Incredible Things in Aviation

Incredible creations by incredible minds that help us do the incredible! 

Check out this article on Steve Fulton, Pilot and Innovator who created Required Navigation Performance (RNP). It was first designed by this Alaska Airlines pilot and developed by GE Aviation. 

http://www.gereports.com/post/75375269775/no-room-for-error-pilot-and-innovator-steve

He captures incredible footage with GoPro using RNP to land in New Zealand. I just love it! I look forward to seeing and experiencing something like this with my own eyes, preferably in a future Akaska fly & fish trip!:-)

It's truly amazing what people can put their minds to create something revolutionary!

http://youtu.be/7mxmFCw-Dig

Happy and Safe Flying, Always!

Emily 

Military Appreciation Month Spotlight: "This story is for heroes." Buckle up and read this inspiring story of Dedication, Teamwork and Courage!

It gives me immense pleasure to highlight those I meet along the way who have done exceptional things in their Life that truly inspire me. It makes me happy to shine the light on Erik Sabiston, whom I know, that just released a book about an incredible mission.

I just finished reading Dustoff 7-3. If you enjoy, like I do, 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 now! I recommend it. 

It gave me a glimpse into a world many will never know, but would pray for a crew this dedicated to be there to rescue and retrieve loved ones serving in far off places who become injured. The story of Dustoff 7-3 kept me intrigued by laying out a story that became a journey into learning more this extraordinary Life experience, as told by Erik. He paints a picture of events leading up to and in the midst of an unforgettable mission he and his crew would experience and come out of successfully together. 

These are Real American Heroes. Unsung heroes who put themselves in harms way with such an intense sense of duty in looking out for others. Growing up on military bases, I admired that 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 this book. Very inspiring and I'm glad I learned more about each of these individuals!  

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. 

Dustoff 7-3 received the Army Aviation Association of America's top honor for their mission, featured in this 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.

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.

Pick up a copy on Amazon, search for Dustoff 7-3 

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/0989798364/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1432087190&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SY200_QL40&keywords=dustoff+7-3&dpPl=1&dpID=51pYbV7dBtL&ref=plSrch

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

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!

Helicopters, Planes, Drones, Heli Tours, Social Night ~ Oh My!! Featured Pilot Spotlight: Meet Mark Robinson, Chief Pilot at Revolution Aviation. Living it UP & helping So Cali pilots Find Their Wings!!

Hello my Fellow Fantastic Fierce Flying Friends!! I hope the year has started off strong for you. It has for me with two awesome flights and my first 2015 Featured Pilot Spotlight to share with you all! WooHoo!

I'm THRILLED to introduce you to Chief Pilot Mark Robinson, head of Revolution Aviation. Check out this picture! 

In my best Archer impersonation ~ DANNNGGAAAA ZZOONNEEE 

Looking great, Mark!

Revolution Aviation caught my eye last year in the way they were using Instagram (IG) to promote their business and services. Good vibes, energy & FUN pop out in what they share in their IG feed. 

Initially, I thought they just did helicopter training. Checking out their site, I found an impressive array of services!! In flight training they cover include helicopter, plane and UAV drone training. They have a slick pilots lounge, are loaded with flight resources, weather/flight planning, handbooks, maps, and more. 

They're setting themselves apart from other flight schools, from what I am seeing, in using digital promotions and showcasing the fun they are having while effectively training a future wave a pilots. They do a social event and are actively using a variety of social media channels. Great ways to grow and keep their aviation community connected, both in person and online!

Without further delay, it gives me immense pleasure to introduce to you Chief Pilot Mark Robinson and share his Spotlight Pilot Interview responses. Enjoy the ride!!

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?

My first flight was in London, England when I was working as a Currency Broker. We achieved our targets and were rewarded with a helicopter flight from our office to London, Heathrow. I was hooked. After that on every vacation I took a helicopter ride. We flew on a Bell Longranger. I didn't know that at the time, haha.

 

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

I was recently featured in an industry magazine called Rotorcraft, Pro. They asked me the same question. I said Touch everything - this means before and after flight. Make sure you walk around and make sure doors have pins in, fuel and oil caps are on etc. I want to emphasize to always do a walk around before and after flight to not get complacent.

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

• I didn't really know it at the time, it has taken me years to realize how fun aviation is. I would travel a lot as a child, teenager and for work. I always loved flying. Then one day I needed a new challenge and decided to learn how to fly. Having finished my studies and being hired straight out of flight school I realized that this career path can literally take you anywhere. I've flown for police, sport stars, Robinson Helicopter Factory, Goodyear Airship and now have my add-on in planes! It is SUCH a fun industry and now we've met you while I work for Revolution Aviation as Chief Pilot!

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

Catalina by far. The trip over from John Wayne Airport is fun, it's beautiful and the Buffalo burger is making me hungry just thinking about it! Lucky for us here in SoCal there are many restaurants. 

 

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

I really like Burbank Airport north of Los Angeles. This is because I do a lot of training. When students have to talk on the radio several time and switch between intersecting runways I'd say you've got your hands full. I like a challenge and what better way then the deep end at a Class C. Not recommend for student pilots however.

Here are a couple more action shots. Blue skies, big smiles & looking great!

High altitude Cheese:-D ROCKS!!

Live in Southern California? Find your wings at Revolution Aviation!

Mark, thank you SO much for sharing your time and responses with me. I really enjoyed reading about how you found your Wings!!:-) I also appreciate the tips and insights shared. The aviation world is something truly unique. I, too, knew during that first flight that flying was something I love. 

I have gratitude for great CFIs, like yourself, who are helping train the next wave of pilots and being a positive, active part in their journey to Find their Wings!! Also, big shout out to organizations like AOPA & EAA who make a difference in our ability to do what we love... Living it UP!!:-D

I value each Featured Pilot Spotlight interviewee because they have shared time to provide responses that delight and inspire! A great story is meant to be shared. I genuinely enjoy sharing them and getting to know each pilot better through the process. The pilot community is a fun filled, stimulating one. I'm grateful to have found my passion for flight and to be a part of it!

Mark, when I'm back to visit friends in So Cali, I'll have to swing by for a flight. Question is, could I fast rope rappel from your helicopter?!! Done safely, that'd be some Revolutionary adventure! ;-)

Happy & Safe Flying, Always!

Flying Friends! Follow Mark & Crew on Instagram. They do a great job promoting their services, upcoming deals in fun/cool pictures shared: http://instagram.com/ieatsleepfly

Check out their main site for all the services they provide, plus their blog and more information: http://eatsleepfly.com/

Great cause & flying on 12/13/14 in Virginia

Wow! Love when a day with no particular plan ends up being one of your most enjoyable ones!:-)

I received a text from a Flying friend, Jack Pettigrew, about a toy airlift & donations event to support Military troops this holiday season. I'm a proud Army brat who grew up in military communities. Even though I'm not in the military, that community will always be an extended family and hold a special spot in my heart! I jumped at the opportunity to rush to pick up some goodies for the kids and supplies for Veterans in the hospital. 

Jack met me there and had a crew of his flying friends. I love chatting aviation with others who share the same enthusiasm. I ask all kinds of questions and want to hear about experiences to soak it in like a sponge. I always learn something new and now find opportunities with the flying I've done, to date, to inspire others to visit new FBOs. A few of us had a great chat about Tangier Island being a MUST visit. I flew there last month with my instructor. Click here to view that post: 

http://aviatorslounge.blogspot.com/2014/11/flying-inspirations-windy-flight-to.html?m=1

The aviation community is a unique and special one. I love the new connections and sharing in the excitement of flying.

When I came to this event, I actually didn't have intentions to fly. That being said. I happened to snag my headset just before leaving. BOY, that was an excellent decision!! I was offered a brief flight in my first experimental and it was exhilarating! Andy is the owner of a Maj. Preddy, ace WWII pilot, RV-7 replica plane. It's exterior is painted with symbols that share the history of this ace pilot. The interior was SWEET! I loved the glass canopy top & seatbelt! It felt like being a Star Wars X-Wing pilot, yes I said it! This plane is so much faster than my trainer 152. To think I almost passed on a ride. Boy, thank goodness I came to my senses!!:-D After I climbed in the cockpit, I had to go up!

I was impressed with Andy. He was very focused, together, explained every detail of the preflight checklist/runup and shared his way of diagraming/noting aviations specs. I really enjoyed seeing his style of operation and was stoked he showed me how incredible the RV-7 flies! I've heard from other pilots to fly in various models, where opportunity presents. This experience opened up my mind to a whole different flying experience... One that's much faster than the 152!!;-)

I left the airport with a HUGE Cheshire Cat smile.. Still wearing it!

I encourage you to spread some holiday cheer by giving, where you can at events like this Toy airlift, or whatever resonates with you. 

For my fellow Flying friends, what are your favorite holiday aviation related events?

Check out some action pictures from this Fun Filled Saturday at Chesterfield Executive Airport! Big shout to my friend Jack for spreading the word & sharing his enthusiasm for aviation. He's not 1 of the top 2 Virginia Aviation Ambassador passport holders for nothing!

 

ME FLYING & my FULL FORCE RV-7 Grin!!!!!! LOVING this flying experience! EEEEEE:-D

Here is my on the ground "RV Grin"! Virginia Aviator Stewart Purvis enlightened me with that phrase!:-) I climbed in the cockpit & was like HELLO, Let's DO THIS!!:-D

Pictures of KXSA Tappahnock FBOs great contributions to the toy Airlift! Love the picture with the Troops!

Me arriving to drop off gifts to the troops! Santa flew into the airport to see the kids. Awesome!!

Fun chatting flying with others who love it and share the enthusiasm to tell their aviation stories, tips, and passion!

After the buffet lunch, we went to check out people's planes. Here's Jack's taildragger!

Here's Andy's RV-7. NEAT!

Planes need to eat, too. Filler up!

Very cool of Andy to take me Up! 

Dude, this interior was Rocking! 

Santa, I want one now!

Ready!!

There goes the gifts! Happy I could contribute. It warmed my heart to do so. :-)

Learn more about Major Preddy, Ace WWII American Aviator: http://www.aviation-history.com/airmen/preddy.htm  

Check out my previous Pilot Spotlight Interview post on Jack: http://aviatorslounge.blogspot.com/2014/03/meet-jack-pettigrew-adventurer-flying.html?m=1

Interested in sharing your Love at First Flight story? I want to share it! 

Visit http://www.wingsconnect.com/ & click on TALK for details on being considered for the Spotlight interview!

Happy & Safe Flying, Always!

Flying Inspirations: Tangier KTGI Flight, Check!

Putting an APB out for my socks because they were KNOCKED OFF when I sonic boomed, as a result of my Awesome flight to Tangier, Virginia! 

3 words -->What a flight!!! 

The first time Tangier got on my radar was me seeing a picture and article in AOPA's Flight Training Magazine (see below, I still have this edition!!:-)). I was intrigued and interested in flying into Tangier when the time was right.

If you get a chance to fly to KTGI, take it!! Flying over the island and seeing the runway is such a memorable experience! On this day of flight, it was double digits windy with double digit gusts in Virginia. Despite that it was a fun and smooth flight! 

Ever since I shared my plans to fly to Tangier, I've received enthusiastic responses from pilots who have experienced this memorable flight themselves. Part of what I really enjoy about the journey of learning is hearing tips shared by those willing to dish so I can have as much fun on my trips as possible with added "insider" details! I, in turn, enjoy sharing the information I receive and experience in my posts for another to gain insights.

I was excited to visit Tangier! <-- Understatement:-) I'm tickled I did it and the memories of seeing the sights from above give me a lingering Cheshire Cat smile. Here are some pictures and insights from my flight and brief island visit!

I'd love to hear your favorite memories of Flying Tangier! Leave me a comment. 

A fantastic picture Jim shared with me taken last year on Final for Runway 20. Unfortunately, on this trip I didn't get any Tangier approach or take off pictures since the GoPro's battery I had drained.:-(Oh well, guess I'll just have to return!;-)

Epic Photo! Picture credit: Jim Oddono, NKA W96 CFI 

Here is the 10/2013 AOPA Flight Training Magazine where I first laid eyes on Tangier! 

I definitely want to fly into more of the island runways on this list!

I've hightlighted a couple things that helped make this a smooth flight for me.

-Orange circles are key visual markers that I used to keep me on track. 

-Orange arrows show you my intent to travel closer to land vs cross the water. 

-Yellow circles are VORs I used to triangulate my location through the flight.

-Blue rectangle shows the 64 highway, a great marker to follow to take me right to my FBO!

My flight instructor Jim has done a great job teaching me about VOR navigation. I really like using it to triangulate my location and track where I am in relation to the VORs I've selected. Here is a training video by MzeroA on VOR nav:

http://youtu.be/Eno0p1n2H84

I like Jason's training videos a lot. You should subscribe! He's got good topics.

Here we are traveling towards Hummel W75, one of my visual markers. FYI: Photos I take inflight I do after positive exchange of controls.

Tappahannock Bridge to my left & I know W75 is right near it.

Pretty lands end.

Swinging around Watts Island!!

Watts Island and I spy Tangier Island off yonder!!:-)

Landed on Runway 2 (Right Traffic Pattern). Hi Tangier! 

Now on the ground, I was on a mission. We headed into town to get our aviation stamp & some eats.

PILOT TIP: To get to town, walk away from the airport towards the water tank pictured below, take a left over the bridge, walk to the end of the road & Lorraine's is to your left.

Walking over the bridge & towards town.

Here we are!

Cheshire Cat smile after arriving!

Pilot Tip: Get your VA Avi Ambassador stamp at Lorraine's! Here's Jim getting his stamp.

Yummy crab cakes.

Check out the size of the crab cakes!

Jim got the crab cake sandwich.

Smiling with these lovely ladies --> Jaime (Lorraine's daughter) & Lorraine. Visit their restaurant and try those crab cakes! Their restaurant celebrated 30 years in

business & they were was featured in Southern Living Magazine 7/2012.

Time to go get another landing in before heading back to W96!:-)

Let me take a quick picture. Bundled up!

I LOVE this view. Taking off Runway 2!

Beautiful sights at high altitudes.

I love these views!

Tried out GoPro for the 1st time yesterday. Here are 2 videos I created mini-movies with music. Check them out!

Windy Virginia W96 Takeoff

http://youtu.be/2Vq4IZuLrsc

Brief clip of my flight over the big blue Chesapeake Bay!

http://youtu.be/dRZSVHvmfFQ

For those who have flown into KTGI: 

What are your favorite highlights? 

What do I need to check out next visit?

For those who have not visited KTGI yet:

Find an opportunity to go, especially if you're nearby. I was told it was a special flight and it is now one of my favorite aviation memories!

Happy and Safe Flying, Always!

More on Tangier Island: 

http://www.tangierisland-va.com/

Check out AOPA's Flight Training Magazine. I dig them! http://flighttraining.aopa.org/

1st GoPro video: Flying Windy Virginia 11/14/14

My 1st @GoPro video! 

http://youtu.be/2Vq4IZuLrsc

I made a movie clip with it, would you expect anything less;-) First time I used the GoPro. After quickly playing with it, was pretty easy to use. It's worth taking some time to flip through the manual to get optimal use.

No distractions using flipping it on/off. I used the ceiling mount for this vid. Unfortunately, the battery died before my epic experience arriving at #KTGI #Tangier, Virginia! :-O Guess that means I'll have to return!:-)

It was double digits knots Windy and cold, but a great fun flight nonetheless! KTGI was an excellent flying experience! The view flying above the Tangier island & two sets of landings & take offs will be some of my favorite memories to date! I already want to go back.

Do not miss my action packed Aviators Lounge post, coming out this weekend, that will give you more info about my flight & some brief island visit tips... important things like where to eat if you visit! 

Until that post, enjoy this quick video of my Flying Windy Virginia W96 takeoff!

Happy & Safe Flying, Always!:-)