Blog #19 - Another Successful Training Week

This past week was another very successful training week at Western Michigan University. Although the weather was not perfect, there was a few days that we could at least make some progress on ground material and we had one day to get up and fly! The flight consisted of many maneuvers, pattern work, as well as the start of a cross country. This flight was considered a mock check ride, and consisted of the same material that will be covered in the transition course check. We started the cross country out of Battle Creek (KBTL) with a destination of Kendallville, Indiana (KC62) . We then diverted to Coldwater, MI (KOEB) and practiced diversion procedures and uncontrolled field operations. After our diversion we worked on maneuvers for a while in one of WMU's practice areas just south of Battle Creek. Some of the maneuvers that we worked on consisted of steep turns, slow flight, power on stalls, and power off stalls. These maneuvers have been a little different in the Cirrus Sr20, than the Cessna 150 I completed my private pilots license in, however they were pretty similar too and were not too bad to obtain ACS standards. After we completed the maneuvers we headed back to Battle Creek and we worked on short field landings. These are usually required on the transition course check, so we wanted to make sure I could consistently perform the landing.

Additionally to the flight, we also were able to complete a few different ground lessons to make sure that I am ready for my check. The ground information in my opinion is very important, and should always be prioritized going into a check, or before completing a rating. I am on the right path and hopefully if the weather continues to be good, this check should be completed soon.