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Discretion vs. Valor

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author, a pilot and senior editor at Flying magazine, planned a flight to present an award but faced a challenging weather forecast.
  • The forecast included marginal IFR conditions, potential for moderate turbulence, and significant icing possibilities, especially along the planned route.
  • After reviewing weather reports and pilot reports indicating icing and poor visibility, the author cancelled the flight due to safety concerns.
  • The author's decision was supported by another pilot's similar cancellation, highlighting the importance of prioritizing safety over commitments.
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I made a list of the people I had to call. There were 10 people on the list ranging from Bonnie, who was scheduled to house-sit for our Aussie shepherds, Rueben and Whoopi, to my mother, who watches the weather and knows-even before I do-where bad things are happening.

One of the names on the list was Hal Shevers, founder of Sporty’s Pilot Shop. I had to let Hal know I wasn’t going to be able to make lunch and the presentation of the Flying Editors’ Choice Award to Sporty’s in recognition of its DVD-based pilot training programs. I wasn’t sure how Hal would take my decision to cancel my flight to Batavia, Ohio. Because I am a senior editor of Flying magazine it’s often incorrectly assumed that I can deal with conditions that might have less experienced pilots waiting out the weather.

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