SKY’S THE LIMIT
THE YEAR THAT WAS AND THE YEAR AHEAD
By Jennifer Reynolds | jensunshine3@gmail.com
IT’S HARD TO BELIEVE that it’s December! Time sure does fly (pun intended). What projects and flights were memorable—or not so memorable—in 2022? What does 2023 hold?
The Enjoyable
I started the year on a mission to find a new flying field. Although I still live in New Hampshire, I moved approximately 45 minutes from the field where I used to fly. I debated whether to maintain my membership there, but I ultimately opted to make the Concord Skylawks my new home. It was more convenient and suited for me on many levels.
However, I can’t go on without giving my former field, the Winnipesaukee Radio Controllers, and its members, a shout-out. I met many wonderful people, served as the club secretary, and overcame my fear of using the rudder.
I now half-jokingly declare aloud that everyone around me should take a look at my fancy moves, calling myself a “rudder pro” now that I can make tighter, more controlled turns. After all, I was relying on only my ailerons for, dare I say, a couple of decades. So, a huge thanks to the people there for their humor, patience, and presence.
Although I’ve only been at my new field a handful of times since I joined, I’ve enjoyed everything. I put up a few flights there and had a successful first flight! I’m all squared away with a new battery charger and a LiPo battery fireproof case for my trustworthy little AeroScout.
It was also fun to attend my first event there, an International Miniature Aerobatic Club (IMAC) event. It brought back memories from when I used to call the sequences for pilots. I was always in awe of their impeccable precision, and it was no different watching some of those flights this past summer.
The Not So Enjoyable
As many of you know, I’m more of a “get right to it” person when it comes to airplanes. I appreciate those who build and know that doing so might strengthen my skills. Sure, I’ve enjoyed moments in the past where I’ve helped others put finishing touches on their models (rivets, etc.), but I get so excited about flying that I just want to open my trunk and be airborne within 10 minutes. Therefore, not flying during the in-between process of searching for a new field was delay number one.
Getting COVID on top of that further prevented me from getting some stick time. I didn’t fly for some time this year, which was not so enjoyable. When I finally headed to the field, there were some issues. They didn’t surprise me because it had been several months since my aircraft had flown. I’d be cranky and fussy too if I’d been in a shed getting dusty for a while! That meant another delay (minor but still ...) in which
I had to purchase a battery charger and fireproof carrying case for batteries.
Thankfully, the members of my new field were accommodating, explaining precisely what I needed. They took a great slice of their time—and for one member, a little slice of his finger in a whacky propeller incident—while helping me out. Clearly, that finger situation was not enjoyable for either of us, and I’ll forever feel bad for the mishap!
For the most part, 2022 meant “flying” on the TV console with my boyfriend’s son, using the simulator at the hobby store, and a few indoor helicopter flights. I also satisfied my urge with many trips to our nearby airport to watch commercial aircraft take off and land. Still, I itched to fly my model. I finally did so during the summer and I was thrilled.
The Year Ahead
In two words: fly more! Now that I’m settled at a new flying field and have all that I need to keep my airplane up and running, I plan to fly more often. I just love my AeroScout. It’s a simple, nice, easy flier.
John Lavery, the vice president of the New Hampshire Flying Tigers, said that he saw the August issue of Model Aviation “and wanted to say welcome to the Concord Skyhawks.” He’s also a member of this club. John extended wishes for good luck with all of my flying, along with an invitation to come to the Flying Tigers’ field sometime. I’ll let his positive words carry me through to 2023!
As for my full-scale pilot’s license in the year ahead, also two words: still thinking. I’m up in the air (I do love my puns). I adore flight, the idea of solitude in the sky, and
Several of you emailed me expressing excitement, advice, and words of caution. Model Aviation reader Leonard wrote that he began flying models in the early 1970s as a teen. In 2001, he obtained his full-scale pilot’s license, and a few years later, he purchased a 2002 Citabria 7GCBC. Leonard, who continues to fly RC, wrote, “I found that the RC experience was a huge help with the flight lessons, and also found that my RC flying improved, as each built upon the other.”
John W., however, wrote, “You have a considerable challenge ahead of you.” Although he said that my attitude is commendable, he emphasized a rather high dropout rate that even includes post-solo students.
John, who has been a private pilot for eight years and holds an A&P certificate, stated that “model experience is relevant only to the extent that you might have knowledge of basic aerodynamics. Being inside the plane is quite a different experience. There is much more to flying than manipulating the controls.” He elaborated on airspace rules, weather, and Air Traffic Control communications, all of which he said can challenge even experienced pilots.
Rev. R. Glenn Stubbs Jr. responded as well. He suggested obtaining a light-sport certificate first, and “not letting anyone talk me out of it.” Why? He succinctly outlined five
More enthusiasm came from Carol G., whose father was interestingly one generation from the Wright brothers (he built and flew the Heath Super Parasol). “I got my private license long ago—50 years in fact—and I have never regretted doing so,” he wrote. “It is wonderful to fly. So go for it, girl, and always have fun!”
Finally, Juan V. said that he’s been a modeler for 20 years. Last January, he started pursuing his private pilot’s license. He said there will be moments of frustration and times where I might wonder what I got myself into, but the rewarding moments outweigh the others. Juan was filled with all kinds of helpful tips, from being sure that I click with my instructor to buying a headset with active noise cancelation.
I’m grateful for all who reached out with their thoughts and suggestions! I’ll keep everyone updated about my RC and possible private pilot’s license involvements.
Have a happy new year filled with great flights and making happy memories!
