Flight 81

06/17/97

c-172

TEB-4N1-TEB

1.4 dual (PIC)
[CHECK RIDE- PART 2]
4 landings

"Pvt Pilot Flt test; passed"

Was supposed to take the PP re-test on Sunday, but my lesson was re-scheduled by another instructor without my permission...and without anyone telling me before I showed up for the flight... then J. couldn't make it for the new slot... I've just about had it with this outfit!!

Finally the stars align on a Tuesday- near-marginal weather, but with calm winds.

As we're climbing out, J.'s pager goes off. He checks the incoming number, and asks me to tell tower he'd like to relay a message to somebody. I'd expected "reasonable distractions" on this flight, but this seems an unreasonable request, after I think about it.

"Sorry, but this is my check ride and I'm not doing that." I tell him. He takes it well enough, although he comandeers the radio to take care of this errand himself. But Tower is too busy to deal with it, much to my satisfaction.

The lack of wind makes it easy to fly to N07 then track a radial to the SAX VOR... although I deviate a little, the VOR turns up right where it should be, confirmed visually as the CDI indicates passage.

I am expecting a diversion now to Sussex, but J. tells me instead to go to 4N1. Suddenly I am nervous again. I've never flown there from where we are at the moment, so I am a little shaky with my course enroute, before making a very good approach, after arriving in the pattern just a tad high.

I set up to demonstrate a good soft-field landing... and end up bouncing. Crap.  

Sheepish after this lousy landing, I readily agree when J. asks if we can stop so he can use a phone to return the call.

This gives me a chance to have a quick cigarette and gather myself. I knew I'd get here without failing the nav test again... but the ride ain't over yet, I remind myself.

Next two landings: better. Navigation to TEB is good. J. takes the controls for the final landing, coming in low over the grass to 19, trying to get off on Bravo. He... almost pulls it off.
But today I won't mind the longer taxi... I am pretty sure I have passed the practical test.

And I have. J. bids me farewell, the gang at the school congratulates me, and before heading home I sit in my car for a minute or two staring at the temporary certificate.

I've done it!! Despite dragging my feet getting started; despite being flat broke; despite cancelled lessons due to weather, mechanical problems, and sheer incompetence; despite personal highs and lows and annoyances and distractions of every kind...I've finally really done it!!