Learning To Fly

Today, I am interviewing my husband, Mr W, about his experiences learning to fly. He has completed roughly 45 hours in the air and hopes to pass his private pilot’s licence later this year. I have yet to gather up the courage to be a passenger in the plane he flys, but soon I will!

What Made You Want To Learn To Fly?

It is something I’ve always wanted to do but thought it was unobtainable because of the cost. I thought it was exclusive and something only for the rich to do. I didn’t realise that although it isn’t cheap to learn, it is within the means of many people.

How Did You Start?

Well as you know, I hinted for an experience day trial flight and you bought me one. I enjoyed it a lot, so much so that I booked a series of flying lessons with my local flying school.

Swansea Airport Under Grey Skies

What Type Of Plane Do You Fly?

The plane I fly is a little Piper Tomahawk PA-38. It’s quite a simple plane to fly, a bit agricultural!

What Does It Feel Like To Be In Control Of  A Plane?

I was nervous the very first time because you can’t pull over to the side of the road, but you soon get used to it. The instructor would never send you on your own if he has any doubt about your ability to get back down safely.

What Do You Love The Most About Flying?

The views and how quickly you can get from A to B. You are not stuck in the traffic. You get a different perspective on the countryside from above too.

Beautiful Three Cliffs Bay On The Gower Peninsula

What Do You Want To Do With Your Private Pilot Licence In The Future?

Fly places! Even if it is just down to Cornwall, which would be a six-hour drive in the car, but only 40 minutes to fly. Swansea flying club has weekend fly outs to the Channel Islands, Southern Ireland and France, and then stay for a night or two and fly back.

Mr W is learning to fly with the Cambrian Flying Club, Swansea.