Flying (dis)Ability

2009-07-27T18:00:00.000-07:00

A Saab Gripen strutting it's stuff.

In the build up towards the Royal International Air Tattoo, I had a call from Gail about some PR opportunities for FSD. BFBS wanted to interview me at Fairford, but unfortunately were only going to be there on the Saturday. So instead they conducted a radio interview with me on Monday the 6th (listen to it by downloading near the bottom of this page).

The day itself was thoroughly enjoyable, even though the rain and wind succeeded (on several occasions) to beat the sun and blue sky. It was a couple of years since I had been to an airshow and indeed the first time that I had attended the Royal International Air Tattoo. I went up with my father and a mate, also with his father! Soon enough, the battle of the cheesiest jokes began as we made our way around the static park in awe at the brilliant machines in front of and above us. We soon got used to savouring the fantastic displays while keeping senses alert for the next shower so that we could dart -like everyone else- into the nearest marquee or shelter!

I managed to find the area and marquee which FSD were going to use, and the temporary building was filling up with people as the rain prevented the ceremony from being held outside as planned. It was pretty packed inside, but luckily there was a little space at the back for my compadres to watch from, many others had to watch from under a marquee outside.

All of the dignitaries, scholars and guests arrived, and USAF Colonel Joseph Dill; who is the Station Commander at RAF Fairford (which is for all intents and purposes, a USAF Base) kicked things off with a very spirited and American speech and proceeded to dish out some "Air Power" coins to the past/present scholarship winners. After this the 2009 scholarship winners received their certificate, wings and flying suit, followed by the 2008 scholars. The presentation ceremony was successfully executed in difficult circumstances. There were moments where nearly everyone was looking out the side of the tent at the sight of Vulcan XH558 tearing down the sky!

HRH Lieutenant General Prince Feisal Al Hussein.
Me.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Glen Torpy.

It was of course an honour to meet the Prince and the Chief of Air Staff, even if only for a few seconds. Meeting up with Ben, Paul and Steve, as well as everyone else I knew in the "FSD community" was great too. One thing I wondered on the way home is why there were no British Royal dignitaries present to at least welcome the Prince to their country? The local Air Cadets did a great job though in providing a small guard of honour. In fact, the place was crawling with Air Cadets putting down the "light blue footprint" and hard work without which, the RIAT could not take place.

The Frecce Tricolori joined us all for a group photo.

All in all I came away from Fairford with a warm glow. The day was brilliant, as was meeting up again and remembering the long journey to this point.

Unfortunately, as always now, airshows make me extremely jealous of "Those magnificent men in their flying machines". While I will forever appreciate and relish in the memory of my scholarship, in the same way I don't think I can ever change my burning ambitions towards military aviation. The technology, the skill, the teamwork and of course the thrill are an absolute tonic, as is the seriousness and severity of the job as the case may be. I defy anyone not to be inspired or moved by seeing and hearing such masterpieces of engineering hurtle around the sky with such grace and speed. For me it stokes the fires of ambition and pours cold water on them instantaneously. I believe that the net result is jealousy and frustration!

ALA Dassault Rafale.

Frustration at a world which is so backwards and throttled in its medical research, by the profit interests of private companies, by the lack of significant priority given to medical research (as a human race), and of course by the the minority groups with "moral" objections to progress - for that is what it is. The irony is that if the pharmaceutical companies adopted some real morals and the minority groups adopted a more economical mindset, they would likely agree with me and many others - unfortunately this isn't in the interest of either party; at the expense of those who could benefit in ways unimaginable right now.

Blood transfusions, heart transplants, even my own dynamic hip screws were beyond the capability and horizon of medical sciences in decades and centuries gone by. And for nearly every revolutionary medical treatment, there are small groups -who are predominantly of fine health- arguing against it. Indeed I'm sure that we can all think of one or two large groups who still think that blood transfusions are "immoral", despite the millions of lives that have been saved by the technique and the millions of lives lost in the false and damaging/alienating notion of superiorism that humans are different or separate from one another.

NZAF 757-200.

I know that some will think I am biased, maybe I am. But it honestly seems logical to me that our primary interest as a species is to advance our own (chances of) survival and refinement. It'll no doubt help us one day when something akin to the plague-like-illusions about swine flu really does hit. Medical progress is always being made of course, but I believe this could be done at a much better rate without the shackles of board members and busy bodies.

Focus on the misty-eyed romanticism only pushes the things preventing the fulfilment of my ambition to the front of my mind. Trying to box it all away works, sometimes. It's all a bit pathetic really. I'd have thought that I'd be over it by now, and it may seem somewhat juvenile considering that there's no guarantee that I'd have otherwise made it, but I guess it's either down to a weak mindset and/or a strong ambition, which doesn't respect the current realities of the situation.

RAF Puma HC1.

Apologies for ending with a bit of politics and shameful self pity! They are reflections since the scholarship and Fairford, not of the actual events.

2009-07-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Me, Ben and Rae

Rae was in the country these last couple of weeks; busy studying for some important aviation medicine tests (UK DAvMed). The opportunity to meet up again was too good to miss. Ben dropped me an email about some flying opportunities and the meet up and a few days later (Mon 29th) I was on the train heading towards London; when I realised that it was exactly 1 year and 1 day since Ben, Paul, Steve and I were on the 747 speeding towards Johannesburg.

After negotiating the tube I ended up in Holland Park and intensely confused by the park map which bore no indication of true north, yet was orientated in a way that suggested I was at a Southern entrance; but of course turned out to be Eastern. This was particularly hilarious as I was trying to tell Rae and Ben on the phone where I was! Thought it ironic that I could navigate in the air but seemingly met my match with a park!

Anyway, when we finally did manage to meet up. We piled into Ben's wagon and went looking for somewhere to eat and drink. After a spell of sightseeing and working out parking rules we settled for "The Spaniards" Inn, on Hampstead Heath. Spent a good couple of hours eating, drinking and laughing about the good old days in good surroundings.

Soon enough, it was time to hit the road again and get back to our respective homes. We all vowed to try and make our meeting up an annual event - hopefully with Steve and Paul in the future.

The day after we found out that Rae had passed her test, which was unsurprising considering how intelligent and studious she is, but a brilliant achievement none the less for which Rae is (or should be) proud.

The Royal International Air Tattoo is the next big aviation-related event on the calendar. I will see Ben, Steve and Paul at the airshow and FSD's annual presentation ceremony. We weren't able to attend the last one as we were already out in SA. I'm really looking forward to it; particularly meeting with more of the friends made at the Cranwell selection courses as well as fellow scholarship winners.

2008-10-30T23:00:00.000-07:00

Ben, Rosemary and me.

Me and Ben decided to meet up as he was down in Portsmouth this week. We went for lunch at Goodwood racecourse/aerodrome. There are a couple of GT40s and a marvellous old open-wheeler whizzing around the track. We went to the aero club and as soon as I opened the door, I saw Deiter. He was at the Cranwell selection in 2007 to do the medicals, and is a flying instructor at Goodwood, he is also the only guy allowed to fly their Harvard! He immediately recognised me and agreed to join us in the cafe later.

Me and Ben went through to the cafe and continued chatting over a cuppa tea and bacon sarnie. It was great to just chill out with a mate in good surroundings! Rosemary, who is apart of FSD and lives near Goodwood, joined us and asked us how the scholarship went. It was nice to speak to someone from FSD and to find out how others are getting on. Soon enough the conversation turned to my unemployment, to which Rosemary suggested asking Goodwood if they have any vacancies. Before she left, she told Deiter the situation and he joined us after.

He took down my details and asked me generally what I wanted to do. He did warn me that the Goodwood engineering/maintenance group get a lot of enquiries and couldn't promise anything, none the less he was very helpful in at least trying for me. Deiter was pleased that I was awarded the scholarship the second time round, but somewhat dissappointed that I wasn't able to go solo or get a license - because of the SPL problems of course. But still he said I should visit more often and hopefully I will.

It was a great afternoon which was much needed. Hopefully Ben will be down again in the not too distant future, he's a good bloke.

2008-08-31T16:00:00.000-07:00

[Typhoon, making a racket at Shoreham yesterday. Good to see some heavy metal, rather than just put-put's like the Cherokee's at 43!]

Managed to get home OK, satisfyingly setting off airport security sensors with my metal leg screws, and failing to get a free upgrade despite best efforts!

It's good to be home, two weeks ago I didn't want to leave Port Alfred, but on Tuesday the time was right. I miss the flying a lot, and the decent people that I met out there. I definitely want to return to 43 someday; if only out of curiosity.

I am most grateful to FSD for giving me this fantastic opportunity and experience. It was of course a massive blow to not be able to try and achieve a PPL, and not going solo was very bitter. But none the less, this has without doubt been the best time of my life. I'm due to give feedback to FSD; to accompany Ben's, Steve's and Paul's. Hopefully we can help make things even more sweet for the next lot.

But for now, with regards to flying, the question is... what next?

2008-08-25T23:59:00.000-07:00

Got up and hung around the instructor's offices, begging for a flight. Andrew managed to give me a slot at 09:00, and I left a message on Ross' board, before having breakfast.

The wind was quite strong today, and the air quite bumpy. We climbed to 8,500ft where we did a number of turns and a few wing-overs, before descending down to some cool low level flying along the beach. It was good flying with Andrew again after such a long time, hopefully I've improved since I last flew with him! The left Oleo leg (wheel suspension) was pretty flat before the flight and more so after, so we dropped Echo-Echo-Golf off at the AMO.

Ross caught me and luckily booked both a flying slot and a sim slot. Then in the afternoon I ventured into town with Waldo. I bought some beer for my various instructors and gaffer tape for my luggage. We hurried back to 43, as it wasn't long before my second flight of the day, and last of the trip. Luckily I made it on time, but Ross was still airborne.

In the mean time, I received a certificate from the CFI. I also met an ex-FSD Scholar who now lives in South Africa, and married her instructor! It was good speaking to someone who'd been through the system before.

After a bit of a delay we got airborne in Papa-Echo-Yankee; a larger, nicer 180. The air was still bumpy but we headed out to the GF and did a few manoeuvres, before returning to FAPA low level. This was followed by a few circuits, before my last flight was at an end. I said my goodbye's to Ross and Andrew at the end of the day, and duly handed over the well-deserved six-packs. Hopefully I'll catch the rest tomorrow.

Then Waldo drove up to Bathurst with me and Stefan. We met Neale and Sharon in a half decent pub and shared some laughs before driving back.

Like with all things of this nature, I'll be glad to leave some things while sad to leave others. Hopefully I'll tie up all loose ends tomorrow and also get home without trouble. I am looking forwards to just sitting on the 747 from Johannesburg to Heathrow and just relaxing.

I want to post more right now, but will instead wait until I get home and dry. A summary and some thoughts will definitely be up by the end of this week.

2008-08-24T22:55:00.000-07:00

Miserable weather all day today. Hardly any flying taking place on an already quiet weekend. Spent most of the morning sleeping time away. We had planned to go fishing, but it unanimously went out of the window.

In the afternoon I watched the Valencia GP, which even by F1's standards was absolutely infuriating!! After a diabolical dinner I returned to my room and started packing, which turned out to be therapeutic rather than boring. I've hardly bought anything for keeps while out here, yet I've still accumulated too much; mainly the GS and Nav/Planning equipment. Going to try and grab a roll of cling film and wrap the Air School bag around the main holdall - a somewhat standard practice, from what I saw at Johannesburg and Port Elizabeth, and bound to end in disaster!

Tomorrow should, hopefully, be really busy. It is after all my last full day in Port Alfred and South Africa. Going to hang around the instructor offices and badger anyone and everyone for a flying slot, I still have 2.8 precious hours left and 1 hour of sim. I've also got to get my logbook authenticated. Ben and Steve left theirs with me also. Must check in online for my flights home when it opens tomorrow evening too, but I still haven't worked out how I'm going to print my boarding pass!!!

2008-08-23T23:59:00.000-07:00

Neale had the marvellous idea of going out for breakfast... to Oddfellows! Before we left, I checked Ops to see if any instructors were around and able to fly with me; unfortunately not.

After finishing breakfast, Neale let me drive the bucky up to Bathurst, where a horse show was taking place. Sharon has been learning to ride for a while now and we offered our sincere support. It was pretty cool driving again after so long.

When the show was done and dusted, we went down to a restaurant and had a late lunch. By the time we'd finished, it was gone 17:00. We all went back up to Sharon's and sat around the fire chatting and laughing until the early hours.

2008-08-22T23:59:00.000-07:00

After yesterday's downpour, today was an absolutely beautiful day. I wish I were flying!

Instead, I had another sim session at 09:00, but this time with Daniel. Did a few more turns, but focused more on using navigational aids like VORs and NDBs to fly towards/away a beacon at different angles, or radials.

I also had another slot at 13:00; this time things got a bit more tricky. Daniel chucked in the odd system and/or instrument failure. I tried to better remember the procedures for instrument flying, and to improve my control of the sim.

Left a message on Scott's/Daniel's board to try and grab my last hour of sim, and/or flying time over the weekend. It looks unlikely but hopefully I'll finish everything on Monday, and hopefully I'll pack properly this weekend.

Had a pretty chilled out night at Oddfellows tonight, on my last Friday in PA and the night on which ownership changes hands. We promised to return tomorrow to say my final farewells.

2008-08-21T20:30:00.000-07:00

As I was getting ready I got a text from Daniel. He'd sorted two sim slots with Scott for me. I went on down and met Scott, and soon enough we were in Alpha-Lima-Foxtrot; the smallest of the simulators.

Alpha-Lima-Foxtrot doesn't have any horizon and only an instrument panel. Scott started by getting me to do a series of turns, climbs and descents. It was fairly difficult to do properly - the controls aren't easy to move and with my lack of strength, small and smooth movements weren't easy. Soon enough I landed without even knowing it!

After lunch I went for my next slot. Scott and Daniel tested me with a few questions about the gyroscopic instruments, before me and Scott went back to Alpha-Lima-Foxtrot. This time we did much of the same as before. I have apparently improved, hopefully the last three hours sim time left will help me get the knack of instrument flying.

This evening there was a massive thunderstorm. After dinner I thought I saw the sky light up momentarily, then soon enough all of the bad weather from Port Elizabeth headed towards us. Trying to photograph lightning was a fruitless exercise!

2008-08-20T19:20:00.000-07:00

Hopefully (and probably) the last day without much action. All day the wind has been gale force and while I had a slot booked at 11:00, we decided to wait until 15:00.

Between then and lunch I got chatting with Andrew. He was about to conduct a simulator session with a student, and offered me the chance to sit in. It was good to go and watch what was going on, both in the cockpit and at the control desk.

My flying slot with Daniel was blown out at 15:00. I asked about getting all of my hours flown, both in the air and the sim. He hasn't enough time to do the sim time with me, but left a note for Scott Holmes to try and get some slots. We have another flying slot booked for tomorrow.

I had and still hope to have everything done and dusted by Sunday; leaving enough time to pack, unpack, repack, wrap another case around the main one with clingfilm, etc!

2008-08-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

[Numpties]

Another flightless day. I did catch up with Daniel; we have a flying slot booked tomorrow, and I asked if we could change it to a sim slot. He's going to try for me, but unfortunately because of the new intake he is unable to teach me himself. I asked Andrew Parker but he is also too busy, but he did still give me a good briefing on it all.

I was trying to watch the film "Flyboys" on my laptop, but it kept crashing. Luckily I was distracted from this by a call from home. There are a few pressing issues to sort out when I get back, but it seems that all is well.

I have a lot of spare time on my hands. It feels as though I am wasting it, but there isn't that much to do around here. The worthwhile pursuits and places to visit are out of reach.

Neale rang later on and invited me out for a beer. Soon after we piled into the bucky and set off for town.

2008-08-18T22:15:00.000-07:00

[SAAF/RAF Memorial]

Heard a big splash and a row this morning, went outside to find Uzo very wet. He went solo, after a failed attempt a few days ago. Brad, his instructor, also went into the water.

I didn't have a flight booked today, but found Daniel in the morning. He asked me to meet him at 15:00 to go through my Training Log and my Ops Log; as there was a discrepancy between them of hours flown so far.

Saw Frik at lunchtime, he enquired about my hours and I explained the situation. He told me that the last five hours of the fifty must be on simulators. We also spoke about the headsets; which were/are loaned to us while out here. Paul took his home, and they aren't cheap bits of equipment, so a small disagreement is brewing.

Finally got the details of my flight home, and spent ages trying to send some emails; the signal has been especially poor today. Got to Daniel in the afternoon and we compared the books. The Ops entry of 42.2 was right. This means that I have only 2.8 hours flying time left, and five hours simulator time. I might try and save the flying time until the end; and have more time flying in one flight, rather than wasting time taxi-ing in two.

2008-08-17T23:55:00.000-07:00

This morning I went into town with Neale for some breakfast, before going for a little drive around the place. We saw Rob Armitage; a keen surfer (and flight manager), on the beach - sadly the winds were too rough today.

Most of the afternoon was spent fixing Waldo's computer and agonising about whether to go out to the flicks tonight; the closest cinema being in Grahamstown. Neale didn't fancy it but nevertheless, Waldo drove himself and me up the 60KM of long and winding roads towards GT. After about fifteen minutes searching, we found the cinema and some food. "The Dark Knight" was a bit of a departure from the Batman atmosphere that I was used to, but excellent none the less and with a great cast. It was also good to, briefly, visit another town on/from the ground.

Tomorrow marks the beginning of my last full week in South Africa, again!

2008-08-16T23:55:00.000-07:00

Ben left before the originally planned time; I didn't manage to say goodbye to him. Luckily, he later rang Neale's mobile phone, so all was not lost. I have his and Steve's logbooks, which need to be signed off. Also we discovered a piece of Ben's wheelchair in Neale's bucky.

Apart from that not much went on. I played some poker with Waldo and watched Hot Fuzz until dinner. The food was gash so we went out to "Links" for some decent food and drink. I met a fellow Englishman and a Scotsman. Waldo's mother was visiting and was good company this evening. We were going to go out with Neale's bucky, but when he placed his hand on the right rear window, it exploded and actually bent the metal trim around the window! I was sitting inside at the time, but luckily it didn't cut anyone. After getting back we played some cards before quitting it.

2008-08-15T23:59:00.000-07:00

Flew to Mark's Farm this morning and practiced forced landings with Daniel. He cut the power at various positions around the field and at different heights, so that I would have to wrestle the aircraft to a safe landing, at the correct speed and distance. Doing non-standard approaches and maneuvers at at lower level than normal was quite cool. I wasn't happy with the last landing back at FAPA, I might do some circuit bashing on my next flight.

Back on the ground, Ben was presented a certificate on his last day at 43, signifying his achievement of flying. We had only wished that they were PPL certificates!

In the afternoon we gave a present (a plant) to Wendy and Mary-Jane; the two receptionists, who we thought tried their best in dealing with the SA CAA and bureaucracy on our behalf. Then we went down town; I grabbed some lunch, while Neale and Waldo picked up Du Toit's (printed photo) present.

The evening soon came by and we all went back down town to Butlers, a fancy restaurant on the river. This was Ben's last night in SA and we tried our damnedest to make it a good one. Du Toit and his wife came along later. We gave him our gift, of which he seemed genuinely thankful. They said that he doesn't normally socialise with his classes, but our one was different in that he wanted to. He made a point of bringing his SAAF tunic with medals, as a sort of symbol of occasion for Ben. He also insisted that me and Ben have his Major epaulet pins. After loads of conversation we departed. Sharon was convinced to follow Neale, Ben, Waldo and me to Oddfellows and "Tab", before we all called it a night. Ben ended up separating from his chair, so I guess it was a success!

2008-08-14T22:05:00.000-07:00

Took to the skies this morning, into a very busy training area. There were many different layers of low cloud, and while climbing out we had a slight scare. The engine suddenly dropped RPM and vibrated the airframe, Daniel immediately took control and engaged the carburettor heat. The problem appeared to be a bit of carburetor icing.

Anyway, after sorting that out and completing the climb, I did a number of medium and tight turns and instrument flying. We also did a few stalls and incipient spins. After this we lost some height and while rolling around the air we noticed a group of whales near the beach. We went down a bit further to get a better look. A helicopter was down there also, and after a while of trying to keep him in view, we bugged out back to FAPA.

After the flight and debrief I had breakfast in the canteen. Sharon (Neale's instructor) joined me for a cuppa tea/coffee and we chatted for a while. Instructors tend to consciously avoid students in a social capacity, but thankfully Sharon is far more friendly and down to earth!

In the afternoon I went into town with Neale and Waldo. Amongst biscuits and milkshake, we got a couple of presents for a few people on base (from me and Ben). We had to wait an hour for a photo to be developed, so drove up to Oddfellows for a beer. Sadly we stayed in there a bit too long; after the shops had shut and just before dinner was finished at 43. Luckily we returned in time for supper and some cards before calling it a day.

2008-08-13T23:00:00.000-07:00

I got to my aircraft at 08:00 and noticed a large layer of smoke, spread over a large part of the sky. The air above was warmer than the smoke; so it wouldn't rise and be blown away. Indeed, when a helicopter guy landed late last night, he told us that it was twenty-nine degrees centigrade up there! I opened Echo-Echo-Golf's door while pre-flighting, and small flakes of ash blew out.

Anyway, eventually caught up with Daniel and we climbed out into a murky sky with very low visibility. Unfortunately the location of our sector meant that we had a spell of flying through the thick smoke; apparently due to a vegetation fire at Port Elizabeth. I couldn't see a thing in front of me, it was quite unnerving, especially as we were still quite close to Port Alfred's circuit. After a while we broke free and did a number of turns, a few stalls and descents, as well as a little instrument flying, before returning to FAPA. I made a pretty good landing right on the numbers; which was luckily the same target that I had set myself.

From then on it was all a bit boring. Sat and had some tea/coffee with Ben; we discussed trying to get a PPL in the UK and how things should have been done differently here. We also enjoyed the company of Sharon - Neale's instructor. Not too soon before lunch I noticed a large fire on the other side of the airfield (pictured). This of course threatened visibility even further - kiboshing my other slots with Daniel and Ross, not that I minded too much.

Neale missed out on his nav exam today and vowed to go to Oddfellows; at the suggestion of Du Toit. Unfortunately for him, he had a flight and the winds were within helicopter limits. Upon returning from the flight, a little more happy, he then picked up Waldo and myself, after convincing Sharon to come along, and we tried our best to find Ben. Even though he is the only person on base with wheels, we couldn't find him. On the way round though we did find Martin, a CPL dude in Waldo's class - and genuinely good guy. He needed a beer and jumped in the bucky. Soon we were off towards town.

We had a few beers and a decent meal at Oddfellows with the gang, meeting Du Toit and his wife along the way. Afterwards we went on to Guido's, a waterfront bar/restaurant, and rounded the evening off.

2008-08-12T22:15:00.000-07:00

I caught wrong-board syndrome again today. Was puzzled to be at Ops at 07:00, only to find my flying slot listed at 08:00. So instead I returned at 08:00, only to find that while yesterday Tuesday was on the left hand board, today it wasn't! I felt like a complete clot and apologised to Daniel. He didn't seem to mind, as he had other work to be getting on with anyway. Besides, today was very hot and very windy. Later on I cancelled my flying slot with Ross. It's strange, after all these weeks of trying to cram as much flying as possible in, I can now relax and wait for better opportunities.

Not much else happened today really. More fires erupted close by to the base. Me and Ben were playing cards by the pool, and saw the air school's sole fire-fighting appliance; which consists of a flatbed with a tank on the back, refilling at the water vane a few times.

The fires are getting pretty serious. Within spitting distance from the perimeter fence. The warm winds didn't help matters either. If the fire were to actually spread into the base, there would be very little chance in stopping it. So its all up to the cadets to keep it at bay. The local fire department has only one appliance - and it is broken! Indeed the local sewage plant has more trucks/capacity, and they were used to spray rot all over the fires instead.

It's worth noting that the cadets are wannabe aviators like everyone else here. They work for the school, and in return they get flying hours and training up to CPL, and a minimal pay. These guys do an excellent job under difficult conditions. But now on top of their solid day of work, they are then relied upon to fight fires. Right now as I type, at 22:10, they are out there cracking on after almost three days of firefighting. The best part is that this isn't considered as overtime or work, but is still their responsibility, and they're still expected to be up early tomorrow for another full day's work, and any firefighting on top.

2008-08-11T23:00:00.000-07:00

After waking up and having breakfast, I found Andrew Parker; my original instructor, in his office and immediately asked him if Britain was still afloat. He said he had a good time in a place where things "worked properly" and constant power was a given! I explained the situation regarding the SPL and he said that it's been the case before, and to just enjoy the flying. Great seeing the bloke again, hopefully I'll manage a flight with him before I leave.

While pre-flighting Echo-Echo-Golf, Daniel appeared. He asked me what we should do in the air for this slot. I didn't really have a preference, except for not doing navigation as it would eat up too many precious hours, too quickly. The fuel tanks were half full anyway; so a nav was out of the question.

Anyway, we settled for a spell in the GF, and were allocated the West Coastal sector. After noticing what a gorgeous and hot day it was, we also noticed thick black smog all along the coast; as pictured above. Daniel seemed adamant that it was oil of some kind. We practiced a number of stalls, spins and recoveries; all rather nauseating, but bearable.

On one occasion, while spinning, we noticed a whale and slid down to take a look. A visible cloud of sand in the sea, not too far from the coast gave him away. Apparently whale's rub themselves on the sea bed in order to clean. I tried to capture a decent photo of it, but failed! It wasn't long before it sank back down into the abyss.

After a few more turns, we headed back for base. There was a slight tailwind on approach, meaning that our speed over the ground was faster, in order for the same airspeed as normal to be achieved. This made the landing distance slightly longer than normal, but luckily it was a fairly descend landing, and led to taxi back/parking and lunch.

Waldo and I went into town in the afternoon and browsed the model/hobby/rc shop. They only had one range of Radio Controlled models - very large and very expensive! Upon returning, we noticed a new, but thankfully smaller fire than Saturday's, just outside of the base. Luckily it's appeared to have now been put out.

Dinner was followed by a few card games, lots of chat and Olympics on TV in the bar, before sorting out the payment of the BA flight home, and writing this post. Now it is most definitely time for bed, have an early slot tomorrow!

2008-08-10T21:16:00.000-07:00

Not being woken by the helicopters was bliss. So much so that I stayed in bed far too long! Went for a cuppa tea with Waldo while Neale was studying. After lunch and watching bits of the Olympics, we were going to go fishing; but the tide times didn't agree. Instead we waited until about 15:30 before setting off down to the marina.

A few hours of casting and catching the tree, a boat and a competition to hit the floating sign, Stephan left. Soon after, we had a good meal in Spur's.

Then we got back to base and said goodbye for the evening. Up until now I've been poncing about on the computer checking and sending emails and also updating my logbook. Glad to say that Steve and Paul got back to the UK without trouble.

2008-08-09T22:20:00.000-07:00

Woke up and sorted out my face and glasses. Then went outside and chatted with Steve and Ben before going to Ops to see if I had a flight booked. I had a slot at 13:00 with Scott Holmes; the guy who gave me my first intro flight. After breakfast I went to him and cancelled the flight as the wind is gale force today, and I want to try and spread the twelve-or-so hours I have left over my last two weeks. He didn't mind and understood my reasoning.

Then I went back with Waldo to his and Neale's block. They both had very sore heads. Made it back to my block in time to see Steve off and wish him all the best. Paul had already departed before I got up. Hopefully we'll be at Cranwell next year, coaching the next lot of candidates for this excellent scholarship.

Lunch came and went. Me and Ben struck up a plan to Braai for dinner with Stephan; an AMO engineer, and his mate Germaine. After doing some odds and sods I went up to Neale and Waldo's. Neale was trying to sleep off the night before, so me and Waldo went into town to grab some meat, bread and sauce.

While we were out we noticed massive bush fires with huge blooms of smoke being blown northbound. Worryingly, large flames could be seen just outside of the airbase perimeter. Indeed firefighters were actually burning the undergrowth inside, in order to deprive the fire of fuel, should it creep in any more.

When we got back, Neale finally got up and about again, and we all went to the (shut) bar. Neale and Waldo played some pool. All of a sudden the refrigerator stopped making it's horrendous racket and the lights went out. Night fell pretty quickly and as we began braaing, the bar and canteen were lit by candlelight only.

After some excellent grub and many games of cards in the bar, the TV, lights and fridge suddenly sparked into life. We were all quite thankful! After a few more beers, we decided to hit the sack.

2008-08-08T23:59:00.000-07:00

Finished off the nav calculations, but took a little longer than hoped. I met Daniel and we finished off the flight plans before filing them. A FP has to be filed half-an-hour before takeoff. We got in the aircraft and I went through the start up procedure. While starting the engine, there was a massive bang! Daniel immediately shut everything off and another instructor appeared; who'd heard the commotion from his office. After checking the engine and exhaust over we took the aircraft to the AMO. I thought that our nav was kibosh'd, but luckily the engineer said it was fit to fly, but to bring it back to the AMO after!

All in all, we took off about an hour later than planned. But once we were airborne things began to go well. I plotted three checkpoints on our direct path to Queenstown. While travelling through absolutely awesome mountain ranges, it was satisfying to see our Estimated Time of Arrival at each point be correct down to the minute! Something not possible with a car and roads! When we got to Queenstown, I made two landings before climbing out and around the mountains surrounding it.

Now was the low level part of the exercise. We overflew Cathcart on route to Bisho; 43's new second home. Two landings were planned, but as we took off later than planned, we needed to cut short our visit to one touch and go. Then it was back towards Port Alfred and lunch!

For my first proper nav, it went fairly well and was immensely enjoyable. I did take my camera, but I'm afraid that we were too busy to get any photos!

In the evening we went out to Guido's, and then Oddfellow's. It was quiet compared to normal, apparently everyone is having a bad month. We did our best in giving Steve a good send off. Paul preferred to stay on base. I managed to have a fight with the ground again, this time outside by Neale's Bucky(pickup). Nice big scratch on one of my glasses lenses, and on my face! My bloody legs are definitely getting worse.

2008-08-07T21:45:00.000-07:00

A trip into town followed a nice lie-in. I grabbed some cash and phone credit. Also stopped by the butchers for some biltong; small bits of old dried meat that is apparently a delicacy out here. It was alright but I gave up after a while - pork scratchings are far better!

I've finally had it confirmed that the flight back is on the 26th. Got a print out from Ops today too; I've flown thirty-five-point-four hours so far, leaving only fourteen-point-six hours to fly. I may end up finishing all of my hours before/just after beginning week eight!

Had a slot with Daniel, but it was cancelled because the air was very turbulent and not much would be achieved. Instead we began planning a navigational exercise for tomorrow. After he jogged my memory from GS on the subject I sat in the sun with Ben and did the calculations. The sad part is that only half can be done without knowing the weather. So I have to get to Ops for 06:00 tomorrow to find out the Wx, and then finish off the planning before taking off at 09:30.

2008-08-06T22:50:00.000-07:00

Had a flight with Ross this morning. Circuit bashing FAPA continually has started to get a bit boring and I felt like I hadn't learned much. Still, my spirits were lifted when I saw Neale go solo, and then being dumped into the pool.

In the afternoon I had an absolutely marvellous flight with Daniel. We bombed up to Grahamstown and it's desolate airport for the first time. The airfield altitude is a few thousand feet higher, and gave an excellent demonstration of difference in aircraft handling. After a couple of crosswind landings on it's tarmac runway, we headed back towards Port Alfred over the mountainous terrain at low level. An excellent tonic after the morning flight's monotony.

Managed to get in contact with BA. It's costing me £97 to delay the flight to the 26th, and I'll confirm this with them tomorrow. This gives me an extra seventeen days in sunny SA, in which time I'll hopefully fly all of my hours. To be honest, I am keen to get home and meet with family and friends, but the opportunity to fly more hours that would be otherwise lost cannot be passed up.

2008-08-05T22:50:00.000-07:00

Flew circuits with Daniel today. Attempted the approach at 76 knots - the speed at which the aircraft will fly itself down to the runway. This was suggested by Rob to Ben and Steve, who had difficulty in landing without help, but eventually nailed it. I naturally wanted to "flare" but had to try and just let the aircraft sink into the ground. Think I got the hang of it by the end.

My commitment to an ATC camp upon my return appears to have fallen away. I don't have all of the details, but apparently the event has been cancelled. This allows me to stay an extra week. I have enquired about the accommodation cost for staying; in order to fly more of the allotted hours. Ben, who had delayed his flight from day one, and I had a short meeting with Frik Schoomby. He told us that he is going to help us out with the accommodation costs. We chatted some more about the experience so far, and how the medical mess up can be avoided in future, before leaving for dinner.

Unfortunately BA have responded to my enquiry about delaying the flight with a negative result. There are no available seats for transfer, indeed the first available transfer seat is on the 26th of August. A new flight departing on the 16th costs £1011, so my options are looking slim. Something may still be possible, I'll ponder on it tomorrow.

2008-08-04T22:48:00.000-07:00

[On approach to Port St John's]

I had an absolutely fantastic time with Rob during our navigational exercise. Yesterday, I took off from FAPA and soon enough we were thundering up the eastern coast with a cracking tailwind. After passing in and out of East London airspace, we approached Port St John's - an awesome outcrop with a desolate tarmac runway on top. Rob made the final approach and landing and we parked to take a quick whizz, while also taking in the terrific scenery.
Then it was back into the aircraft and we taxied back down the runway. Rob took off and swooped around between the two massive cliffs before getting back on course for Margate. Rob handled the radio and nav while I kept the thing pointing straight. Even though it was the simplest of flying I'd done, it was also the best flying so far. It was impossible to get bored with so much to entertain the eyes.We made brilliant time because the weather was on our side. But as we got nearer, the cloud base was lower. Temperature and Dew Point grew closer together, forming clouds lower and lower. Rob took the aircraft down to 500ft and we persisted. The land around Margate airport is very uneven and the air was quite turbulent. Rob completed the circuit joining procedure and hauled the aircraft around on base, leaving me to line up for the final approach. I managed to get it down OK, with the satisfying "screech" of my first tarmac landing. Rob seemed pleased with it too, which was lucky.We were picked up by Rob's wife; Mandy - who is a pharmacist, and their young son; Joshua. Their house is very cool, with a fantastic view to wake up to. We went out for dinner and a few beers. We had good old conversation about medical conditions and flying before returning to the home.

While watching the box, I thought I'd noticed Ben. After watching the whole episode of "New Street Law" I was certain and found that indeed it was him. This shouldn't have been so surprising as he's a small time actor, but it was still a little strange.

After a decent night's kip and a good breakfast today, we got back to the airport and into Papa-Echo-Uniform. We took off into the again turbulent air at 11:10. We had planned to fly up to Durban Int'l and practice circuits, but the wind was blasting back down towards FAPA. This helped us achieve a great time again for the leg, which was low level all the way like yesterday. Rob blocked the window with my map and I practiced some instrument flying, which is enjoyable, but quite intensive stuff as normally the priority is to look out at the real horizon. We got back onto the familiar molehill-ridden field at around 13:00. Rob had some important things to attend to thrust upon him after landing, so we're hopefully going to debrief tomorrow.

I am truly thankful to Rob for what has definitely been one of the most memorable moments so far. Glad to have gotten to know him much more, always had him down as a good bloke from the start!

2008-08-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

[On the way to Margate]

I was wrong about today being boring! Was woken with news of an urgent message for me. Fearing bad news from the UK, I strolled over to Ops. Luckily it wasn't an urgent message, just that Rob Armitage wanted to see me when he landed; panic over.

We met and Rob asked me how many hours I have accumulated so far. I've got around twenty-five. He laid out a plan of going up along the coast towards Durban, as he has a house around there, we can go for a meal and stop over until returning to FAPA tomorrow. Everyone wins really; he sees his wife and kid and I get a few more hours, and on the 180 too.

We're due to depart at 16:00, so I thought I'd chuck this post on now and update with photos when I return.

2008-08-02T21:10:00.000-07:00

Said goodbye to Rae for the last time, along with Steve and Paul today. We're definitely going to meet up next year, indeed we have already all planned to hit Oktoberfest '09.

Had a decent flight with Ross. it was quite bumpy but to be honest it's all a bit easy now. We took the opportunity to take some photo's, one of which is above. We did lots of turning and a couple of forced landings before returning to FAPA for a few circuits. Hopefully next week I'll be doing some nav's or equally-unfamiliar flying.

Other than that, today has been rather boring and Sunday will probably end up the same...

2008-08-01T23:20:00.000-07:00

Leg was hurting like hell today. After clumsily getting sorted out and passing the time, I found that my headset has gone missing. Regardless, I went to Ross and Echo-Kilo-Echo for our navigational exercise. Something wasn't right with the aircraft; the nose sat too low and the propeller was far too close to the ground. We turned the aircraft around and parked it straight at the AMO before returning to Ops to find that Echo-Echo-Golf was to shortly become available. I waited for Ben and his instructor, Christie, to finish their bits and pieces before pre-flighting it and soon enough me and Ross were thundering down the runway.

Because of the time lost, the planned nav was unachievable. Instead we spent about an hour in the GF doing tight turns, climbs/descents and other stuff that I am fairly proficient on, before returning to FAPA for a few circuits. The air in the circuit was very bumpy but manageable.

The evening soon drew in and we did our very best in giving Rae a great send-off. Five weeks isn't much, but when interacting with someone on an intensive daily basis, it is hard to accept that such relationships must end sometimes. I'm waking up at 05:30 to see her off tomorrow... no better reason to finish typing here!

2008-07-31T23:59:00.000-07:00

Pre-flighted Echo-Echo-Golf but couldn't find Daniel. Ross saw me and asked if we were flying now. He and Daniel had both booked me for the same time. We went to Ops and Daniel was listed for this flight with me, but as we couldn't find him, Ross changed it. Sod's law then came into play and whilst walking out of Ops, we found Daniel! No major biggie though, had another slot booked for 15:00.

Ross and I flew to the East Coastal sector and made a series of tight turns, a couple of stalls and a few forced landing practices before returning to FAPA. There were about eight aircraft already in the circuit, so we had to orbit and wait for a gap to full stop rather than practice circuits as we'd planned. During the flight Ross said that I'd be going solo now if I had my SPL; definitely seem to have the knack of maintaining altitude and making the aircraft do what I want.

Neale passed his Air Law exam today which is fantastic news. He and the rest of the class in our block have been moved to the other side of the airbase. With only a few days to go for Rae, and just over a week for us FSD/RIAT guys, it's sensible to stay put.

Went up with Daniel for the 15:00 slot and enjoyed it. I did a number of circuits and it was all pretty processional. Daniel seems quite pleased with my handling and I dare say that I've polished off flying in the circuit.

While out celebrating and warming up for Rae's leaving do tomorrow, me and Waldo managed to fall over hard. Luckily I haven't broken anything, but the top of my leg is shouting at me for it. Hopefully it'll be alright tomorrow, as I have a long navigational exercise ahead of me.

2008-07-30T22:05:00.000-07:00

My flight this morning, with Daniel went quite well. Took Echo-Echo-Golf up and into the East Coastal sector for some tight turns and general handling work. While flying along the coast, we managed to spot a few whale. Then we returned to FAPA for some circuit work. The last landing was my best one so far I think.

GS finished with the Restricted Radio Licence test, which I think I passed but should find out next week. Du Toit wished everyone the best of luck and invited anyone with questions about things to track him down. He's a great bloke and teacher. We're going to chuck our specially made gift to him next week.

My second flight of the day was with Ross. We spent about 1.5 hours practicing circuits; quite tiring stuff but the practice definitely helps. Progress seemed to be sporadic, as there was a lot of turbulence, but hopefully I made a decent job of it.

Neale kindly agreed to run me and Paul into town, so that we could get some KFC and feast on it back at 43. Du Toit later joined us in the bar, as he was collecting Jean'dre; who is going to look after his home while they are on holiday, and was the duty cadet that evening. After we'd all finished up I went to Ops to check if/when I had a slot tomorrow. I'm flying at 09:00 with Daniel.

2008-07-29T22:30:00.000-07:00

Woke up and it was freezing, both inside and out. Got to Ops at 07:00 and waited outside a while for Daniel. Half an hour later I went to Ops and asked the cadet on duty to give him a ring; no response - he must have been driving we thought. Twenty minutes later Ops dude comes and tells me that Daniel had no idea of this morning's flying slot, but has re-booked me 11:00 and 15:00. I didn't mind, these things happen, and I'd still have two flights.

Our final Met lesson took place in GS today, tomorrow we're going to crack on with the Restricted Radio Licence test - the only test/licence I can take/gain now!

Got to Daniel for 11:00. He did apologise but I quipped that I like standing in the cold freezing my nuts off! We went up to Echo-Echo-Golf, which was at the AMO still after Ross put it there last night. It still hadn't been test flown by the engineers, so we went hunting for another aircraft with the extended seat rails. We drew a blank so opted to fly a 180 instead; like the 140, only bigger. Our first aircraft, Foxtrot-Victor-Delta, refused to start. Daniel went to Ops and got the key to another aircraft. India-Kilo-Juliet started fine.

While taxi-ing I realised that I liked the 180 much more than the 140. Better seating position, more visibility, more power. While taking off, I felt that the controls were slightly heavier but manageable. Flew a few circuits, of varying quality and correctness, before we full stopped.

On the ground, Daniel told me that he's doing a Nav with Steve from 14:00. It was probably going to take about one hour, eclipsing my flying slot at 15:00. I gave him my mobile number anyway, but he seemed doubtful that he'd arrive back in time.
Walked down towards Ops and noticed a Dakota of 35 Squadron SAAF near the taxiway. Managed to scramble to my room and grab my camera before it left.

We decided to go out for dinner, back to Spur's. Gorgeous food and wine was consumed until we returned to 43 and delivered a desert to the duty cadet that evening. Then Ben challenged me and Neale to a game of Blackjack, with forfeits for losing, in the bar... I'm glad to say that Ben soon after lost his eyebrows!

I've amassed 18.2 hours to date. With only one and a half weeks left, there is no way that I'll get close to fifty. - Hours that I'll have to try and pay for somehow back in the UK to achieve a PPL.

2008-07-28T23:25:00.000-07:00

Our penultimate lesson of Met took place today and luckily it is still interesting. The now-standard coffee/tea in the canteen followed. I went to Ops and found no flying slot on for me; Daniel's weekend ends tomorrow, so I went and asked Ross for a slot at 15:00 to which he agreed.

Du Toit joined our table in the coffee house/canteen, and asked Ben and I about what we were going to do, now a PPL was out of reach. We both plan to obtain PPLs in the UK, but I fear it will be a very long and difficult process for both personal and financial reasons. Hopefully I'll pull it off someday soon.
Neale came up with me on this flight, stuffed in the back with his camera gear. Ross didn't seem to mind, luckily the aircraft wasn't fully fueled. There was an approaching cold front but the air wasn't too turbulent. I practiced steep turning, stalling and side-slipping before returning to FAPA. I would have done a few circuits, had Ross not had a suspicion with regards to the rudder. He took it to the AMO after the flight for an inspection.

Neale narrowly failed his Air Law test today, which did smart a bit. Air law isn't taught to us, but comes in a whacking great big book with 80% garbage and 20% useful content - as legal documents often do. Now I can't even take the tests, it is somewhat positive that I don't have to worry about failure anymore. Sam, or more commonly known as "Sheba" took his first test today in PoF. He failed. I dare say it was just deserts for not participating or even writing notes in class.

Steve had his assessment with a CAA-accredited instructor at 43 today, and failed. So none of us four FSD/RIAT scholarship winners will go solo or achieve a PPL.

Got a flight at 07:00 tomorrow, hopefully bag at least another one with Daniel before Tuesday is through.

2008-07-27T21:30:00.000-07:00

After the early starts, a lie in was great news. We'd agreed to go fishing again today, but instead chose to eat out for lunch instead. "Spurs" is a worldwide restaurant chain, so not strictly local cuisine but delicious none the less. The bill split between the five of us came to R150 each, this is only about £10 pounds each for a three course meal!

We then went and helped Sharon; a helicopter instructor, load utility machines into Neale's truck and then take it to her new home. There is some really great housing around here, whether out in the sticks or in the marina. But you don't have to look too far before you find the opposite end of the spectrum with "locations" which I can only describe as large plots of land with loads of tiny and crumbling huts in which desperately poor people live, all of which are black too. There's always massive fires burning around here, whether deliberately with plastic or someones home. They all seem to be scrap metal merchants though, by the looks of the old trucks and things dumped outside. Indeed, today we saw one guy making off with a wheelbarrow of telephone/electrical cabling!

Me and Ben; who was also born in Portsmouth, watched the first half of the Pompey - Manchester United game on the box before I decided to write this post and hit the sack.

2008-07-26T21:35:00.000-07:00

Did more circuit practice this morning with Daniel, paying particular attention to landing and when/how to round off. Again the more I practiced the better I got and I dare say that I am to a good standard. Always room for improvement of course!

Got a call from home today, because I hadn't yet published yesterday's blog and they were wondering whether I got the SPL. Obviously broke the bad news, which still smarts a lot. Good to speak to them though.

In the evening Ben, Paul, Neale, Ray, Steve and I had an absolutely cracking barbecue, or "Brai" as they call it here. We shared many laughs and looked back over the time we've spent together so far, and remarked on how soon it will end. While the stress and anxiety weighs a lot, the two things that I have enjoyed the most is the flying and the friends; who are more than worth the hassle and disappointment of yesterday.

2008-07-25T23:59:00.000-07:00

[Steve and Rae]

Waking up again for a 07:00 flying slot was a bit difficult, but luckily doable and worth it. The morning was colder than yesterday. Me and Daniel took off and started to practice circuits. In a crosswind, flying forwards at askew angles, looking out of side windows to see what direction we are going in is really cool.

After the flight I headed to Daniel's office for the debrief. Stik Stinghle, director of training, was speaking to someone outside of the office next door. He told me that I had a flying assessment later in the day with a CAA instructor in order to get my SPL, as I was the one who had gotten through the medical board. It was like music to my ears, absolute relief if anything. This has without doubt been the most stressful time of my life.

Then about two minutes into conversation of fine-details, he asked what my surname is again. After I told him he then informed me that it was in fact Steve who had gotten his medical. From hero to zero in a matter of seconds. No PPL, not even a solo without an SPL. My heart fell out of my backside. Of course he apologised profusely for the slip up.

On the way back to my room, I'd passed Neale and told him the news. Then I went to GS, which had nearly lost all meaning or purpose as I was absolutely outraged and livid. Neale had told the rest that I knew, but they didn't press me too much - after all we were sure of a briefing on it from Stik and George Stewart during GS anyway.

Soon enough Stik pokes his head round the door and the rest of the class is temporarily evacuated. He and George Stewart seemed genuinely sorry for the SACAA medical board's decision, but their hands were tied. Paul didn't seem to mind too much, Ben was far more impacted - he had already delayed his flight and vowed to pay for an extra week to ensure his gaining of a PPL.

I got Stik to show me the email that Wendy had sent Sue Whitby, detailing the reports required for a re-assessment. Curiously enough I found the sent date/time to be yesterday morning, and that George Stewart had received a copy; contrary to his flat denial of having any information.

Anyway, the CAA find me unfit and won't review the situation until they receive the following:
-Neurologist Report.
-Cardiologist Report.
-Orthopedic Report.
-Occupational Therapist Report.
It takes a month to see a specialist here, and the medical board only meet once a month. I have absolutely no chance. There can be no doubt that if this were all done before we even came out here then maybe we'd have a fairer shot.

After a short rally of questions, they left and the rest of the class came back in. Some colleagues seemed quite sympathetic, of course they can relate to how they'd feel with their wings clipped. Du Toit could see I was burning and said I'm free to leave if I want, I stayed. His humour and the class' banter was better than sitting in silence and seething.

When GS was finished we went to the canteen and had some tea/coffee, accompanied by bitching and moaning about the sorry situation. Then as evening rolled around, the Solo Party took place in the bar. Instructors and students congratulated those who had flown solo in the past month, it was very bittersweet for me. I was so happy for Rae who out and out has been the leader of the class in terms of ability and success, but then there was also the stark reminder that I'd not go solo and share in the success.

Anyway soon enough we all hit town and forgot about, or rather ignored the massive blow dealt today.

2008-07-24T21:40:00.000-07:00

After getting suited and booted for the 07:00 flying slot, I pre-flighted the aircraft and waited for Daniel to arrive. George Stewart; Chief Flying Instructor, was heading back to Ops after a flight and told me the air was very calm, but a massive headwind was present in one area. He then asked me how I was doing before continuing to Ops.

Me and Daniel jumped in the aircraft and took off of 36. Practicing the circuit was enjoyable, but more and more the winds kept changing and increasing in strength. On one approach, because the wind was so turbulent near the trees/runway, we had to go around. After about four touch and go's we decided to finish the flight and landed. Daniel seemed far more satisfied with my performance as I did, which is hopefully a good sign. After about 14 hours of flying so far, it still gives me the same buzz that it did on my first flight back in the UK.

Ground school rolled around soon after. Still enjoying the met lessons and Du Toit's great method of instruction. Hopefully I'll remember all that we are supposed to! I was scheduled for another flight after GS, but by this time the winds were even more intense, so we elected to delay until 15:00.

At around 14:20 I went to Wendy to collect the change from my dentist bill and asked if there was any particular time that the CAA would notify us tomorrow. She seemed suprised that George hadn't already spoken to us, and told me that he has the information - obviously bad news then. I asked whether it was just "bad" or "very bad", to which the latter was replied. Brilliant! I went to George's office, but there was a bit of a row on, so I left it.

Instead I went to see Daniel and asked about our flying slot; almost certain that the wind made it a no-go. He checked the winds and asked guys who'd just come down, and before long we agreed to leave it until tomorrow.

So I went back to George and when greeted by his secretary, said that he has some information for me. He almost immediately rebuffed it and said that he doesn't. I persisted but wasn't getting anywhere. He said "We'll brief you tomorrow". Before I had even left the office he was on the blower to Wendy. I went back down to the reception and apologised for whatever silly ear bashing that Wendy was getting. I'd have thought that it'd be easier to jettison any heart-breaking news as soon as possible, maybe not. Will jump back onto it tomorrow.

2008-07-23T23:00:00.000-07:00

[Relaxing after a hot and hard day's flying. Me, Uzo and Neale.]

We started Meteorology in GS today. It seems more of a memory subject and easier than the previous subjects. Clouds, winds and hemispheres are the most part of it so far.

When GS was finished I went to Ops, to find no flight scheduled for me. I tracked down Daniel, who said that we can fly at 13:00, which was later changed to 15:00 because Echo-Echo-Golf wasn't available at that time. Then we found that Echo-Echo-Golf was detailed for instructor training at 15:00. Daniel managed to speak to the pilots involved and changed aircraft.

After lunch I headed to the Aircraft Maintenance Office and asked an engineer if any other Cherokee 140's had the illusive "extra notch" in it's seat rails. He said that there were a couple, but he didn't know which ones. I'll try and hunt down the others over the next few days. I spoke with one of the Indian fellas in our class and he said that his instructor allows him to fly a 180 instead, which has more room. So that might also be an option.

Reported to Daniel at 15:00, only to find that Echo-Echo-Golf was at the AMO, with the complaint of a "floppy rudder"! We strolled up to it and found a screwdriver and gloves on the stabilator - never a good sign! The very same engineer I spoke to earlier emerged and told us that he's checked all of the rigging thoroughly and couldn't find a problem. We duly took the aircraft into a brilliantly calm air and began practicing circuits. It was far more comfortable today and I dare say that I performed a lot better. Practice does make perfect and luckily I improved as we continued to do around 4 touch and go's before a full stop landing. Daniel seemed quite pleased with my flying and alluded to great things before the week is through. Tomorrow we are going to do forced landings, which should be very challenging indeed!

2008-07-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

[A CityGolf - everyone drives around in these. Basically a Golf Mk1, which is considered a "classic" in the UK!]

There were definitely a few highs and lows today. We didn't do GS because Du Toit was off celebrating his 25th wedding anniversary with his wife. Instead Buck Buchanan, Chief of Flying Operations, gave a safety and awareness briefing, which was surprisingly enjoyable.

After this I went to Wendy and asked if she had any good news about the SPLs. She didn't. Instead she had bad news; only one of us four FSD/RIAT students is being granted an SPL, but the SA CAA will not tell us who until their minutes are published on Friday. I was absolutely shocked, speechless. The bureaucrats strike again.

Rob Armitage came and spoke to me and Ben, getting a feel for how many hours we have so far and how long that we have left. He seemed very concerned and again assured us that he is doing all he can. He's a straight up guy and I appreciate his efforts, even in the face of difficult circumstances. I collared Daniel as he arrived and enquired as to why I had no flying slot that day and if one could be made available. Unfortunately he was fully booked, but then Rob found another instructor, Ross, who's student wasn't flying.

Echo-Echo-Golf was already occupied, so instead we took up Echo-Echo-Bravo. The sodding standard seat rails again completely stopped me from operating the rudder properly, I'm going to ask the guys at the AMO if any other aircraft has extra notches like Echo-Echo-Golf. Anyway, today we were practicing circuits. Unfortunately the air was very turbulent and things weren't as smooth and precise as I'd have liked. The crosswind was intense, even though I shouldn't be doing, and haven't been trained in crosswind landings, there I was fighting hard to get it down in one piece. It did push me beyond my ability and I started getting riled up in frustration, Ross was very patient and helpful. We battled on and did about 4 circuits with touch and go's before calling it a day, the last landing being the best one in terms of correctness and smoothness.

Lunch came around and after my meal of hot, yes you guessed it, chicken, my mouth was pounding with pain. Cold drink helped ease the pain temporarily. Finally I gave in and asked for an appointment, especially as I had no further flights in the afternoon. Got to the dentist about an hour later and had an X-Ray while fearing an ab sis or something equally nasty. The dentist said that my previous filling was a rubbish job, which has been causing the problem with trapped air - explaining the hot/cold problem/solution. Drilling, drilling and more drilling took place before he set a new filling. He said that it'd need a route canal, but best off doing it in the UK, as it is recommended to leave time in between. Just after going back to the reception I started getting all faint and losing hearing/sight, the last time I did that was when in hospital with a broken bone - so I reckon I have some sort of allergy/reaction to Anaesthetic. Anyway, after all of those fun and games, it was such a relief to be pain free with a full set still intact.

In the afternoon Neale, Rae, Waldo and I went into town for various bits and pieces, before heading on up to a farm nearby 43 which had vacancies for their two person bungalows. Neale and Waldo fancy moving away from 43 "cuisine" and accommodation for the rest of their course. I don't blame them, after all they are going to be here for over a year.

Back to 43 for dinner, before having a very quiet session in the bar with a few games of blackjack. Managed to get in contact with Mum and Dad again tonight, so at least today ended on a high note.

2008-07-21T22:12:00.000-07:00

We finished off nav in GS today, and re-capped on a few Tech & Gen bits that have popped up in recent exams. During lunch I received a call from Julie Massiter of BBC Radio Solent, who arranged another interview at 19:30DST.

I had my flight today with a bloke called Zane Roberts, he had four bars up so was a pretty senior instructor. The air was clear, although turbulent. We went to the west coastal sector first before returning to the circuit at PA and doing a few touch and goes before landing and taxing to parking. He made a point of covering various instruments; encouraging me to focus on the horizon. My last landing was my best one so far, the practice had paid off. Zane has cleared me to continue training within the normal circuit of FAPA - which is at least positive stuff.

Neale passed his A/C Tech & General test today, which is great news. After finishing our flights, we duly went to the Oddfellows and sunk a few beers with some proper food. I managed to ring home and tell them of the upcoming live radio interview. I tried to take the beers steady before the interview and hopefully pulled it off OK. Will post a clip of the interview as soon as possible.

2008-07-20T20:20:00.000-07:00

Up early today for our trip to Addo Elephant Park, just past Port Elizabeth. We picked up Pieter Malan; student liaison officer, and his wife from their home in Alexandria before tanking on down the long sweeping roads to our destination.
When we got there and into the park itself, we keenly looked around for whatever we could find. Saw a couple of Caribou, Buffalo and endless Warthog. Curiously some birds enjoyed walking along with and following the Warthog. It was very dry today, and most animals were too far in looking for precious food. We were the lucky ones, I guess. After all we did actually manage to see some elephant.
After completing the various tracks, we had a fantastic lunch at the restaurant. Strange seeing Steaks listed in grams and not ounces. Whatever the weight, it was gorgeous. After stopping by the park shop for the obligatory gifts, we piled back into the wagon and were on our way back.

It was about a 2 hour drive each way, but not that boring. There is too much new and varied scenery rather than just boring, straight motorway.

The toothache has spread to both sides and sometimes even different teeth. Others have had toothache too. I wonder if it might be to do with the pressure changes whilst flying? If not then maybe something in the food/water? Anyway, I'll get it checked out when I can grab an appointment which doesn't conflict with flying or GS.

After dinner, we all substituted the bar in somewhat favour of studying. I can't say I did a lot, I learn from someone teaching a whole lot more than when trying to study on my own. I reckon that I could pass PoF, while A/C Tech & Gen needs more work, Nav is about in between. Chance to fail would be a fine thing, but have found out that the CAA person who is sorting our SPLs will return to her office on Tuesday.. So it'll probably be week five before I can even take a sodding test.

I thought about the PPL today. The numbers are really looking bleak now. If I were to have two flights per day for my next and last three five-day weeks, I'd only accumulate thirty hours - on top of the ten gained so far, I would still be short of the fifty hour minimum. Hopefully the people who pull the strings know how much I want this, or will and give me adequate path to walk towards the license. Even if not by my own fault and by mitigating circumstances, coming away without a license would be failure, regardless of the great things I'd take away too.

2008-07-19T21:17:00.000-07:00

I'm glad to say that Rae went solo today, and was duly thrown into the pool. I knew nothing about it at the time though, because I was fast asleep enjoying a needed lie-in.

When I did finally surface I went off to the canteen for a late breakfast and tea. Soon enough I saw the usual suspects, some with more fuzzy heads than others after last night's crusade.

The weather was gorgeous, but unfortunately I had a later flying slot at 15:00. The trend so far has been that the weather gets worse as the day goes on. As I took off, me and Daniel could see the thick wall of cloud and mist ebbing from the coast. It was back to mark's farm again today, doing a few more practice circuits. After a spell there we cruised back to FAPA to join the circuit. Daniel did the first touch and go, then I flew the circuit. Upon turning finals, it was difficult to see the ground out on the right wing - the fog had moved well in on us. This would, therefore, be the last landing for this flight. Managed to guide the aircraft down OK, but again the rudder/brake drift on landing appeared. The left rudder has always been harder to operate than the right, and my feet and the aircraft have a tendency to yaw right because of this. Will have to try and work out a trim setting or technique to compensate next time.

Daniel seems pleased with my progress and will book a slot for my assessment with another instructor. This assessment will allow me to thereafter operate in the normal circuit with other aircraft. I'm slightly worried by the progress, particularly only having one flight per day. With the short amount of time left, I'd do three if it were possible - although normally a rarity. May take this up with Daniel next week.

2008-07-18T23:55:00.000-07:00

GS got a bit tedious today, working through the question booklet. No doubt beneficial in the long term though. Asked Wendy about SPLs again, still no news.

Reported to Daniel for my flying slot. I had to remember and action more of the start up and taxi procedures this time. Again I took off, but like on Tuesday, the weather was very hot, humid and misty with not much visibility.

Nevertheless, it was one of my best flights so far. The technique is starting to come together I feel, luckily Daniel thinks my flying is good too. We went out to the west coastal sector first and practiced turning, climbing, descending and levelling off. Then we headed over to the "Mark's Farm" sector, which has a landing strip. We are not allowed to land there, but it is an excellent place to practice circuits. After doing that a couple of times, we returned to FAPA. Daniel did a touch and go first to demonstrate, and then I flew the circuit before landing myself; a smoother landing than yesterday. Unfortunately I was too hot on the toe brakes and one locked, causing the aircraft to veer sideways along the runway. It was hair-raising stuff, but we managed to sort it out. Came away from the aircraft sweating buckets, but also very pleased.

Friday night meant going to Oddfellows and having a decent meal, with too much alcohol. We found Du Toit and his wife, shortly to celebrate their silver anniversary, and shared many laughs before the night was through.

2008-07-17T22:00:00.000-07:00

My left leg is painful today, retribution for yesterday's falls no doubt. Managed to get to GS ok, but an on/off toothache that I've had these last few days has decided to make itself known constantly today. It was bloody distracting during class, but managed to plod along through the questions at a snails pace.

Du Toit got annoyed today, so much so that he left the room. The Indian contingent never have all of their kit with them, and talk at the back while Du Toit is teaching. But are the first one's to seek his and other classmate's assistance in solving questions. One of them went for a flying assessment today, even though yesterday Du Toit told him that GS takes a higher priority. He and his instructor will hopefully now be put in front of the Chief Flying Instructor; for a hats on, no biscuits, one-way conversation. Blatant disrespect for a man who is a great teacher and highly experienced. The rest of us are all getting cheesed off with these guys big time now.

After lunch I saw a Tigermoth landing outside my window, so did Steve. We grabbed our cameras and walked along to Ops, only to see the thing struggle back into the air. But then we noticed one aircraft practicing crosswind landings on another runway, situated near the tower. We stood by the side of the runway and watched as the a/c wobbled down right in front of us, and then a second time, after which they stopped and taxied back. I found the instructor and student soon after and apologised if we had put them off, they seemed happy.

I reported to Daniel for my 15:00 flying slot, only to be told that I was not going to fly. Basically, some desk-jockey from the SA CAA wanted to make my instructor and another do a one-hour briefing during my slot, just to prove that they could do so. Even though briefings of that depth are mainly covered in GS and that there is very little need. Flying instructors are best put to use when flying. I thought that our own UK Counter Aviation Authority was bad, but it seems that SA is worse.

And on that note, again, there is no news on our SPL's. I checked with Wendy and Mary-Jane(receptionists) while posting some postcards.

I went back to my room, borrowed Rae's laptop/DVD and completed some PoF practice tests for an hour or so, hitting an average of about 86% - which is about the 75% pass rate of the harder, real test.

After dinner I dragged Neale, Ben and Steve to the bar. We had a few jars and lots of chat. By 21:45 only me an Ben were left to talk rubbish until hitting the sack.

2008-07-16T22:10:00.000-07:00

Today had a bit of a rough start. I fell A over T before even reaching ground school. Then the next two hours were spent working through a question set, which was enjoyable but also monotonous. After this Ben, Paul, Steve and I had elected to grab a coffee/tea before returning for some extra tuition from Du Toit. On the way came my second impact with the ground, this one decided to linger all day long in my left leg. By the time I hit the floor the second time, I was really pissed off and bored with falling over!

Luckily the next hour or so went well. I managed to hammer out a few things which I had misunderstood. A decent lunch preceded me and Paul catching a lift with Neale into town, but not to the bar this time. Instead we bought a few bits and pieces. Upon returning, we found Rae - who had just taken her PoF test. We were all really pleased when she gave the thumbs up, a great encouragement to the rest of us.

As it happens, I did check earlier with the secretary about our SPLs. She said that a message had been left with the appropriate CAA personnel. Square root of nothing achieved so far then. The longer we go without our SPLs, the less damned chance we have in passing the tests.

I went to Ops for my flying slot and after a spell waiting, Echo-Echo-Golf appeared with Andrew and Ben inside. While Ben received his de-brief, I pre-flighted the aircraft as best I could. Then Andrew joined me in the aircraft. After starting and making a hash of the radio calls, I taxied to the runway. This was Andrew's last flight at 43 for three weeks. I took off and climbed. We routed to the West Coast sector in glorious sunshine with very little turbulence. Everything is far easier without turbulence, even I was pleased with my control of the aircraft. We practiced turning, climbing, descending and levelling off, as well as a stall and a few circuit practices along the beach. The circuit stuff in particular was challenging but I enjoyed it. Andrew thought he'd saw a Whale, but unfortunately we couldn't find it after turning around.

We turned for home and I guided the aircraft around the real circuit this time. On the final approach I trimmed the aircraft skywards, so that rounding-out wouldn't be as difficult as it was the last time that I tried to land. There was a slight crosswind which I battled against. Luckily I got it down well and lost speed. It was by no means the smoothest of landings, but it didn't bounce/balloon and was my first proper landing with just my control. In the grand scheme of things, not that much. But definitely a personal tick in the box. I immediately asked Andrew if it was any good; luckily he said it was fine. I'm quite pleased to finally nail that one.

During the de-brief, Andrew seemed pleased with my performance. He introduced me to Daniel Larkin; who is to be my instructor from now on because Andrew is going on holiday... to England! Andrew suggested to Daniel that I am ready for circuits, but that we go for a flight outside first to get to know each other and my level of ability. Daniel agreed and then went. We finished off the de-brief and wished each other the best of luck. Hopefully our paths will cross again, Andrew is a good bloke.

After a half-decent dinner the usual suspects went to the bar, while Rae bought the round for her test success. We had a few giggles before it all died down and people peeled off. I stayed and chatted to the barman of the night, Jean'dre, about him being a cadet at 43 and how Port Alfred lacks any social distractions, amongst over things of course.

We're already halfway through the third week. Time is travelling very (too) quickly!

2008-07-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

I dropped a clanger today. Woke up and didn't fancy getting out of my pit at 06:00... So gave it until 06:30 before biting the bullet. The wind was howling. I got my gear on and stepped outside to a very peculiar warm wind, so much so that I ended up undoing my coat, which then acted as a sail - hampering any forward movement! Anyway, I finally got to ops and checked again that my flight was at 07:00 with Andrew in Echo-Echo-Golf.

Walked outside to the aircraft, and found someone else "pre-flighting" (internal/external checks) it! Went back to ops and again saw my name on the board. Spoke with the guy and he checked the ops board with me. It was only then that I realised that I had stupidly assumed that today's board was on the left like normal and not the right! With my tail firmly between my legs, I went back towards the barracks and found Neale, who's flight was cancelled. We chatted away the time with Steve, Ben, Waldo and Rae before heading to ground school.

GS was pretty hectic today, but I for one did enjoy it. We all planned a route with every navigational variable worked out - heights, airspeeds, groundspeeds, true and magnetic bearings and headings, distances, timescales and climb/descent distances - tough going, but far more satisfying when the right results are achieved. I struggled, don't get me wrong, but it is just a case of working through it. One guy in particular just consistently sits there with his thumb up his arse, and he's supposedly going on to complete a commercial pilots licence!

Anyway after all that, Ben, Paul and I went to the canteen and grabbed a coffee/tea. Steve soon met us, and said that he has suggested to his flight instructor that he do more flying and less ground school. Steve, and Paul in particular have resigned themselves to failure in Nav. We all chewed it over for a bit. I think I managed to bring Steve around to thinking that aviation is just as about navigation as flying. Paul seems like a lost cause right now. He cannot bring himself to say possible rather than impossible. To be selfishly honest, apathy like that is contagious, and needs crushing with enthusiasm. I feel kind of rotten for challenging and going on at Paul but really, it is too easy for me to argue the point for just putting 100% effort in and seeing what happens.

I'm no more studious or able than the rest of them. In fact, I do far less book reading than Paul, and maybe too much drinking, which is maybe why he has painted himself into this corner, with too much information all at once without any moderation.

Saying "I won't pass" is just letting yourself off of the hook and allowing you to relax - when later on you'll regret it and wonder "what if?". It's been suggested to me a few times, by various people, that I change my goal of getting a PPL. Yes, things are stacked against me, and yes I may not get it, but I say bollocks to them! No point in setting a target if you are certain of success.

Apologies for venting on here like this, but if anything today's antics have just increased my stubbornness!

Anyway, after a cold lunch I sat down and wrote up to the preceding paragraph of this post and chilled out with some music. At 15:00 I toddled across to ops to find that the a/c allocated to me was Echo-Bravo-Lima - at the far end of the flight line. Paul and Steve had their flights cancelled due to the bad weather, so I managed to change to Echo-Oscar-Yankee which Paul was due to be flying, and was parked right outside.

After pre-flighting it as best I could, Andrew appeared and we jumped inside. I've gotten better with remembering "flow patterns" and/for checklists. I taxied to the runway and took off into a very bumpy and very hot/humid sky. I continued practicing turning, climbing, descending and levelling off. Unfortunately I couldn't do it as well as in the perfect weather of yesterday, and somewhat muddled the order in which things should be done. It was difficult trying to cater for all of the turbulence, on top of sweating buckets due to the humidity. Still, it was an enjoyable flight and one which hopefully has helped me.

I am flying with Andrew tomorrow, again fine-tuning my control accuracy, which will hopefully set me up for an assessment of my skills. This comes just before moving onto circuit-bashing (flying around/landing/taking off an airfield in pattern with other traffic) and all of the various pressures involved.

A luke-warm dinner preceded bar time in which I shared a few beers with Neale and Waldo before Steve, Ben, Uzo (Nigerian Bristow dude) and his mate Kobi joined us in drinking and cards. Rob, my flight manager was in the bar and told me the name of my new instructor, and that Andrew should arrange an introduction. Me and Ben were left playing cards, when Peter appeared and took part in one round. We finished our drinks and watching "Law and Order" before retiring. After the unnecessarily early start, I really am ready for bed.

2008-07-14T23:51:00.000-07:00

(Rae, Paul, Steve and Neale)

I was wrong, we had another lesson on Nav today. Hopefully our self/group-study session on Sunday will be more productive than the two hours spent this morning!

Just before lunch, we met with Frik Schoomby - director of marketing and 43 board member, who had confirmed that the extra five hours were catered for and that he would try to get us permission from the CAA to begin taking exams without being officially granted SPLs yet. Great news indeed. He also promised to try and increase our flights per day. At an eight-hour-a-week target, we should be on about sixteen hours. Yet me and Ben are on about six, while Paul is on a diabolical two, and Steve is somewhere in between. Again, all of the instructors are under pressure, so it is wrong to blame them, rather than whoever got them into the situation of having too many students in the first place.

Between lunch and my flight at 15:00, we saw about five or seven PC-7 air force training aircraft do a formation flyby, didn't manage to get a shot unfortunately. I was sat in my room chilling out with music and the Cherokee-140 handbook, when Neale came back from his exam with bad news. He failed again, even though scoring 10% more than last time, but still just 10% away from passing. Again, it put the rest of us in doubt about our chances. We vowed to drown all sorrows later on

Andrew was away today, but luckily he had arranged a flight with another instructor for me. Unfortunately his name escapes me, but he gave an excellent lesson, which completely perked up my day.

I taxied for the most part and took off into a calm and gorgeous sky. We then headed for our sector and I demonstrated climbing, levelling off, descending and turning. Then I practiced stalling and recovery, before my instructor did a few wing-overs and set me on a track along the coast. I then flew a unmanned joining procedure (for airfields with no ATC) at Port Alfred before turning on finals and guiding the aircraft down to land. I particularly enjoyed being allowed to land the aircraft myself, at the last moment I did need some help in pulling back on the yoke, but hopefully that is something that I can develop a technique for and master in time. All in all I felt much more comfortable in my flying ability and control, and this was maybe my best flight so far.

We heard on the radio a helicopter call sign report technical problems while airborne, and therefore a scrubbed flight. I somehow knew it was Neale, he was most definitely having a bad day! After landing I confirmed this with him, and soon after we ditched dinner at 43 for some pizza in town with Paul and Waldo. Then we headed to our now favourite, Oddfellows where we sunk a few before returning to 43 and sinking a few more. We collared the barman of the evening; Pietre, and a passer-by; Peter into a few rounds of blackjack before finishing our drinks and hibernating for the evening. I managed to receive a call from Mum which was another bonus.

Today, for the most part, was a good day. By the "bathtub law", tomorrow is bound to be not as great. Hopefully it wont be too bad.

I must sleep now as I have a flight at 07:00 tomorrow, it should be much easier to nod off now the electricity/panel heater has been restored!

*By the way, thanks very much indeed to everyone who has followed, and left comments here. They do mean a lot and go a long way! I have changed the options to allow anyone to leave a comment, without having to register an account.*

2008-07-13T21:05:00.000-07:00

After the last few long days, a lie in was great! I automatically woke at 06:00 but quickly rolled over and was asleep again. The lovely thing about being in the Barracks block is that the heliport is right outside, so at around 07:00 on the dot each morning everyone is jolted awake by the sound of the turbine engines. I persisted until around 09:30.

Missing breakfast isn't as bad as it sounds. As I went outside I found Neale, and a really hot day. Weather seemed absolutely perfect this morning, shame I wasn't flying like he was! Anyway we toddled off to the canteen with Paul and had a few munchies. We noticed a gorgeous Yak aerobatic aircraft outside near the fuelling point, managed to snap it with camera phone. The Yak was soon off and airborne.

After watching the day go by, lunch rolled around. After lunch Neale got his laptop and test CD in the bar and we all practiced tests on PoF. I managed to ring home too, after some difficulty. Simple things like speaking to relatives not only break the day up but also help morale.

I heard an engine tone/noise different from the familiar aircraft coming from the flight line, and asked the guys what it was. Apparently a DC-3 had landed on base. Soon enough, the beast was thundering down the runway. Unfortunately I didn't have my camera, but I did manage to grab Steve's shots, edit and upload them.

After watching the distinctive shape climb into the air, it then banked left and came back down a perpendicular runway. The pilot then swooped the aircraft very low over the base and sped right past the bar, before pulling up into a turning climb out of visibility.

It's worth noting that this legendary aircraft; still cost-effective and profitable, still in use by several air forces, airlines and air carriers worldwide, is due to be banned from flying passengers in the EU, because of stupidly uneconomical upgrades like safety slides, a lockable cockpit and a Wx RADAR. Aviation always suffers when idiots get involved.
After dinner we had planned to use the laptop again and practice tests, but Neale was rightfully more concerned with revising for his PoF exam tomorrow. Instead me, Paul and Ben played some cards over a few beers before hitting the hay.

2008-07-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

Woken by my alarm, I was bloody freezing. Our block has lost the whole electricity circuit which supplies our plug sockets, and our heaters. Got into my flying gear and went to Ops. This morning was the coldest so far I reckon.

We were due to take off at 07:00. The engine just did not want to start. Mixture rich, left magneto, engine primed - everything was as it should be. After about five minutes of trying,we switched off the mag and master and Andrew got out. He poked and prodded about behind the spinner, but nothing was apparently wrong. He asked me to try starting it, with him away from the prop but close enough to see the starter motor. It appeared to just not engage, the prop wouldn't spin. He was distracted by a guy with a document for his attention, I kept trying to turn the thing over. We were about to scrub the flight. Then all of a sudden the prop turned half a revolution, I immediately took my finger off of the starter button - didn't want to make a mess of anyone nearby, not least my own instructor. Andrew came running round and jumped in, we tried starting for real this time. The prop refused to turn, it was getting silly. By this time, the master battery was sounding quite tired and we were in danger or flattening it. We carried on pumping the throttle, probably flooded the damn engine. We had another five goes with the prop turning, then all of a sudden the engine spun under it's own power!

We sped into the windy and turbulent air, today was the pinnacle of the recent cold front. Up towards the fish river sector, where we practiced climbing and descending, turning and levelling off. I wasn't happy with my accuracy and it fueled my doubt of being physically able to gain a PPL. Luckily Andrew said it was a good start and just a matter of practice.

After the flight I met with Neale and we decided to have breakfast in town, before returning in time for my second flight at 13:00.

This time, I think that the winds were a little worse. But I managed to taxi out OK, and guide the aircraft skywards. We were given the same sector for our slot, and did more of the same. I felt happier this time, and learned first-hand that keeping a good lookout all around gives you better awareness and accuracy, particularly in turning. Also I have a particular fondness for Echo-Echo-Golf; it appears that it's left hand seat has one extra rearwards notch. So while I'm practically sitting in the rear seat, it makes rudder control in particular more comfortable. I enjoyed guiding the aircraft down on approach, but as the air was turbulent again, Andrew made the landing.

Dinner came by, and we elected to return to the Oddfellows. I skipped dinner at 43, am just fed up of "chicken, in a slightly different sauce, with rice". I've never been so please to eat a slab of gammon and chips in all my life! We enjoyed a few beers, and promised to return next Friday.

2008-07-11T23:59:00.000-07:00

An adventure like this is always going to have "peaks and troughs", so after yesterday we were bound for a rough ride.

The lessons on Nav finished today, the wonderful world of plotting and flight calculations - with half of the class just about "getting it" and the rest clueless.

Sheer weight of information is now getting everyone down. We have now completed the classes for three massive subjects, yet are still to complete any tests. We must each have a Student Pilot Licence before we can. Us RIAT/FSD guys are having to wait longer because of the medical mess up and good old bureaucracy. We were due to be granted them on Thursday.

Met up with Andrew for the day's sortie. I admitted my guilt of not pushing for yesterday's sortie, and he responded that because of my lack of strength, I may not be able to achieve a PPL. This is obviously another major blow to my objective, but admittedly; in strong winds, I have had difficulty. The irony being that if I were flying a more advanced/expensive aircraft with hydraulic controls (like power steering on a car), it'd be a sinch.

We all met for dinner, and apathy was rife. We all got fed up with the same old food, same old routine, and constant pressure. After, we talked ourselves into going down town and having a quiet one. So me, Steve, Paul and Waldo (pictured) all piled into Neale's truck.

After about half an hour of driving round PA, trying to find somewhere at least populated. We settled for "Oddfellows", a British-owned/run bar. After a few rounds, the place got busier and some amps and PAs were brought in. Soon the place was packed out with people, some gorgeous, some grumpy, and some down right confrontational! The karaoke started and the place was buzzing. After way too many more beers, we eventually left and returned to 43 and to bed.

2008-07-10T23:59:00.000-07:00

We had our daily dose of ground school navigation confusion before breaking for lunch. I had a flying slot at 13:00. The winds were still high, 25kts gusting to 35kts, which was still a threat to flying.

At around 12:35 Rae, a fellow student and representative for us, told us all that the military aircraft will be taking names down for flights at 12:45 and flying at 13:00.

I reported to Andrew at 12:40 and we decided not to fly because in turbulence it is difficult to gain any flying of training value. I've felt a little bit guilty ever since! Should have pushed and taken the flying slot.

Anyway, this now miraculously allowed me to fly on one of the military jollies. Me, Rae and Paul went over and got our names down. "Hurry up and wait" then ensued. In the mean time, we chatted with the military personnel and took photos. Then the by-now large group of volunteers were detailed off to individual aircraft, we were flying in number one of three (closest pictured). I needed less help than Paul in getting in, but it was still a struggle. Upon making our way to the rear and being greeted by the back door with no other empty seats, we then all piled back out of the thing and waited for the next flight. They said be back in half an hour... but about 20 mins after takeoff, the thing was on final approach and taxiing. We were doing a "hot" change, engines on, back door open, first lot get out, new lot get in. I got there just as the last people were exciting. I saw Paul and Rae on the other side of the field, it seemed as though they were never going to make it, especially as Paul has trouble walking at the best of times let alone at any sort of pace. Spoke to one of the crew at the rear and told him that "those two over there" are on this flight. He promptly ran over and helped Rae in supporting Paul. Standing behind this thing was like being in a microwave, the prop wash and heat (and carbon monoxide!) was intense. We got on ok, and just before the door was closing, Steve rocked up - very lucky for him especially as he wasn't on any list!
We then rolled along the bumpy taxiways and got to the runway. The thing sat there with the brakes on and the engines on full bore, shaking like mad. Then all of a sudden the brakes were released and everyone was punched back into their seats. The speed of takeoff was awesome compared to the little put-put's we were used to. Soon enough we were in the air, didn't climb much though. In fact I reckon that we were below 1000ft for most of the flight.

Our pilot was a female wing commander, didn't catch her name, but she swiped the aircraft around 180 and we were going back down the coast from east to west. We were at hill-top height and at around twenty million miles an hour. I tried my best to take in-flight photo's, but frankly the one's posted here are the better shots. It was very turbulent but it added to the thrill in this case. Soon enough the aircraft was hauled on it's wingtip back towards land and there were a few wing-overs before approaching PA. Then out of the blue came an awesome spiral down before short final to the runway. We thumped back down on the horrendous runway and were soon back where we started.

We thanked the crew at the end, they and the ground guys did a marvellous job. Rae asked her how much bank was used to turn, our pilot casually said "Oh, that was just over 90 degrees" and in the same breath "we don't normally operate like that"! Still buzzing, we found Du Toit and chatted about the air force which he served in, indeed one of the military pilots flying that day got his wings with Du Toit.

We were quickly sobered up when we found Neale, though. He failed his PoF exam, and although his choice of rotary-wing is more difficult, it doesn't exactly inspire the rest of us with confidence that we will pass. He is on the leading edge of the group and it's a real shame that things didn't go the way we all wanted.

So the only apt reaction was to go into PA and the Boardwalk pub, by now our regular, and sink a few; over a few games of blackjack that got far too competitive. With spirits lifted we all returned to 43, and to dinner. Surprisingly enough, we then went through to the bar, but this time sunk more than a few.. Something we will most definitely regret tomorrow!

2008-07-09T21:30:00.000-07:00

More ground school on nav today, it seems to be sinking in/getting easier. Today the whole area has been battered by 30kt winds gusting to 40kts. Moving around the base wasn't as easy!

But of course, I had my flying slot at 11:00. Steve's and Paul's flights was cancelled, I just hoped that my instructor would want to go up. I eventually found him after my flight manager's "group"; which included Andrew, had a meeting. Afterwards Rob Armitage (FM) made a point of re assuring me that he is doing the best he can to help me and the others towards a PPL. Andrew told me that it would be very bouncy up there, but as I was keen, was up for it.

We were flying Echo Oscar Yankee, the bloody thing was parked right out on the flight line. So a lovely -2mph walk over to it against the wind awaited! This had nackered my legs, and using the rudder whilst taxiing was becomming impossible, so Andrew took over. He told me that the aircraft us RIAT/FSD types are using are supposed to be parked right outside the ops room, and that he would re-iterate it to ops.

We were holding short of the runway, watching as another aircraft approached against a very strong headwind. It appeared to float in the air - tons of air/wind going over the wing, producing tons of lift and airspeed - but the actual ground speed (like the speed of the a/c's shadow on the ground) was very tiny. Severe wind-shear (direction change) was also present, and you could see the amount of turbulence and wing drop that hammered the aircraft all the way down.

Needless to say, I wasn't going to takeoff myself this time. Andrew wrestled the aircraft into the air and as we climbed, the turbulence gradually reduced. We flew into a strong headwind along the coast at about 6,000ft, and soon enough came to a complete standstill, and actually flying backwards! This was a very strange, but also very cool experience! After this we got on with the lesson; control effectiveness and more trimming and turning. Then we headed back and on approach Andrew decided to inform me that he was out of practice on such extreme landings, of course he got it down fine.

We then went through the debrief and agreed to meet again at 15:00 for my afternoon flight, which still had a question mark over it. A decent lunch followed and then I made my way to a whole-base presentation with Sam, an Egiptian guy who is here to do his PPL and CPL. On the way I suddenly felt a very familiar feeling, the timeless suprise just before I hit the deck. Problably down to the pins being tired. Next comes the feeling like an arse notion. Sam immediately reacted, but after a few moments I got back up and we carried on. The presentation was about the CAA's major future changes to PPL, CPL and ATPL Licenses. Most of which appear to be barking mad in the short term, but beneficial in the long term.

Then I found Ben, who had just flown, with Andrew. Andrew said that as the weather was still rubbish, we wouldn't really be able to achieve much training up there. Which is fair enough, after all I had one flight today already, while some didn't get to fly at all. Me and Ben then went over a few things with Andrew after Ben's debrief.

Since then I have been fed and watered in the canteen and bar respectively. Neale has his first test tomorrow, on principles of flight. I hope and expect him to pass with ease.

2008-07-08T23:32:00.000-07:00

What a day.

Up early for the 0700 flight and what a cracking flight it was. Taking off myself, of course with the instructor, Andrew, "following through" on the controls, was cool. We climbed up into a cool clear sky, and went through the primary, secondary effects, and balance of the controls. Practiced co-ordinated use of the rudder and ailerons and how uncorrected roll can result in a spiral dive. Then back into the circuit. Rather than take full control on approach and landing, Andrew let me guide the aircraft down with yoke/rudder while he looked after the throttle. Hair raising stuff but it was a great hour or so.

Because of the flying slot, I was late for ground school - at the annoyance of Du Toit. He was right to be annoyed, as now our ground school is only half a day, while flying should be done in the afternoon. Anyway once I got in and sat down, I joined the rest of the class in not knowing what we should about navigation!

There's a few SAAF transport aircraft/crews down here on a detachment, apparently a regular event. I managed to get chatting to one of them and, miraculously, the subject of civvies being taken up came around! Apparently Thursday is the day that this will happen, hopefully I'll be in the right place at the right time.

No bar session tonight, in fact I've spent the last four and a half hours re-writing all of my notes in a more legible/condensed format for revision, hopefully my SPL will come in on Thursday and I can start doing the tests.

Exchanged a few emails with Sue Whitby today, there may be light at the end of the tunnel with regards to earning a PPL.

But right now, priority number one is sleep...

2008-07-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

Today began with the last lesson on aircraft - technical and general. This included a visit to the maintenance hangar and machine shop. It put the theory into a more useful context when able to see exactly what is connected to what, and how it moves.

After lunch we began Navigation and the wonderful world of longitudes, lattitudes, magnetic north and compassess. From the off, it seems an easier subject to understand and pass, although just as easy to make mistakes.

Dropped into Ops and found my name on the board for a flight tomorrow at 07:00. My formal flying training is finally starting tomorrow, I just hope that my Student Pilot Lisence is granted before the end of this week; otherwise I will fall behind without being able to take the theory tests.

I finally managed to email Sue Whitby of FSD today, and recieved a reply that was positive and negative. Unfortunately FSD, as expected, were not informed of the 5 hour discrepancy, and their point of contact is away for a few days. Hopefully when the right people are contactable, the ball should move in a positive direction, but the blame is firmly at the door of the school. Hopefully, lots of friction will produce a good end result!

Really must sleep now for the 06:00 start tomorrow...

2008-07-06T23:18:00.000-07:00

We did go fishing, but Raikkonnen didn't win the British GP!

After an early breakfast, me and Waldo piled into Neale's wagon and set off for the beach. As I stepped out onto sand I grabbed the camera and took a few shots. There were a few guys already on the pier, but they all ended up leaving. We spent about an hour or so and drew the same conclusion - there was nothing there.
So it was back into the wagon and 20 clicks down the beach, just beyond a massive river used to mark the training sector(airspace)'s eastern boundary. We stopped at a smaller but normally more populated river. Someone must have pee'd in that too, as the only fish caught was one by Neale, which wasn't edible anyway and thrown back! Not long after we packed up and headed back to 43, and lunch. On the way we managed to spot some Giraffe, Imphala and a small Monkey sitting by the side of the road.

In the afternoon, I tried to cram some revision in. But as soon as the race came on - the pen went down. Just as well too, it was by far one of the best races of the season. Hamilton won and won well, I wont even bother trying to fathom Ferrari's strategy decisions. The coverage here is the same as in the UK, without advert breaks - the way it should be. You still have to put up with James Allen's nausiating commentary though!

2008-07-05T22:00:00.000-07:00

Today was a great opportunity for a lie in. Even though the smell of the cold bacon was slightly tempting, the option of staying in a warm bed weighed far more. I went with Steve to the crew room where he was shortly to have his first flight in a light a/c. Then returned to my room to get the mobile and laptop to talk to each other and allow me to post these entries. Sent an email home too, hopefully they got it.

An instructor found me and Paul and asked us if we were keen to fly today (silly question much!), so after quickly ramming some food down and getting into the flying suit I went to the guy's office where he gave a short brief and then we did a pre-flight run through and hopped aboard. Getting in the kite was easier than I remembered. Paul took the left hand seat first, while I sat in the back. We were off and rolling along the molehill stricken taxiways and soon after airborne into a sky of gusts, decreasing pressure and an approaching cold front - another threat to progress. It was great to see the landscape outside of our little plot and the awesome coastline. After a spell going westwards, we then landed and swapped seats. This time we went eastwards in another big box towards home. It was great taking control and trying to maintain a flight level in headwind. It was far more comfortable when piloting the aircraft, even with the turbulence, as you somehow sensed where the a/c was about to jump next - taking away the shock/intertia, or maybe are concentrating too much to be affected. This was somewhat proven when Paul felt ill, but we weren't far from base and soon the instructor guided us back down to terra firma. Our instructor was a good bloke, and gave a perfect introduction to the flying side of 43 Air School.

All in all a better day than Friday. I'm tagging along with Neale and Waldo and their fishing session tomorrow in PA, will of course try to cram some revision in. Then after lunch, I hope to see Kimi Raikkonnen win the British GP!

2008-07-04T21:00:00.000-07:00

I’m cheesed off. During a break in class, a couple of chiefs spoke to us FSD-sponsored guys. It appears that while 45 hours of flight time was booked, the PPL now requires an additional 5 hours instrument flying. So with that suitably large roadblock in the way, they went on to tell us that it is very rare for someone to achieve a PPL in six weeks anyway, even though they advertise on their own website that a five week course is sufficient. I really am quite confused, as if they knew this, then surely they would tell us from the off; maximizing the time we all have to do something about it. My honest impression is that, as a school that is under-staffed with instructors, they want or need to make a few sacrifices; our chances of PPL success being one of them.

I really don’t know who to trust now. FSD appeared to have every expectation that I would return with a PPL, and so do I – anything less would be failure. Yet the flying school seems to have a completely opposite view. It’s very confusing and disheartening, hopefully getting in contact with FSD directly might help.

My parents rang me the other day – first time that I had successfully received an incoming call, but shortly after we were cut off. Finally got into Port Alfred today, cut a long story short; I had to buy a new mobile phone in order to gain access to the internet. Hopefully when it is properly charged, I’ll be able to publish these posts and ring home. Mobile phones are a pain in the arse.

2008-07-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

Today, thankfully, I scored much better in our last PoF mock test - 70%; which is at least closer to the 75% pass rate. We started the Aircraft Technical and General lessons today, with engines and carburetors, fuel and electronic systems. Again I feel quite positive about this and hopefully future test results will justify this.

Unfortunately my hunt for an internet connection on base is at an end, the service available, to be honest, is completely pants. So I’ll try my luck in town over the weekend, and hopefully find a half decent wireless provider, until then I’m afraid that blog updates will be sporadic and photo’s minimal if any. I will still keep jotting down things on the laptop ready for publishing though.

Am just off for dinner now, hope everyone back in the (far warmer!) UK is happy and well.

2008-07-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

Luck was on our side, and rather than going to Port Elizabeth and wasting a day getting an X-Ray, we instead were allowed to go to Port Alfred’s local hospital; a very strange place indeed. Anyway, after this pointless exercise we returned to the Air School and our training. I didn’t do as well on the test as I had thought, but luckily neither did anyone else! We finished the Principles of Flight lessons off with Stability, Stalling and Spinning and after dinner did some revision in the bar, which still hadn’t been restocked since running out of half it’s stock earlier in the week. Tried reading more in my room but could only manage about half an hour before calling it a night.

2008-07-01T16:00:00.000-07:00

Today we began our ground school, learning about the principles of flight, wings, airflow and the atmosphere. The lessons are very fast-paced and I just about managed to keep up I think. Previous learning and experience, mostly with the ATC, helped me greatly. Apparently, the PPL has been made more difficult to obtain because a lot of new content has been added to the syllabus. It makes me wonder whether such a radical change means that all current PPL’s should retake the test! Anyway, it looks as though the whole of this week and part of next week will be ground school only, which isn’t a particularly bad thing as it’ll hopefully mean that the rest of the time spent will be flying.

Unfortunately, it appears that the SA CAA has neglected to send our medical reports (from CAA med at Cranwell) on to 43 Air School. So now I look forward to another medical at 17:30, and spending most of tomorrow in Port Elizabeth having an X-Ray; setting back progress. Still, it has to be done to get our Student License, and will give us some time to experience the city and feel of the place.

2008-06-30T17:00:00.000-07:00

Well I finally got here at around 16:20 on Sunday. We departed Heathrow in blazing hot sunshine at about 19:20 and landed at Johannesburg about 11 hours later. Then about 5 hours later, we were on a 737 bound for Port Elizabeth. Then it was a 2 hour minibus ride to Port Alfred. A lot of all-important sleep was missed, even though this area is only GMT+2/DST+1.

We got into our rooms quite quickly and unpacked, then went to dinner before a short briefing in the bar. The euro 2008 final was on the box and gave a good opportunity for us to get acquainted with a few of the hundreds of people on base, and relax a little after the initial anxiety.

Today we met with the rest of the PPL students and staff. Briefings were given, kit was issued and medical insurance forms filled in. We then toured the place to find our feet and get a little of the wetness from behind our ears. The rest of the day was free, so I went in hunt of an internet connection. Unfortunately the situation looks dire at best, but hopefully I’ll find the illusive technician “Eric” when he returns on Wednesday. In the evening we played poker with match sticks and tooth picks, got to know Neale from our group and his mate doing CPL, both on helicopters, and enjoyed a good drinking session. I still found it very strange still to be leaving the (now shut) bar at 21:30!

The group of about 14 is a good bunch, from all over the place and here by different means too. There is a contingent of Indian engineers, some guys who will be future pilots for Bristow helicopters in Nigeria and a couple who just want a change in life, not forgetting of course us four hop-alongs! Our ground school tutor seems pleased anyway, he says that there are many young people on base some of whom aren’t entirely committed to succeeding, so having such an “old” group is good!

Physically, 43 Air School looks as if it could be mistaken for being in England or a similar European country, except for the odd animal or tree that gives the game away. It is quite warm during the days, but absolutely freezing during the morning and evening. It’s quite ironic that we go to a hot country and its cold, but this was expected, after all it is winter/autumn here. It’s easy to enjoy the sunshine even with three layers on.

At Cranwell, the food was described to me as “like 70s school dinners” and this is accurate! There is some sort of chicken dish every single meal (except breakfast of course), along with another option. The food here is different, but sufficient and tasty.

One thing that I have noticed here is how everyone is obliged to say hello to each other on passing by, catching a glimpse of someone immediately results in an acknowledgement or conversation. People are far happier here, smiles are contagious.

Not Long Now

2008-06-24T11:32:00.000-07:00

With only a few days to go before departure, it's worth posting what has happened since being awarded the scholarship...

First off, I am much more happier. The scholarship has been something that I have been looking forward to, and no doubt the icing on the cake of what I'm sure will be the best year of my life.

The local news published an article about me, which will hopefully result in more people becoming aware of FSD and maybe hold some ATC recruitment value.

Also our ATC Wing PR Officer recorded an interview for use by local radio stations. You can view the article and listen to the interview here.

On top of all of this, I recieved a call today from Gail at FSD, who managed to get BBC Radio Solent interested enough to ask for a live interview. So be sure to set your radio on for 18:50 this evening!

**EDIT** Here is a recording of the interview if you missed it, or want to laugh at the "topgun" reference again!

Yesterday I went to our yearly Wing Activities Day in which ATC cadets compete in all sorts of tasks and challenges. I was absolutely astounded at the amount of people in the wing who were genuinely pleased and happy for me, and made a point of congratulating me and wishing me luck. It is largely down to the ATC that I had the determination and spirit which thankfully earned me the scholarship.

Apart from becoming increasingly excited about what awaits, I'm happy to say that cisco, along with a colleague of my mother's have kindly decided to give me a laptop for use during the trip, which will enable me to keep this blog updated throughout the training, with photos too - subject of course to the intermittent and weak wireless Internet signal at 43 Air School!

Bloody Fantastic!

2008-03-20T16:00:00.000-07:00

I was under the impression that the first phone calls of the day were to tell good news, while the later the phone call the more negative the result. So after waiting for the all important result, as 11:00 rolled around I felt that the game was up.

How wrong I was! Phone started ringing in my pocket, so I went through to the kitchen and answered. Sue Whitby asked how I am feeling and about the drive home, and soon enough we got down to business. She seemed very pleased to tell me that I am a lucky recipient of a full six week scholarship in sunny South Africa from the 28th June to the 9th August, and she'd like me to come back with a PPL! Each scholarship is sponsored by a different individual group, and apparently I am going to 43 Air School courtesy of the Red Arrows!

I rang Emrys and luckily enough, he was also awarded a NPPL scholarship at Goodwood. Emails are flying around from nearly all of the candidates with their messages of goodwill and their results.

My friends and family are really pleased and proud - and to say I am too would still be a complete understatement. I am absolutely on top of the world and still buzzing!

Another Good Thrash

2008-03-19T21:47:00.000-07:00

Arrived home last night from what was another excellent couple of days at RAF Cranwell. Fantastic bunch of new people as well as some great friends and mentors from last year. The format and content of the selection was basically the same, with a few tweaks to get everyone more familiar with eachother and things more relaxed.

Still, I was very very tense leading up to and during the interview and let out a huge sigh of relief after finishing. I travelled to and from Cranwell with Emrys Harries, who was the only other candidate applying for a second consecutive time. We shared a good sense of humour and despite our best efforts, made our way home in good time without getting "geographically embarrassed"! I sincerely hope that, even if I dont get a scholarship, he does! Of course, everyone at Cranwell was most deserving.

The more I've thought about the selection and interviews, the more I doubt that I have been awarded a scholarship. Of course I hope that I am very much mistaken!

Once More Unto The Breach

2008-02-09T14:41:00.000-08:00

Have been meaning to post on here since sending off my application for '08!

Fortunately I can now say that I am going to Cranwell again, to try and prove to the board that I'm their man for a scholarship. This year the selection is being held from 16th to 19th of March - between now and then I hope to get to Lasham to have a flight with the BDFA.

Close But No Cigar

2007-04-06T11:18:00.000-07:00

Got the call from Sue at around 10:20, and almost immediately knew what was comming. Each candidate is marked on a points system, and apparently I was just outside of the points for a flying scholarship, but not told the reasons why. I asked if there was any feedback from the board, and Sue told me that I came accross well and was very articulate. It seems I had done well with a decent application. Towards the end of the conversation I found that age was an issue, because younger candidates had refused to go or had serious problems after being selected; I agree to some degree that the maturity required to spend weeks away from home is linked with age, but then I disagree that this is the same for all cases. At the end of the day I've been away from home on many occasions, each with its own challenges, basic accomodation; whatever.

Alas, the decision is made and it leaves me no alternative but to apply next year. Hopefully I'll meet some of the wonderful people I met this year, along with some new faces.

I wonder who has been awarded a flying scholarship, and wish them the best of luck. It should all be on the FSD website in a couple of days.

Endex

2007-04-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

Well, what a surreal couple of days! I met a fantastic bunch of people, who's company made the whole experience more enjoyable.

After getting accommodated with the surroundings and dumping my kit in my room, I went back to the bar and watched other candidates arrive at the mess. There were a group of "mentors" who were previous students attending the selection to help out and look after us, they did a sterling job and it was great to feed from their experience and advice. The "stranger" boundaries were shortly broken, and by dinner time we were all quite comfortable. After that we, naturally, felt obliged to sample the bar at it's fantastically low prices!

Up the next morning, and off to the mess for a welcome breakfast. Then we proceeded to the Officers and Aircrew Selection Centre. Here we underwent medical assessment and practiced getting in and out of the aircraft brought up from Oxford Aviation Training; this was a bit of a challenge but still easy enough, it just takes a bit longer than normal.

Then after a doggie-bag lunch came the all-important group photo; of which you can see above. After that we all took a stab at the aptitude tests, which were challenging but then that is their objective. With the day going so quickly, it wasn't long before we were back at the mess for a tasty dinner. And after that of course, we retired to the bar and were joined by the board members.

Wednesday, and the beginning of the final interviews, while some including myself finished off the final part of our medical, in which the CAA doctor seemed positive. I am passable for Class 2, while he also thinks I shouldn't have a problem with certification for Class 1 level. I'd finished just in time for lunch at the mess and then most of us were at the bar passing time, while individuals went in/out of the interview room next door. My mentor, Pauline, who is also apart of the ATC, arranged to meet Chief of Staff Group Captain Mike Cross and the PR team at Headquarters Air Cadets; as they want to do an article on my participation for Air Cadet news - ironically the place I first found out about FSD! This was a welcome distraction from a looming interview.

After getting back to the bar, I found those who had completed their interviews were beginning to leave for home and the group gradually got smaller. The time seemed to speed towards my interview, and around 5 minutes before it I began to get quite nervous - daunted at the prospect of a 14-member board! I recalled passing the interview room and seeing one of the group sitting opposite this intimidating flood of suits. Sue came out and called for me, then walked me into the interview room.

After getting through the door I was greeted by the board member sitting in the middle, who appeared to be running the show. He told me straight away that I had done well in the aptitude tests, which obviously made me happy. He then prompted the first question from the left, which then proceeded with a question from nearly every board member. I felt under pressure, and very hot, but did enjoy it - as I could try to prove my worth, and although some of the questions were not expected I tried to answer as best I could. I think I can remember three separate unanimous laughs shared between everyone in the room, which went down well and put me further at ease. Soon enough the questions were finished and I was escorted back out of the room. I couldn't stop grinning after I came out, which is hopefully a good sign.

Shortly after I went to my room for the final time to pack my kit and take it to Georgina's car, she was a fellow applicant who kindly offered a lift as I had no other method of getting to Cranwell. I then bid a fond farewell to all the brilliant people I had met during this short time, and soon enough we were driving out of the station. Going back to Cranwell after 3 years, if in a slightly different capacity, was good - being on the base with its atmosphere, hearing and seeing the aircraft - it was almost bittersweet in a way, as it stirred my longing to be in the RAF while reminding me it was an impossibility.

Anyway, as I write this I am quite anxious about tomorrow, when I get the phone call from Sue with the good or bad news as to whether I have been selected. I can always look back on my time at Cranwell as a positive, but my primary objective is to do what I can't get enough of - flying.

Cranwell Beckons...

2007-04-01T10:13:00.000-07:00

Early leave tomorrow and off to the RAFC Cranwell, courtesy of my squadron officer and a fellow selectee; otherwise it'd be very difficult indeed to get that far.

All the shirts and trousers are ironed, and I'm feeling quite positive about succeeding, while at the same time not wanting to get complacent! I hope the medical produces some positive news, with regards to flying. Even if I don't get the scholarship, although I'll be gutted, it will be a positive experience and one which I can make use of.

Do wish me luck, I want this opportunity more than anything!

Onto Final Selection!

2007-02-17T15:20:00.000-08:00

So, the date had finally arrived!

Got a call yesterday from Sue Whitby, and immediately knew it was good news. I was told I scored well and am one of 24 initial applicants to go to RAF Cranwell in April for final selection; about 3 years after I went on summer camp there with my ATC Squadron.

I am really excited but also nervous, as to get that far and spend four days at Cranwell but to then fail and dip out on the flying scholarship would be a tad annoying! Hopefully I'll get a grip and do even better at Cranwell!

Not long to go either, how time flies!

So it begins...

2006-12-02T14:11:00.000-08:00

Greetings! I am an 18 year old engingeering student, and from an early age I have always been fascinated by aviation and was most determined to join the Royal Air Force, which was the main reason for my joining the Air Training Corps. Unfortunately at 13 years of age I was diagnosed with Limb-Girdle 2i Muscular-Dystrophy, which is a progressive genetic muscle-wastage disease. As a result of this I soon after found my ambition to be completely out of reach, which is something I have to accept; difficult though it is. Unfortunately I also have Osteoporosis, sustaining 5 fractures in the last 3 years!

All in all a sad case indeed. But my strong ambition to still be involved in an aviation career remains; and as a starting point I've spent a long time looking around on where to start such an obstructed feat of becomming a disabled pilot.

My first plan of attack is application to Flying Scholarships for the Disabled; a charity committed to give opportunities which are otherwise excluded to people in my situation, subject to a selection course and potential at RAF Cranwell. My aim is the 6-week residential course in South Africa, where it is possible to accumulate around 40 hours of flight time - Fantastic!

After having a positive phonecall with Sue Whitby of FSD, and swapping information, I have recieved the application forms today and need to get them back by the 31st of December. Then theres a long wait until the 16th of Febuary; when I'll be told whether I have been selected to go to RAF Cranwell for the selection procedure, with 24 other hopefuls!

Will problably post again nearer that time!