Saturday, September 19, 2009

This is what it's all about

Plane: Cub, 85 hp
Instructor: Dave
Route: 40I, Local
Weather: Clear, 74 degrees, wind 040 degrees at 5 knots

Honestly, I think that this is one of those flights where I'll let the video speak for itself. Watch and enjoy...



A fun way to view spins - the orange/red indicates a -2,500 fpm descent

Well, I wish I could be that brief but a couple disclaimers are in order. I must add that, in practicing spins and "wingovers," both were of the non-aerobatic variety and that's why they are permissible maneuvers per FARs 91.303 and 91.307. Spin training is required for the CFI rating and that's something I hope to achieve in the future, and the "wingovers" were really just a demonstration of the effect of engine torque in a power-on stall configuration.

I also want to note that most of today's flight involved me practicing maneuvers with Dave as set forth by the FAA Wings Program. Specifically, I needed credit in two flight areas today (FCA and FEA) to complete my Advanced Phase. For those who aren't familiar, it's a program designed to improve safety by providing opportunities for pilots to attend seminars, take knowledge courses, and build skills in the air. I would strongly encourage every pilot to visit the website and sign up if you have not already. There are many online courses available through the FAA as well as the great online courses provided by the AOPA Air Safety Foundation - and all can count towards your Wings credits. Again, I think it's a great program and, especially for the flight areas, it provides a nice incentive to work on specific maneuvers and tasks whenever you fly with a CFI.

Flight Track: Google Earth KMZ File
Today's Flight: 1.5 hours
Total Time: 131.5 hours

2 comments:

  1. steve,

    nice blog man! wish I'd found it sooner. do you mostly fly the Cub? I've always wanted to scoot around in one of those guys.

    I'm familiar with the Urbana/Grimes field area, having spent some time up in West Liberty/Salem.

    keep writing!

    greenpilot.blogspot.com

    -Gabe

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  2. Gabe,

    Thanks! Glad you've enjoyed it so far. There's plenty of videos, photos, and other stuff about flying if you're ever up to exploring the blog.

    Where are you based out of now? I do love Urbana - great little field, always a nice $100 burger run.

    I split my time between Cessnas and Cubs these days. For fun you can't beat the Cub, and the 150s/172 are the way to go when you want to go somewhere. All told, though, I've got most of my hours in 150s. Let me know if you're ever out this way - I'm always up to taking someone up in a Cub!

    (But be forewarned, taildraggers are addictive!)

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