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Remarks: Remembering Checkrides

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Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author details his multi-decade aviation journey through nine diverse checkrides, acquiring ratings from private pilot to Airline Transport Pilot (ATP), including single-engine sea, instrument, commercial, multi-engine, and various flight instructor certificates.
  • He recounts several memorable and often humorous or challenging checkride experiences, such as fixing an engine solenoid with a paddle, an examiner needing an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) during his CFII ride, and a high-stakes ATP ride while ill.
  • Despite the challenges and stresses, the author expresses an enduring passion for aviation, suggesting potential future ratings like glider or helicopter, and encourages continuous engagement with flying.
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Recently my wife and I were musing about my checkrides, so I went through them. My private endured loneliness for about 15 years before I added SES (single-engine sea) to the certificate. Those two hung out together on my paper certificate for about another 15 years as I was mostly a dabbler, flying when time, money, and obligations permitted. Then, my certificate enjoyed a flurry of changes over the next few years as I added an instrument rating, commercial, multi, and finally all three CFIs. 

A few years later, the airline I’d joined after dumping my high-tech career, paid for my ATP. So, I’ve had nine checkrides. I remember some and have forgotten a few. But, there are stories.

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