First Solo

by Walter   Mar 2, 2018


As I walk up to the aircraft
Which I have done many times before
I have to give her a preflight
Before I can take her up to soar

My instructor observing besides me
And makes sure I don't miss a thing
He's taught me to be very thorough
As our lives rely on this wing

He waits till I board the small plane
Then he tells me he's not going to go
And while I can only stare at him
He says I'm ready for my solo

More preflight checks in the cockpit
I make sure everything is intact
My fingers ready on the start key
Before I yell out the window "Contact"

The engine vibrates into life
And it's time to radio the tower
I'm directed to the runway in use
Where I now have to apply full power

I seem to take off in no time
The plane much lighter without him there
I am focused on only one thing
To land safely on a wing and a prayer

As I take the plane around on a circuit
I'm starting to enjoy the flight
My brain has kicked in to auto mode
And I know everything will be alright

I'm suddenly lining up to the runway
Where I have to throttle back to descend
Touchdown as the wheels kiss the tarmac
My first solo has come to an end

My instructor comes up to congratulate me
Says that was the best landing he's seen yet
Though I'm not sure I truly believe him
This is still an experience I'll never forget

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Latest Comments

  • 6 years ago

    by Walter

    Thank you Kitty! Don't know about the daredevil bit lol...As my instructor always tells me, "Flying is proven to be safer than driving." It's still a thrill though and I could never tire of this :)

  • 6 years ago

    by Kitty Cat Lady

    Walter! You daredevil! What a totally exhilarating hobby ... I can only imagine the thrill of doing this alone for the first time, but I can imagine it well given your fantastic description. Makes me want to fly .... far far away. Great stuff! :-) x
    =^.^=

  • 6 years ago

    by Em (marmite)

    This is majestic.. I am not a keen flyer but weird or not I'd love to have this opportunity!!

    • 6 years ago

      by Walter

      Thanks Em..and I can only highly recommend it!!

  • 6 years ago

    by Walter

    Thanks so much Ren! I don't think any amount of words can describe to what flying feels like. But to me, it's such a feeling of freedom :)

  • 6 years ago

    by Ren

    This was such a thrilling piece to read! I am terrified of flying, but I absolutely enjoyed reading this. Sounds like an experience I'd never forget either!! Well done on an exciting write that takes the reader up in the air with you, soaring through the skies, before safely touching back down. Awesome :)

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