Linkage

Opening the June 2013 issue, I was met with a lovely bit of nostalgia. The photo of the Link Trainer on page 5 could have been of the unit in which I took my first flight training, the summer of 1967. At the University of Illinois’ Institute of Aviation, I spent two hours in one of these before getting into an aircraft (a Champ 7FC). Over the summer of instruction, we went back to the Link again and again to hone skills. I had 11.2 hours total in the Link, and 30 hours total in the aircraft, when I got my license. I’m not sure how many hours of Link and aircraft time I had before I was allowed to fly visually. Of the 7 hours in the aircraft prior to solo, nearly half were behind polarized glasses and windscreen plastic.

Key Takeaways:

• A reader reflects on the foundational role of Link Trainers in their early flight training, emphasizing the value of simulator instruction for skill development.
• A debate arises regarding the physics of "downwind turns," with a reader arguing against wind shear as the primary cause in constant wind, while the editor clarifies the original article addressed gusty conditions and plans further research.
• The topic of "Safer Ownership" elicits a nuanced response, noting that while familiarity can be a safety gain, it can also breed complacency, highlighting the importance of maintenance and responsibility.
• There's a strong reader interest in further articles on utilizing cockpit gadgets and tablets for enhancing the flight experience, which the editor promises to address.

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