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Think Again

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Pilots should be aware of "Get-There-Itis," the pressure to reach a destination by a specific time, especially during the holiday season, which can lead to risky decisions.
  • Prioritize safety above all else: it is always better to stay grounded, turn around, or delay a flight if weather or conditions are uncertain, rather than risking an accident.
  • Always have a contingency plan or an "out" if preflight checks or weather briefings raise doubts, opting for alternative transportation or waiting for better conditions to ensure future presence with loved ones.
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During the holiday season, there can often be pressure to be in a place at a specific time. You may have a big family gathering planned, possibly at several distant locations within a span of a couple of days. Get-There-Itis becomes a reality.

Making the choice to stay on the ground or turn around if the weather isn’t what you expected is very difficult. But remember this: While your family members may be upset that you didn’t show up at their Christmas buffet table, they would much rather have you be able to show up there next year. When it comes down to it wouldn’t you rather have Christmas dinner at a vending machine at some random airport and spend the night on its floor than to end up in the dirt with a busted up airplane, never to enjoy pork tenderloin, ham or mashed potatoes again?

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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