Whenever I start wondering if the well will run dry, I find myself embroiled in something so preposterous, spectacular, outrageous or dumb that it’s worth writing about. But I have to confess: I was less than proud about this latest escapade and made several attempts to explain it away as a minor, moderately embarrassing but simple incident. When this “no big deal” exploit morphed into something more complex and painful, I decided to abandon it and spin another tale. That, of course, was not to be; I kept hearing the flutter of wings from that pesky angel who hovers nearby and knew I’d have to come clean.
Unusual Attitudes: A No-Excuses Screw-up
Key Takeaways:
- The author, Martha Lunken, accidentally damaged her Piper Cub's propeller and a Cessna 150's wingtip during a taxiing maneuver, admitting her error stemmed from a momentary lapse in attention amidst personal emotional distress.
- Initially classifying it as a minor incident not requiring an official report, an anonymous tip led to an FAA investigation into the damage.
- Consequently, as a Designated Pilot Examiner, Lunken was required by the FAA to undergo a Section 709 re-examination of her pilot proficiency, acknowledging her responsibility to uphold higher standards.
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