Maggie handled it like a champ

[oflguy]

Your first solo cross country is nerve-wracking enough as it is. Most people always remember theirs, but 17-year-old Maggie will never forget hers for certain, even though she never got to leave the airport environment. I have to admit I got somewhat emotional listening to the initial fear in her voice. The instructor pilot did a great job keeping her focused on what she had to do.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZ5q7Iv5wTM

[fools_gold]

Gripping story. I was never a pilot, but I know a little bit about it. My Dad flew back seat (radioman/gunner) in dive bombers in WWII. He was always interested in flying, but finally got his pilot's license at age 60. He bought and flew his 1946 Ercope up until he was 78. I don't know how many hours he had in it, but he was really big in the Ercoupe Owner's Club.

That young lady sounded a bit rattled at first, but she smoothed out and sounded like an old pro by the end. Brought me to tears.

[oflguy]

Gripping story. I was never a pilot, but I know a little bit about it. My Dad flew back seat (radioman/gunner) in dive bombers in WWII. He was always interested in flying, but finally got his pilot's license at age 60. He bought and flew his 1946 Ercope up until he was 78. I don't know how many hours he had in it, but he was really big in the Ercoupe Owner's Club.

That young lady sounded a bit rattled at first, but she smoothed out and sounded like an old pro by the end. Brought me to tears.

Yes, I have to admit, I welled up when she landed. A seasoned pilot would be less scared, but a student pilot on her first solo cross country? She really kept her composure at the end. Her instructor's voice over the radio helped I'm sure.

I thank your dad for his service. I'm glad he obtained his dream to be a pilot. For me, it was the most rewarding thing I ever did. I'm so grateful I was able to use my skills to serve my country. Your dad certainly played a large part in the success of our country during the war.

I bet your dad had some interesting stories to tell. I bet he was a great guy.

[oflguy]

You were very fortunate to have known him, much less have been his son. Today, we all owe people like your father a debt of gratitude for what private and commercial aviation is today.

[fools_gold]

You were very fortunate to have known him, much less have been his son. Today, we all owe people like your father a debt of gratitude for what private and commercial aviation is today.

One of his last flights, when he was 78 or so.

XTRA0009.jpg (254.7 KiB) Viewed 280 times

[fools_gold]

You were very fortunate to have known him, much less have been his son. Today, we all owe people like your father a debt of gratitude for what private and commercial aviation is today.

Sent you another PM.

[oflguy]

One of his last flights, when he was 78 or so.

XTRA0009.jpg

He looks all the part of a proud pilot and veteran of his country.

[D26-15]

Does anyone know what caused the wheel to fall off?

[fools_gold]

Does anyone know what caused the wheel to fall off?

I was wondering the same thing. Human error or structural failure? The old test engineer in me always wants to know.

[oflguy]

Does anyone know what caused the wheel to fall off?

Sometimes a hard landing can damage the landing gear

[Charlie Mike]

Wake up Maggie
I think I got something to say to you
It's middle of the flight and I really should be have mentioned this at flight school
I know I'm feeling a bit confused
But I think it had something to do with fuel
Oh Maggie, I wouldn't fly anymore

[Muddling Through]

Does anyone know what caused the wheel to fall off?

I was gonna say "gravity" but that's probably too snarky.

[D26-15]

I was gonna say "gravity" but that's probably too snarky.

Gravity is what took it back to earth for sure.

[oflguy]

Wake up Maggie
I think I got something to say to you
It's middle of the flight and I really should be have mentioned this at flight school
I know I'm feeling a bit confused
But I think it had something to do with fuel
Oh Maggie, I wouldn't fly anymore

I've got to get back home one of these days