So through an interesting set of circumstances (but not so interesting that I'm going to explain) I won a ride in a Piper Cub. Today I went flying with a retired airline captain.It was one of the cooler things I've done, and I do a lot of cool shit.
One of the cool things about the Piper Cub is that the plane can happily fly with the doors wide open. So, it was a lot like being on the Triumph, only at 500 - 1000 feet off the ground. Low and slow is awesome.
Although he promised to let me take the controls, he forgot until after we'd landed. To be honest, I didn't mind. It'd be too much like riding some other guy's prized motorcycle.
5 comments:
NICE!!!
That is very cool. Flying in a small plane is great fun and it certainly sounds like you enjoyed it. I have only done it once. We had rented a house at Lake Whatcom in July last year for a vacation and I had to do some work for Chicago's bid for the 2016 Olympics. It was crucial that the house had the internet service it promised. It didn't. I complained to the owner (Larry) and to be fair, he got it fixed in a few days. He then telephoned me and the conversation went like this.....
Larry: I am really sorry the internet wasn't working when you arrived.
Gary: That’s ok, I got around it.
Larry: I feel bad so I would like to make it up to you.
Gary: That is kind of you, but you really don't need to.
Larry: Look, I have a house that is being renovated and I am going to deliver lunch to the workers. Would you like you come with me?
Gary: Ummmm. Not really, as I am a little busy.
Larry: It is on one of the San Juan Islands, and I am going by plane.
Gary: By plane?
Larry: I have a 50 year old Cessna and I am going to leave in about an hour.
Gary: I'll get my coat....
It was a great trip. I learned a lot about small planes, Larry's love of them, becoming a Subway delivery boy and a little about the islands. Fantastic!
We didn’t have open doors though and I bet that was one of those times that is a bit scary but also very exhilarating. Good for you – I am glad you got that ride!
I love flying in small planes - and taking the controls is not unlike motorcycling in a lot of ways. It's a blast. The only thing better in my opinion, is flying in a helicopter.
Oh, and I forgot to say - those small planes have bloody sharp edges on their wings, as I found out when I hit my head on one!
Maybe the pilot took the doors off even if they weren't supposed to be. I can't imagine being a normal person and stuck in a small plane cockpit with you!
Frightening photo, by the way.
Just some friendly harrassment since I haven't been here in a bit. Wanted to make sure you didn't miss me the next time I'm away a while.
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