Applications of Reality

[PhotoPilot]

After two years of either learning from an instructor or learning while being an instructor, I'm finally getting the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills that I think I've learned. It's very interesting to see how the 'official' proceedures and techniques I've been teaching for the last 18 months actually work in the real world of long GA cross-countries.

Most recently, I had the opportunity to fly from Duluth, MN, to Reno, NV. Both the trip out and the trip back were done VFR thanks to the flexibility it provides and I actually made the trips in less time at 180 kts than the total time required to fly the same trip on the airlines. I certainly find myself constantly reviewing decision making, SA, and 'outs' to make sure I don't get backed into a corner, especially when the mountains and weather are around. Having a great GPS, MFD, autopilot, and in-cockpit weather definitely enhance my ability to make decisions, but I still maintain a knowledge of where I am and what is required to maintain safety without them.

It's a serious eye opener when the hypotheticals become realities and you find yourself on a 1200 mile flight after spending your time in a structured training environment. It's even cooler when you have the opportunity to hop over some mountains, grab breakfast with a great friend, and cruise back to your surrogate home airport in a half million dollar airplane all before the clock strikes noon.

Lessons learned and confirmed, cool sights seen, great friends visited, new friends made, abilities challenged and improved, and still plenty to learn while having serious fun. Anyone else feel guilty for enjoying what they do so dang much while being paid?

[jtrain609]

All I've got to say to that is that I love your avatar

[jdflight]

Not nearly as much as I do! Jeremy owes me a new keyboard for that one!

[PhotoPilot]