students solo

It was a chilly November day (-6c) and Ryan did his solo circuit but his classmates were kind enough to at least do the ceremonial soaking with warm water.

Congratulations Ryan... keep up the good work!

Ryan comes in for a landing following his solo circuit.
Ryan knows what's coming and gets ready....
The Presidents hands Ryan an OFC towel to dry off: Marc Desjardins gives Ryan an OFC Towel which he keeps as a momento of his First Solo
Ryan Gillis by VZN after his first Solo... Congrats Ryan...

Many moons ago, or at least it feels that way, I experienced my first solo. Other than passing my flight test I think it was one of my most memorable experiences of flying. I told my instructor at the time, Andrew McKenzie, to not pre-warn me of an upcoming solo since I'd probably get the heebie jeebies. Well one day after a couple of circuits Andrew says "I'm getting out Marc, you're good to go solo for 1 circuit". Well by the time I gulped and was about to utter "you think so?" Andrew was out. The circuit was great and hearing Tower say "Congratulations on your first solo" was exhilarating.

I'm sure our two recent solo students felt very similar.

CONGRATULATIONS to Jamie Scafe and Ashley Ha who went solo this week. Job well done, keep it up!!

Jamie Scafe after his First Solo: Jamie having already been ceremoniously soaked stands with his instructor Kristian

Ashley Ha tries to keep warm inside following her saturation: She does look happy despite the dampness!!

Have to show at least one drenching photo!!: Ashley receiving her First Solo reward

Keaton Giles, who started his Algonquin College classes in September but began flying at the OFC in August, had much to be thankful for this beautiful Thanksgiving Day... one being his well performed solo flight.

Congratulations to Keaton and his instructor Jeff Davy.
Keaton Giles and his instructor Jeff Davy

Keaton knows what's about to happen so gives his personal belongings to Jeff

Fellow students and members are only too happy to assist in the traditional soaker!!

Now drenched, Keaton is thankful it isn't -20c out!!

Patrick Allard flew solo this afternoon. Congratulations to Patrick and his instructor Chris Busch.

About to Touch Down: Patrick Allard about to land in JZP after his first solo flight. A beautifully smooth landing is a great way to end the first solo.
Happy: Patrick after his first solo, records the flight data on the Hobbs board.
Heros: Patrick and instructor Chris Busch after Patrick's first solo.
Celebrate: A well deserved soaking following the first solo.