Back In The Saddle

Although winter flying can be some of the most rewarding available to an active pilot, not all of us can work out the timing, the short days and the weather enough to go aviate in the cold and damp. Along the way, we’re suddenly not as good at this flying “thing” as we were a few short months ago. But the coming spring promises longer days and warmer temperatures. It’s flying season again, time to unlimber your airplane, even as you ponder your atrophied skills. You don’t need a BFR, and you’re not ready for an IPC, even if you may need one. You just need to get back in the saddle after a few months away. Find your airplane keys, or schedule your favorite airplane at the club/FBO, then put together a plan for the upcoming flight.

Key Takeaways:

• Before flying, thoroughly review your aircraft's Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), focusing on airspeeds, emergency procedures, and normal checklists to refresh theoretical knowledge.
• Systematically practice fundamental air maneuvers, including slow flight, stalls, various turns (e.g., steep turns), and ground-reference maneuvers to regain proficiency in aircraft control and wind compensation.
• Conclude the flight with practical landings and takeoffs (normal, short-field, soft-field, and crosswind) to solidify real-world skills, followed by an honest self-assessment to determine if further practice or instruction is needed.

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