Do more of what makes you come alive!

I love the quote, “Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” Howard Truman. Life is indeed a whole different experience when you discover and live your passions. Making the time to connect and fuel passions does wonders.

Amazing Valentine's Day 2016 for me. Despite a very early weekend morning rising and cold temperature, I woke up excited for my dates yesterday!  What dates? Yes, dates. I checked out 2 FBOs as I seek The One to finish my flight training. If you've followed my aviation adventures in blogs here, or on other channels (IG & Twitter @AeroEms), you know my flight school closed a few moths ago.  I was researching new ones. It's been on my mind to go meet these groups and thought to myself what better way to check things out than on Valentine's Day! I did and tell you this... Amazing day! Best Valentine's Day ever.  
I flew after 5+ months. You know how I felt? Like meeting up with the one or an old friend you haven't seen for decades, but just picking right up! New place, new flight instructor, new plane. Nonetheless, I did great. As importantly, I enjoyed who I was doing this with it. No hesitations, just felt good and natural. I simply cannot wait to pick up my flight training with the best place for me!
Regardless of your passions, here's something I want to share. Never give up on your dreams and aspirations! Things may take longer than you like, but if you really want it you'll take the steps to progress and achieve your goals. Key is to go after it. Another important point is to believe in your abilities and surround yourself with the greatest company. The world is full of naysayers and many just give up on achieving greater. Sometimes you are your worst opponent. Work it out and do what makes you happy. Follow your course! The journey is all the more exciting with others who strive to live life to the fullest and share the magic called genuine enthusiasm, too!:-)
For me aviation is a passion. If you know me or follow me on the various social media channels, you know this! Regardless what your passion, I'm here to say Life is short. When you're fortunate enough to find things and people who make you feel amazing, appreciate that and do more of it. Also, take a moment to tell those people how amazing they are and the positive impact they make. You owe yourself to pursue the exceptional things that light you up. My smile in this pic says it all... LIVE IT UP, my friends! 

I'm eager for my continued aviation adventures, to share them in my blog, meet more who share this passion and to hear about the experiences growing/inspiring you in this journey called life! I'm a smart cookie, I'm honing in on the best flight school to see me through my license. Stay tuned for more. I hope you enjoy as many amazingly awesome days, too!
A second imminent adventure that fuels my passion is more blogging and YouTube demos on product's I've been asked to review by Wazoo Survival Gear. I snagged their Social Media Award after doing a full review on their Adventure bracelet. They create convenient parachord bracelets, key chains, etc with survival tools integrated in them. 
I'll be demoing how to use these products and featuring them on my blog. Here I am with their bushcraft firestarter necklace and the beautiful James River behind me! Follow my Instagram for the latest product review adventures: @AeroEms
***I'd love to hear from my Special Forces connections what is a "must have" in your kit for firestarting out in no where. Do tell! :-) I always love learning or reinforcing what I know. Drop me a line or add a comment to share.***

The knowledge I've gained in survival skills and my joys in applying, plus learning more, makes me continue to feel connected to my Dad who has passed. He was a Green Beret and the best Adventurer I knew. So, in enjoying, applying and adding my skills in this area, all the while enjoying the great outdoors, his legacy lives on in my heart. Always!
The World is better with people on fire with their passions. I'm a better person when I align to my passions and align to those who share a similar one, too, or open my mind to new things that enhance my life.
What lights your inner fire and makes you love your life? Hoping you can easily rattle off a response without thinking and if not, that you find that true passion soon!
"Adventure is worthwhile in itself." ~ Earhart

EPIC High Altitude Climb

Another inspiring, giving me great chills kind of aviation footage shared by Boldmethod. I've watched it 3x in a row! To GREAT not to share.

Incredible and something I want to live in my lifetime! I love flying!! Enjoy.:-)

http://www.boldmethod.com/blog/video/2015/07/go-from-0-to-15000-feet-in-45-seconds/

What is your your most memorable flight, if you can even narrow it down to one?:-)

Happy & Safe Flying, Always!

Meet a Real American Hero, Erik Sabiston, U.S. Army helicopter pilot and author of Dustoff 7-3!

I'm so excited and honored to introduce you to an extraordinary US Army helicopter pilot! I met Erik Sabiston via LinkedIn. This is not the first time, or last, I've met an awesome connection through that professional network site, which I'm a fan and actively use. Those who know me know I thrive in digitally connecting and building an engaged network, so it is not uncommon for me to not only make connections, but also build stronger relationships using it effectively. I see it as yet another tool to learn more information, share information, meet people I may not run into establishing new connections and keeping in touch with others who's path have gone to another zipcode, over time, myself included!:-) 

When I met Erik, he was in the midst of finishing his book, Dustoff 7-3, which is based on an incredible real life mission he flew and successfully accomplished with a very special team. I read about his Newsweek article and was inspired from the brief share about some of this teams accomplishments. The vibe I get from Erik, both in our communications and watching the Heroes Summit video of him and his crew, was a mix of professionalism, calmness, humbleness, and humor. I asked him if he'd be interested in being one of my Featured Pilot Spotlights on my aviation site/blog WingsConnect / Aviators Lounge blog. He expressed interest, but it wasn't the right time. Well, now it is the right time and he reached back out to me to let me know the interview was a go!!  I was very thrilled to gain insights and inspiration from Erik's responses and to share them you all.

I recently read Dustoff 7-3. If you enjoy a story of courage under extreme situations, dedication, and teamwork to pull off what could seem like the impossible for most, then snag a copy of this book. I recommend it. There are details at the end of the blog on where you can find a copy. In finishing his book recently, it gives me even greater pleasure to have this opportunity to virtually introduce to him! I hope you are as inspired by his responses and aviation pictures shared, as I was. Fasten your seatbelt and check out his responses!

Question 1: Tell me your Love at First Flight story and how you fell in love with aviation - where & when was your first flight? Also, what did you fly?

When I was a kid I spent much of my time with my grandparents.  A WWII vet, my grandfather was also an Army Aviator, until a bad crash in a B-25 cut his aviation career short.  He had aviation books in his home that I would pour over constantly.  I remember watching The Wings of Eagles with John Wayne, and it was like a spark.  I wanted to be an aviator more than anything as a kid.  My first flight was at age 14 on a C-9B Skytrain from Virginia to Florida when I was a Naval Sea Cadet.  I remember being completely terrified the entire time, yet determined that I would someday fly myself.  

Years later I became a UH-60 Blackhawk crewchief in the 101st Airborne.  Still petrified of heights, I loved the job and being part of a crew.  I would sit around in my free time reading every aviation magazine I could find.  One of my pilots Jason Jones noticed this and remarked that I seemed to love aviation more than any pilot in our unit.  I realized then that I would never be satisfied until I had the flight controls in my hands.

In 2007 I flew the TH-67 for the first time at Fort Rucker.  Flight school was tough for me.  I was much older than my peers and spent every waking moment in the books.  I knew this was my last chance to live my dream, and I was determined that nothing was going to derail me.  I selected UH-60s in 2008.  I wanted 60s because the mission was more diverse than any other airframe in the Army.

Question 2: What is the best advice you can give to fellow pilots?

When you have passengers fly like your loved ones are in the back; you are responsible for their lives.  Always study and train the maneuvers and tasks you know you're weak at.  FLY IFR!  For military aviators: a good instrument pilot is usually a good combat pilot.

Question 3: What is your favorite part of being involved in aviation?

Working with people and experiencing new things.  I meet people from every walk of life in the military and I get to snatch folks out of really bad places.  Nothing feels as good as knowing that in some small way you've made a difference.  I also love to travel and seeing the world.  Flying for my country has given me the opportunity to do that, and that's a blessing.

Question 4: What is the best eating spots you've found in your aviation travels?

Lamberts in Sikeston, MO., "Home of the Throwed Rolls!"  I also like the breakfast in Selma, AL.  I'm a foodie, so anywhere that has JP8 and barbecue is just fine with me!

Question 5: What are your favorite airports that you've flown into and why?

I love flying into Jack Edwards near Gulf Shores, AL.  It has an out of the way, beach kinda' feel to it and the folks are really friendly.  My favorite is one that I've never flown into it, but I loved visiting it as a kid... NAS Oceana.  So much great military hardware on the flight line, it kinda takes your breathe away!

Here are a few cool pictures, a glimpse into Erik's Life Adventures!

DANG DUDE! Now that's a cockpit!! A lot more going on than my 152!

Life Savers fly these choppers

He looks very happy with a kind heart.

Cool picture, Erik!

Ready to roll! This picture is aviation awesome! 

Faces of Heroes. The Real Fantastic Four. Check out the Newsweek Heroes Summit video below to learn more about each of these soldiers who risked their lives to accomplish an incredible mission. Each member received honors from the Army based on their actions on this mission. Snag a copy of Dustoff 7-3!

Erik at one of his book releases. His reviews are 5 out of 5 Stars!! Read Dustoff 7-3!

Check out the link below to order a copy of the book on Amazon! Such a big part of this book that really touched my heart and mind was the dedication the crew had to saving lives or being there to retrieve bodies of fallen soldiers. I sensed a fierceness to get the job done, perseverance and leave no one behind mentality. Very inspiring story of just how much this team went through and supported one another to accomplish what they did.

Every aviator has a great picture with their aircraft of choice. Erik, looking GREAT!!

Erik! Thank you so much for taking the time to share your responses and avi action pictures!! I really enjoyed getting to know you further through them and am excited to share your story. Your determination to achieve your goals, overcome challenges and excitement about the opportunities the Life of aviation has given is very inspiring. 

Each interview I have done is unique, very special and inspiring. Each person has different experiences and tips, but what I find is an underlying commonality in those who have found their love of flight. We are all extremely passionate and driven. I'm very grateful to have found in Aviation something so challenging, rewarding, and the opportunity to meet some of the most interesting souls in pilots. I have admiration for those who push past status quo, push themselves to achieve more, persevere even when others may not understand or support your drive or where you are headed. Another group that comes to mind with these characteristics, kicked up even more notches is Special Forces, but that'll be another blog post.:-)

Anyways, those who know me know I hold a special spot in my heart for our Troops, Real American Heroes. Erik and his crew are the kind of unsung heroes who put themselves in harms way with such an intense sense of duty, caring for those in need despite extreme challenges. I'm glad his book sheds light on the extraordinary accomplishments of this team. I found the story a glimpse into a fascinating world I won't see personally, very inspiring and leaves me with more gratitude on top of what I have for the unsung heroes in our Military! 

Growing up on military bases, I admired the strong sense of duty quality very much in many positive examples I saw. There was an above average sense of serving, not for fame and glory, but a sense of pride and community. I felt that same appreciation reading the actions of the troops in Dustoff 7-3. From the story, I took away a strong sense that each crew member brought important qualities and support, at different times and sometimes at the same time, resulting in a winning team dynamic that netted an exceptional mission accomplished.

Dustoff 7-3, the crew Erik was a part of, received the Army Aviation Association of America's top honor for their mission, featured in his book, that occurred in Kunar Providence Afghanistan in June 2011. This mission was named Air/Sea Rescue that year. All 4 crew members received a Metal of Valor. Sabiston, Bringloe, and Brodhead received the Distinguished Flying Cross, the highest award in aviation. Capps received the Air Medal of Valor.

Pick up a copy, read it and may you also be as inspired as I was that a crew as dedicated and giving their all exists. If I had someone I loved serving and they found themselves injured, I'd pray a crew like this would sweep them up out of harms way. 

http://www.amazon.com/Dustoff-7-3-Erik-Sabiston/dp/0989798364

In addition to reading the book, check out this cool video of them as part of Newsweek's Heroes Summit:

http://original.livestream.com/herosummit/video?clipId=pla_a7920dac-206d-4a00-8d84-950ce746b5ac

Get connected with him online to follow the latest:

http://www.eriksabiston.com/

Dustoff 7-3 (Facebook)

@ErikSabiston (Twitter)

Happy and Safe Flying, Always!

Emily 

http://www.wingsconnect.com/

@AeroEms or @ WingsConnect (Instagram /Twitter)

Here are additional links on media associated with the book and story of Dustoff 7-3:

http://www.feedyourneedtoread.com/contributor/erik-sabiston/

http://www.businessinsider.com/how-us-soldiers-saved-their-helicopter-2015-5

http://taskandpurpose.com/the-heartbreaking-story-behind-the-dustoff-7-3-rescues-in-afghanistan/

http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/DUSTOFF73SavingLivesUnderFireinAfghanistan

http://www.verticalmag.com/news/article/QAwithErikSabistonUH60InstructorPilotAuthor

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dustoff-7-3-erik-sabiston/1121664577?ean=9780989798365

http://www.amazon.com/Dustoff-7-3-Erik-Sabiston/dp/0989798364

http://original.livestream.com/herosummit/video?clipId=pla_a7920dac-206d-4a00-8d84-950ce746b5ac

http://www.warriorspublishing.com/?p=594

http://www.nhregister.com/arts-and-entertainment/20150517/milford-native-tells-of-brave-us-army-helicopter-mission-in-dustoff-7-3

http://www.dothaneagle.com/lifestyles/local/fort-rucker-instructor-pilot-recounts-decorated-mission-in-new-book/article_60ed4b60-fa8e-11e4-a83b-5ba5c3dfa790.html

http://www.stripes.com/news/special-reports/heroes/heroes-2013/i-didn-t-fly-with-my-own-two-arms-1.224801

http://www.newsweek.com/afghanistans-valley-death-medevac-teams-miracle-rescue-63779

http://www.wearethemighty.com/this-army-medic-saved-14-lives-with-a-broken-leg-while-under-fire-2015-05

http://www.businessinsider.com/this-army-medevac-pilot-rescued-more-than-a-dozen-soldiers-during-a-deadly-60-hour-mission-2012-5

http://taskandpurpose.com/unsung-heroes-this-army-medic-overcame-gunfire-and-a-broken-leg-to-save-14-soldiers/

http://www.insidebainbridge.com/2012/10/03/bainbridges-julia-bringloe-7th-woman-awarded-flying-cross-medal-amelia-earhart-was-the-1st/

http://www.c-span.org/person/?juliabringloe

http://www.punditreview.com/2012/06/sysk-sgt-julia-bringloe/

http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/article/20130129/NEWS03/701299857

http://www.usnews.com/news/articles/2013/08/08/afghan-medevacs-run-to-gunfire-explosions-to-rescue-injured-comrades

http://www.readperiodicals.com/201403/3265818431.html

http://archive.armytimes.com/article/20120423/NEWS/204230311/Black-Hawk-crew-honored-3-heroic-days

http://www.timesfreepress.com/news/opinion/freepress/story/2012/may/29/chattanooga-meet-julia-both-of-them/78925/

http://www.army.mil/article/87259/10th_CAB_aviators_receive_awards_for_valor/

https://twitter.com/eriksabiston

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Dustoff-7-3/538460959617404

Media and Author Endorsements:

"Absolutely incredible." - Charlie Rose, CBS News

"This story is extraordinary!" - Martha Raddatz, ABC News

"You guys are crazy!" - Renee Montagne, NPR News

"I have just read a marvelous book that I wish to recommend to all Americans, Dustoff 7-3 by Erik Sabiston. The flying was on the absolute edge, harrowing beyond description. Sabiston does a magnificent job… I was blown away!  Flying at the fringes of the machine's capability, in terrible weather and under enemy fire much of the time, he and his crew in an unarmed Blackhawk rescued 14 wounded soldiers, made three critical resupply runs, recovered two soldiers KIA, and nearly died several times. All in three days. Dustoff 7-3 is a combat helicopter flying tale right on par with CHICKENHAWK by Robert Mason, which I thought was the finest true combat helicopter story ever written until I read Sabiston's work. I'm going to put Sabiston's book on the shelf side by side with Mason's. After I read Dustoff 7-3, I have been shaking hands with every soldier I meet. They are all heroes to me!" - Stephen Coonts - 17-Time NY Times bestselling author of "Flight of the Intruder"

"This is a great book! It puts you in the seat and offers an intimate look at the men and women who put it all on the line when troops are in need." - Kevin Maurer, #1 NY Times Bestselling Author of “No Easy Day"

You want to know what the phrase "courage under fire" is really all about? Read Erik Sabiston's Dustoff 7-3." - John Weisman, 7-Time NY Timesbestselling author of "KBL"

"An engaging and thrilling insight into the world of US Army MEDEVAC's in Afghanistan. Erik does a wonderful job detailing the dangerous calls and the bravery demonstrated by not only the medics but the fearless pilots." - Marty Katz, Film Producer of “Titanic” & “The Great Raid”

"Erik Sabiston and the crew of Dust Off 7-3 are real-deal American heroes." - Scott MacTavish, Author of “Battle Ready” & director of “MURPH: The Protector”

"I used to wonder who those angels were that flew into our most hellish moments in combat, those men and women who would risk everything to save us or at least return our dead. After reading Dustoff 7-3, now I know." - MAJ (Ret.) Rusty Bradley, author of "Lions of Kandahar"

“It’s about time their story is told.” – Leslie Marshall, FOX News Channel contributor, Nationally Syndicated Radio Host and Blog Columnist 

“A gripping and heart-pounding tale of duty, and near death for the chopper crew, Dustoff 7-3represents a war story of gallantry.” – Jay Strafford, Richmond Times Dispatch

“A brave, cool hand behind the stick by necessity, Sabiston also writes astutely, cutting his deck of drama-riddled “cards” with slices of wry humor and true-life human interest. In doing so, he deals a winning hand.” – Dorcey Wingo, Vertical Magazine

"I expected adrenaline junkies or war cowboys, but instead found four regular people susceptible to the same fears and doubts as anyone else." - Tony Dokoupil, NBC News

Extraordinary Perspectives & the Push to Upgrade!

It's not everyday I see the world at 1000 feet then frolick at ground level at the place I just flew over the previous day, but that's what happened on my last flight!

I enjoyed a great flight with my CFI to Charlottesville KCHO, flew along the James River, then to Chesterfield Executive KFCI, then back to New Kent. Matt called in to get permission to fly along the James River. Spectacular!

So my plan was to fly to KCHO in the day to see it since I could barely make out anything in my night flying there last month. So awesome to see the mountains and terrain during the day!

I got some great radio work in with Potomac Approach and KCHO Tower. We used Flight Following which I am a fan. So, I know I'm not alone in feeling like, "Errr, do I really need to talk to Approach or Tower?" Even so, I like that I have to push myself to do it to get better. I was pleased with my radio talk on this flight. I felt I performed well. I took away things I could do better next round, see what I did well, and am left with the knowledge that Flight Following is a great service I plan to take advantage of during training and once I'm flying as a PP! What a fantastic service that makes me feel even better having those extra eyes on what's going on in the airspace.

Anyways, since I know I'm not alone in some of the initial radio talk apprehensions, I thought I'd share a useful video on radio talk. I'm a big fan of Jason Schappert (@mzeroa on Twitter). Here's a great YouTube he did on taking to ATC in Class Delta on arrival. Seeing his videos are really helpful to me. I hope you find some value in his shares. I really like the initial cold call technique, which I used after watching his video.

http://youtu.be/IT-Kw5OdAIk

Here's Jason requesting VFR flight following. This is one of my favorite videos because so much changes in flight and he shows viewers how to handle the situation flawlessly! Show how staying alert, calm and confident in your abilities is key to success. These are great examples for aviation and beyond in dealing with rapid changes. Great example to learn from:

http://youtu.be/5QxM5BAaA8o

The biggest takeaway for me on my flight was to appreciate the very different perspectives, a sense of accomplishment in smooth flying, appreciation for Flight Following, improved 2-way radio talk, plus I scoped out a potential cross country route. I believe I found it in W96-KCHO-KFCI-W96!

I've said it before and I'll say it again. Aviation provides me with an incredible level of challenge and feelings of accomplishment in my growing experiences. Aviation pushes me to focus only on the flying when I'm flying, demands my best, challenges me in ways I feel the stretch and love the growth/achievements I experience in each successful flight. I'm so happy to have found my love for flight. Learning to fly has enhanced my Life in many ways and I'm excited for my best chapters yet to come!

Now, let me share a coupe pictures with you from this flight. Here's my post flight smile! You know me. I enjoy a great avi photo opportunity!

This was KCHO on approach to land last month during my night flight. You couldn't see anything really. You need to feel confident in your instrument reading when it's pitch black out. I welcomed the added chalkenge! Did 2 touch and gos that night.

This is Charlottesville views during the day. Beautiful rolling mountains and fields. I gained a great appreciation seeing the terrain during the day. So beautiful! 

I love the rolling mountains as far as the eyes can see!

My CFI Matt Welch took controls so I could enjoy the James River fly over. I flew it last time. This time I welcomed the opportunity to take in the view and snap a few pictures of my favorite spots!

Neat shot with my Stratus and the Z bridge in sight. I've said it before. I'm a big fan of Stratus and Foreflight! 

Area I enjoy fishing, the James River!

Highway 76 into Downtown Richmond. I drive on this road. It's so amazing to see it from 1000 feet!!:-)

Richmond has no shortage of bridges. I just love the James River!! If I'm not flying, I'm fishing.

This was a cool sight to take in. It's a beautiful spot in Richmond called Maymont. Beautiful grounds that inspire painters, poets and more. For me, it was a point of interest because I had just been there as a volunteer to support a clean up effort of fallen magnolia leaves. Hmmm, from 1000 feet I can happily report the grounds look spotless!!;-)

Departing the James River flyover to redirect to Chesterfield Executive. I did a touch and go there before heading back to W96.

When we landed we were treated by catching a Chinook flyover. This picture does no justice to this huge flying awesome beast!:-)

This is a picture I took of a Cessna flyover as I was fishing on the James River. It's such an extraordinary perspective to look up and not only admire those flying over, but to know I've been up there, too... soon to return for more!:-)

All in all another great flight! More great experience. More great memories!

Stay tuned for my next post. I've secured a new WingsConnect /Aviators Lounge Featured Pilot Interview! Very inspiring responses and action pictures. You won't want to miss it! Stay tuned!!

Until then, Happy and Safe Flying, Always!

Emily

Night Flying Fun in Virginia!

Great flight last week! Flew from W96 to KCHO Charlottesville, Virginia and back with my CFI.

We used flight following. Great service and each time we use it I see more examples of how valuable it is to take advantage of it. 

This flight brought new challenges and opportunity. This was my first time to KCHO. Really had to adjust my eyes to see things differently. One thing I learned was that there were mountain peaks to keep an eye on approaching the airport. The FBOs TPA is 1700. The highest peak nearby is 1830. Do the math means being very aware of these things, picking great pilotage points prior to flying, and staying clear of that peak! 

You could just see a faint shadow of the mountains. The lights below, towns, baseball fields, parking lots, the airport all stand out against pitch black. I found night flying very enjoyable. Very zen!

Here are a few night flying Virginia pictures and a YouTube clip of my 2 touch and gos at KCHO. Enjoying the view in a great flight you're a part of is priceless! Already looking forward to my next flight.

Spotted a rainbow before the flight

Love the city glow below. 

It is beautiful and more peaceful up here!

Landing on 21

I see Richmond's dazzle 

Richmond glow.

I'm more than enjoying my growing flying experiences and skills. Looking forward to my greatest chapters ahead!

Video of my 2 touch and gos at KCHO with some chill tunes

https://youtu.be/nM74ucz5BGk

Do you enjoy day or night flying better and why?

Happy and Safe Flying, Always!

Emily

Evolution Revolution: Fly Love

I've always been curious, hungry to learn more that will upgrade me, and up for challenges, especially those that I have come through enriched.

Expect the Unexpected 

Life is so interesting. It is truly amazing what you can do if you put your mind to it. I'd say about 5 years ago, I never would have imagined I could fly and navigate a plane. On the ground, I would have never imagined my savvy in digital and social media would be sought out in as much high demand by many of those around me just starting to learn. I only see that need growing and I love being a a leader in the dynamic change! That's the awesome of Life. It grows and evolves. You've got to be nimble and quick to keep up!

Cause and effect. 

Through each choice, interaction and experience, it all steered me in a particular direction in Life. I couldn't have dreamed my life would be as rich as it's been since discovering my love for flight! Flying for me is a passion that rewards me on so many levels. I'm glad I found it and have the aptitude to do it. In my digital channel shares, it is my hope that I continue to be inspired by other aviators I connect with and that I continue to inspire others to show them the possibilities.

What are you grateful for in life learnings?  What thoughts would you share with others to encourage them to be all they can be?

Time waits for no one. It's later than you think. Work hard, be a positive influence that others draw inspiration from and enjoy your life. We each posses something unique. Find your passions and come alive with it. Live it UP!

Check out the video I made of some sweet aviation memories I have from flights over the past 3 months. Hope you enjoy the ride with me! 

http://youtu.be/UEorpLm51FE

I'm so excited for what's to come, which are my best flying years yet!❤️ 

What about you? 

Happy & Safe Flying, Always!

Want to feel like Iron Man? Go fly with Sky Combat Ace in Vegas!

They say what happens in Vegas stays in Vegas. Well, one thing that happened to me in Vegas last week that is going to be known is my EPIC aerobatic flying experience last Friday. Too great to not share about SCA! Mind blown & thumbs up to fly with Sky Combat Ace! They are a MUST DO in Vegas for Aviation Lovers.

My first taste of an aerobatic move was back in December 2014. I experienced a smooth roll in a stylish RV-7. I had never experienced anything like it. Like a "Matrix" (ie the movie) moment, in a great way, it opened my mind to a whole different type of flying. It was a Wow moment for me and yet another great aviation memory. I definitely knew I would be open to trying more aerobatics if given the right opportunity.  

That next opportunity came up as I made plans to meet up with friends in Vegas last week. As part of my planning phase, I was looking at possible activities out there to do for us. I've been to Vegas before. There's no shortage of the usual options and things to do. During my search I came across SCA's deal which was a Groupon (SCORE!) and began to do some research about their services and reviews. I liked what I read, considered things, and then booked my flight. Game on!

A few things I really enjoy about aviation is that it is constantly serving up to my desire to learn and excel, presents me with challenges to face and grow from, opportunities to stretch and expand my horizons in ways beyond the status quo of regular Life decisions/choices. There are no apologies or tip toeing for driving hard, the desire to excel and giving it your best, it's expected. You own your progress, it's as much or little as you put into it. Of course, one progresses faster and better being surrounded with those skilled and eager to see you shine brighter. Be grateful when you find these gems, in all facets of Life! Even better, strive to become such an influencer, if you're not already. Dare you!

A couple action pictures:

One of the things I love about flying is the unique adventurers I meet along the way! Here is a picture of Maurice and I. Maurice is a traveling adventurer from Switzerland. It was so cool to share in the experience, chatting pre and post flight.

SCA has the BEST hangar I have stepped in. 

This plane.... WOWZAS!

Pre-flight smiles with Kyle, an excellent aerobatic pilot!

I took the ups...

I took the turns...

and upside down moments with HUGE smiles! 

Only time I was quiet was when I was wearing my 5 Gs face!:-D

Got the Guys to do a post flight photo with me ~ Kyle, Maurice, Denis & I! Love a great group of aviation enthusiasts:-D

A few points about my experience with SCA: 

* Really impressed and satisfied with their operations. 

* They provide door-to-door hotel pick up and drop off service, upon arrival the signing process was smooth.

* You get to wear cool jet flight suits, get a callsign badge and SCA insignia patch for your suit. This promotes a cool fun experience leading up to the flight that's about to knock your socks off! :-) 

*Their hangar is the best I've seen in my entire life, so far. I seriously want my future home to be a model like this one! So thank you SCA for setting the bar there. ;-) 

*Next it was up to the room for preflight debrief. Great job with the overview of the aircraft, maneuvers that we were going to experience, as well as safety points including how to use the parachute should that situation arise. I really liked the details covered in that brief.

*My pilot, Kyle, got me set up with my parachute and situated in the aircraft prior to flying. His flying was Excellent!

 

Join me for the flying experience and check out the video that was captured during my flights with SCA. A couple things about the video, look at my major smiling face throughout the flight. I'm chatting it up and definitely in my element! I go silent when I'm feeling the Gs! :-) 

https://www.dropbox.com/sh/r49zsz84dxd9znr/AABfDEnAl_46RuIxbc0_fOnwa?dl=0

Primary goals as it relates to this flight was to assess the flying experience, to check out the operations of this place, and I did not want to throw up or get knocked out by the Gs. I am happy to report that mission accomplished all my goals were met on this flight!

I don't have a lot of experience and exposure to aerobatics flying. So stretching myself in this area, stepping out into the unknown to experience something totally different from my current flying experience, was very rewarding. I enjoy that stretch process in life, and it doesn't necessarily have to be aviation, but any life enhancing situations that come from stepping out of your comfort zone, experiencing things that are not every day situations and feeling the rewards of living life to the fullest. 

Taking a unique flight with an experienced pilot to show me the ropes on new maneuvers is a hearty, healthy, fun filled decision that is another step to enhance my journey of life. I'm eager for more exciting chapters to come! Next time I'm at SCA I'm doing more of the hands-on experience which will likely be the top gun package and I'm bringing my pilots logbook for that one! :-)

To wrap things up, nothing I write could really show you just how awesome this flight was for me. It is certainly something that I will never forget, left me wanting more, and I look forward to returning back to SCA so I can further experience some more high throttle aerobatic flying with them! 

Check out their site and learn more about their operation, they're flight packages, their pilots, and more: http://www.skycombatace.com/

Also check out their reviews. They are quoted as one of the top things to do in Vegas. I can attest to that I would say don't miss out on an exciting opportunity to experience Vegas, fly with them while you're out there!

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g45953-d2072017-Reviews-Sky_Combat_Ace-Henderson_Nevada.html

http://govegas.about.com/od/attractions/fr/Sky-Combat-Ace-Las-Vegas.htm?utm_source=social2&utm_medium=sm&utm_campaign=shareurlbuttons

What is your most exciting flying experience, what did you feel you experienced in terms of stretching and growth in that flight?

If you go and check out SCA or you happen to be at Henderson executive airport and see them, snap a shot and share it with me on my social media channels. You can find all of them listed on my website http://www.wingsconnect.com/

I'd love to see and hear about your experience!

Happy and safe flying always!

️Love is always in the air for this Aviation Lover

Every flight I've taken has never ceased to take my breathe away at one moment or another. It is an experience, for me, where any thoughts of anything mediocre are gladly overtaken my flying focus during these special moments in time. ️

Every flight provides different challenges and rewards. It demands you always give your best. I love that about aviation.

Flying, for me, is not only a passion. ️Flying is more importantly, my Love and Zen.  Each flight brings me a surge of New Life and greater gratitude for the things that are important to me. I've found my wings and love soaring! :-)

I really enjoy this video directed by Eric Magnan and first saw it from a BoldMethod release by Colin Cutler. http://www.boldmethod.com/blog/video/2015/01/this-is-why-you-love-being-a-pilot/

If you like the video https://vimeo.com/109141765, share it with fellow aviators you'd know these flying images would resonate.

The only main thing different I'd do if I made the video is my Man wouldn't be waiting on the ground for me. He'd be up in the skies flying with me!:-) 

Here's a low flying still from the video. I cannot WAIT to experience this in Vegas in a few days ~ WOOOHOOO!

Happy & Safe Flying, Always!

Emily

www.WingsConnect.com

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