flare and Karl said “Hold it here”…which I took to mean “Slam the plane down onto the runway”.

I came away with the feeling that I might have better luck flying by flapping my arms…oh well…next week will be here soon.

The last two flights have been tough…with decent crosswinds at both PAO (8/15) and SQL (8/17). It has also been difficult to get back on track after having my flight bag stolen whilst in LA last week…logbook, headset, notes, books; _everything_ I had related to flying. The last two lessons have been spent on normal landings, as well as forward/side slips to landing. All in all, my nose is coming in a bit straighter, but I don’t think I actually nailed any landing without Karl’s help. Hopefully all of this practice in crosswind conditions will make me a bit better when the wind is calm(er).It looks like the Friday lesson will be cancelled due to Karl having to travel, but I am determined to get landings and emergency procedures down next week, as they are about the last things to get done before the impending and rather frightening prospect of solo flight.

After three “in the pattern” lessons this week, today marked the first day the I landed a plane unassisted (12.4 hours total time after today’s lesson). My unassisted landing plane today was N2204Q. This also marked the first day that I flew a Piper Archer…180HP versus the 160HP Warrior. It definitely felt a bit faster. My radio skills are getting better…given that it’s not too hard to repeat “Number 1/2/etc. (traffic in sight) cleared for the option, 2204Q”. That said, I _feel_ more confident about my radio skills, and that is what matters.It’s looking like I will have to cancel my Monday lesson due to an unplanned work project; but, at least I will be making some money instead of spending it.

I’m pumped about today…I can land a plane!