It was a grueling day. I had to get up at 5:30 AM in order to be in Durant by 8 AM. On our way out of KTKI, I got behind a large group from the EAA on their way out to breakfast. I was running a little behind and was number 6 for takeoff. UGH! Aniesh, my instructor, came with me because the examiner wanted her there to meet him.
I finally got to KDUA and was a little concerned. Nothing ever goes as planned, or in this case, forecast. It's summertime and the winds in this part of the world are usually out of the south. I landed on the 35 foot wide taxiway (the runway was closed) to the north. Unusual for August.
After a long round of paperwork and the oral, we finally got to the flying part around 11:40 AM. For the next 2 hours, we did every maneuver required by the PTS. The only issue I had was the wind. That north wind that was so unusual turned to a direct crosswind. This wasn't good for a 35 foot wide makeshift runway. So we headed south to Texas to do landings at Greyson County (or North Texas Regional as they like to be called now). When we got there, we had very difficult conditions to deal with. Winds were now direct crosswinds 14 knots gusting to 19. Luckily, the runways are 150 feet wide. The problem is that above 15 knots, you really don't have anymore rudder to keep your nose pointed straight. As I have heard it said, above 15, you are a test pilot.
None of the landings were impressive but I think the examiner was a little more lenient because of the nature of the winds.
As we headed back to the north to finish up, I was expecting to be told that the ride was over but we continued to finish up S-turns and turns about a point. He seemed satisfied and was ready to head back to Durant. One last thing, a slip to a landing. By now, the winds had shifted to a more southerly direction and slowed. After 14 gusting to 19, this would be easy, even with a slip. When we got to the ramp and I helped him out of the airplane and watched as he didn't kiss the ground. I guess that means that I passed.
We went back in and finished the paperwork where he issued me my new pilot certificate. I had FINALLY done it. I called Anish, who was at the casino having lunch. One of her other students flew up and they were doing airwork while I was taking my check ride. I let her know that I would fly back by myself as a newly certificated pilot. By now it was about 103 degrees and BUMPY. I made me way back to McKinney where my wife and daughter were waiting. I was tired, hungry and hot. Anna wanted to go for a flight, no matter how hot is was. I took her up for a quick lap around Lake Lavon. Finally, fatigue and hunger took over and I make the worst landing I have made in months.
Once we got the plane tied down, Aniseh and her student made it back and I thanked her for everything she had done for me in a short period. Then it was picture time.
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| My awesome instructor Aniseh |
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| My first passenger Anna! |
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| Aniseh and Anna |
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