Flight Forum

For years I have dreamed of flying, but the costs were always keeping my dream out of reach. When I was 16 years old, my dad took me to talk to an instructor, but it was decided we could not afford it. One day, years later, I finally decided to check into flight training again and found that you can pay as you go. Well, this was the best news I had heard in a long time! I didn't care if it took the rest of my life, I was going to get to fly. My thinking is that it's better to fly now and take my time as a student rather than keep dreaming and never do it.

In October 2004, at age 37, I started with an introductory flight. It was everything I imagined and more. A month later, I scheduled my first real lesson. I could only afford to fly once a month, but that did not discourage me. I spent my off times at home studying for the knowledge test. This continued for two years until it was finally time for my first solo. On December 10, 2006, I took the big step into the cockpit by myself. I knew this was the big moment I had been waiting for. I admit I was nervous, but it was exciting to know that here I was alone in a private airplane and I was going to fly it without any help or supervision!

After going through my checklists, I called for clearance and taxied to Runway 21 at Lovell Field in Chattanooga, Tennessee. I did my runup and was given instructions to hold short. The wait for clearance seemed like forever, but finally I got the call. Seven-Three-Niner-Two-Eight, cleared for takeoff! I responded, took a deep breath, and throttled up. What a feeling! Seconds later, I was airborne. "Now that's what I'm talkin' about!" Those were my first words, and that's what's written on my shirt in the FBO. Everything went smoothly, and my touch and goes were perfect. I will never forget that feeling of my first solo.

On April 21, 2007, I took my first solo cross-country flight from Chattanooga to Shelbyville, Tennessee, followed by a three-leg cross-country to Knoxville and Crossville, Tennessee, on May 8. Another goal accomplished! I was amazed at the view when I was on my last leg. Out in front, I could see Chattanooga as plain as day. Over my shoulder, there was Knoxville. It was like looking at a large map, but much more beautiful.

My instructor has been very patient. He understands that I was unable to schedule as often as recommended to finish in a timely manner. He has been very knowledgeable, and I thank him for all of his support.

Now most of my past debt is paid off, and I am able to fly more often. I am now 40 and after a few months of saving up, I am back to finish my lessons. I am practicing for my checkride and hope to finish before the end of 2007. What a Christmas present that will be.

I am writing this to encourage other student pilots and potential students not to give up. No matter what obstacles come your way, don't give up! Don't let lack of money or time take away from your dream.
Richard Vann Davis
Chattanooga, Tennessee

How much does avgas weigh?

I had always heard the old adage "a pint's a pound, the world around," meaning aviation gasoline weighs 8 pounds per gallon. My flight instructor is now telling me it is 7.5 pounds per gallon.

In the December issue of AOPA Flight Training magazine you ask a test question on gas weight, and the answer says to calculate it at 6 pounds per gallon. Is this a reflection on the shrinking value of the dollar? And really, what weight am I supposed to use?
Jim Nichols
Wye Mills, Maryland

Avgas does indeed weigh six pounds per gallon. In fact, it weighs six pounds per gallon when the avgas (not the air) is at a temperature of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. At a temperature of 50 to 70 degrees F, it generally weighs 5.7 pounds per gallon. Jet fuel weighs 6.7 pounds per gallon.--Ed.

Updated College Directory available

An updated copy of AOPA Flight Training's 2008 College Directory (December 2007 AOPA Flight Training) is now available at AOPA Flight Training Online as a downloadable portable document format (.pdf) file (click on the link at http://ft.aopa.org/colleges). The downloadable directory includes information on degree types and subject areas offered that is not yet available through the online Aviation College Database. It will be updated periodically.

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