Still no suitable weather for my first solo cross country but I am revising hard for my met exam. Richard asked if we had done precautionary search and landings. No I replied, so off to the briefing room we went.
The idea here is unlike a PFL and basically gliding down because of engine failure, you plan you landing and make it under power. Its something you would do if you needed to get down, if you thought you would not make it back to the airfield because of bad weather or bad light.
The take off was normal and we headed west further then I had been in the training area before. As we crossed the river Trent we radioed Humberside Radar and informed them what we were intending and if we could stay on there frequency and not hand over to Doncaster.
At this point I started a slow descent to 1000′ feet and started looking for a suitable field. Suddenly I spotted some movement over to my left.
“Microlight 10 O’Clock low, moving right to left.”
I announced to Richard my Instructor. A few moments later and Richard said he had them, then almost immediately Richard announced.
“Second Microlight 2 O’Clock low, following same track.”
I halted my descent and made a small turn to the left and then to right having a good look round. No one else in sight so I continued on my route.
We finally spotted a field to make the attempt. Not perfect as it was not into wind but the best we could find with all the water-logged fields around.
Having chosen my field the next step was to make three circuits, inspecting the surface and general vicinity. I slowed down and selected the first stage of flaps and descended to 500′ feet. I then made a slow circuit as if to land but on final leg keeping the field to my left to have a good look.
I then made my second inspection run. This time from 300′ feet. First I added a second stage of flap. This was more difficult. At this height I was getting turbulence and maintaining a consistent height and speed was difficult.
After passing the field on final I now descended to 100′ feet. I was now concentrating harder then I had in a long time. On each turn I increased power a little to ensure I did not lose any more speed. Stalling at this height would have be in the ground in no time at all.
With this final inspection circuit made it was now time for the mock landing. This would be landing from low height at minimum speed. The idea is you touch down at the moment of stalling. I made my approach from 100′ feet and added the final and third stage of flap. Down into the field I flew then at about 50′ feet at very slow speed Richard announced he was happy and to climb away. I applied full power, leveled off and let the speed increase. I then removed a stage of flap and climbed away at 80 knots. Wow that was intense!
I climbed up to 1000′ feet and headed back to the field via the Elsham VRP.
The rejoin was fine but my landing was poor. I misjudged the round-out. Might need to book a session in the circuit to get my hand back in.
We taxied back and shutdown. Once back at the club house Richard gave us a debrief. Now for some good weather and that solo cross country.