Tell us about your first solo

[Thruster88]

Some time in February 40 years ago I did my solo in brand new out of the box Wheeler Skycraft Scout mk3. Fearless, cautious,  somewhat knowledgeable about how aircraft fly at age 21, it all went well. The three axis 18hp scout was a very good performer with a light pilot. Sold it after a year and moved on to a Thruster. 

[T510]

Did my solo Sunday morning, just managed to sneak it in before a change in the weather saw the winds pick up.

 

Did 3 circuits with my instructor in variable winds that made runway choice a bit challenging but the direction settled down giving me enough time before the wind speeds picked up.

 

Full credit to my instructor and I have fallen in love with flying Cubs. The challenge of learning to fly in tail draggers has been an awesome experience

 

[RFguy]

well done. airplane climbs like a scalded cat without instructor aboard eh ?

[T510]

Dropping 95kg from the back seat of a 100hp cub makes for a really short take off roll. 

 

Reached circuit height well before the end of the runway.

[facthunter]

Now the  "REAL"learning starts and it never ends.  As an Instructor I'd never send someone solo in worsening condition. it's an extra risk and there's NO real rush to solo. Flying in fairly bad conditions MUST be part of it.   Your Instructor is supposed to have good flying ability and judgement so use their skills. You won't get through a flying life without some "Testing" weather events unless you stop early. Nev

[T510]

I aim to learn something with every flight. At no time was I rushed, my instructors and I came up with a plan the night before, the weather conditions and forecasts where closely monitored and a decision was made.

That decision was then re-evaluated on the morning of the flight and further discussed during the flight and the circuits conducted with my instructor.

 

I have flown in conditions that where worse than the conditions I did my solo in, we have discussed at length the rarity of "perfect" conditions and the requirements for a competent pilot to be able to read the conditions and fly (or cancel the planned flight) as appropriate. We have also discussed the appropriate actions if conditions deteriorate once the flight has begun.

 

My instructors are highly skilled and we brief before and after all flights. I rely on them and appreciate their skills and their ability to instruct.

[facthunter]

ALL good things.    Nev