It has been over 20 years since I last flew in a light aircraft at Lincoln.
I remember vividly flying over Lincoln Cathedral. ( incidently this is where The famous Lancaster bombers in world war 2 used it as a landmark to guide them back to there Bases in Lincolnshire after returning from raids in Germany.)
Before we set out to Holbeach St John’s I thought about the flight and looked on Google to see how fast a light plane could fly to get an idea where we could fly to and back. Whilst I did I read an item about a light plane crash near Canberra in Australia ,which made me gulp a bit , but was still determined to have a go.
This time I actually got to have a turn at piloting the Cessna I flew from Holbeach St Johns airfield ( near Spalding).
As we drove up to the airfield in son Kevin’s car the excitement grew, this really was going to be a great 70th birthday treat. I had already paid a deposit and paid the remainder on arrival and filled in a form.
Then after refreshments me , wife Joy and Kevin went to wait for the flight.
First me and Kevin had a briefing on how to control the plane.
Then came the time to take to the skies . Paul Brian the instructor was very good at getting the message across on how to fly.
We were told how to get into the plane , strap in and then Paul started the engine and taxied along the grass to the runway , which was a bit bumpy.
But once in the air it was a really smooth flight.
I had requested we fly over my home town of Boston Lincs UK and when my opportunity to actually pilot the plane came I relished the opportunity with Glee.
Initially I was to raise and lower the nose of the plane to keep the horizon In sight , then take my turn at banking the plane to turn left and right.
It was amazing to see from 1500 feet in the air all the land beneath us , the farms, Houses , roads, cars and lorries , looking like model ones from the air.
Even a ship sailing up the river Witham to reach the docks .
Then all to soon then Paul , the instructor took control and flew us back to the Airfield. With another bumpy landing.
Then when we got back into reception I was given my certificate and I was as pleased as punch.
We had a full English breakfast to celebrate.
