Saturday, April 19, 2003

First instructional day

4/19/03 - Arrived about 9:20. Observed preflight checkout with JC - most but not all aspects. Assisted with pushing out for several flights by J and another member. Learned about "pattern flights" (releases at 700' AGL) so now I understand the purpose of the "early bird" program. Learned about takeoff and landing areas - the map provided by SE was a bit confusing.

First lesson as a Flight Group member, with instructor X (very good!). I had not yet seen the syllabus nor the log book, so I did not know anything about the teaching structure. Started to learn ABCCCD checklist. I took control shortly after takeoff and flew most of the tow, pretty well I think. Never got above release altitude. Stayed very parallel, got a bit high once or twice. Tried nosing over, pulling back, yawing, uncoordinated turns. Learned parts of a good turn: bank, coordinate rudder, neutralize stick and rudder, back pressure to "lift" around the turn. some 90 degree and 360 degree turns. Good 360's, but forgot to use compass. Learned that altimeters stick! Struggled a little with yaw string. Learned about IP, used flaps - very stiff! CFI completed the landing. 22 minutes, logged as Flight 2?

Got club papers and log book from C. Got lock combination from L. Left about 1:30.

No comments: