I
went on a trip with a customer the other afternoon to Martha’s Vineyard. We
were on island for about two hours and prior to leaving the airport my client
requested that they top off the airplane with 100LL. I looked at the price of the fuel and saw
that it was $6.70 a gallon on April 16th. The plane took 18 gallons which is what we
burned coming from Danbury when it was last topped off. The bill for the fuel came to $120.60 before
fees and taxes. That’s when it dawned on me; the most inexpensive safety item
you can buy for your next flight is a flight instructor.
Are
you fearful of landing in strong crosswinds? Take an instructor and practice crosswind
landings. Having a hard time executing missed approaches? Go out and practice them
with a CFII.
Practicing
things you are apprehensive about doing with an instructor makes you a safer
more competent pilot. Looking at areas that give you pause and addressing them
with someone who teaches this for a living will help you overcome your fears
while you become more accomplished.
An
iPad with the latest navigation, weather or flight control app, and XM receiver
or a Mode S transponder will provide information making you a better-informed
pilot, but none of these gadgets will improve your stick and rudder skills. For that you can hire a professional. Hell it’s cheaper than the fuel.
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