June 10 - Simulated Diversion (SOLO)
This morning’s flight was a real confidence builder – it was kind of misty out, and I was supposed to practise diversions, specifically from Frenchman’s Bay to Uxbridge. It was the perfect day for it, really, because I couldn’t see much beyond about 5 miles; everything was very hazy, and – in the earlier days of my training – this would have been rather disconcerting.
I know there is some SHITTTEEMAC acronym, but I’m not one for acronyms so much, really.
So, I reduced to slow cruise, by reducing the power and airspeed, and putting down 10 degrees of flap, before retrimming the aircraft over a known landmark (in this case, Frenchman’s Bay). Next, I measured from my starting point to intended diversion destination (Uxbridge), and calculated approximate distance (15 miles) and time to get there (10 minutes). I also set my HI while flying straight and level, and then gauged a heading to take to get to Uxbridge from Frenchman’s. I noted the time leaving the latter, and headed off in the direction I thought would be likely to take me there. I even remembered to put the flaps back up and add power, attitude and retrim to get myself back to a normal cruise speed.
The only thing I forgot was my radio call to simulate a call to ATC indicating that I was diverting. Oops! But I DID remember to call frequently on 122.9 to indicate my location.
On the way back, I decided to “divert” to Bluffers. Of course, being cognizant of Buttonville’s airspace, it wasn’t a completely direct diversion, however, I was still able to successfully estimate how long it would take to arrive, and was also able to find various landmarks along the way, despite the fact it was so hazy out. Alas, I did not remember to put the mixture back to rich during all that, so, well… we all survived, me and the plane anyway, but next time I guess I ought to remember that.
I know there is some SHITTTEEMAC acronym, but I’m not one for acronyms so much, really.
So, I reduced to slow cruise, by reducing the power and airspeed, and putting down 10 degrees of flap, before retrimming the aircraft over a known landmark (in this case, Frenchman’s Bay). Next, I measured from my starting point to intended diversion destination (Uxbridge), and calculated approximate distance (15 miles) and time to get there (10 minutes). I also set my HI while flying straight and level, and then gauged a heading to take to get to Uxbridge from Frenchman’s. I noted the time leaving the latter, and headed off in the direction I thought would be likely to take me there. I even remembered to put the flaps back up and add power, attitude and retrim to get myself back to a normal cruise speed.
The only thing I forgot was my radio call to simulate a call to ATC indicating that I was diverting. Oops! But I DID remember to call frequently on 122.9 to indicate my location.
On the way back, I decided to “divert” to Bluffers. Of course, being cognizant of Buttonville’s airspace, it wasn’t a completely direct diversion, however, I was still able to successfully estimate how long it would take to arrive, and was also able to find various landmarks along the way, despite the fact it was so hazy out. Alas, I did not remember to put the mixture back to rich during all that, so, well… we all survived, me and the plane anyway, but next time I guess I ought to remember that.
My set up for landing at City was, as usual, way too high, even when I reduced airspeed and dumped the flaps. I was hesitant to slip, since I often end up feeling too low at the last minute, and then have to “drag it in”… but this time I think the weather and the aircraft (partcularly powerful GFHK, a stark contrast to dear, sweet old GGNJ, who is a very slow and sluggish bird, despite being my sentimental favourite) each played a role in my set up… the plane floated, floated, floated in the air high above the runway. But I knew I had lots of length for a little Cessna, and it did eventually come down and settle onto the runway! Now it’s on to cross countries, the first of which I hope to complete next weekend, weather permitting!!! |