Started Flight Training
I started flight training at Northampton Airport in late June of 2025. I had been interested in continuing flying ever since my second flight with Wright Flight. I was fascinated by the feeling of taking off the ground and feeling free in the air. There are a few local options for flight schools nearby. I ended up choosing Northampton for many reasons including the many female role model instructors, one who is now my primary instructor. And the welcoming atmosphere of the airport, no matter what your experience in aviation is.
The first few hours of my training consisted of primary flight maneuvers including takeoffs, climbs, and turns. And then progressing to emergency procedures and emergency landings. These first twenty hours of instruction helped me become comfortable making my own decisions in the cockpit, gaining independence with each lesson. I became capable of fueling, taxing, communications, pattern legs, and landing completely by myself. This was all in preparation for my first solo flight, planning for my sixteenth birthday.
During Training
First Solo
Once my instructor felt I had full comprehension of regular airport and airplane procedures, I was signed off for solo. I completed my solo three days after my sixteenth birthday, before driving a car. Completing the flight by myself really helped my confidence and security in the plane. It’s an experience I will never forget as I continue with my journey. This is only the first step towards full independence and achieving my goal of obtaining my private pilots license.