Eagle I
Pre-takeoff checklist
On Saturday I passed my sport pilot checkride. The whole day seemed a bit surreal, as I'm sure anyone who has been through a checkride can understand. Two days later, I still can't believe it!
My journey to this point took slightly more than two years, several different flight schools and CFIs, more money than I care to count, long road trips and nights in motels, many hours of study, plenty of frustration, but mostly importantly, joy and a sense of accomplishment. I wouldn't trade it all for anything, including all of the obstacles. I learned from each one and would like to think I'm a better pilot, and person, for them.
As for the actual oral exam and checkride, there were no surprises. I felt well-prepared, but was just worried about my nerves getting the better of me. Before arriving at the airport, I felt like I didn't need a plane to fly! But once everything got underway, I stayed pretty focused and just took each question and each task one at a time. To my relief, the maneuver I was most afraid I'd botch -- steep turns -- was the first one the DPE asked me to do, and I did them in both directions well within the PTS. It was such a relief to get those over with first that I calmed down considerably after that.
Now I'm looking forward to flying for fun, and continuing to learn everything I can. Thanks to all of you who have been a source of knowledge and support over the last two years.
My journey to this point took slightly more than two years, several different flight schools and CFIs, more money than I care to count, long road trips and nights in motels, many hours of study, plenty of frustration, but mostly importantly, joy and a sense of accomplishment. I wouldn't trade it all for anything, including all of the obstacles. I learned from each one and would like to think I'm a better pilot, and person, for them.
As for the actual oral exam and checkride, there were no surprises. I felt well-prepared, but was just worried about my nerves getting the better of me. Before arriving at the airport, I felt like I didn't need a plane to fly! But once everything got underway, I stayed pretty focused and just took each question and each task one at a time. To my relief, the maneuver I was most afraid I'd botch -- steep turns -- was the first one the DPE asked me to do, and I did them in both directions well within the PTS. It was such a relief to get those over with first that I calmed down considerably after that.
Now I'm looking forward to flying for fun, and continuing to learn everything I can. Thanks to all of you who have been a source of knowledge and support over the last two years.
