Plan an adventure.

Finally, the longer days and warmer weather of spring are slowly approaching.  The winter weather for most of the US was at historic highs, and you won’t hear this Midwesterner complain about that.  I have heard many say it is all the hot air coming out of Washington.  Although true, we will leave that discussion to another blogger. 

For me and many others this time of the year brings back that spark to find something new, definitely challenging and as a pilot what great things we can discover.  Many great aviation festivities spring to life with the coming of the “warm months”.  For example, the Oshkosh fly in will kickoff this summer, July 23rd-29th.  Too many Oshkosh is the granddaddy of all fly ins and will play host to more things than you can shake a stick at.  Aviation vendors, speakers, music concerts, aircraft manufacturers, food (very important to pilots), and a daily airshow are just small sample of the entire show.  I hope to make this year my first of many at the Airventure sensation.  For those flying in for the event do not forget the NOTAM that explains important arrival and departure information.  For more info and schedule of events at Airventure take a look at http://www.airventure.org/.

If the craziness of Oshkosh is too much for you to handle consider a smaller local fly in.  Many airports host much smaller events that local pilots attend for the pancakes, aircraft viewing, or the tall tales of pilot conversation.  Some states also hold an annual state fly in where state representatives may stop by or even the local FSDO to show their support.  These fly ins allow general aviation supporter’s young and old a place to gather and share experiences and updates on general aviation current events.  For more ideas on fly in adventures in your area check out http://www.flyins.com/index.po.


A fly in adventure is only one example.  There are many ways to challenge ourselves as pilots this spring and summer.   Just to give you some ideas:

Instrument Rating
Commercial Certificate
Seaplane Training
Tail wheel Training
Mountain Flying
Class B Airspace 

During this period of ever changing weather don’t forget your trusty CFI!!!  If you find yourself a little rusty and that long cross country flight needed to arrive at your destination makes you a little nervous, give him or her a shout.  Your experienced CFI will have no problem getting you back up to speed and confident to make the trek.  Also, remember that a new destination requires thorough preflight planning.  Check weather, aircraft performance, airport information and all other essential info to make your go no-go decision.  Finally, by doing something different you are challenging yourself and keeping your piloting skills sharp.

For those pilots interested in a multiple aircraft flying adventure check back on simpleflight.net soon.

Enjoy your adventure and fly safe.

Travis Ammon