Nick’s 1st Flight! Welcome TJ! ...

Nick and I have been training hard this last week. The winds were crazy strong all week so we finished up the PPG1 ground school tasks including a couple hours in the simulator, watching the Risk and Reward DVD as well as preparing for and taking the written test. Then it was just a matter of waiting a couple days for the weather to cooperate.
Friday the weather did just that, a nice light breeze blowing right down the runway, perfect! Nick and I prepared for his flight by kiting a little with the motor on his back. We reviewed the flight plan and tested the radios too. Then it was time to give it a go.
Nick did great! He nailed his first launch attempt and quickly found himself in the sky. Then, as rehearsed in the simulator, he made three laps around the airport working on the skills he would need to bring the machine safely back to the ground. He made several soft and controlled turns, practiced a few approaches then got himself into position over the runway. He followed every instruction perfectly on his final approach and set down softly in the middle of the runway. He then gave loud shout of celebration we could all hear from the other end of the runway! Congratulations Nick!!
​Lots of guys were on hand Friday evening to watch Nick’s flight and take advantage of the wonderful conditions. Kevin took the trike up, Josh #1 flew his machine, Josh#2 the Top80, Curt flew his Minari (into a hill, he’s fine), Chris and Robert took turns with the Moster Miniplane, Angelo took his paramotor, even I got to make a flight.
After the sun set we all adjourned to the hanger for some New Glaris Beers to celebrate Nick’s achievement.
Also this week:
Karisa finally got some wing handling practice.
Robert broke in his new Parajet Maverick!
​Patrick stopped by to check things out.
And, TJ began his training. Monday was indoor activity with motor safety, the scary movie, etc. Saturday we spent leaning how to control the wing. He did great, welcome TJ!
​