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FIRST SOLO
November
12, 1993 - "Karup Tower, Baby 73, Taxi"
- My first solo ever started with those exact words.
Prior
to this solo-ride I had to pass a "solo-check". My first attempt was knocked-off
due to bad weather but on the second one the weather was great. After an
hour where I had to prove profficient in Aerobatics, Stalls, Area Navigation,
Simulated Flameouts (SFOs), and Landings the Instructor Pilot Flemming
Rix (RIX) gave me the thumb up and wished me good luck.
Finally
on my own I started the aircraft up, did my checks, and taxied the aircraft
to the active grass runway. After a final engine check I took off for my
first solo pattern and landing. 5 minutes later I landed the aircraft and
taxied back to the appron where the rest of my class were waiting for me.
RIX gave me wild-flowers and congratulated me - it was truly a very proud
moment. Then my class-mates pulled me out of the aircraft and drove me
to the pond. They followed the tradions and threw me in the chili water
and I had to swim to the end and back.
Back in
the building it was time for another tradition; the cutting of the tie
and the "beer-baptism" all the the soundtrack from "Top Gun"...
First goal
on the "Road to Wings" was now fulfilled - ahead was more flying; Navigation,
Instrument Flying, Formation etc ...
Taxiing in from the very first solo.
My first "solo-aircraft" T-405 infront of the RDAF Flying School, Karup
AB.
Instructor Pilot Flemming Rix (RIX) soloed me out.
No contact with the ground is allowed (Air to Water) after the first
solo.
NIN, LAR, KOB, AVI, and KAJ getting ready to throw me in the pond.
"Here we go".
Thumbs Up - What a "Cool" sensation (the water was 2 degrees celcius).
"Beer-baptism".
Helmet on and ready for the "Beer Race".
Final part of the cermony.
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