Eric Ross ) wrote:

I recently received my license and I am taking my somewhat nervous wife
up for the first time. I am aiming for a clear, reasonably smooth day.

When I first received my PPL my goal was to introduce my very nervous wife
to flying in a small aircraft and hopefully win her over.

To do so, I started the process by taking up eager neighbors. These people
then reported back to my wife (at various social gatherings) on how much
fun they had.

After a few months of this, I asked my wife if she would be willing to come
along with a friend of hers on a twilight flight around the Finger Lakes of
Central NY.

She agreed and I set out to find the perfect windless, clear evening to
ensure there would be no turbulence and a great view. We took off about 45
minutes before sunset and flew over a couple of scenic areas. We then
landed at a small, quiet airport to hit the restrooms and grab a soda. The
return flight was just after sunset and the approach lights of our home
class C airport capped off a very memorable flight.

The total time in the air was about 40 minutes.

Any suggestions for making this flight as positive as possible for her?

From this, I learned the following:

1) The flight should be short, of 45 minutes or less. Leave her wanting
more.

2) Twilight flights work very well, as the afternoon heating has ceased and
wind speeds typically falls off. You do not want turbulence, if you can
help it.

3) Fly somewhere scenic, or fly over your house, if practical.

4) Return to your home airport so that the approach, taxiway, and runway
lights are on and noticeable.

My wife commented that she really enjoyed listening to air traffic control
as she perceived a higher level of safety knowing that they were there
talking to us.

--
Peter














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