On Fri, 18 Jun 2004 10:59:22 -0700, 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.
Any suggestions for making this flight as positive as possible for her?

Thanks much,
Eric Ross


Early morning or just before sunset are generally the least turbulent
parts of a summer day and offer great beauty. As far as the flight is
concerned, keep it short. I know you'll be fine for an hour or more,
but she's scared and doesn't have any control over the situation.

20 minutes is a good first flight. If she's still having fun go an
extra 10. 30 minutes should be about as long as you want to keep her
up (hopefully there will be a next time, so she'll see more in
eventually).

DON"T DO STALLS. Also avoid touch and gos they aren't much fun for
the passenger. If at all possible keep banks on the shallow side 20
degrees is good even though it seems like it takes for ever to make a
heading change with such little bank. 30 is ok, but don't go beyond
that. Stuff starts "spinning" too fast for non-pilots and they
generally don't like it (unless they're roller coaster freaks).

I personally like the sunset flight, and would probably throw a little
romance into the deal. Take the short flight and then take her out to
dinner. At dinner thank her for sharing with you your passion. It
will make her feel good and may improve your chances of a second date
er, I mean flight.

This may sound hokey, but psychology works and the whole idea is to
get her comfortable with the process. A reward at the end aides in
achieving that goal.

Sorry for the book, I only planned on a couple sentences. Hopefully
this helps and you have a GREAT time introducing your wife to the
friendly skies.

Good Luck,
z