Finally -- a day clear enough to show the horizon. Only problem were winds were 240 16G26. Not a great day to be flying an underpowered C172E (145HP).
We launched anyway and it was fun trying to maintain heading and altitude, but eventually we crept up to 6000 feet where the turbulence was light and transitory. The winds were steadily increasing as the day went on so we were trying to get the flight in before things got too uncomfortable.
I did a couple of power off stalls while holding the yoke all the way back. It made for some prolonged mushing and use of aileron to keep the wings level (this was different).
Afetr a few of those Larry demonstrated a spin to the left. It was a bit disorienting as the airplane went from nose up to (apparently) corkscrewing straight down. It wasn't a full-blown spin, so I did the next one and pulled all the way back and kicked left rudder at the top of the stall. Suddenly we were in a spin (we appeared to be inverted for a moment). The only disconcerting feeling was the 2+ G pull up -- but the airplane is strong and handled it all with aplomb.
We did two more and then my stomach decided it was enough so we headed back (constant allergy-induced sinus pressure and drainage isn't helping).
It was good to finally get that done. We're going to go out and do a few more next time, but now that I know what to expect it's somewhat a non-event, especially in the 172 with the front seats filled. The plane is nose heavy and stable and has predictable responses. By the second spin I was able to give right rudder and almost immediately stop the spin. The dive was actually the strange expereince with the ground rushing up as the airspeed quickly built up.
So now I'm looking forward to the next session and get the endorsement.
We should need one more session in the A36 and then I'll need a few solo practice sessions and I'll be ready to test!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thank you for taking the time to comment!