Having just landed in the UK from a weeks holiday I've found myself questioning the attitudes of British passengers and crews alike towards alcohol and flying. This aspect of cabin safety is moderated by law but still flights are constantly being subjected to loud, disruptive and even threatening behaviour on a regular basis. Why is it that this behaviour occurs? Is alcohol itself the problem or the people who are drinking it?
During the summer months, airports nationwide experience an increase in passenger numbers and aircraft movements. It is of course the summer rush. Everyone jetting off to the four corners of the globe seeking out warmer climates, sandy beaches and colourful cocktails. To most people, the holiday starts at the airport, and why shouldn't it? The excitement of it all. The crowds and the sounds, the aircraft sat on the appron outside, the airport vehicles rushing round and the anticipation that in a few hours time, you'll be abroad and ready to enjoy your sun, sea and sangria. Everyone usually enjoys themselves in the terminal, like they should of course. But there is always someone who seems to take it too far.
Article 75 of the Air Navigation Order 2005 states that 'A person shall not enter any aircraft when drunk, or be drunk in any aircraft'. This pill is a bit difficult to swallow for most, in fact the statement is always greeted with surprise, shock and often anger when outlined by a member of cabin crew. This is an enforceable law, so why is it such an unknown fact? and why do we still witness drunkenness on board our airliners?
Your cabin team is primarily on board for the safety of you and your fellow passengers. Of course that is no secret. Unsurprisingly, this task requires absolute control of the cabin throughout the flight. A person or group of people represent a difficulty in maintaining cabin control. The fact that there are a million varieties of 'drunk' doesn't help. Some of the most well known being 'happy drunk', 'aggressive drunk', 'incapable drunk' and 'combination of all of the aforementioned states'. It is impossible to tell how a person will act upon consumption of more alcohol.
It is often said that the law is subject to 'crew discretion'. Now I can't say that I've seen this written in the actual ANO but can understand why it may be so. For example, it is estimated that around 10 million people in the UK suffer from a fear of flying, roughly 1 in 6 people. That means that statistically, 26 people on every easyJet flight to take off suffer from some form of aerophobia. I know for a fact having known people who are scared of flying that a drink (or three!) help to ease such a phobia. After considering this point one can't help but wonder, is it the actual physical state of being drunk that is the issue? Or the person who is drunk?
______________________
This month I boarded a Thomas Cook Airlines flight to Diagoras Airport. The airport is situated on the Greek island of Rhodes. It's common knowledge that wherever you go there are different resorts, some livelier than others. Rhodes has Falaraki. Anyone familar with the popular BBC show 'Sun, Sex and Suspicious Parents' will be familiar with the general theme of this place. I strapped myself into my seat and prepared for departure in the normal fashion. A few moments later I watched in horror was the eight to ten lads in matching 'Falaraki 2012' T-shirts stomped their way up the aisle of the B757 to take their seats. They were one row ahead. I am a fairly tolerant person and at first gave them the benefit of the doubt. They have every right to enjoy their holiday as much as me. Once the persistent swearing and chanting started things changed. The captain and cabin crew alike added an extra warning onto their greeting messages. They both stated that only alcohol on board could be drank on board, this was served at the cabin crews discretion and that any 'unreasonable behaviour would not be tolerated'. This didn't phase our friends.
As the flight progressed the drinks service started. The party were loud, they ordered 3 bottles of champagne and a drink each, stereotypical Jack Daniels and Cokes or Southern Comfort and Cokes. A few renditions of the terraces favourite 'There were 10 German bombers in the air' broke out and the group were issued their first warning. Rather than a stern caution you might have expected, they received more of a 'word in your ear' talking to, followed by the ceremonial banter experienced by cabin crew and female police officers alike. This was taken in the girls stride and she proceeded to serve the other passengers. The foul language and the shouting continued as the flight made its way through the night towards Greece. By now another few Champagne bottles had been polished off. The group had made their way from the tipsy, mischievous and slightly boisterous mood they had boarded with, to a state that could safely be described as drunk and disruptive. It was clear that the surrounding passengers were losing patience with the group which had now been inextricably fused with another group containing girls. Fairly inevitable. An hour out and we were all convinced that the police would be meeting this group on landing. The cabin crew had even warned them stating that this would be the case if their behaviour continued. One of the group was clearly frightened by this prospect, his attempts at defusing the group were largely unsuccessful. The ringleader even stated that 'They're not gonna f****** throw us off now, we can do what we want'.
It became clear that the group were now a threat to cabin safety. The rowdiness turned into aggression shortly before landing. If the flight was instead bound for Paphos or Larnaca a brawl would have almost certainly broken out. They were showing worrying signs of confrontation amongst themselves, one altercation was particularly nasty during the descent.
The cabin crew were most probably breathing a sigh of relief that the situation had not developed into something more dangerous. If they weren't, they should have been. However, I do feel that the cabin crew did not have control of the cabin. Why were they served alcohol? To avoid the inevitable confrontation on refusal of alcohol? To send them to sleep? To shut them up at the time? Whatever their reasoning, it was a dangerous move and created a volatile atmosphere on board. It may be common practise, but I certainly don't think that it's an effective one.
_______________________________
The same group were returning with us back to the UK. It was larger than outbound, they had clearly made friends during the week. Lagers were being purchased and the volume was once again turned up. Hannah and I braced ourselves for what we assumed to be the long flight back to Manchester. What I witnessed instead I couldn't believe.
Shortly after having our tickets and passports checked the passengers made their way down a ramp onto the apron to board buses to the aircraft. It was then that a few drunken members of the group lit up cigarettes. It was the single most single reckless act I had witnessed at an airport. One of them even stepped onto the bus with it lit and only put it out on disembarkation next to the aircraft. Luckily the fuel truck was leaving as we arrived. Still, they were allowed to board and sat in their seats. This time, although they were split up, a small sub-section were sat behind us. One drink was served each. They weren't served any more. Thankfully, they fell asleep. A far better move by the cabin crew on this flight.
Whilst sat in the flight deck at Manchester, both the Cabin Manager Joanne and the Captain Stuart informed me that they had received a warning of the group prior to carrying out the flight. The group were told that they were strictly under conditions of carriage for the flight home and would be refused, offloaded or landed and removed from the flight if they even slightly broke these rules. A relief had I have known that prior to boarding.
Why did it take the outbound flight with all of its issues to produce a reaction?
________________________________
It is clear how airlines view alcohol. Jet2's terms states that 'Only alcoholic drinks purchased on board may be consumed during the flight. Jet2.com reserves the right to serve alcoholic drinks to customers at our absolute discretion'. easyJet's terms mention something similar as does Thomas Cook Airlines. The issue certainly does seem to be down to the particular crew on board. I'm all for having a drink on board and have indulged in that myself but feel that when cabin safety is compromised then it no longer becomes tolerable or acceptable.
In recent months several flights have been diverted due to unruly behaviour on board fuelled by alcohol. Flight BD896 from Moscow to Heathrow had to return to Moscow after a drunk female started dancing erotically in the aisle distressing other passengers. The passenger was confirmed intoxicated when she was arrested.
Flight TCX2022 from Manchester to Tenerife had to accelerate it's approach to Reina Sofia Airport. After an altercation with cabin crew as a result of refusal of alcohol service a drunken pair claimed they were carrying an explosive device. The pair have had their passports confiscated and are currently on bail on the island of Tenerife.
There are many more including violence and inappropriate behaviour each month.
There are always going to be loud, disruptive people on board flights, particularly charter flights to so-called 'bucket and spade' destinations. Alcohol is simply the catalyst added to the ingredients that are already in place. Is the law right? Yes, but please try to police it more effectively.
I would like to thank the Captain, First Officer, Cabin Manager and her crew for my flight back to the UK and in particular my flight deck visit, even though it was 4am and you all wanted to go home!
Friday, 22 June 2012
Monday, 2 April 2012
ATPS Visits Airbus
The Manchester branch of the Royal Aeronautical Society travelled to Broughton, the home of the Airbus wing factory. Four ATPS students, including myself, were a part of the group that made the short journey into Wales.
It's said that an Airbus A320 family aircraft takes off or lands somewhere in the world, every 3 seconds. A staggering and impressive figure. Especially when you consider Airbus also produce the A330 and A380. It's even more impressive when you consider that every single set of Airbus wings flying round the world today, were made in Broughton.
The tour was initially taken to a boardroom for the normal housekeeping brief before receiving an interesting presentation by a member of Airbus Broughton staff on Airbus' history, current operation and also plans and ambitions for future growth and where they see themselves within the market.
The group was then issued with PPE before being led into the single aisle factory. The A380 facility was located on the other side of the airfield and logistically difficult to visit. That would have to wait for another day. The factory floor was as expected. Coloured lines and signs on the floor directing pedestrians around the building, busy staff both young and old milling around and of course, noise.
We were walked along the entire production line from component construction right through to final wing assembly including the installation of flaps, slats, spoilers and other equipment. It was definitely an exciting and engaging experience to witness a set of wings taking shape from mere components to become a final painted, functioning product ready for delivery to the final assembly line at either Toulouse, Hamburg or even Tianjin.
I would like to thank the Royal Aeronautical Society for making the visit possible.
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
A weekend with Delta Kilo
The Airbus A380 is the worlds largest commercial airliner. The double-decker 'Super Jumbo' first flew in 2005 and is currently in service with 8 airlines worldwide. It's arrival on the scene sparked mass interest worldwide. In February 2012 I had the opportunity to experience a flight aboard this special aircraft.
Throughout history the human race has always needed something to marvel at. Mother nature often trumps man made efforts to amaze us in a spectacular display of beauty. Having said that, there are some things that are unrivalled in the ability to turn heads and they're made by people and not glaciers. Compared to, for example, the motorcar, powered flight is still in it's toddler years. The first powered, heavier than air flight was achieved in 1903. Just 86 years later, I was born. As a result of the youth of aviation, aircraft still very much intrigue, interest and fascinate people. In aviation there has always been an iconic aircraft at any one time. An aeroplane that for one reason or another just can't help attracting a crowd. During WW2 young children couldn't resist running outside to catch a glimpse of a spitfire squadron flying overhead. Concorde always had a following wherever she happened to be and I can only imagine the looks on peoples faces in the early 1970's when a Boeing 747 arrived at their gate. Since 2005 another aircraft has taken on iconic status. It was built across many countries in Europe and came to life in Toulouse. It's an aircraft that always turns heads, always attracts a crowd at the end of the runway and never ceases to amaze. The Airbus A380.
4th Feburary 2012
Having checked-in online the night before, I arrived at Terminal 1, Manchester Airport and immediately proceeded through security. After finding my way out of the maze that is the duty free shop I sat down to enjoy some breakfast and patiently wait for my gate to open. Whilst watching other aircraft operating around the airport, something caught my attention. In the distance turning off the runway was A6-EDK, an Emirates A380-800. Around an hour before scheduled departure, gate 12 started accepting passengers travelling on Emirates EK18 to Dubai. Boarding was a drawn out affair. It soon became quite clear that Manchester was not the most competent of airports currently handling the A380. Nevertheless I managed to board. I was greeted by a member of cabin crew, immaculately turned out in her iconic Emirates uniform. She welcomed me on board and directed me to my seat, 73K. I immediately took in the view out of the window. The rapidly deteriorating weather did not distract me from the simply colossal, awesome wing of the A380. The aircraft was de-iced before push back, a process that took one and a quarter hours.
Once the engines were started it became clear that this aircraft deserved its quiet reputation. Loud enough to be heard but still quiet enough to ensure a comfortable experience. After a slow taxi behind a 'follow me' car the aircraft was holding at Manchester's Runway 23R. As a Ryanair 737 was vacating the high-pitched whirring resumed. The undeniable sound of the engines spooling up, providing the necessary thrust to get the huge, heavy Airbus rolling and onto the runway. Once lined up the brakes were applied and the engines idled.
Around 10 seconds went by. The whirring resumed again, this time a little more power applied. The now familiar humming continued until take off power was applied. The whole aircraft, still holding on brakes, began to rumble. The sound was magnificent, the sheer power was awesome. The engines were now fully spooled up, moments later the brakes were released. The aircraft hurled itself forward, all the momentum released. The engines permitted to carry out their job of hurtling the aircraft down the runway. I've never experienced thrust and acceleration like it. The sheer power of the A380 on full display for all on board to enjoy, I certainly did. The reviews I'd heard of take off in an A380 were very different to what I'd experienced. At around 170mph and 2 hours after boarding, the aircraft hauled itself into the air with ease. It didn't feel heavy or sluggish at all. Just fast and steep. We continued to climb before turning to pick up our track for Dubai, total flight time; six and a half hours.
The aircraft emerged above the foul weather and the views were delightful, as always. The crew, at this point, were already in full swing and by the time I had selected to watch 'Not Going Out' on the In-Flight entertainment, a complimentary drinks service was making it's way up the cabin. The cruise was smooth and the seat was comfortable. Everybody, including myself, had settled into the flight. Our route to the Middle East was to take us down over Germany, Bulgaria, Turkey, Syria and Iraq to name a few. It was dark before the meal had arrived. Having the choice between two mains was a welcome surprise. The parmesan chicken was delicious, washed down with more complimentary drinks.
A quick check of the flight information screen confirmed that we were nearing Dubai. The captain began his announcement. Although we had started the descent he informed us that Dubai ATC had asked him to join a holding pattern around 30 miles from Dubai. Hardly surprising when you consider the size of the airport. At around 8,000 and having been circling for around half an hour the wings were levelled and the nose was pointing at Dubai. Power was reduced, 3000ft was shaved off the altitude and more flap was selected. Around 12 miles out the lights of Dubai could be seen out of the window. The palm island could be seen, Burj Khalifa could be seen. The landing gear was extended and the flaps were fully extended sending a mechanical scream throughout the cabin. The whole aircraft was rumbling. The airflow was disturbed by the undercarriage and now the spoiler which was being used to slow us down to approach speed. Forward facing camera was selected on my headrest screen. The runway lights were visible. Finals for Dubai's Runway 12L.
Dubai International
We arrived at 0205L and by half past I was in the departure lounge of Dubai's Terminal 3. The airport was a cocktail of architectural perfection and bitter disappointment. Two small merchandise stalls were the only references to the fact Terminal 3 is an exclusive Emirates terminal. I can't help thinking that the whole project was a missed opportunity to create something special. Certain parts of the terminal looked like the Trafford Centre in Manchester. Through the centre of the long, thin terminal building ran a designer duty free shopping outlet with the boarding gates running along the outsides. At either end was a food/restaurant area which included a la carte restaurants, seafood bars and the familiar looking fast food restaurants. There was one bar (which was in T1 next door to T3). Terminal 3 was near enough impossible to see out of meaning that observing the traffic was extremely difficult. There were around 15 Emirates aircraft lined up along T3. A combination of A330/340s, B777s and A380s and they could only be seen individually through gate windows.
During my visit I ventured into Terminal 1. Used by other international carriers the Terminal was not as impressive and too looked like a shopping centre. At least there was a bar in this terminal, but still no view of the aerodrome.
As for T3. The building looks superb. It's such a shame they've so obviously and distastefully focused all their efforts on making money, rather than creating a memorable experience for all who transit through it. Discouraging sitting with a drink enjoying the view and encouraging shopping. In the centre of the terminal was a water feature that ran from near enough the top of the building down to the bottom where arrivals was located. A superb, impressive sight that was only visible from a lift running between arrivals, departures and the premium lounges. It was at least 100ft tall. Shame it could not be photographed as it was blocked from view on the shopping level.
At one end was another water feature, a relaxation garden in the centre of it. A tranquil spot located in the middle of what is otherwise a busy, speedy, soul less place. The first time I felt like I was in the Middle East was at around 0600 when the 'Fajr Prayer' was recited over the airport announcement system. After purchasing all of my gifts, freshening up, feeding myself and enjoying a beer I headed over to my gate.
5th Feburary 2012
Boarding was quick and efficient. By 0730 I was on board A6-EDK for the second time that weekend. She hadn't moved all night. Same aircraft and same seat, 73K. The sun was up and the sheer size of the airport became apparent to me. Aircraft movements were often and varied. Mostly made up of Emirates and flydubai, a low cost airline. A very interesting mixture of international, middle eastern and cargo carriers made up the rest of the morning operations. Part of the Dubai skyline was visible in the distance.
Once some baggage belonging to a passenger who had failed to board was removed from the hold, we were under way on flight EK17 to Manchester.
It was during push back I experienced one of the greatest sights I've ever witnessed in aviation. Along the length of the terminal were around 14 Emirates aircraft lined up wing tip to wing tip. A view I would have
enjoyed seeing from inside the terminal building as well as outside.
A short, slightly faster taxi than at Manchester soon saw us holding short at Runway 12R. A patient wait was in order as around 3 aircraft were ahead of our flight in the departure sequence. An Emirates A330 and a B777 followed by a flydubai B737-800. The captain released the brakes and slowly applied power. The aircraft started rolling. After a sharp flick to the left the captain turned right to line up perfectly on the runway centerline.
The aircraft was still rolling down the runway when the captain applied take off thrust. A rolling start. The acceleration was less intense, the take off roll more civilised. The runway is 4km long and it is apparent that every aircraft that uses it, utilizes its length. After what seemed like a considerably long amount of time, the captain slowly pulled back on the control column and the aircraft gently rose up into the air. The take off was a delightful contrast to the departure I had experienced just the day before. I had witnessed both aspects of the A380. Capability/performance and comfort.
A shallow rate of climb was maintained throughout the lengthy, ascent to FL380. The route this time was to take us over Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, Poland and Germany. Flight time was slightly longer at 7 and a half hours.
It was very much service resumed on the way back from the Middle East, the new crew taking care of all aboard expertly. More drinks services, more snacks and more meals. A breakfast platter was served shortly after take off, an excellent start to the on board dining experience. A hot meal was then served around 2 hours before arrival into Manchester. This time the beef in mushroom sauce was very tasty indeed and was well received throughout the cabin.
The views on route to the UK were breathtaking. I was incredibly thankful that the entirety of the flight took place during the daytime hours. The in-flight entertainment system was obsolete for a sizeable chunk of this sector. After all, the choice was views like that (right) or 'Family Guy'.
30 miles off the UK's east coast was the chosen location to start the descent into Manchester. The announcement had already came through informing us that weather-wise, other than poor visibility, there was no difference from the previous day's weather. The descent did seem rushed, but not uncomfortable. We had just descended into the layer of clouds that covered England when the announcement came through ordering the cabin crew to prepare for landing. The flaps were extended in increments. We continued to descend through the clouds. The ride was bumpy, the spoiler was deployed and the aircraft slowed right down. More flap was selected to compensate for lost airspeed. A fairly steep left was the final turn and saw us line up perfectly for a 10 mile final toward Runway 23R. The view out of the window was white.
The visibility had not improved. The final stages of flap arrived with the same mechanical scream and the undercarriage was extended. The large bang felt in the floor of the cabin was an indication that the gear was down and locked. The spoilers were deployed again for the final rumbling deceleration. Once the spoilers had disappeared the aircraft was fully configured for a CAT3 ILS approach. 8 miles to go.
The approach was stable. The ride was of course bumpy but nothing compared to smaller aircraft. I noticed there was very little eye shutting. Hardly any people gripping loved ones hands. Something that is quite often witnessed in abundance during landings of this nature. Everybody seemed comfortable. I often said before the weekend that the A380 could be capable of curing fear of flying. My dad agreed with me and I'm sure other people would too. The fact that it's so stable, smooth and quiet means it's capable of providing a whole new, reassuring flying experience.
As the aircraft crossed the threshold the runway became visible. Not much beyond the wing tip could be seen. I wasn't sure what to expect with the touchdown. Having said that, when the aircraft finally did hit the runway I was surprised. Like the landing in Dubai, the aircraft seemed to 'kiss' the runway. A marvellous landing. What followed was a huge roar and rumble as reverse thrust was selected and the spoilers deployed. The deceleration was an incredible sensation, something which I've never really experienced before, especially in those conditions. The aircraft vacated to the right before starting the long, slow taxi to the stand. The whole team of ground handling companies were there to meet us at the stand. As soon as the aircraft came to a stop they swung into action. For an aircraft this size even a two hour turnaround is a challenge. I left the aircraft via the front left door and continued down the air bridge. I looked back to get one last look at the aircraft before continuing toward passport control.
Many people may think I'm ridiculous for what I did. I've been passionate about aviation for my whole life and it's experiences like this that I will never forget. It has been a fantastic, life changing experience. There are over 30 of these wonderful machines flying around the world. Millions of people will fly on them for years to come and despite this, I still feel that I am now apart of a special group. Part of a special collection of privileged people who have experienced what this magnificent aircraft has to offer. I will never forget the weekend I boarded Delta Kilo and set off for Dubai. I am so thrilled that I have been able to see for myself what this aircraft can do. She's a real joy in every single way possible. A triumph and testament to every single person involved with the design, manufacture and operation of her. An aircraft that has transformed the way we're able to travel. I'm obviously going to continue travelling to see her visits at Manchester. I hope to see her in other places too but now I will see the Airbus A380 in a different light. I'll see her fly overhead or taxi past and smile. Because I'm no longer a jealous spectator wondering what it's like to experience flight aboard this aircraft. I'm now someone who can say I've flown on her and loved every single minute of it.
I'd like to thank my Dad for this whole experience. It was him who made it possible for me to make this extraordinary, once in a lifetime journey. It was his stories that ignited my appreciation for the aircraft and I'm glad that we're now able to share our stories and experiences of the Airbus A380. Thank you Dad.
Throughout history the human race has always needed something to marvel at. Mother nature often trumps man made efforts to amaze us in a spectacular display of beauty. Having said that, there are some things that are unrivalled in the ability to turn heads and they're made by people and not glaciers. Compared to, for example, the motorcar, powered flight is still in it's toddler years. The first powered, heavier than air flight was achieved in 1903. Just 86 years later, I was born. As a result of the youth of aviation, aircraft still very much intrigue, interest and fascinate people. In aviation there has always been an iconic aircraft at any one time. An aeroplane that for one reason or another just can't help attracting a crowd. During WW2 young children couldn't resist running outside to catch a glimpse of a spitfire squadron flying overhead. Concorde always had a following wherever she happened to be and I can only imagine the looks on peoples faces in the early 1970's when a Boeing 747 arrived at their gate. Since 2005 another aircraft has taken on iconic status. It was built across many countries in Europe and came to life in Toulouse. It's an aircraft that always turns heads, always attracts a crowd at the end of the runway and never ceases to amaze. The Airbus A380.
4th Feburary 2012
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| Super Jumbo: A6-EDK taxiing in after arrival. |
 |
| The view: Deteriorating weather |
Once the engines were started it became clear that this aircraft deserved its quiet reputation. Loud enough to be heard but still quiet enough to ensure a comfortable experience. After a slow taxi behind a 'follow me' car the aircraft was holding at Manchester's Runway 23R. As a Ryanair 737 was vacating the high-pitched whirring resumed. The undeniable sound of the engines spooling up, providing the necessary thrust to get the huge, heavy Airbus rolling and onto the runway. Once lined up the brakes were applied and the engines idled.
 |
| Rotate: The aircraft lifts off Manchester's 23R |
Around 10 seconds went by. The whirring resumed again, this time a little more power applied. The now familiar humming continued until take off power was applied. The whole aircraft, still holding on brakes, began to rumble. The sound was magnificent, the sheer power was awesome. The engines were now fully spooled up, moments later the brakes were released. The aircraft hurled itself forward, all the momentum released. The engines permitted to carry out their job of hurtling the aircraft down the runway. I've never experienced thrust and acceleration like it. The sheer power of the A380 on full display for all on board to enjoy, I certainly did. The reviews I'd heard of take off in an A380 were very different to what I'd experienced. At around 170mph and 2 hours after boarding, the aircraft hauled itself into the air with ease. It didn't feel heavy or sluggish at all. Just fast and steep. We continued to climb before turning to pick up our track for Dubai, total flight time; six and a half hours.
 |
| FL390: Sunset |
The aircraft emerged above the foul weather and the views were delightful, as always. The crew, at this point, were already in full swing and by the time I had selected to watch 'Not Going Out' on the In-Flight entertainment, a complimentary drinks service was making it's way up the cabin. The cruise was smooth and the seat was comfortable. Everybody, including myself, had settled into the flight. Our route to the Middle East was to take us down over Germany, Bulgaria, Turkey, Syria and Iraq to name a few. It was dark before the meal had arrived. Having the choice between two mains was a welcome surprise. The parmesan chicken was delicious, washed down with more complimentary drinks.
A quick check of the flight information screen confirmed that we were nearing Dubai. The captain began his announcement. Although we had started the descent he informed us that Dubai ATC had asked him to join a holding pattern around 30 miles from Dubai. Hardly surprising when you consider the size of the airport. At around 8,000 and having been circling for around half an hour the wings were levelled and the nose was pointing at Dubai. Power was reduced, 3000ft was shaved off the altitude and more flap was selected. Around 12 miles out the lights of Dubai could be seen out of the window. The palm island could be seen, Burj Khalifa could be seen. The landing gear was extended and the flaps were fully extended sending a mechanical scream throughout the cabin. The whole aircraft was rumbling. The airflow was disturbed by the undercarriage and now the spoiler which was being used to slow us down to approach speed. Forward facing camera was selected on my headrest screen. The runway lights were visible. Finals for Dubai's Runway 12L.
Dubai International
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| Trafford Centre? : View inside Dubai's T1 next door to T3 |
During my visit I ventured into Terminal 1. Used by other international carriers the Terminal was not as impressive and too looked like a shopping centre. At least there was a bar in this terminal, but still no view of the aerodrome.
As for T3. The building looks superb. It's such a shame they've so obviously and distastefully focused all their efforts on making money, rather than creating a memorable experience for all who transit through it. Discouraging sitting with a drink enjoying the view and encouraging shopping. In the centre of the terminal was a water feature that ran from near enough the top of the building down to the bottom where arrivals was located. A superb, impressive sight that was only visible from a lift running between arrivals, departures and the premium lounges. It was at least 100ft tall. Shame it could not be photographed as it was blocked from view on the shopping level.
 |
| Peaceful: Water feature in terminal building |
At one end was another water feature, a relaxation garden in the centre of it. A tranquil spot located in the middle of what is otherwise a busy, speedy, soul less place. The first time I felt like I was in the Middle East was at around 0600 when the 'Fajr Prayer' was recited over the airport announcement system. After purchasing all of my gifts, freshening up, feeding myself and enjoying a beer I headed over to my gate.
5th Feburary 2012
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| Same aircraft: 'Delta Kilo' on stand in the morning heat |
Once some baggage belonging to a passenger who had failed to board was removed from the hold, we were under way on flight EK17 to Manchester.
It was during push back I experienced one of the greatest sights I've ever witnessed in aviation. Along the length of the terminal were around 14 Emirates aircraft lined up wing tip to wing tip. A view I would have
 |
| Impressive: Multiple Emirates aircraft alongside T3 |
A short, slightly faster taxi than at Manchester soon saw us holding short at Runway 12R. A patient wait was in order as around 3 aircraft were ahead of our flight in the departure sequence. An Emirates A330 and a B777 followed by a flydubai B737-800. The captain released the brakes and slowly applied power. The aircraft started rolling. After a sharp flick to the left the captain turned right to line up perfectly on the runway centerline.
 |
| Climb Out: Very pleasant, quiet and comfortable. |
A shallow rate of climb was maintained throughout the lengthy, ascent to FL380. The route this time was to take us over Iran, Georgia, Ukraine, Poland and Germany. Flight time was slightly longer at 7 and a half hours.
It was very much service resumed on the way back from the Middle East, the new crew taking care of all aboard expertly. More drinks services, more snacks and more meals. A breakfast platter was served shortly after take off, an excellent start to the on board dining experience. A hot meal was then served around 2 hours before arrival into Manchester. This time the beef in mushroom sauce was very tasty indeed and was well received throughout the cabin.
 |
| Stunning: Mountain range in Georgia |
The views on route to the UK were breathtaking. I was incredibly thankful that the entirety of the flight took place during the daytime hours. The in-flight entertainment system was obsolete for a sizeable chunk of this sector. After all, the choice was views like that (right) or 'Family Guy'.
30 miles off the UK's east coast was the chosen location to start the descent into Manchester. The announcement had already came through informing us that weather-wise, other than poor visibility, there was no difference from the previous day's weather. The descent did seem rushed, but not uncomfortable. We had just descended into the layer of clouds that covered England when the announcement came through ordering the cabin crew to prepare for landing. The flaps were extended in increments. We continued to descend through the clouds. The ride was bumpy, the spoiler was deployed and the aircraft slowed right down. More flap was selected to compensate for lost airspeed. A fairly steep left was the final turn and saw us line up perfectly for a 10 mile final toward Runway 23R. The view out of the window was white.
 |
| CATIII Conditions: Extremely challenging conditions |
The approach was stable. The ride was of course bumpy but nothing compared to smaller aircraft. I noticed there was very little eye shutting. Hardly any people gripping loved ones hands. Something that is quite often witnessed in abundance during landings of this nature. Everybody seemed comfortable. I often said before the weekend that the A380 could be capable of curing fear of flying. My dad agreed with me and I'm sure other people would too. The fact that it's so stable, smooth and quiet means it's capable of providing a whole new, reassuring flying experience.
 |
| Down again: Smooth touchdown on Runway 23R |
As the aircraft crossed the threshold the runway became visible. Not much beyond the wing tip could be seen. I wasn't sure what to expect with the touchdown. Having said that, when the aircraft finally did hit the runway I was surprised. Like the landing in Dubai, the aircraft seemed to 'kiss' the runway. A marvellous landing. What followed was a huge roar and rumble as reverse thrust was selected and the spoilers deployed. The deceleration was an incredible sensation, something which I've never really experienced before, especially in those conditions. The aircraft vacated to the right before starting the long, slow taxi to the stand. The whole team of ground handling companies were there to meet us at the stand. As soon as the aircraft came to a stop they swung into action. For an aircraft this size even a two hour turnaround is a challenge. I left the aircraft via the front left door and continued down the air bridge. I looked back to get one last look at the aircraft before continuing toward passport control.
I'd like to thank my Dad for this whole experience. It was him who made it possible for me to make this extraordinary, once in a lifetime journey. It was his stories that ignited my appreciation for the aircraft and I'm glad that we're now able to share our stories and experiences of the Airbus A380. Thank you Dad.
Monday, 15 August 2011
I'm a student, but I'm still going to have my say.
Its long been thought that if you do not vote in an election, you're throwing away your right to have an opinion on certain subjects. I've long thought that this is true. I voted in the last general election, I voted blue as it happens. It is for this reason I believe, I am able to moan about decisions made by the new coalition government should I need to, I moan about promises never kept, I moan about the lack of a European referendum when Mr. Cameron promised there would be one. It might not feel like it at times, but we live in a democratic country and I see the vote as a privilege. Something that thousands of men and women have died for throughout history to secure, that's why whenever I get the chance I mark my 'X'.
Last night I was watching a DVD at home with my girlfriend. It was a stand up comedy show by the nations favourite pub landlord Al Murray. He might appear to be the voice of the everyday working class British person, but actually, Murray is a very intelligent man. The Oxford history graduate is a performer, who happens to know what hes talking about. He starts the show by picking on various terrified audience members, asking them their names, their occupations etc the usual stuff. He is famed for one of his opinions though, which becomes evident when he asks "what do you do for a living pal?" and receives the answer "I'm a student" back. His face twists up as if hes sucking on a wasp marinaded in lemon; naturally the audience find it hilarious. I understand that he is in character when he responds like this but I really do think that it represents the view of a large cross section of British citizens. When did your right to an opinion depend on so many factors in your life?
There are certain points that supposedly justify this opinion of students. For example, the majority of them receive vast sums of government money in the form of student loans. This is a large investment for a government, no doubt there, but the majority of this money will be paid back. The fact that a monthly subscription to 'OK' magazine would cost me more than my loan repayments is irrelevant. The point is, when I'm 84 the government will have received my entire loan back, with interest. Students also pay less or often no tax, but plenty of other people avoid this too and receive less stick in the process.
Students have always had various tags attached to them, 'dosser' 'scrounger' and 'tax dodger' to name a few, in many ways this is correct. Surely though, it isn't hard to look a few years into the future and see what a lot of these people will become. Lawyers, Doctors, Pilots, Engineers, Journalists, Vets, Politicians, Actors and Call Centre Operatives. Give us all a break.
The problem is, throughout the British population one outdated view remains. If I had a penny for every time I've heard a sentence started with "When I was your age..." I'd be a millionaire. Throughout British history there is a common theme; when you are old enough, you go to work. That could be 14 down the mines, 12 on the farm or 13 in the mill; sometimes even younger. This is obviously no longer the case, you're educated till 16 and before that point will struggle to find any employment other than a paper round. At 16 there are pretty much three options available to you; A-Levels, apprenticeship or sitting on your arse. More and more people are choosing A-Levels and why shouldn't they? The employment figures in this country are terrible. What harm is another set of qualifications going to do to a (less face it) basic CV? Times are constantly changing and not so long ago if you wanted to go to the toilet you had to go into the back yard. No one ever complains about the new 'cushy' indoor toilets of today, nor do they complain about the shops and pubs staying up longer or mobile phones. More and more people are going to University now and I wish that the older generations would accept it. They don't have to like it, just acknowledge it. Maybe once this happens we might be cut some slack and they'll give us our right to an opinion back.
If you vote, you can moan, it's as simple as that.
Last night I was watching a DVD at home with my girlfriend. It was a stand up comedy show by the nations favourite pub landlord Al Murray. He might appear to be the voice of the everyday working class British person, but actually, Murray is a very intelligent man. The Oxford history graduate is a performer, who happens to know what hes talking about. He starts the show by picking on various terrified audience members, asking them their names, their occupations etc the usual stuff. He is famed for one of his opinions though, which becomes evident when he asks "what do you do for a living pal?" and receives the answer "I'm a student" back. His face twists up as if hes sucking on a wasp marinaded in lemon; naturally the audience find it hilarious. I understand that he is in character when he responds like this but I really do think that it represents the view of a large cross section of British citizens. When did your right to an opinion depend on so many factors in your life?
There are certain points that supposedly justify this opinion of students. For example, the majority of them receive vast sums of government money in the form of student loans. This is a large investment for a government, no doubt there, but the majority of this money will be paid back. The fact that a monthly subscription to 'OK' magazine would cost me more than my loan repayments is irrelevant. The point is, when I'm 84 the government will have received my entire loan back, with interest. Students also pay less or often no tax, but plenty of other people avoid this too and receive less stick in the process.
Students have always had various tags attached to them, 'dosser' 'scrounger' and 'tax dodger' to name a few, in many ways this is correct. Surely though, it isn't hard to look a few years into the future and see what a lot of these people will become. Lawyers, Doctors, Pilots, Engineers, Journalists, Vets, Politicians, Actors and Call Centre Operatives. Give us all a break.
The problem is, throughout the British population one outdated view remains. If I had a penny for every time I've heard a sentence started with "When I was your age..." I'd be a millionaire. Throughout British history there is a common theme; when you are old enough, you go to work. That could be 14 down the mines, 12 on the farm or 13 in the mill; sometimes even younger. This is obviously no longer the case, you're educated till 16 and before that point will struggle to find any employment other than a paper round. At 16 there are pretty much three options available to you; A-Levels, apprenticeship or sitting on your arse. More and more people are choosing A-Levels and why shouldn't they? The employment figures in this country are terrible. What harm is another set of qualifications going to do to a (less face it) basic CV? Times are constantly changing and not so long ago if you wanted to go to the toilet you had to go into the back yard. No one ever complains about the new 'cushy' indoor toilets of today, nor do they complain about the shops and pubs staying up longer or mobile phones. More and more people are going to University now and I wish that the older generations would accept it. They don't have to like it, just acknowledge it. Maybe once this happens we might be cut some slack and they'll give us our right to an opinion back.
If you vote, you can moan, it's as simple as that.
Wednesday, 10 August 2011
Keep Calm and Carry on Looting
As I sit in my bedroom in Salford, a poster I bought when I first moved in 12 months ago still constantly attracts my attention. In the style of the fashionable ‘Keep Calm and Carry on’ war time nostalgia. The poster bares the St. Georges Cross and the phrase ‘Lie Back and Think of England.’
This is quite easy to someone like myself, someone who is intensely proud of the country in which they were born. After all, England is an incredible country; a country that boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery and gave the world some of the finest sports and culture. Football, William Shakespeare, Rugby, Charles Dickens, Cricket, Oscar Wilde, The British Royal Family, Sir Isaac Newton, Edgar, Isambard Kingdom Brunel are all products of English society and that list could go on.
Geographically we are a tiny insignificant island nation but yet so significant in other ways; economically, socially and politically. I mean we won two world wars (and one world cup)
A hand full of people from around the world have visited England. They have seen it for themselves. They’ve been to the Lake District, the white cliffs, the Yorkshire dales, the new forest. They’ve seen our cities and our culture, they’ve eaten our food and met our fantastic people. But what about the rest?
I have a fear that when the world switches their televisions or radios on they can only see a tiny aspect of what we’re about, what we have to offer and this upsets me. They only see our alliance with the United States of America, the resulting conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan and even Libya. They’ve seen our banks collapse, our cities attacked by terrorist organisations and now they’re watching our cities attacked by their own. At least we had the Royal Wedding this year.
We’ve all seen the news, so I’m not going to spend hours informing you what has been going on in England these past four days. Basically though, at the moment, I’m struggling to differentiate between the news and the television advert for the new ‘Planet of the Apes’ film.
There are several ways that you can look at this rioting, looting and general mindless criminality. You can take the sides of the fools doing it and say that it was inevitable, that the government cuts are the devils work and that the looting, arson, vandalism and police abuse must continue until George Osborne puts his hands up, admits he was wrong and re-thinks his budget including a 300% increase in housing allowance.
Personally, I wouldn’t though. You see, the fact that seven different excuses have been offered for the behaviour in seven different cities suggest that in fact, there is no real reason for this and that the local thieves, hooligans and generally unintelligent people have all came out to have what they would call a party, started in Tottenham last Sunday. The riots ‘cause’, the death of Mark Duggan in London has been forgotten, buried under a pile of smashed glass and ash. This stopped being a protest around an hour after it began, the riots started, the cause was lost. Greed, anger and impunity took over and the ‘copycats’ around the country followed suit.
I am proud of my Newcastle roots and although the riots didn’t make it that far up north I have still lived in Manchester for 2 years, it’s like a second home to me and watching people who were born here smashing the place up baffles me as much as it angers me. I wouldn’t dream of doing it in the North East, nor would I dream of doing it here. These people are damaging (often beyond repair) and looting their own local amenities, places that themselves and their families have previously shopped in and relied on; their own back garden. This is clearly the work of the uneducated masses.
The arrest and charge figures, the speed of the CPS in processing the court cases and the ‘togetherness’ the affected communities have shown in the aftermath of these antics have impressed me. The attacks in Manchester/Salford started last night and already around 75 have been charged following raids on properties and people identifying them from CCTV images. Greater Manchester Police were even updating their twitter page throughout the night one post stating “Lots of CCTV images, we will identify you and will be coming for you.” I have to admit I wasn’t so sure at first but they have proved me wrong. The police have been exceptional.
David Cameron has got everything right so far too. He’s cut his holiday short and rushed back to the UK, he’s re-called Parliament, he’s sent Nick Clegg to Wolverhampton to be boo’d and sent the right, stern message out to those people responsible for these crimes. I will be watching tomorrow with great interest to see the result is of the latest emergency commons meeting tomorrow. So long as Mr. Speaker can keep them from yelling and sticking their fingers up at each other for long enough; and if they treat it with half the passion they did with the ‘News of the World’ phone hacking scandal we’ll most likely see police officers up and down the country blowing the dust off the stocks and gallows, and we’ll probably see the ‘Queen Mary 2’ temporarily brought out of commercial service for a few voyages to Australia. If this doesn’t happen, some lengthy sentences for the worst offenders and the maximum amount of offenders given the strongest, most ruining convictions will suit me fine and I think you’ll agree.
As for the next few days? I say leave the rioters to the police and the aftermath with government and the crown prosecution service. If you feel useless pick up a broom, get on the bus and head for the city centre and help the clean up operation. My plan? Sit at home watching the news and the helicopter circling above whilst writing shit blog posts like this one that no one will end up reading.
Thanks to Hannah my girlfriend for the help on this one.
This is quite easy to someone like myself, someone who is intensely proud of the country in which they were born. After all, England is an incredible country; a country that boasts some of the most breathtaking scenery and gave the world some of the finest sports and culture. Football, William Shakespeare, Rugby, Charles Dickens, Cricket, Oscar Wilde, The British Royal Family, Sir Isaac Newton, Edgar, Isambard Kingdom Brunel are all products of English society and that list could go on.
Geographically we are a tiny insignificant island nation but yet so significant in other ways; economically, socially and politically. I mean we won two world wars (and one world cup)
A hand full of people from around the world have visited England. They have seen it for themselves. They’ve been to the Lake District, the white cliffs, the Yorkshire dales, the new forest. They’ve seen our cities and our culture, they’ve eaten our food and met our fantastic people. But what about the rest?
I have a fear that when the world switches their televisions or radios on they can only see a tiny aspect of what we’re about, what we have to offer and this upsets me. They only see our alliance with the United States of America, the resulting conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan and even Libya. They’ve seen our banks collapse, our cities attacked by terrorist organisations and now they’re watching our cities attacked by their own. At least we had the Royal Wedding this year.
We’ve all seen the news, so I’m not going to spend hours informing you what has been going on in England these past four days. Basically though, at the moment, I’m struggling to differentiate between the news and the television advert for the new ‘Planet of the Apes’ film.
There are several ways that you can look at this rioting, looting and general mindless criminality. You can take the sides of the fools doing it and say that it was inevitable, that the government cuts are the devils work and that the looting, arson, vandalism and police abuse must continue until George Osborne puts his hands up, admits he was wrong and re-thinks his budget including a 300% increase in housing allowance.
Personally, I wouldn’t though. You see, the fact that seven different excuses have been offered for the behaviour in seven different cities suggest that in fact, there is no real reason for this and that the local thieves, hooligans and generally unintelligent people have all came out to have what they would call a party, started in Tottenham last Sunday. The riots ‘cause’, the death of Mark Duggan in London has been forgotten, buried under a pile of smashed glass and ash. This stopped being a protest around an hour after it began, the riots started, the cause was lost. Greed, anger and impunity took over and the ‘copycats’ around the country followed suit.
I am proud of my Newcastle roots and although the riots didn’t make it that far up north I have still lived in Manchester for 2 years, it’s like a second home to me and watching people who were born here smashing the place up baffles me as much as it angers me. I wouldn’t dream of doing it in the North East, nor would I dream of doing it here. These people are damaging (often beyond repair) and looting their own local amenities, places that themselves and their families have previously shopped in and relied on; their own back garden. This is clearly the work of the uneducated masses.
The arrest and charge figures, the speed of the CPS in processing the court cases and the ‘togetherness’ the affected communities have shown in the aftermath of these antics have impressed me. The attacks in Manchester/Salford started last night and already around 75 have been charged following raids on properties and people identifying them from CCTV images. Greater Manchester Police were even updating their twitter page throughout the night one post stating “Lots of CCTV images, we will identify you and will be coming for you.” I have to admit I wasn’t so sure at first but they have proved me wrong. The police have been exceptional.
David Cameron has got everything right so far too. He’s cut his holiday short and rushed back to the UK, he’s re-called Parliament, he’s sent Nick Clegg to Wolverhampton to be boo’d and sent the right, stern message out to those people responsible for these crimes. I will be watching tomorrow with great interest to see the result is of the latest emergency commons meeting tomorrow. So long as Mr. Speaker can keep them from yelling and sticking their fingers up at each other for long enough; and if they treat it with half the passion they did with the ‘News of the World’ phone hacking scandal we’ll most likely see police officers up and down the country blowing the dust off the stocks and gallows, and we’ll probably see the ‘Queen Mary 2’ temporarily brought out of commercial service for a few voyages to Australia. If this doesn’t happen, some lengthy sentences for the worst offenders and the maximum amount of offenders given the strongest, most ruining convictions will suit me fine and I think you’ll agree.
As for the next few days? I say leave the rioters to the police and the aftermath with government and the crown prosecution service. If you feel useless pick up a broom, get on the bus and head for the city centre and help the clean up operation. My plan? Sit at home watching the news and the helicopter circling above whilst writing shit blog posts like this one that no one will end up reading.
Thanks to Hannah my girlfriend for the help on this one.
Sunday, 17 July 2011
Football is just a business, isn't it?
For years I've heard people around me constantly slating the beautiful game that is of course, football. Originating in England the sport has flourished since the 1800s and although the game has changed considerably since those days, football has always been firmly fused in the hearts of British people. Its no surprise then that today football in England is a multi billion pound industry.
It was inevitable that Football was going to head in the business first, sport second direction, its an ideal global platform for some of the worlds richest powers to flaunt their wealth. You don't have to look very hard to see why owning a football club might be an attractive prospect for a businessman. Merchandise, tickets, television deals, sponsorships, sales around the ground, it all adds up to serious money. A stadium holds 40,000 people who each have a pint of beer before the match on a Saturday. Charge them £3.80 for that beer and you've made £150,000. Over the minimum of 19 games you play at home that's £2.8million on beer. That's before you even take into account the £40 they've paid for their ticket and the shirt they're wearing. Its big business and I can't blame anyone for wanting a piece of it, I mean, I would.
The best club owners and chairmen are the people who remember that football is still a sport. Business has no place on a football pitch just as football has no place in a boardroom.
I've always thought a good chairman will look after the administrative side of the club, the money, the sponsorship, the stadium. A manager is hired to run the squad, the players. Hire the right man in this position and you're onto a winner. What happens on the pitch influences your turnover at the end of the year. So it pays to bring the best in.
I've always thought that the front of a football club is the badge, the manager and the team. While the chairman will inevitably be a known name too, it's bad news when they're in the news more than their team.
In 2007, the Newcastle United fans were beginning to lose patience with chairman of the time Freddie Shepherd, it was time for change. Enter SportsDirect tycoon Mike Ashley.
Upon becoming the owner of Newcastle United (having paid a cool £134million), Ashley made several moves to win over the notoriously demanding Geordies including re-hiring Toon legend Kevin Keegan as manager, sitting in the terraces with the fans and even appearing on television downing a whole pint of beer in a Newcastle United shirt. To some extent he appeared to be succeeding in his aim at the club, but it wasn't long before he started showing signs of another plan for Newcastle. Dennis Wise, another Londoner, was drafted into the 'Director of Football' position at Newcastle. This unprecedented appointment sent confusion ringing around St. James' Park. As a Chelsea player, Wise was not one of the fans favourites so it seemed a peculiar move introducing him to the boardroom. The fans were starting to ask questions, the Ashley/Wise 'Cockney Mafia' were becoming unpopular and fast.
This was the beginning of Mike Ashleys money making scheme at Newcastle United. He would buy in previously unknown, dirt cheap but genuinely good players and make money off them. Sebastian Bassong was bought for £500,000. He was sold for £8 million following the clubs shameful relegation.
He didn't stop there.
The sacking of manager Chris Hughton, the selling of Andy Carroll and club captain Kevin Nolan, the ill-treatment of '2010 Fans Player of The Year' Joey Barton, the freebie signings and of course the appointment of 'Yes-man' Alan Pardew concrete the fact that Ashley is building his empire to a very strict, financial specification. Was Hughton too ambitious? Was he going to ask for too much money? Was Nolan cost effective? More money? What about Andy Carroll? Ashley flew him to Liverpool in his own helicopter. Says enough. As for Joey Barton, I sincerely hopes he manages to stay at Newcastle United, but if he must leave, do it next season for free.
Ashley invested a lot of money in the club but now, his only priority is to recover his investments. It's a football club, not a discounted clothing store. He's disappeared off the radar and is controlling from HQ (located in London most probably) the one way flow of cash into his pocket. Newcastle fans are going to have to get used to the idea that Newcastle United is nothing more than Mike Ashleys cash cow. Don't bother getting too attached to Yohan Cabaye, Hatem Ben Arfa or Sylvain Marveaux because they'll be sold in January for £12 million a piece to Liverpool.
Ashley is an example of how money is ruining football and I'm not referring to players wages. They may be running round in gold plated Calvin Kleins and writing off a Ferrari weekly, but the Barclaycard Premiership is still the most exciting, most watched league in the world.
The problem is that football is just a business to the people in charge. There are a few chairmen left in the top flight that still truly do it for the love of the game. But look at Ashley, The Glazers, Sheikh Mansour, Fenway Sports Group, Abramovich. Of course some people are never going to complain: Manchester City fans, Chelsea fans etc but where's the fun in being able to buy anyone you want?
I just hope that other chairmen don't follow in Ashley's steps because I don't want to see the best league in the world turn into nothing more than a talent breeding ground for Europe.
I know I'm probably just feeling sorry for myself because my teams closest rivals are looking more ambitious than we are, but I guess I'm finally starting to accept that football is nothing more than a business now, and that is has been for several years now. Forgive me though, where is the last place you look? Under your nose.
Next season? I'll be supporting Whitley Bay FC.
Saturday, 16 July 2011
My face on a plane... Now I'm really flying
I have to admit I really do dislike the usual boring and often suspicious looking adverts that appear on facebook these days. They're usually quite accurate in terms of your interests but are rarely legitimate looking. A few weeks back one of these adverts grabbed my attention. I can't remember the exact text but it was a KLM advert with something like "Inspire us..." I was intrigued so I went against my usual beliefs and clicked on it.
It turns out that it was a competition. The idea was that you took a photograph of yourself from facebook and made a 'delft' style tile. For those who have no idea what I'm talking about, Delft pottery is blue and white pottery which originated in Delft, Southern Holland. You can't go to Holland without seeing countless delft clogs and windmills being sold in the tourism shops.
I thought to myself why not. So I chose a photograph of myself and inserted it onto this template. The "Inspire Us" part of the competition was covered by the motivational message you had to include on your tile before submitting to the competition. I chose a fairly generic and cheesy phrase, but it did the trick.
I received an e-mail last week notifying me that I was one of the winners (4000 of them to be precise) and that the prize was my tile being used on the fuselage of a Boeing 777. My face on the side of an aeroplane, an aeroplane that will be travelling around the world. It's not a 42" inch 3D television and it certainly isn't £166 million pounds but I still think that its quite cool.
They included a video in the e-mail. Its a video of my tile being stuck onto the aircraft
Friday, 15 July 2011
Back on track, my last two years...
After a difficult two years in Salford my original target has finally been achieved and my University career can finally take off (pun intended!).
In 2008 I watched all of my friends pack their bags and set off for the four corners of Britain where one by one they would eventually start to forget about the small town they'd left behind. In high school, I remember a teacher saying to me that in 10 years time I would be lucky if I still spoke to just 2 of the people I was sat in that same classroom with in 2006. I remember thinking at the time that she was talking absolute nonsense and that my group of friends were unbreakable. Having said that, they packed their bags. I signed on the dole.
At the time, my heart was set on flying commercially but I was determined to go about it the least academically demanding way possible. I would constantly hear my father say "You're always wanting to take the easy way out, the easy route, the easy life." I could never fully get my head around this, what was easy about working in a full time job whilst saving up large amounts of money to learn to fly? What was so easy about doing your ATPL via the modular route rather than fighting it out for the few (part) sponserships available? The answer is that none of these things are easy, but that wasnt his point.
I was never really enthusiastic about school and as a result my studies suffered. I never 'skived off' or disrupted a classroom, but I was lazy and I was unmotivated. Some would blame the school, some would blame my family cirumstances at the time but I would blame myself. I've always been a firm believer of the fact that you learn your own lessons in life. To do this, you have to learn from your mistakes and you'll never do that until you finally accept that you've made them.
I might have painted the picture slightly worse than it actually was, but that depends on which way you look at it. I left sixth form with 2 A-Levels which to some would be a life changing achievement. In terms on Higher Education, it's not so groundbreaking, if I were to study any sort of Aviation based course I would have to study an access course first, I wasnt happy.
Back to 2008 when I was unemployed. 5 months went by and the job seeking was becoming more soul destroying by the day and I was suffering as a result. My usual optimism was ruined and I was starting to wonder whether I'd have to seek employment loading suitcases onto aircraft to work in my chosen industry. In March, a company called Derichebourg phoned me offering me employment cleaning aircraft cabins. It was exactly what I was hoping for, full time and airside at Newcastle Airport. I enjoyed the job and I made some good friends, but it wasnt sustainable as a means of funding flight training, I had to do something fast.
In August I was still working the night shift and thouroughly enjoying it but the Aviation industry is cruel, and I was staring down the barrel of redundancy. As soon as the schools go back theres no call for the level of staffing the summer season usually requires. In October, seasonal contracts are terminated. I couldnt face going back on the dole, so I considered everything. One morning after work, I stepped off the metro and instead of heading for my house, my bed, sleep... I headed toward my old school. "Mr. Williamson, I need your help with UCAS, I'm applying again" It was a call that in the end made itself, there was no way I could carry on like the way I was, inbetween jobs, no real future. I was going to University after all. I worked out my notice at Derichebourg and although I was a year late, I packed my bags with and left for the North West. I was to study a Physics foundation year before progressing onto Aviation Technology.
I had settled in nicely in my 6th floor halls of residance flat. I had made some good friends and I was enjoying my independence. I thought it was the life changing experience I needed to get myself back on track towards my career as a pilot and it was, for the first month or two. With independance becomes responsibilty and you can do whatever you want with it, as much or as little. I had became absorbed in the lifestyle that is so often highlighted in the nations press associated with modern day university students. I can't remember when it happened but suddenly, having a good time became a higher priority than turning up to lectures, to revising for exams. I have to admit, I did enjoy it alot of the time but ultimately I paid the price for this lifestyle choice. I failed.
This hit me hard, I never wanted to study the Foundation Year in the first place. I wanted to study Aviation Technology with Pilot Studies. My A-Level results were the problem. I was faced with a problem. How is this failed year going to look on a CV? I had no real choice. I had to re-do the year and I had to pass.
The following academic year. I moved into a shared student house with a few flatmates and friends. I have two sets of friends at univeristy, my party friends and my friends. I had the option of moving in with my party friends, but what would be the point in that? I might as well of packed my bags and travelled back to Newcastle.
I joined the badminton club and was quickly made captain. This was vital at the time as it was focusing my attention on something more worthwhile than night clubbing. Around that time, ironically in a nightclub I met the girl who was to months later become my girlfriend. I had certainly started this academic year the way I meant to carry on.
I passed my first semester, everything was going to plan. My badminton team werent doing so well in the league tables but I was still enjoying playing, the new friends, the socials, the feeling of being part of something. I wasnt enjoying the company in the house as much as anticipated but this was something I was able to overlook.
In February, arranged to meet up with the girl I met in the club back in September, I had been punched a couple of times in a needless attack and she had helped me on the night. We ended up staying in touch. We'd been talking every now and then, I was keen to meet her face to face once again. I was nervous and sceptical but we got on so well on the first day that we spent the following week in each others company. That sunday evening, she was my girlfriend.
Hannah was the final piece in my puzzle, the cherry on the cake that brought me total happiness and I'm glad to say that I'm madly in love with this girl. In the last week I've also been informed that I've passed this year and as of September will be studying BSc Aviation Technology with Pilot Studies.
As I've said, you learn your own lessons in life. You only move forward if you make mistakes and the last 2/3 years of my life have proved it. Of course I've had help from my parents along the way which I appreciate, I couldnt have done it without my Mum and Dad.
When you've hit rock bottom you certainly never want to be there again and I certainly feel now that when I say "I'm going to fly commercially" I will be taken seriously, I won't be lauged at. Because I've proved to myself and to the people around me that I can achieve anything I set my heart on. This post may look to people that I've done nothing with my life, but I disagree because the life experience I have gained is priceless.
I am a student at the University of Salford, I am the captain of the badminton team, I am a team leader at Mint Staffing Solutions, I am a loving son, uncle and boyfriend with a loving family and girlfriend and I am a trainee pilot.
I am currently in Newcastle for the summer but for once I am wishing the summer away. Bring on September because my life begins then...
In 2008 I watched all of my friends pack their bags and set off for the four corners of Britain where one by one they would eventually start to forget about the small town they'd left behind. In high school, I remember a teacher saying to me that in 10 years time I would be lucky if I still spoke to just 2 of the people I was sat in that same classroom with in 2006. I remember thinking at the time that she was talking absolute nonsense and that my group of friends were unbreakable. Having said that, they packed their bags. I signed on the dole.
At the time, my heart was set on flying commercially but I was determined to go about it the least academically demanding way possible. I would constantly hear my father say "You're always wanting to take the easy way out, the easy route, the easy life." I could never fully get my head around this, what was easy about working in a full time job whilst saving up large amounts of money to learn to fly? What was so easy about doing your ATPL via the modular route rather than fighting it out for the few (part) sponserships available? The answer is that none of these things are easy, but that wasnt his point.
I was never really enthusiastic about school and as a result my studies suffered. I never 'skived off' or disrupted a classroom, but I was lazy and I was unmotivated. Some would blame the school, some would blame my family cirumstances at the time but I would blame myself. I've always been a firm believer of the fact that you learn your own lessons in life. To do this, you have to learn from your mistakes and you'll never do that until you finally accept that you've made them.
I might have painted the picture slightly worse than it actually was, but that depends on which way you look at it. I left sixth form with 2 A-Levels which to some would be a life changing achievement. In terms on Higher Education, it's not so groundbreaking, if I were to study any sort of Aviation based course I would have to study an access course first, I wasnt happy.
Back to 2008 when I was unemployed. 5 months went by and the job seeking was becoming more soul destroying by the day and I was suffering as a result. My usual optimism was ruined and I was starting to wonder whether I'd have to seek employment loading suitcases onto aircraft to work in my chosen industry. In March, a company called Derichebourg phoned me offering me employment cleaning aircraft cabins. It was exactly what I was hoping for, full time and airside at Newcastle Airport. I enjoyed the job and I made some good friends, but it wasnt sustainable as a means of funding flight training, I had to do something fast.
In August I was still working the night shift and thouroughly enjoying it but the Aviation industry is cruel, and I was staring down the barrel of redundancy. As soon as the schools go back theres no call for the level of staffing the summer season usually requires. In October, seasonal contracts are terminated. I couldnt face going back on the dole, so I considered everything. One morning after work, I stepped off the metro and instead of heading for my house, my bed, sleep... I headed toward my old school. "Mr. Williamson, I need your help with UCAS, I'm applying again" It was a call that in the end made itself, there was no way I could carry on like the way I was, inbetween jobs, no real future. I was going to University after all. I worked out my notice at Derichebourg and although I was a year late, I packed my bags with and left for the North West. I was to study a Physics foundation year before progressing onto Aviation Technology.
I had settled in nicely in my 6th floor halls of residance flat. I had made some good friends and I was enjoying my independence. I thought it was the life changing experience I needed to get myself back on track towards my career as a pilot and it was, for the first month or two. With independance becomes responsibilty and you can do whatever you want with it, as much or as little. I had became absorbed in the lifestyle that is so often highlighted in the nations press associated with modern day university students. I can't remember when it happened but suddenly, having a good time became a higher priority than turning up to lectures, to revising for exams. I have to admit, I did enjoy it alot of the time but ultimately I paid the price for this lifestyle choice. I failed.
This hit me hard, I never wanted to study the Foundation Year in the first place. I wanted to study Aviation Technology with Pilot Studies. My A-Level results were the problem. I was faced with a problem. How is this failed year going to look on a CV? I had no real choice. I had to re-do the year and I had to pass.
The following academic year. I moved into a shared student house with a few flatmates and friends. I have two sets of friends at univeristy, my party friends and my friends. I had the option of moving in with my party friends, but what would be the point in that? I might as well of packed my bags and travelled back to Newcastle.
I joined the badminton club and was quickly made captain. This was vital at the time as it was focusing my attention on something more worthwhile than night clubbing. Around that time, ironically in a nightclub I met the girl who was to months later become my girlfriend. I had certainly started this academic year the way I meant to carry on.
I passed my first semester, everything was going to plan. My badminton team werent doing so well in the league tables but I was still enjoying playing, the new friends, the socials, the feeling of being part of something. I wasnt enjoying the company in the house as much as anticipated but this was something I was able to overlook.
In February, arranged to meet up with the girl I met in the club back in September, I had been punched a couple of times in a needless attack and she had helped me on the night. We ended up staying in touch. We'd been talking every now and then, I was keen to meet her face to face once again. I was nervous and sceptical but we got on so well on the first day that we spent the following week in each others company. That sunday evening, she was my girlfriend.
Hannah was the final piece in my puzzle, the cherry on the cake that brought me total happiness and I'm glad to say that I'm madly in love with this girl. In the last week I've also been informed that I've passed this year and as of September will be studying BSc Aviation Technology with Pilot Studies.
As I've said, you learn your own lessons in life. You only move forward if you make mistakes and the last 2/3 years of my life have proved it. Of course I've had help from my parents along the way which I appreciate, I couldnt have done it without my Mum and Dad.
When you've hit rock bottom you certainly never want to be there again and I certainly feel now that when I say "I'm going to fly commercially" I will be taken seriously, I won't be lauged at. Because I've proved to myself and to the people around me that I can achieve anything I set my heart on. This post may look to people that I've done nothing with my life, but I disagree because the life experience I have gained is priceless.
I am a student at the University of Salford, I am the captain of the badminton team, I am a team leader at Mint Staffing Solutions, I am a loving son, uncle and boyfriend with a loving family and girlfriend and I am a trainee pilot.
I am currently in Newcastle for the summer but for once I am wishing the summer away. Bring on September because my life begins then...
Thursday, 19 May 2011
Here we are again, another entry in the log book
Friday the 13th, unlucky for some, but not for me. At around 0800 I boarded a train at Manchester Piccadilly station bound for Newcastle. This was to be no normal visit home to see the friends and family. It was to fly again.
I arrived at the flying school to be greeted by many surprised faces. I humorously introduced myself to the team, although many of them are good friends of mine. The fact that I hadn't been through those doors with a flying case in my hand for over a year warranted it. "Where do you want to go?" Alastair (AB) asked in a casual tone, it very much appeared to me that I was merely picking up where I left off.
"Go and check India Foxtrot out, I'll be there in 5 minutes." I walked out of the hangar door onto the apron and towards the aircraft. I had first flown G-BUIF in 2006 as a treat for achieving good GCSE results. This was also my first ever flight toward my PPL. I felt it was somewhat fitting that my 'return to training' flight was carried out in this aircraft. It wasnt long before the knowledge and the emotion had came back to me.
The check was thorough and completley from memory, I barely had to think about it. After so many times of completing it it becomes second nature, so far so good. AB climbed aboard and we started up. "There's been a few changes to the ATC procedures here." This didnt bother me, although my first transmission received did catch me out, probably to be expected. AB answered the call and we started our taxi. A friendly pre take off catch up on our way to the runway was helping to settle me into the flight. I was comfortable but still wondering just how rusty I was going to be.
Take off clearance was issued instantly and we were off. Runway 25 for a left turn out towards Newcastle City Centre, around 2/3 minutes away. There were no problems with the take off, the flying was executed as if it was my third that day.
As expected, the flight was pretty laid back. The real lessons would start after this flight. It was more two friends having a catch up and a bit of a chin wag, I was loving every minute of it, it felt like what flying is all about. Great views, great company, great weather. I could have stayed up there for hours. I was flying with no difficulty at all, as if it was a matter of hours rather than months and years since I'd last been up there. They say you never forget how to ride a bicycle, flying is definitely the same.
A precautionary landing made up the closing section of the flight, most probably so we actually did something productive, another exercise (Ex. 17) for the logbook and the training record. 45 minutes later we were on the ground. My landing wasn't bad either!
It was a fantastic day for me, for enjoyment and also to see that my training received so far has really worked. The reminder of how much I actually enjoy being airborne was the strongest aspect. I don't care how I do it but this summer, I'll be flying... alot.
Happy Landings...
I arrived at the flying school to be greeted by many surprised faces. I humorously introduced myself to the team, although many of them are good friends of mine. The fact that I hadn't been through those doors with a flying case in my hand for over a year warranted it. "Where do you want to go?" Alastair (AB) asked in a casual tone, it very much appeared to me that I was merely picking up where I left off.
"Go and check India Foxtrot out, I'll be there in 5 minutes." I walked out of the hangar door onto the apron and towards the aircraft. I had first flown G-BUIF in 2006 as a treat for achieving good GCSE results. This was also my first ever flight toward my PPL. I felt it was somewhat fitting that my 'return to training' flight was carried out in this aircraft. It wasnt long before the knowledge and the emotion had came back to me.
The check was thorough and completley from memory, I barely had to think about it. After so many times of completing it it becomes second nature, so far so good. AB climbed aboard and we started up. "There's been a few changes to the ATC procedures here." This didnt bother me, although my first transmission received did catch me out, probably to be expected. AB answered the call and we started our taxi. A friendly pre take off catch up on our way to the runway was helping to settle me into the flight. I was comfortable but still wondering just how rusty I was going to be.
Take off clearance was issued instantly and we were off. Runway 25 for a left turn out towards Newcastle City Centre, around 2/3 minutes away. There were no problems with the take off, the flying was executed as if it was my third that day.
As expected, the flight was pretty laid back. The real lessons would start after this flight. It was more two friends having a catch up and a bit of a chin wag, I was loving every minute of it, it felt like what flying is all about. Great views, great company, great weather. I could have stayed up there for hours. I was flying with no difficulty at all, as if it was a matter of hours rather than months and years since I'd last been up there. They say you never forget how to ride a bicycle, flying is definitely the same.
A precautionary landing made up the closing section of the flight, most probably so we actually did something productive, another exercise (Ex. 17) for the logbook and the training record. 45 minutes later we were on the ground. My landing wasn't bad either!
It was a fantastic day for me, for enjoyment and also to see that my training received so far has really worked. The reminder of how much I actually enjoy being airborne was the strongest aspect. I don't care how I do it but this summer, I'll be flying... alot.
Happy Landings...
Wednesday, 2 February 2011
Time to branch out
Starting to get slightly annoying now, the complete lack of activity on this blog. It seems completely ridiculous to start a brand new blog in order to start being a bit more general with the posts, so I'm using this one.
The fact is, with a blog dedicated to flying training it becomes increasingly hard to post something when there is no flying being done! There is however, plenty going on in my life. So for now, that will have to do.
The fact is, with a blog dedicated to flying training it becomes increasingly hard to post something when there is no flying being done! There is however, plenty going on in my life. So for now, that will have to do.
Wednesday, 9 December 2009
Its Been a While!
It appears again that my blog has indeed dried up and I'll tell you the reason why, I'm not flying at the moment! I do apologise. My short lived career as an aircraft cleaner with the wonderful company Derichebourg ICS met its end in August, all for good reason. In September I moved to Salford, Greater Manchester to have a stab at University. Oh yes, I'm even talking to you from my room in the Halls of Residence now.
After a somewhat turbulent A-Level academic career I realised that to find that first job with an airline my CV would have to be glowing more than it actually is! I enrolled onto a course named Physics with Foundation Year, however I'm only going to be a member of the physicists gang for the rest of year as in September I begin my shiny new BSc Aviation Technology with Pilot Studies degree program. This blog in fact, will then become stuffed with a wealth of chit chat, as hopefully my flying will resume again! Until then I'm afraid the radio silence will probably continue. I am however thinking of generalising the blog a bit. We'll see how that goes.
George
Wednesday, 10 June 2009
Lesson - 09/06/09
Flew again today in G-BMUZ. The ATCO was "delighted" to have us in the circuit for an hour. Managed to get 5 circuits in with one orbit due to a few aircraft taking off. A great flight in the circuit.
Lesson 1 - 25/08/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 4.1, 4.11, 5, 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 2 - 26/09/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 3 - 13/10/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 6.1, 6.2, 8 - 1 Hour
Lesson 4 - 19/11/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7, 8 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 5 - 19/01/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7.2, 8.2 - 1 Hour
Lesson 6 - 02/02/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 9.1, 9.2 - 45 Mins
Lesson 7 - 02/03/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 10a, 10b (15 Mins) - 1 Hour 20 Mins
Lesson 8 - 01/04/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 11, 12, 13 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 9 - 29/05/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 12, 13 - 45 Mins
Lesson 10 - 07/07/07 - G-BUIF - Ex 10, 11 - 50 Mins
Lesson 11 - 18/09/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 18 - 50 Mins (Flight To EGNC)" - " - Ex 12, 13, 18 - 1 Hour 10 Mins (Circuits and Flight Back Home)
Lesson 12 - 11/08/08 - G-BUIF - Revision (5 Mins) - 1 Hour
Lesson 13 - 08/01/09 - G-BRJV - Ex 9, 10, 12, 13, 16 (Revision)
Lesson 14 - 04/06/09 - G-BUIF - Ex 6-9, 10a - 55 mins
Lesson 15 - 09/06/09 - G-BMUZ - Ex 12, 13e,d - 55 mins
Lesson 1 - 25/08/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 4.1, 4.11, 5, 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 2 - 26/09/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 3 - 13/10/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 6.1, 6.2, 8 - 1 Hour
Lesson 4 - 19/11/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7, 8 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 5 - 19/01/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7.2, 8.2 - 1 Hour
Lesson 6 - 02/02/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 9.1, 9.2 - 45 Mins
Lesson 7 - 02/03/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 10a, 10b (15 Mins) - 1 Hour 20 Mins
Lesson 8 - 01/04/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 11, 12, 13 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 9 - 29/05/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 12, 13 - 45 Mins
Lesson 10 - 07/07/07 - G-BUIF - Ex 10, 11 - 50 Mins
Lesson 11 - 18/09/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 18 - 50 Mins (Flight To EGNC)" - " - Ex 12, 13, 18 - 1 Hour 10 Mins (Circuits and Flight Back Home)
Lesson 12 - 11/08/08 - G-BUIF - Revision (5 Mins) - 1 Hour
Lesson 13 - 08/01/09 - G-BRJV - Ex 9, 10, 12, 13, 16 (Revision)
Lesson 14 - 04/06/09 - G-BUIF - Ex 6-9, 10a - 55 mins
Lesson 15 - 09/06/09 - G-BMUZ - Ex 12, 13e,d - 55 mins
Friday, 5 June 2009
Lesson - 04/06/09
Thursday saw my first flight since early January and what is the beginning of my new period of consistent flying thanks to my new job at the airport. The weather was looking crap all day with a cloud base barely getting over 700ft, until around 1630 where miraculously it was clearing up and by the time I got into the aircraft, it was even sunglasses weather. Just goes to show how far a bit of positive thinking goes.
Took off 07, left hand turn and out of the zone to the east of Morpeth, so far so good. Then came the revision. Turns, climbs, descents, practise approaches, stalls and even good ol' straight and level. Handled the lesson well (according to my instructor anyway) and headed for Newcastle again. Entered the zone to the west of Bolam Lake (A naff VRP!) and flew left base for 07. Weather was still being kind to me, so I took full advantage and produced a landing I would have never expected to achieve after 4 months of no flying. I taxied back to the flying school with a smug grin on my face and that was the end of it, for a week or so anyway!
Took off 07, left hand turn and out of the zone to the east of Morpeth, so far so good. Then came the revision. Turns, climbs, descents, practise approaches, stalls and even good ol' straight and level. Handled the lesson well (according to my instructor anyway) and headed for Newcastle again. Entered the zone to the west of Bolam Lake (A naff VRP!) and flew left base for 07. Weather was still being kind to me, so I took full advantage and produced a landing I would have never expected to achieve after 4 months of no flying. I taxied back to the flying school with a smug grin on my face and that was the end of it, for a week or so anyway!
Tuesday, 28 April 2009
New Job - At The Airport!
After 5 or 6 months of unemployment, no flying and desperate job searching I have finally found work. I was offered a seasonal contract at the Airport working for Derichebourg ICS Multi Services as an Aircraft Cleaner. Obviously I ripped their hands off and started on friday. I will be working the night shift.
This means that as of June, my flying will resume! And this blog will be a bit more lively!
Wednesday, 14 January 2009
Flight - 08/01/09
Unfortunatley, at the moment I am unemployed and therefore are unable to pay for lessons, which are now my responsibilty to fund. My father agreed to pay for one lesson to keep me fresh at the controls in my long period of no flying.
I booked an hours lesson just another revision flight like the one in August 2008, flying with Phil, a friend of mine from the school, but never an instructor before this flight. He was late to arrive, so I took advantage of the extra time, by going out to start my checks early. I managed to complete the external checks from memory, as if I had did them yesterday. A quick glance of the checklist confirmed I had completed them perfectly. I then began internal and before start checks, again fairly comfortably, reading from my checklist. Once these checks were completed I just sat in the aircraft familiarising myself with the cockpit and the controls, running through in my mind FREDA checks and things, I also began to start remembering what I had missed for so long, being sat at the controls of a PA28.
Phil arrived and I did the internal checks again to keep him happy and then we started up, I switched the radios on and tuned into ATIS. After writing down all of my information, including Foxtrot the bulletins identification letter, I looked to Phil waiting for the nod to make that inital call to ATC, ground was closed, so 119.7 was the first and only frequency used during the flight. I quickly ran over with Phil what to say and then made the call fairly confidently along with the clearance to taxi to the Foxtrot holding position along with my QNH 1024. All was going well, my taxi was fine. I arrived at Foxtrot and began my power checks, all still going well. Another PA28 from the school joined us at Foxtrot, this student joining the circuit, not knowing that he was to fly solo for the first time at the end of the flight, myself had more than that on my mind, remembering how to fly the plane for starters!
We were given clearance to enter the backtrack for runway 25, so I taxied the aircraft onto the runway, every minute of the lesson I was becoming more and more comfortable at the controls. An easyJet 737 was on a 6 mile final so we were told to expedite our back track and were also given a clear take off on turn around clearance. I read the clearance back, spun the aircraft round and took a deep breath.
I asked Phil if he was ready before saying "lets go," I applied full power with the throttle keeping the aircraft straight with the rudder pedals. "Airspeed gaining, T's and P's all green," as I cleared 30 knots, "65 knots, rotate" the call was from Phil and so we were airbourne again, for the first time since August 2008. I established an 80 knots climb and we made a right turn north towards Morpeth to leave the zone. I made the call saying that we were leaving the zone, however I was still not confident enough to read back the reply. This was quite a big knock on my confidence, but my flying was still decent.
There was quite alot of cloud up north, so once we left the zone, we both agreed it would be better to climb above the cloud, I established another 80 knot climb and headed for the light blue in between all these clouds, once I was through the cloud it was amazing. Something I had only ever experienced once before, flying around 100/200 feet over cloud. Its here where you truely appreciate the speed you are flying at and where the sky is beautiful. Once at 3500ft, we began the exercises.
We started off with a few 180 degree turns to the left and to the right. I managed these fine so we moved on to a steep turn and also a clean wing stall. Pushed the nose down a bit too much but handled the recovery fine. We then flew a few climbs and glide descents, my first major forgotten thing occured here, Carb heat. Phil was constantly reminding me about carb heat before reducing the power, it gave my confidence a big knock because its something so simple to remember once you get the hang of it. Phil was then happy to fly below the cloud to try some forced landings without power. The cloud had turned a lot darker whilst we were in the air. I configured the aircraft for a glide descent and began to descent towards the cloud. We could still roughly see the cloud but not much. The air started to become very turbulent and windy, the aircraft became harder to control but not by much, a few small
adjustments using the ailerons maintained straight flight. We finally flew below the cloud and started planning for a forced landing, we cut the power and selected an appropriate field to land at, this is when my lack of reading revision showed, I could not remember any speeds or anything, my flying was still good but Phil was having to talk me through a lot of it. The weather was truely shocking so we decided to head back to Newcastle where the weather was a lot better, hoping for a quick circuit. We received our clearance back into the zone and was told to report left base for runway 25. Once we were flying left base we were told "report final number 1" which we did, I was still flying confidently and calmly at this stage, landings still fresh in my mind for some reason, I was flying at 75 knots, adjusting my altitude with the power etc, maintaining a steady approach. I pulled back on the stick to start the flare and I was holding it off well. I then pulled back a bit too much and had to apply more power before touching down, everything up to about the last 10 seconds of my landing were Ok, but that last 10 seconds was the most vital as it was the touchdown 10 seconds! I asked Phil to retract the flaps and applied full power again, rotating at 65 knots. I flew the upwind and crosswind legs well without any reminders or faults, levelling off at 1000ft. I turned onto the downwind leg and once paralell with the middle of the runway made the call "Golf Juliet Victor, Downwind Runway 25 to land" as I had almost had my hour and couldnt afford to pay anymore. I was told to report when ready for base to which I replied "Wilko Golf Juliet Victor," the circuit happens a lot faster than flying up north so I was having to work a lot harder to get everything done in time. I called ready to turn base and were given instruction to start a right hand orbit as another easyJet 737 was taking off, this gave me a chance to sort myself out and prepare for the second landing whilst having a nice view of Gosforth Race Course. After one orbit, we were given a clearance to turn onto left base and also to report final. I turned onto final for my second approach of the flight and was given a quick clearance to land, far up the runway so expedite vacation of the runway as the ATCO had a few inbounds due. I flew a smooth approach once again and flared as normal last time, this time making the error of putting the nose down, before having to sharply pull up again, resulting in quite a heavy landing. Not the best, but then again I had'nt flown in a long time and I still flew the landing unaided (even if it was a bit rusty, which is to be expected really)
We vacated the runway via Foxtrot passing a large queue of Warriors and R22's waiting at the hold before taxying to the flying school appron and parking up. The flight was over, Phil collected his belongings and walked into the building while I sat for a minute, I guess I was quickly debriefing myself on the good and bad points on my flight. Carb heat being the worst, everything else was down to rust or lack or revision. Both which can be sorted before my next flight.
All in all I was glad to be airbourne again and continue to look for work so I can start my regular flying again, something that stopped in September 2007.
Thanks for reading and happy landings!
Lesson 1 - 25/08/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 4.1, 4.11, 5, 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 2 - 26/09/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 3 - 13/10/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 6.1, 6.2, 8 - 1 Hour
Lesson 4 - 19/11/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7, 8 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 5 - 19/01/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7.2, 8.2 - 1 Hour
Lesson 6 - 02/02/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 9.1, 9.2 - 45 Mins
Lesson 7 - 02/03/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 10a, 10b (15 Mins) - 1 Hour 20 Mins
Lesson 8 - 01/04/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 11, 12, 13 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 9 - 29/05/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 12, 13 - 45 Mins
Lesson 10 - 07/07/07 - G-BUIF - Ex 10, 11 - 50 Mins
Lesson 11 - 18/09/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 18 - 50 Mins (Flight To EGNC)" - " - Ex 12, 13, 18 - 1 Hour 10 Mins (Circuits and Flight Back Home)
Lesson 12 - 11/08/08 - G-BUIF - Revision (5 Mins) - 1 Hour
Lesson 13 - 08/01/09 - G-BRJV - Ex 9, 10, 12, 13, 16 (Revision)
Total Flight Time - 13.8 Hours
Total % of Minimum 45 Hours Completed : 30.6%
Friday, 22 August 2008
Passed Medical
Passed my JAA Class 2 medical today! Phew! Had to rush around organising it over passed few days, flight booked for next tuesday to Carlisle and I've been told theres a potential solo circuit in the bag for me. Fingers Crossed!
Roughly Where I Am At The Moment
I've already started my training (in fact I started in 2006!) but many factors have slowed down my flying (at one point forcing an 11 month period out) so I have only flown 12.8 hours towards my PPL in what seems a very long time along with a few more hours on other gliding, air experience flights etc etc in aircraft such as the Grob Tutor.
Here is a video of my first flight. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5UFO-Kci2k&fmt=18
My last flight to date was on the 11/08/08 flying G-BUIF with JC. This hour took me back to the earlier hours I flew of my training and included revision of turning, climbs, descents, stalling and a forced landing. I was rather dreading this flight as it had almost been a year since I'd last flown and I was really hoping that all my flying skills hadnt left my mind. Thankfully they hadnt and the flight was successful. So you have an idea of where I am and what I've done I've included a list of all my lessons to date including the one I've just discussed.
Lesson 1 - 25/08/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 4.1, 4.11, 5, 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 2 - 26/09/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 3 - 13/10/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 6.1, 6.2, 8 - 1 Hour
Lesson 4 - 19/11/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7, 8 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 5 - 19/01/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7.2, 8.2 - 1 Hour
Lesson 6 - 02/02/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 9.1, 9.2 - 45 Mins
Lesson 7 - 02/03/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 10a, 10b (15 Mins) - 1 Hour 20 Mins
Lesson 8 - 01/04/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 11, 12, 13 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 9 - 29/05/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 12, 13 - 45 Mins
Lesson 10 - 07/07/07 - G-BUIF - Ex 10, 11 - 50 Mins
Lesson 11 - 18/09/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 18 - 50 Mins (Flight To EGNC)
" - " - Ex 12, 13, 18 - 1 Hour 10 Mins (Circuits and Flight Back Home)
Lesson 12 - 11/08/08 - G-BUIF - Revision (5 Mins) - 1 Hour
Total Flight Time - 12.8 Hours
Total % of Minimum 45 Hours Completed : 28.4%
Here is a video of my first flight. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5UFO-Kci2k&fmt=18
My last flight to date was on the 11/08/08 flying G-BUIF with JC. This hour took me back to the earlier hours I flew of my training and included revision of turning, climbs, descents, stalling and a forced landing. I was rather dreading this flight as it had almost been a year since I'd last flown and I was really hoping that all my flying skills hadnt left my mind. Thankfully they hadnt and the flight was successful. So you have an idea of where I am and what I've done I've included a list of all my lessons to date including the one I've just discussed.
Lesson 1 - 25/08/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 4.1, 4.11, 5, 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 2 - 26/09/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 6.1 - 1 Hour
Lesson 3 - 13/10/06 - G-BUIF - Ex 6.1, 6.2, 8 - 1 Hour
Lesson 4 - 19/11/06 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7, 8 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 5 - 19/01/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 7.2, 8.2 - 1 Hour
Lesson 6 - 02/02/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 9.1, 9.2 - 45 Mins
Lesson 7 - 02/03/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 10a, 10b (15 Mins) - 1 Hour 20 Mins
Lesson 8 - 01/04/07 - G-BRJV - Ex 11, 12, 13 - 1 Hour 5 Mins
Lesson 9 - 29/05/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 12, 13 - 45 Mins
Lesson 10 - 07/07/07 - G-BUIF - Ex 10, 11 - 50 Mins
Lesson 11 - 18/09/07 - G-BMUZ - Ex 18 - 50 Mins (Flight To EGNC)
" - " - Ex 12, 13, 18 - 1 Hour 10 Mins (Circuits and Flight Back Home)
Lesson 12 - 11/08/08 - G-BUIF - Revision (5 Mins) - 1 Hour
Total Flight Time - 12.8 Hours
Total % of Minimum 45 Hours Completed : 28.4%
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