Solo – Steep Turns, Low Flying, & Overhead Join.
Today started off with very low cloud and drizzle. I was almost going to “pull the pin” but thought I would double check the TAF forecast which said improving. So taking a chance I headed out to Kapiti. The weather on arrival was marginal with a stiff crosswind.
Dull and overcast. I waited to see what a previous flight experienced at 2000ft. Once they arrived back to the Aero club the FI satisfied that the winds were ok so I was cleared for a solo flight to practice steep turns and low level flight.
The take-off and turn to the North was a little bumpy as the wind was easterly off the ranges so was a bit turbulent. I did a climbing turn to put me at 1500ft over the threshold of 16 and found this to be even more bumpy. Once levelling off and cruising to the training area, I confirmed that I was the only aircraft in the immediate area. After my “HASELLL” checks and clearing turns I descended to 600ft slowed the aircraft down to configure it for bad weather flying, and practiced low flying.
At 600ft the wind was smooth so I kept at it making short work of the practice routine. After that I decided to move onto Otaki strip and practice a few overhead re-joins. I had my FI’s voice in my head to “give myself plenty of space which made things way easier. Satisfied with those I ten climbed to 1000ft and went over the sea to do some steep turns. These were a bit of a handful due to the blustery wind at that altitude. However all good training. I finished off with a 360 degree steep turn trying to keep level and the angle of bank consistent. I was bucked around by a good stiff wind now so had my work cut out.
Soon it was time to level off and track south to join the circuit for 16 seal. The track back home was straight forward and I did a nice join onto final. The landing was pretty good considering the gusty crosswind and I was chuffed to hear the slight squeal of the upwind rear wheel touching down, followed by the downwind wheel. I kept the controls crossed until the nose came down then applied braking to slow me for the exit at A2.
Taxiing back to the Aeroclub I was well satisfied with my flying today. The staff were also monitoring me and both said I did a nice landing so I was very happy.
A great flight that covered all the bases and which was immensely satisfying. Happy days!
Aircraft: ZK-KAZ (Cessna 172SP Skyhawk)
Total Time: 1.0
Landings: 1
Go-arounds: 0
Visual Approaches: 1
Until next time….
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