This past Thursday (July 3rd) was my Dad’s birthday. Rather than get him another shirt, tie, or tool he’ll never use, I decided to take him for a flight – the last time he was in a small aircraft was over 30 years ago! I had to get more simulated instrument time in anyway, so it helped make for a nice smooth flight for my father. Although I would be flying with my instructor in the right seat (obviously, I don’t have my license yet), my Dad said he had great views from the back seat. Actually, this was my first time piloting a C-172 as well (which I wanted to get a few hours logged before I finished my training). So, all-in-all, this was the perfect opportunity to take my Dad up.
The flight went very smoothly. I was a bit more nervous than usual since I’ve never taken anyone flying besides me or my instructor…but the plane and the weather cooperated. The sky was beautiful (see some pictures), and we even got to fly over my house. I could feel that the 172 had more power, especially during takeoff. The added weight and power helped smooth things out a bit as well during cruise. However, during my final pattern work at the end of the lesson, I could feel that the heavier plane reacts a bit more sluggishly – nothing big, but definitely noticeable. It took me 1 landing to get used to it, but by the 2nd (and last) landing of the day, I felt comfortable flying the 172′s the Westosha flying club owns. I’ll still be mostly piloting the 152 (no need to pay extra for empty seats) for the rest of my training, though. But, I can’t wait to take my Dad back up just me and him!
I was super proud to have flown well for my Dad, and really glad he had a great time. Happy Birthday! This lesson I logged 1.0 hours of total flight time, 0.7 hours of simluated instrument.