Aviation’s Grass Roots.

Boeing 737, Boeing 747, Boeing 787 and Airbus A320 and 321. I have been very fortunate to be rated on a range of airliner types during my career. Even so, there is a very special feeling to return to grass roots aviation and over recent weeks I have been able to do that.

Within days, I have flown with Air Force cadets on their first flight. Trained fellow staff pilots. Conducted a two-yearly flight review for a private pilot. Undertaken my own Grade One Flight Instructor renewal. Each were different sorties in different aircraft types but each shared the intimacy of flying light aircraft at altitudes where the earth below is still in keen focus.

In some instances, I was flying and at other times I was instructing. Either way, I was enjoying the sensations and sights of being airborne in a light aircraft. I was able to witness the sheer joy of the pilots beside me taking in those very same sights and sensations, albeit with the wide eyed fascination of a newcomer.

Reflecting on my own journey and viewing the sheer joy of new pilots, I can only encourage others to venture into the skies. However, in aviation, enthusiasm must always be tempered with respect. Respect for the aircraft. Respect for the environment. Respect for the rules. And respect for one’s own limitations.

It was once said to me that, “It’s easy to fly like a cowboy. What is difficult is to fly the aircraft within the regulations, in accordance with the manufacturer’s manual and abiding by the policies of the operator. That’s where the challenge lies”.

And so, I will look to fly among aviation’s grass roots even more, but a reduction in the aircraft’s size does not diminish the responsibilities of the pilot. While we may fly for leisure, we cannot be leisurely pilots. So, get out there and fly and enjoy the skies with a level of confidence that can only be gained through the observance of safety.