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Gear Up: A Guide to Bonehead Moves

** Safely out of the Cessna P210, standing
around trying to look cool.**
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author recounts several humorous and often embarrassing incidents related to airplane doors, including getting stuck inside, keys obstructing locks, doors freezing shut, and handles breaking off.
  • He also shares other early flying mishaps, such as accidental engine cut-offs and emergency landings due to mechanical issues, highlighting his learning curve as a pilot.
  • These anecdotes collectively illustrate the unexpected challenges and quirky situations that pilots can encounter, often due to minor oversights or aircraft peculiarities.
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(September 2011) My wife and I had just purchased a new (20-year-old) Cheyenne and it was tucked away in the hangar at KTPA in Tampa for the night. I could not stay away. One night after dinner I drove out to look at the airplane; I just wanted to sit in it and turn on the lights and avionics.

The FBO was quiet. I let myself out to the hangar, which has several bays. We were in the bay farthest from the front desk. I did not see any linemen. I put the key in the door lock and watched with enormous self-satisfaction as the airstair descended with that comforting whoosh. I fumbled for the interior light switch that can be activated from the door and turned off in the cockpit. Beyond convenient. The steps illuminated with a gorgeous array of recessed lights. This elegant touch was missing from my previous airplanes.

Dick Karl

Dick Karl is a cancer surgeon who appreciates the beauty and science involved in both surgery and flying. Dick’s monthly Gear Up celebrates the human side of flying. He writes about his enthusiasm for both the machines and the people who fly and maintain them.

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