Flying a Plane

April

The Piper gathered speed along the runway, until finally the wheels left the ground and with the nose pointed upwards, gains altitude. It was a perfect take-off save for one crucial difference. It was MY perfect take-off. With no training required, here I was piloting my own plane around L.A. Flying is a dangerously addictive banana. With a veteran instructor in the seat beside me, I learnt that flying a plane is about as easy as driving a car. The key instruments are easy to understand, and banking left or right is as easy as steering a station wagon. Sure, it requires a lot more time and instruction to get a license, which involves a thorough knowledge of instrument flying, different conditions, rules and regulations, but anyone can give it a taste before they commit. And what a taste! Flying around LA, hearing the various control towers in your headphones, carefully watching your altitude and your attitude. I could see other planes and helicopters passing above and below, my arms gripping the steering yoke too tensely because of my nerves. The plane bounces and shakes with the thermals, but I quickly realize that a plane bumping with turbulence is the same as a car bumping along a cracked highway. Both vehicles are designed to withstand it, and there is nothing to fear. After flying about the city for an hour, I bank towards the airport, and the instructor explains the landing. Since most accidents are known to happen on landing, I’m grateful that he takes over the controls, although surprised again to realize that the plane pretty much lands itself. With the flaps in the correct position, speed slowed down, the plane gently touched down and then he used the foot pedals to taxi it to its parking. I imagined owning a plane one day, flying between cities, family in the back seats looking at the view. I’m not the only one. Once you’ve piloted your own plane, it’s pretty difficult to get your feet back on the ground.
Perfect For: Birthdays, Father’s Day