Ohhhhh it was love at first flight for me. I vividly remember my first small aircraft flight in a teeny tiny R-22 helicopter in Long Beach, California in 2009. I've loved helicopters since Airwolf:-) This flying experience was nothing less than Love at First Flight! LOVED the incredible first of taking off from the ground in a helicopter on a hot day, doors off this little guy, seatbelt securely fastened & cruising high above congested So Cali. Seeing the world below, in an aircraft you are helping to fly, was an incredible experience. The world is very different at high altitude!
I moved to Virginia in late 2009. I didn't think about flying fixed wing. At some point, my eyes were drawn to he sky and I could not ignore all the planes flying around. It was as if the sky was a playground and I became curious. It wasn't until I dated an experienced military pilot who made his own kit plane & swooped into Chesterfield Executive Airport for a date that I was intrigued enough to think about trying out a flight. Seeing him take off in that small plane, I remember thinking to myself WOW that looks incredible. I'd like to try that myself!
My first flight was using a Fathers Day Groupon deal for a Discovery Flight. That same date recommended a spot for me to do my first discovery flight. I remember the drive to the FBO was long and the winds were strong that day. When I arrived, the pilot asked if I was sure I wanted to go with the winds. One word, Yes! It was on that first flight, just before we took off, that I looked over at the dude flying me thinking I want to be the one flying, not necessarily have someone fly me. I say not necessarily, because I'm not opposed to a handsome co-pilot flying with me. Just saying!!:-)
I love flying. It is a rare feeling and very few things compare. It's exciting, exhilarating, challenging, all consuming focus, demanding, and zen. Every flight, every take off, every landing.... A Unique experience and images for my memories.
Someone asked me which airport was my favorite. My response, "My next one." Every upcoming flight has the potential to be the best and even when I'm done with a flight that I felt was great, I'm always left wanting for more..... Love love love it!:-)
I'm sharing a few pictures of my aviation adventures over time. I reflect & relish every experience when I see my pictures. It is nothing less than magical!
It all started with a R2... R22 that is:-)
My first helicopter discovery flight!
2009, Long Beach, CA
Curtis Eads FBO, Tidewater, VA, after my first Cessna discovery flight!
2012
First visit checking out New Kent Aviation, Quinton, VA
2013
Just before a Ground School session at NKA FBO
2013
Me, myself & I. First solo flight, NKA, 2014
Some left profile high altitude cheese. Leaving Wakefield FBO, VA
2014
Some right profile high altitude cheese.
First trip over the Chesapeake Bay, VA
2014
First Towered FBO. Newport News, VA.
2014
In my future. Flying into the Caribbean. Pulled this pic off the internet.
In the future. Flying Wild Alaska, preferably in a sea plane! Pulled this pic off the internet.
Te me how you fell in love with flying and your favorite flying memories. I'd love to hear and share them! Something this great is meant to be shared.
Happy & Safe Flying always!
