TylerSC
Pre-takeoff checklist
Now that I have my private certificate (2 weeks ago!), I am learning how to develop the right mindset for the "fun flight" with a non-pilot passenger. This is not really something you can do with an instructor, and is a lot like the feeling of the first solo flights.
One of the first things I realized is non-pilots have no way to judge the risk of a particular flight. They are like little children riding in a car. They are not concerned about the wind, weather, currency, IMSAFE checklist, or any other factor. If they agree to fly with you, they assume that it is as safe as flying in an airliner. This is both flattering and humbling. You are the pilot in command, and the outcome of the flight is 100% on you.
The second thing I learned was that the pilot does not really get to enjoy the flight like a passenger does. I have to scan for traffic, check engine instruments, listen to the radio, etc.
However - one thing I am learning, after spending a lot of time and a small fortune learning to fly, is that flying is awesome. My first fun flight was just a trip down the Congaree River out of KCUB, and it was amazing to see how the river has created multiple oxbow lakes over hundreds or thousands of years, and how the trees and other vegetation all grow in patterns showing the wild course changes by the river through the eons. I had to pick a safe altitude, stay with flight following, and scan for traffic, but the sense of freedom and the perspective offered from my little airship was a new experience. On my solo cross country flights, there was a very clear plan, but on these flights, I make up the plan as I go. That is a new experience, and a lot of fun!
Right now I'm in the Outer Banks, and have taken my father- and brother-in-law on sightseeing trips up the coast. It really is worth all of the money, time, and stress to learn to fly!
One of the first things I realized is non-pilots have no way to judge the risk of a particular flight. They are like little children riding in a car. They are not concerned about the wind, weather, currency, IMSAFE checklist, or any other factor. If they agree to fly with you, they assume that it is as safe as flying in an airliner. This is both flattering and humbling. You are the pilot in command, and the outcome of the flight is 100% on you.
The second thing I learned was that the pilot does not really get to enjoy the flight like a passenger does. I have to scan for traffic, check engine instruments, listen to the radio, etc.
However - one thing I am learning, after spending a lot of time and a small fortune learning to fly, is that flying is awesome. My first fun flight was just a trip down the Congaree River out of KCUB, and it was amazing to see how the river has created multiple oxbow lakes over hundreds or thousands of years, and how the trees and other vegetation all grow in patterns showing the wild course changes by the river through the eons. I had to pick a safe altitude, stay with flight following, and scan for traffic, but the sense of freedom and the perspective offered from my little airship was a new experience. On my solo cross country flights, there was a very clear plan, but on these flights, I make up the plan as I go. That is a new experience, and a lot of fun!
Right now I'm in the Outer Banks, and have taken my father- and brother-in-law on sightseeing trips up the coast. It really is worth all of the money, time, and stress to learn to fly!
