ORIGINAL: Dennis on as DBCherry
Zombie,
Nice description of flying in strong wind.
It can definitely be an adrenalin rush!
Thanks! I fly for fun and excitement - so a bit of adrenalin is a good thing to me. Some people like to avoid it. They fear things that don't need to be feared - merely respected.
My last outing in the wind was similar. ... Hands were shaking after the first flight or two (and the other guys left the field
), but my brother got in a few flights too. And he'd only flown a couple times before.
But, it was FUN, wasn't it!? A completely new dimension of flying. I kinda like doing my strong wind flying without a bunch of people around, anyway. I'm sure I pay more attention to what I'm doing ... not having the distractions.
but believe that you really do need to push yourself a little or you won't advance.
I couldn't agree more, Dennis. But, the individual has to make the choice for themselves.
Uncas, you probably made the right choice for the particular day. If you want to try the stronger winds in the future make a straight, flat-bottomed wing for your plane (or get a plane with one). They handle the wind better. As wings mentioned, a trainer with lots of dihedral isn't the best choice for strong winds. Do learn to fly in stronger winds sometime in the near future, though. It will make you a better/safer pilot and add immeasurably to your enjoyment of flying.