Register

I Learned About Flying From That

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • During an IFR flight home, the narrator and instructor departed ahead of deteriorating weather, only to be vectored directly underneath a Cessna releasing parachutists.
  • The unexpected release of jumpers directly above their aircraft created a dangerous mid-air encounter that shocked both pilots and ATC.
  • The incident served as a crucial lesson for the pilots on the importance of being proactive, requesting deviations, and confirming safety measures rather than passively relying solely on ATC instructions in potentially hazardous situations.
See a mistake? Contact us.

“Always be ready for the unexpected.” That is what Donnie Underwood, my friend and flight instructor (private through instrument), always told me. Be aware of what is going on around you and be ready to respond accordingly. This is good advice. On one particular flight, we would experience a good example of what he was talking about.

To celebrate my recent successful instrument check ride, I was treating Donnie to dinner at Lambert’s, a well-known fly-in destination in southeast Missouri. Known as the “Home of Throwed Rolls,” Lambert’s is especially gracious to pilots. Special treatment, from shuttle service from the airport to being escorted through the kitchen to avoid the bus loads of people standing in line (usually a one-to-two- hour wait), makes Lambert’s a favorite of the hundred-dollar dinner crowd. Hot sourdough rolls thrown to any raised hand doesn’t hurt either.

Ready to Sell Your Aircraft?

List your airplane on AircraftForSale.com and reach qualified buyers.

List Your Aircraft
AircraftForSale Logo | FLYING Logo
Pilot in aircraft
Sign-up for newsletters & special offers!

Get the latest stories & special offers delivered directly to your inbox.

SUBSCRIBE