AviationGeek

New address!

2007-08-05T08:35:00.000-05:00

I have moved the blog to a more powerful site - it gives me more control and offers more options for cool features.

The address is http://blog.aviationgeek.com.

See you there!!

-kc

Enter: Ellie

2007-07-27T11:18:00.000-05:00

After having to put our cat, Bugs, to sleep (sadly), we have ended up with a new kitten from some good friends.

Her name is Ellie and she was a barn cat that we are making into a house cat quite quickly. She likes to play and sleep and... well, everything a cat usually likes to do.

Oshkosh 2007!

2007-07-26T22:10:00.000-05:00

Hello! We survived Oshkosh. We left at 5:00am Wednesday morning and got home at around 1:30am on Thursday. A great time was had by all. We saw everything there was to see and made sure that we caught all of the airshow as well. I've posted a few pictures below... I haven't been there for several years, so this was a great trip.

John and Janet, friends of Amber and I, made the trek with us. John is a former student and the aviation excitement was definitely flowing through this group. We survived hot sunshine, brief rainshowers, and foot pain to enjoy what all aviators know as the "mecca of aviation".

aviation 4 real

2007-07-22T11:39:00.000-05:00

sprayers - all over
annoying, sometimes
some r OK

tired of being wrong, tho
tired of not hearing 'good work'
i know it's good work
because i hear it from others

this is not pure aviation
this is politics
messy

crystal clear water
green grass
puffy clouds
freedom

that is aviation
and that
is where i belong.
see u there

Happy Birthday, America!

2007-07-04T09:57:00.001-05:00

Wow - it's been awhile since I updated this blog. Been too busy. We have been really busy at the airport trying to get people finished up with licenses and with moving stuff out of the current buildings - preparing for the move.

It should be fairly monumental. The airport will be a great place once it is all complete, but it will be a mess for a little while.

At any rate.. I may try to post some pictures later on. We're also going camping with some friends this weekend - - there will DEFINITELY be pictures of that.

HansenLabs and Tuxes

2007-06-17T17:55:00.001-05:00

Here's something I'll bet you thought you'd never see!

Back in Business

2007-06-14T21:32:00.000-05:00

Well - we're back in Iowa. After a major trip to Wisconsin and enjoying the Wisconsin Dells, it is back to reality. We are looking at a house in Vinton to rent... it should be pretty nice and a lot bigger than the apartment Amber has been living in. Here's a picture of the wedding day...

I would highly recommend the Wisconsin Dells to anyone that wants to enjoy an easy vacation with plenty to do. Traffic is not a problem and it's a laid-back feeling all around. Prices are OK... everything is around $20 (or more) but it is generally well worth the price of admission.

Back to flying!

Dells #2

2007-06-12T18:36:00.001-05:00

Hello again from the Wisconsin Dells, where apparently there is never a cloud in the sky. I wonder what the weather will be like for flying when I return Thursday............. ??? I'll give you 3 guesses, but you should only need 1.

I share with you today a picture of the highlight of my day... HOWIE'S HUGE BREAKFAST. Yes, that's right! $3.99 for everything you see below:

Well, we're off to mini-golf now.... a little supper before that.

- kc

From the Dells...

2007-06-10T22:42:00.000-05:00

Hello ... from the Wisconsin Dells - on my honeymoon! Yeah, that's right... got married last Saturday (June 9th) to Amber. It all went very well... and we're enjoying some (much) needed time off. Check out the picture...

Other than that, we are just getting settled. This is the first week I've been off from flying in quite a while, so I'm starting to get the shakes a little. I miss it, but it's not bad to take a little break. I will be ready to go as SOON as we're back, though! Bring it on. :D

Clear skies,
kc (& amber)

Backbone - May 25, 2007

2007-05-25T20:31:00.001-05:00

Hello! A trip to Backbone and some pictures to share tonight. Check it out.

Enjoy!

Because I want to...

2007-05-22T20:27:00.000-05:00

Wow - it's been a busy couple of days and I doubt it's going to get any better. Everything from business to flying to weddings. It's all good, though. We'll tackle it one way or the other.

I'm pretty happy staying local and flight instructing. I really enjoy the thrill of teaching people a new skill and sharing what I love with other people every single day. I like to think that my passion for it shines through with each and every lesson.

At any rate... plugging away. The weather has been terrible lately, so I've just been hanging out and getting some extra work done that I've been putting off. That's been OK, but hey... let's go fly!

CIGAR

2007-05-18T16:22:00.000-05:00

Hey bloggers - welcome to Friday! Here's a small tip for ya...

If you forget your checklist in the airplane, or can't find it, try this acronym for your pre-takeoff check:

C - Controls (free and clear)
I - Instruments (heading indicator, attitude indicator, altimeter, etc.)
G - Gas (correct tank, fuel pumps, etc.)
A - Airplane (general.. seat belts, doors, etc.)
R - Run-up (magneto checks, engine instruments, etc.)

Many of you may already use it, but for those of you who don't... there you go. Free stuff.

College graduate!

2007-05-12T17:24:00.000-05:00

Well, it finally happened. I am an official college graduate of Upper Iowa University. I have included a slideshow below to highlight some of the day's happenings... enjoy.

explanation

2007-05-06T14:59:00.000-05:00

I thought I would explain some of the posts I have been making in recent days and months. Some have been positive and some have been negative, to be sure. But fear not, there is good reason.

You see, my intent is not to push myself away from flying or to push anyone else away from flying as a career. At times, it seems like I am harsh on certain airplanes, or harsh on the career itself. The problem is, as a blog reader, you can't begin to understand the true meanings behind what I am writing.

I love aviation. I love being free in the air and being able to go any where I please. And I love to share that freedom with other people, whether I am teaching a lesson or simply giving a ride. I have done many, many things so far for being only 22 years old. There are still two situations that given me the most thrill in the entire world: giving a first airplane ride and congratulating a student after he or she gets their license. There is no better feeling in the entire world. Of course, when they fail, I share that failure and feel equally as bad as they do - but failures happen in all forms and all situations in life.

You see, the negative comments I leave on this blog are simply random thoughts that I am venting. Quite frankly, I am tired of dealing with insurance companies, tired of trying to impress people, and tired of having to prove what I can do and who I am in the aviation world. Further more, I'm tired of trying to be someone I am not.

To all of the young(er) people out there who read this (I think there is at least one of you), do not worry. If flying the big iron is your ultimate dream, I cheer you on. I have no problem with that. What I am conveying on this blog is that flying the heavy iron or even some corporate jobs is simply not right for me.

Flying has to be a personal experience. At least it does for me. It needs to be meaningful and awesome, not another day in the office. Now, to some, flying people around in expensive jets is meaningful. Great! But what needs to be understood is that it isn't meaningful to me - it's just a job. Sure, it's flying, and that's great - but it is on someone else's terms and it means fighting weather which is no fun, either.

I leave you with this thought... I know I am young, but I have experienced a lot of the aviation world in a short period of time. I have washed airplanes, pumped fuel, mowed grass at airports, organized airshows, organized fly-ins, taught people to fly in everything from tail draggers to twin-engine aircraft, flown charter trips all over the country, spoken at schools about aviation, dropped skydivers, and given airplane rides to little kids just getting their first taste of flight. But it's not about what I've done so much as what does it all mean?

Define yourself. Do what makes you happy and you will never regret a single day. A very good friend told me that if you do what makes you happy, you are guaranteed to be successful. I believe he is right.

Don't let anyone else define who you are. If flying for American Airlines is your goal, go for the gold. If teaching people to fly old worn-out tail draggers is what makes you happy, we'll see you in the sky.

Clear skies,
Casey

defying gravity

2007-05-06T14:44:00.000-05:00

Something has changed within me
Something is not the same
I'm through with playing by the rules
Of someone else's game
Too late for second-guessing
Too late to go back to sleep
It's time to trust my instincts
Close my eyes: and leap!

It's time to try
Defying gravity
I think I'll try
Defying gravity
And you can't pull me down!

- "Defying Gravity" from the musical "Wicked" as performed by Kristin Chenoweth

Run to Rockford, etc.

2007-05-03T08:18:00.000-05:00

Another one of those last minute trips yesterday to Rockford, IL. We jumped in the Cessna 172 and flew to Rockford to grab some parts. Did some dual training along the way, as well. Total flight time was just under 3 hours. The weather was perfect, save for a few bumps and a little wind there in Illinois. And guess what!! We made it there with just a sectional chart!

Other Stuff

My dad recently built up this pretty neat HAM radio (amateur radio) bike. It is a mobile unit that allows him to talk with people all over the country while he is riding. Goofy? Maybe... but still pretty neat. ;) I'm sure it will be fun this summer.

I'm out!
-kc

Marshall, MN - Here we come!

2007-04-25T19:40:00.000-05:00

What a day, what a day. Just returned from a trip up to Marshall, Minnesota in the 'ol Navajo.

We departed at about 8:00am and had about 1 hour and 25 minutes enroute. It rained fairly hard from Cedar Rapids up through Waterloo and then cleared up fairly nicely. We were solid IMC throughout this time, but it was just rain and actually smooth. We didn't mind at all.

We did have a flat nose tire up in Marshall. The guys up there were great and got things fixed promptly. I still don't know what caused the problem - it wasn't that bad of a landing! :P

Coming back into Cedar Rapids was a little more of a ride - a lot more bumps and more rain, but still nothing severe. Shot the ILS into Cedar Rapids - non-event as well. I guess there just isn't much to tell you about the trip! :P

Keep it real and safe.
-kc

seems 2 b fading

2007-04-23T20:30:00.000-05:00

don't know why
but flying is kinda going away
farmers - -
they r in the fields
it's ok
i will wait
i will wait

we r on the verge of some neat stuff
my bro & i
we have worked hard
and it may pay off
but if it doesn't...
we learned a lot

beautiful night
sky is the perfect blue
crystal clear ...
calming winds
oh to own my own bird

i would've gone tonight -
4 sure
up and away

Looking back on it all...

2007-04-18T21:37:00.000-05:00

When you stand back and take a look at what you've done with your life, it can really be an eye-opening experience. For a 22 year-old student, I've done a lot of things and met a lot of great people. I've also met some people that I wish I hadn't met, but let's not drag this post down this early on...

For the most part, most of the people I've met have been completely awesome. I have learned many life lessons from these people and have learned that a friend can be found in just about anyone at any given time.

I just finished my last college test today and am looking forward to graduating in May. It is going to be such a freeing experience - a whole new set of goals, dreams, and aspirations start today. One of these dreams is to change the way people learn to fly.

Martina McBride has an interesting song out now and one of the lines goes something like this:

When impossible dreams seem impossible and are thrown by the wayside, dream them anyway.

Trust me, Martina. I'll dream them anyway.

pursuit of happiness

2007-04-15T08:27:00.000-05:00

If you haven't seen the new movie titled "Pursuit of Happiness" starring Will Smith, it is definitely worth renting or even buying. For all of us out there that are dreaming of making life better or simply moving up in the ranks of life, this movie is an inspiration for all.

One of my favorite quotes from the movie is Will Smith's character to his son:

Don't ever let anyone tell you that you can't do something. Not even me. Just because they can't do it themselves, they think you can't do it either. They are wrong.

It is a perfect movie for those of us who need a "pick-me-up" when all you hear is "no you can't". This movie will definitely change your outlook on life and give you hope for overcoming anything that comes your way.

Here is a link to the official movie site: Visit the movie site here

Clear skies,
kc

upside down

2007-04-11T17:08:00.000-05:00

u can not do this in the navajo
or the "king air" or the jet

u can not do this when you
use autopilot or gps
the autopilot will be scared
4 sure

who knows what this is
upside down
u know it

a whole new perspective - there ya go

N39911 flies again

2007-04-10T14:40:00.000-05:00

The great Taylorcraft recently rejoined the ranks as it jumped into the skies on Easter Sunday. Calm winds and some generally quiet weather helped make the flight possible. It was great to be flying the 'ol girl again - more beautiful than ever. It really is a joy to fly ... so much better than that stupid tank that is the Navajo. :)

Ah... I don't have it too bad, do I?

Clear skies,
kc

wii kend

2007-04-06T21:31:00.000-05:00

finally! the weekend is here. we're playing some serious wii right now. bowling primarily. it's good fun. we are seeing who can throw it the hardest - fitness challenge.

oh - the ideas i have rolling around in my head. all good - they should all be built, i'm sure. limited resources right now, but oh my... stay tuned. :) we are gonna change the way aviation thinks, organizes, interacts. i am positive of that!

stay tuned - clear skies!
kc

NO!

2007-04-05T18:15:00.000-05:00

no - you can't
no - you shouldn't
no - you're too young

no
no
no

well-

watch me
here we go
up and away
buckle in folks

Flight Simming in Alaska

2007-04-03T16:02:00.000-05:00

Flying isn't all about the real thing! My brother and I recently loaded up the trusty Flight Sim 2004 from Microsplat. We downloaded a model of the Aviat Husky and went for a little formation flying in Alaska.

Don't even ask me where this screenshot was taken, but we visited many different areas. As you can see, it was snowing (real-world weather). We had a blast. Later on, we put on some floats (the model came with those) and we went hopping around some lakes. The model of the Husky is pretty decent. The flight characteristics aren't bad, either. Ah, what a plane.

Sometimes you just gotta do a little gaming.

clear skies,
kc

the dream

2007-03-31T07:53:00.000-05:00

a quiet little airstrip
all my own
perfect grass - no bumps
the perfect place for aviation
pure

a perfect summer evening
out rolls the husky
we float around - maybe an hour or two
and back we come
home again

simplicity -
sometimes escapes man
focus on simple things
let the complex work out

no hassles
no deadlines
no destination

just aviation
pure

Night Flying

2007-03-28T13:29:00.000-05:00

Night Flying

A lot of people avoid flying at night, but it can be some of the best flying you'll ever experience! Granted, there are some things that need to be considered when flying at night - weather, extra safety precautions, and more...

As a flight instructor, teaching night flying is one of the more fun topics we cover in the private pilot training. But it only comes when the weather is right and the considerations are made because night can certainly cause problems, too.

Don't pass up a chance to take a night flight, though. Remember that you must be current to fly at night (3 night takeoffs/landings within the last 90 days) and then go have some fun! You'll see new things and enjoy a view that one a few get a chance to see!

Spring has Sprung

2007-03-25T18:29:00.000-05:00

Iowa is letting us in on some great weather here lately. It's been rainy for a few days, but today is 77 degrees and sunny. Quite windy, but we can deal with that.

We tried to fly some kites today, but I think it was too windy. :P The gusts kept causing the kite to make erratic movements and that lead to some interesting crash landings. But all is well - the kites survived and so did everyone involved.

I am contemplating going to get my seaplane rating soon. I am ready to take another step and add some more titles to my certificate. More importantly, I think every rating makes me a better pilot because of the new knowledge I gain and the new instructors I work with. Plus, float flying just looks fun.

I'm going to post some pictures soon... have some new ones. Until next time!

-kc

And now, for something a little more upbeat...

2007-03-11T09:54:00.000-05:00

IT'S SPRING! :)

Ah yes... the time of sunshine, wind, and warmer temperatures. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the best time of year to fly. Sure, everyone is ready to go and is making sure their airplanes have made it through the winter, but generally this is a very breezy time of year. If you want the best flying weather in Iowa, you need to wait until Fall.

But - none of us are going to do that, so LET'S GO FLY!!!!

-kc

Loving our guvment and their brilliant ideas......

2007-02-19T20:30:00.001-06:00

Well, folks. The time has come. Go visit the AOPA web site. I’ll wait…

Back? Great. What do you think? Are you ready to start paying new fees and taxes to our government so you can enjoy your freedom to fly? Ready or not, here they come! The FAA (and President Bush) have announced their plans to fund the FAA and it most certainly includes using user fees and new taxes for general aviation users.

What kinds of fees and taxes? It’s gonna cost you to use airspace. It’s gonna cost you more to fill up your aircraft at the pumps. And it’s gonna cost you to file new applications for medicals, pilot certificates, etc. etc. I don’t know about you, but it’s sounds good to me! Or not….

If these measures hold up and get passed, this is certainly mean the end of flying for many people. Having to pay for simple usage of airspace and other minor tasks is going to kill off any hope that flying is an expression of our freedom as human beings. It will severely limit the desire of people to enjoy aviation on a personal level.

Oh, and by the way… aviators already pay their taxes. Unfortunately, some states (IOWA) tend to take the tax money that goes into the aviation fund and use it in the general fund. Hmm…

Cold in Iowa

2007-01-28T18:24:00.000-06:00

Well, the cold has definitely arrived in Iowa. It is about 9 degrees here and will be 0 or below tonight. The 'ol airplane heater does not keep up very well with those temperatures.

Looks like a big fight ahead for user fees and new ways of funding the FAA in the future. AOPA is luckily going to be watching this closely and I think they will fight off any major pushes. If you aren't a member of the AOPA, you should check it out here.

Not much news right now, I'll post some new pictures later on.

"Yeah, I flew through that..."

2007-01-18T15:14:00.000-06:00

Ever listened to a charter pilot (or any pilot for that matter) go on and on about how he or she just came through the "most ice I've ever seen" or the "strongest thunderstorm line I've seen in a while"? They think they are cool because they beat the weather and made it!

Know what? They aren't necessarily "cool" - sometimes, they are just down right stupid. Yeah, if you're one of them, I called you stupid. We learn early on in our training of the dangers that some weather can produce: icing, severe turbulence, several thunderstorms... on and on. But as we gain confidence and become complacent as pilots (we all do it), we start to push the envelope.

This envelope is especially stretched in the charter business where getting people from A to B means making money, and sitting on the ground means, well... no profit. I have personally been along on several charter flights (not PIC) that flew through weather that I would not have personally done. Perhaps that is my style.

Just remember this... these pilots are not "cool" or "awesome" - quite frankly, it some situations, they are simply LUCKY. Set your personal limits and stick to them. Do not let others influence your decisions and do not compromise your limits because you "have to get there".

I'm done. :D

-kc

exit strategy

2007-01-09T19:36:00.000-06:00

since we r in the mood for exit talks
i share mine as well

the time is here 2 move on
a different direction - never hurt any one
it's tough to go, sure
what doesn't kill, makes us stronger - right?

friends, experiences.. they r all stored
can't stay for ever... maybe they don't mind anyway
but sometimes ppl misjudge
am i misjudging? am i misjudged?

at any rate, the time draws near
to walk a different walk
and start new again

thank u for the fun and experience
it is all stored. be sure.

Two Thousand and Seven

2007-01-04T08:54:00.000-06:00

Well, so far 2007 has been uneventful. Just like 2006, I am going to work and going to school. Will it ever change? Only time will tell. I will be looking for a full-time job some time this spring as I continue to plan for a wedding in June. That is all going well, by the way, and should be a lot of fun (yes, airplanes are involved).

New Year's Eve
We went out to eat New Year's eve with Kyle and Jessie. It is a great time and a good meal. That was about the extent of the day, though, which was nice. I enjoyed the time off and not having to answer my cell phone on an hourly basis (don't take that the wrong way, all you who call me). The picture to your right is before we all went out to dinner. Wee....

Keep 'em flying-
kc

mistakes

2006-12-31T22:41:00.000-06:00

u and i
we make mistakes
sometimes

i learn from mistakes daily
u can learn from ur mistakes 2
stronger
smarter
more more more

we are what we become
from mistakes made
but learned from

they make mistakes like u
let them mock
they makes mistakes like u

smile and learn

happy new year :)

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

2006-12-29T13:41:00.000-06:00

It has been a while since I dropped a note here. There really hasn't been much exciting going on. I continue to fly. I am doing quite a bit of charter work now with a company out of Cedar Rapids, IA. That is fun and a good change of pace from instructing, but I still can't talk myself out of teaching people to fly. It is by far the biggest rush I have experienced in aviation.

Aside from that, of course, Christmas recently passed. It was not a bad weekend, but fairly busy. I got some new toys for my computer and thus have been able to play some newer games and do things a little more quickly. Plus, I expanded my already-large 4GB music collection onto a new hard drive. :P And, I got One Six Left, the companion DVD to One Six Right. It is pretty darn cool.

Enjoy the holidays and happy new year!

Quote this...

2006-12-03T09:55:00.001-06:00

"Be who you are and say what you feel,
because those who mind don't matter,
and those who matter don't mind."
-Dr. Seuss

What aviation means to you

2006-11-25T13:41:00.000-06:00

As I continue to explore the various aspects of aviation, I can't help but realize one thing: it is extremely important to make sure that aviation is what you want it to be for you.

There are so many various jobs and experiences to be had in the aviation industry that it can be overwhelming at times, especially for those of us who want to try and do everything at least once (or twice). But amidst all of these experiences one must find what aviation means to them. Is it flying low and slow on a lazy Sunday flight? Is it a nice cross-country for supper or an adventure out west in a light aircraft? Or is it flying the heavy iron and hauling passengers around?

Whatever the choice, it is important that it is what aviation means to you. Failure to pinpoint this could result in aviation turning into just another job - just another thing that must be dealt with in life. And for those of us who are passionate about flying airplanes - the last thing we want it to be is just another job...

Thinking outside of the box

2006-11-14T21:06:00.000-06:00

Recently, I have decided that I hate "the box". What is "the box"? It's that thing that everyone puts you in. The box is what attempts to define who you are and what you'll be, generally based on what those before you have done and accomplished.

The box is quite limiting. It is clear to me that I think outside of the box and don't have much time for those who think inside the box. Most people think I'm going against the grain, and they're right. That's what people who think outside the box do. Go against the grain .....

Faith. Free-thinking. Freedom. Embrace it. Make dreams a reality. Think outside the box.

Navajo & Me

2006-11-09T21:34:00.000-06:00

Well, I've been putting some time in a Navajo into my logbook lately. Have been going to Kansas City and have a trip in the Navajo Saturday as well to DuPage (Chicago). It should be interesting, but I have definitely ruled out this type of flying for a career. It is too boring and redundant for me -- but I don't mind helping where I can, I suppose. I do miss flight instructing (no - I haven't quit - just been gone a couple of days - can't wait to get back). I have realized that flight instructing part time and perhaps working another job (I'd love to manage an airport) is probably my future - not corporate flying.

Oh well - life continues. It's been a while since I posted here! I'll try to do better next time. I'm trying to get some more time in the Pitts, too. :D

Should General Aviation aircraft be banned over NYC?

2006-10-27T07:57:00.000-05:00

Everyone -- I mean EVERYONE should take a moment and read this excellent article by Phil Boyer of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).

read more | digg story

"Let the party begin." - A ride in the Pitts S2B

2006-10-17T18:11:00.000-05:00

"Let the party begin." That was the simple statement my aerobatic pilot made before advancing the throttle on the little Pitts S2B and taking me into a world I had never experienced before. And he wasn't kidding.

It was a cloudy, dreary day over the Vinton, IA airport, but that didn't necessarily stop us from enjoying a great aerobatic ride in one of the coolest airplanes every built. We climbed to altitude and did several maneuvers including aileron rolls, inverted flight, 4-point and 8-point rolls, and a couple barrel rolls. Due to the overcast, loops were left out... but they will be re-visted at some point.

Flying the Pitts is unlike anything I have ever experienced. You can literally think your next move, and the airplane diligently does it. It's an incredible feeling of power and control - the feeling that you can do whatever you want and put yourself in whatever position you choose.

An incredible airplane and an incredible experience... I will be back!

Iowa-Ohio State and other stuff...

2006-10-12T19:33:00.000-05:00

New pictures!
Hey hey! Check out the new pictures from the Iowa-Ohio State game this year! Yes, I randomly ended up with tickets to this football which just turned out to be a major game on national television. You can see from these pictures that it was a beautiful night and a packed stadium in Iowa City, Iowa. It was crazy! What a blast.

Now, Iowa did lose, but oh well. I had fun anyway. It was a great atmosphere...

What else?
Well, it's been pretty slow lately. Winter has hit Iowa early and we have had 30+ mph winds and cold temps lately. The cold temps aren't a problem, but the 30+ mph winds across the runway aren't much fun...

Sunday I am going to fly the jump plane for the Vinton Skydivers in Vinton, IA. I did a little of this when I went to school at Des Moines ... it's not too hard and definitely something different to do! Soo.. I am reviewing some of the information and regs and getting ready to have some fun!

No pictures, no news...

2006-10-03T10:41:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been a fairly non-eventful couple of weeks. Just going to school and flying as usual. Things are starting to pick up again in the flying department as I may have a 2-3 new students starting soon... which will bring me up to around 8 students perhaps. That is plenty for a college kid.

I am starting on my Senior Project next term for college. This is really the final push to complete my degree in Public Administration - I have a couple of elective courses to take but those are simple. Looking forward to being finished!

I will try to update again soon with some new pictures or something more interesting at least...

- kc

T.G.I.F. & Various Topics

2006-09-22T13:07:00.000-05:00

Airport Tours
Today we gave two separate airport tours - a preschool class and a retirement community group. Both were fun and had great questions. We generally show them all about the weather information that pilots need and how pilots plan a flight, then take them through the hangar and other rooms where airplanes are worked on. The young kids always get a kick out of sitting in an airplane and being the "pilot".

Met my cousin!
Finally had a chance to meet a cousin of mine that I have talked to several times on the phone but never met in person. She attended Embry-Riddle for flight training and has up through her CFI certificate. It was great to share experiences and chat about flying.

Slow week...
Overall, it has been a slow week at the airport. Wednesday was full, but really the weather has not been great for flying, especially for solo students. Lost a couple to cancellations as well, and that never helps. Oh well.

-kc

Me, Myself, and the Champ

2006-09-20T22:15:00.000-05:00

Airplane chocks - check. Two primes - check. Switch to "Left Magneto" - check.

With a flip of the prop, the little 65 h.p. engine springs to life and causually idles along until more is asked of it. I climb in, buckle the seat belt (which is just as simple as the aircraft itself), and check the engine instruments. Everything looks perfect.

Stick back and a little throttle to get out of the grass. I taxi the little Champ out to the runway and do the necessary traffic checks, then proceed to back-taxi.

A quick run up and control check, and things are ready. No, this is no twin-engine super-powerful complex aircraft -- this is the Aeronca Champ, and it doesn't seek to waste your time on the ground. Only a few simple checks here!

I carefully position the Champ on the centerline of runway 17 at Independence, and advance the throttle while applying forward pressure on the stick. 40 mph... 50 mph... we're off! No, the world is not racing by as we slowly ascend, but why should it? We race our entire lives - nothing wrong with a little slow-pokin'.

I point the Champ southeast and decide to follow the river. Altitude is around 2,000 MSL (about 1,000 AGL) and it's a perfect day for a ride. I follow the river long enough to catch a glimpse of some birds, a few deer, and a worn out barn. I circle the Champ back towards Winthrop, where we watch football practice at East Buchanan.

The sun is beginning to set, and it's time to point this little airplane home. At 80mph, even a short trip is not really all that short, but it is enjoyable, and for some reason, speed is not a concern of mine tonight.

Approaching the airport and runway 17, I slow the Champ down to around 65-70 mph and line myself up with the runway. A wheel landing is in order this evening. I slowly allow the airplane to descend until both main wheels gladly accept the pavement and we're rolling - straight, even! With forward stick pressure, I hold the tail in the air as long as possible and finally the tail meets the pavement and we're officially "down".

Taxi off the runway and to the fuel pumps. 3.6 gallons of gas for a little over an hour of flying. With the smile on my face and the fun I had, it could have been 36.0 gallons and I wouldn't have cared.

This ... this ... is what flying is all about. Thanks to Amber Ling for the photos! This was her first time in a Champ as well - I think she is sold on the idea.

Nice weather.

2006-09-09T11:03:00.000-05:00

I woke up today, thinking I'd be going flying... and here's what the METAR told me:

KIIB 091335Z AUTO 06008KT 3SM OVC004 13/12 A3012 RMK AO1

Oy... I like Iowa weather, but sometimes it can be a pain in this business. Oh well, school work never gets weathered out.

What else?
I have been reading some new books lately, thanks to a friend at the airport. The author is John Nance, who is also an airline captain (maybe retired). If you ever get a chance, pick up a book of his and read it. I haven't sat down and read anything in a couple of years, but his books are great and very correct in all of the aviation references. Run on over to http://www.amazon.com and see what you can find. Or the library would work too.

-kc

Introductory Flight

2006-09-04T08:55:00.000-05:00

Recently gave an introductory flight to a grandson of a friend at the Independence Airport. His dad took some great pictures, so I thought I'd share one of them.

The picture is during the pre-flight phase. As you can see, I am explaining something to Chris Bowden about the checklist, I believe. His brother is looking on.

In other news...
Not too much else is new, really. Today is Labor Day and I am taking it a little easy. I have some school work to attend to (of course). Other than that, pretty much same old stuff, different day!

Another hobby!

2006-08-28T11:34:00.000-05:00

See? I can do other things besides fly...

Thanks to John Moes for taking us boating the last couple of times. Always up for a relaxing ride on the lake.

Nice hair.................

Just flying

2006-08-24T21:42:00.000-05:00

Hello All... it's been awhile since my last update. That's because nothing has really been going on, unfortunately.

I've just been flying and going to school. The weather has been somewhat good and somewhat bad, and thus it has been slightly slow this August.
I don't mind the slow-down ... it has given me a slight breather. However, I wouldn't mind it picking up again in the future.

That's about it for now - I'll post again when I have a neat story or some real material.

Clear skies,
kc

Manchester Fly-in Breakfast

2006-08-13T20:30:00.000-05:00

Well, another Manchester Fly-In is in the books and it was a great success once again. I do not have an official airplane count, but there was constant traffic and many different aircraft for the public to check out.

I gave airplane rides from approximately 7:30 a.m. until about 1:00 p.m. It was a great day and I managed to make back my costs for the airplane! What more can a guy ask for? Donating my time is not a problem for me.

Our airport is really getting some great exposure now and I think that is important in the long run. The public is starting to realize the value of having an airport as well as understand what all of this "aviation stuff" is about.

Looking forward to more great events in '07..

- kc

Boating

2006-08-06T08:26:00.000-05:00

Well, I've added yet another toy to my "List of Toys I Must Have" - a boat. I went boating (not for the first time, but haven't done it in a long time) with a student of mine Friday evening on Lake Delhi. What a great way to get away from everything and enjoy other activities (there are other things besides flying - but not many).

There was some type of Christmas celebration going on (Christmas in July?) and that was kind of neat to see the decorations that some of the people put up. I was hoping to have some pictures, but we really didn't take many because we were having too much fun looking around. Oh - and I did get to drive, too.

Heading down to the Amanas tomorrow for a small, one day "vacation".

Clear skies,
kc

Not just flying!

2006-07-28T18:59:00.000-05:00

Hey hey! For those of you who thought I just fly airplanes, check it out. I play piano and trumpet, but mostly trumpet.... piano is a work in progress.

Why do you care? I don't know - you probably don't care.

Hot Weather
It's been real hot lately here in Iowa - mid to upper 90s with humidity. Today I flew the Taylorcraft with Lee Bowden as well as took a group of farmers out to check crops. It's not a bad gig - pretty good flying, but very hot.

Watch the density altitude on days like these... whew.

Clear skies,
kc

Sometimes...

2006-07-26T22:16:00.000-05:00

Sometimes things happen for a reason. I have just recently learned this. Certain events have transpired that will no-doubt mean clearer skies for me. Oh, I can't provide specifics because that would be improper, but just know that as a 21 year-old, I continue to learn about people, life, and dealing with both.

It's funny, though, to be 21 years old and more mature than some of the people I deal with who are older than myself.

Oh well! To each their own. Fly safe, and have fun.

-kc

What's going on?

2006-07-23T08:26:00.000-05:00

It has been a busy week. There have been spray planes at the airport non-stop for the past week. We seem to pump fuel (JET-A) non-stop from about 6am until dusk... they have gone away briefly now and will probably return in a week or so it seems. It is fun to have them around, but it is tiring.

Odds 'n Ends
Amber just finished up a run with "Children of Eden" in the Pass the Hat Players in Manchester. It was a good show and it only rained once on us outside.

John Moes recently passed his Private Pilot check ride. Congratulations to him. It was neat to see that airplane go from being without an engine, to taking someone for a check ride.

In addition to working this summer, I am taking statistics for college, which is the worst class I've taken thus far. I think many people would agree with me here.

I am continuing to work on things for AviationGeek.com when I find the time. Lately it has been crazy and I haven't had time to do a thing with those projects.

Until next time,
kc

Field of Dreams

2006-07-09T08:28:00.000-05:00

The group appears out of the corn at the Field of Dreams on a partially cloudy/somewhat rainy Sunday afternoon.

Casey the Pitcher gets ready to deliver the triple-slider to the unsuspecting batter.

Kyle the Pitcher lets go of a nasty pitch hit only by the luckiest of batters.

Amber just pitches.

Hey - it's a neat place. I don't think anyone can deny that.

"If"

2006-07-02T15:09:00.000-05:00

"If" by Rudyard Kipling

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or, being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with triumph and disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with wornout tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on";

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man my son!

Random thought...

2006-06-25T22:09:00.000-05:00

Just something to think about, folks............. does anyone know where this sign can be found?

Is aviation ready?

2006-06-24T19:27:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I sit back and wonder: Is aviation really ready for someone like myself?

As I continue to enter into this industry and to realize that much of this is not really about flying, but rather about who you've pissed off, I wonder if the aviation industry is really ready for someone like myself who simply enjoys flying. No strings attached - just flying. I continue to find myself in situations that simply amaze me: people turning small situations into big ones, an unwillingness to let flight instructors do their jobs, and other bullcrap that simply ruins what aviation really is all about.

Luckily there are a few people who continue to make flying fun. These are the students who appreciate a good lesson. The folks that show up at the airport simply because they wanted to get off the ground. The smaller children who have yet to experience the joy of flight. For all of these people, I am gracious, because that is what keeps me going some days.

It's unfortunate that some people have to always cast a shadow on everything. It must be sad to live that way.

And so, I continue to wonder: is aviation REALLY ready for a young man who is eager to share his knowledge simply because he enjoys the moments when students realize what they've mastered? Is aviation really ready for someone who is pure and true in his desire to fly? Sometimes I wonder.....

King Air 200

2006-06-21T09:00:00.000-05:00

I just returned from a trip in a King Air 200 to Louisville, KY. This is the second time I have flown as second-in-command (co-pilot) on a King Air trip - the first was a trip to Minneapolis, MN.

The first thing one will notice about the King Air is that there is quite a bit to keep track of in comparison to many twins. This is not to say that it is more difficult to fly, because in many ways it is actually easier as far as starting and operating the engines. The aircraft actually flies really nicely and is extremely stable.

Our trip to Louisville, KY left Cedar Rapids, IA at 6:10 a.m. and arrived in Lousiville at 8:30 a.m (add one hour in KY), so about 1 hour and 20 minutes wheels to wheels. Our cruising altitude was 23,000 feet (FL230) with an average ground speed of around 280 knots.

The trip home required some deviations to miss some weather which lengthened the trip. Our cruising altitude was 24,000 feet (FL240) and we averaged around 230 knots ground speed with the lowest being 206 knots at one point as we snuck around the weather.

All-in-all it was a great trip, and the passengers were even early getting back to the airport, so it ended up being a fairly easy day, minus the 3:30am wake-up call!

Misc. Stuff

2006-06-05T13:23:00.001-05:00

Once again it has been awhile since I updated this. I have been fairly busy, but not so busy that I couldn't have written something. Oh well.

This past weekend I attended the 2006 Quad City Airshow, which was great as usual. Many top performers (Kirby Chambliss and Jim LeRoy, as well as the Blue Angels to name a few) and great weather. I didn't even get sunburnt this year as I was very prepared for that.

We also had family in town for my brother's graduation. My mom's sister and her husband come from Denver, CO and it is always good to see them as they obviously do not get back often.

I am still working on AviationGeek.com, so keep standing by. Maybe Summer '06 will be the big opening. ;) Have to find some time to work on these things...

Clear skies,
kc

Happy Mom's Day

2006-05-14T20:31:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all of those mother's out there. Our family didn't do much for the day - just relaxed a little and went to church.

It has been raining here for about 4 days and it looks like at least tomorrow is going to be slightly rainy as well. I'm hoping for a little better week of flying this week as last week's weather really wasn't worth anything.

Clear skies,
kc

"Those small airplanes are dangerous!"

2006-05-11T10:45:00.000-05:00

Ok. So this struck a nerve this morning in the newspaper... see the Cedar Rapids Gazette, May 11, page 11A. There is an article about the dangers of traveling for campaigns in small aircraft. The author does not even attempt to look at the other side, choosing rather to attack general aviation and deem those "small airplanes" unairworthy for the entire nation to read.

I've seen a lot of media bullcrap on this issue. The main problem is that they are writing about an industry/hobby/whatever that they simply do NOT understand, and therefore most of the articles they write are just completely wrong.

The quotes, though, are my favorite. They get people to give them a quote that sounds just right for making aviation seem unsafe. My question is: what does the freakin' media have against flying? Would they rather get rid of aviation totally and just drive places again?

Food for thought...

700 and 4

2006-05-09T13:48:00.000-05:00

I am sitting here waiting for the weather to pick up... but that is not happening. Additionally, the guy with the Cub is busy this evening, so I find myself with some time on my hands. No big deal - we all have things going on in life. But I do enjoy that Cub (see previous post).

Oh, the things that are coming...
I don't think people know exactly what my plans are for the "future of flight training materials". That's good - I don't want anyone to really know just yet. But I assure you that it will change the way people learn to fly. Forget about boring textbooks ... forget stale diagrams... that's all I'm really going to say at this point. Keep watching this blog and the main site (http://www.aviationgeek.com) for more information and teasers.

-kc

Goin' Cubbin'

2006-05-07T08:41:00.000-05:00

"And let's get one thing straight. There's a big difference between a pilot and an aviator. One is a technician; the other is an artist in love with flight."
- E.B. Jeppesen

Folks. This is what flying is all about. Forget your GPS, heck - even forget your VOR navigation! Pure stick and rudder. I have been doing a tailwheel endorsement for a fellow out of Vinton in his Piper J-3 Cub and I have to say - what a blast!

For those of you who are trapped in those business jets and multi-engine tubes, you don't really know what you are missing. Oh - I know... let's get there and go fast and yada yada. Have fun. But Saturday, yes Saturday... I flew like they used to. Wind in my face, pure stick and rudder (remember when you didn't have autopilot?), grass fields....

Some people wonder why I have so much against autopilots, multi-engine aircraft, and being a bus driver. Flying is meant to be fun. It has always been fun for me, but I have found that just getting up, turning on the GPS, and letting Auto do the work does not really do much for me any more. In fact, it doesn't really do anything for me at all. If "fun" is babysitting an airplane for you, then go have some fun.

So, for those of who have simply have to "get there", well... you just go ahead and get there. I'll be the one in the Piper Cub (or any other great taildragger) putting along at 60-70 knots enjoying the view and really - really flying.

Pictures of the Cub flying are coming soon.

Projects and other stuff

2006-05-01T10:12:00.000-05:00

I continue to keep busy with school, but I am also tackling some new aviation-related projects that I think will really change the way flight training is viewed. Keep checking back for more updates as things continue to get further along in the process.

School & Stuff
New classes are starting this week ... Management Information Systems and Cases in Public Administration. Should be interesting! I am ready to be done with this school stuff - a waste of money if you ask me - it's just another business, folks! Another business.....

Immigration
I really don't have anything to write about with regards to immigration in the U.S., other than the fact that all of the hoopla is starting to irritate me. Oh - and absolutely no spanish Star Spangled Banner. I will move to Europe.

Clear skies,
kc

Rainy days

2006-04-30T15:59:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been raining here constantly for about two days now. Not much fun, really.

What you're looking at is the result of a landing gear failure at the airport earlier this year. It was not fun and not easy to get this thing back on its feet. What's even more impressive is the fact that it is a mechanical gear - not much to go wrong, yet, here it is!

Bluegrass Band

2006-04-16T21:53:00.000-05:00

Yes folks, that's right. You're looking at the next hottest bluegrass band to hit the world. On guitar is Casey Hansen, with Kyle Hansen on harmonica and violin/fiddle. What could be finer?

Some hits include:

Swanee River
Swing Low, Sweet Chariot
On Top of Old Smokey
Mimi (an original)

Don't miss these boys on your next bluegrass excursion! I'm tellin' ya... this is good stuff.

-kc

Happy Bunny Day

2006-04-15T06:48:00.000-05:00

Hey folks,
Happy Easter. Enjoy the weekend.

Well, have had some adventures lately. We went to Backbone with some friends the other night. You can see pictures from that at Griffith's Blog. Yep, he's got da media.

School continues to march on and keep things from getting done in my life. :P I tell ya... sometimes I wonder about this whole college thing. Seems like a money-pit to me.

Anyway... back to the school work.

-KC

Spring has Sprung

2006-04-11T21:22:00.000-05:00

Hey all!

Finally - an update! I'll bet you've all been reading and waiting. You haven't? Bah...

Well ... still just going to school and keeping up with the flying. That hasn't been too difficult lately as the weather has been crappy and the people have not been interested. Oh well.

A new site!
Check out my friend's new blog: GriffO. Neat stuff and fun reading.

I'll do better updating this. I promise.

Super Bowl ... for those who care.

2006-02-04T09:17:00.000-06:00

Hey all,
The title of this message doesn't mean anything. I just put it there. I will watch the Super Bowl, but I don't really care who wins.

Not a lot of news lately. My brother and I continue to work on the "major project" I keep alluding to on the blog here. It is a major undertaking, but a very neat deal. You will all see it soon enough.

-kc

I'm not dead.

2006-01-26T21:42:00.000-06:00

I'm not dead - just been busy! With school and flying, the internet time goes down slightly.

Just passed another student today for the Private Pilot. I'm 5 for 5... 100%. I think I'm starting to get the hang of this .

Look for another update tomorrow when I have some more time to write. Also, I'm still working on new ideas for aviationgeek.com - so stay tuned.

Clear skies,
kc

Deceased: The sun

2006-01-04T21:02:00.000-06:00

Yes, I do believe that the sun has gone away for good. No more. Just clouds. At least here in Iowa.

But seriously, maybe the sun will be out tomorrow or Friday. There are indications and reasons to be hopeful - but who knows what will actually happen.

Watch for some more updates in a while.

Clear skies,
kc

A neat poem...

2005-12-30T22:21:00.000-06:00

Just a quick post, here... found this in my files from awhile back. :) Enjoy.

----
Beyond the loss of life
Beyond the jumble of sorrow and outrage
Beyond the courage of people helping people in need
Is the now unforgettable image
The image of the airplane and the building and the fire and the shower of fragments
The airplane which is to us a work of art, and of inspiration
The airplane that symbolizes what is wonderful about human inequity
The airplane that represents what we can do when we set our minds to it
The airplane that we watched fly over as children and said, "someday"
That same airplane was used against its own will
Humans at their best created that airplane
Now humans at their worst...
Pilots, please tell your kids in the coming years that there once was a time
Before this final loss of innocence
When airports were clubs not armed camps
When air travel was a mixture of fantasy and adventure
And when the image of an airplane was only art, science, and dreams
Not the building and the fire and the shower of fragments

America and the image of the airplane will recover ---
but we will remember a different time.
----------------

Sitting and sitting...

2005-12-30T11:28:00.000-06:00

Good Lord... another day like the rest here in Iowa. I'm about ready to go back to work at the grocery store!

New Web Site
A friend of mine, Lee Bowden, recently started a blog. You should all check it out: http://tcraftbowden.blogspot.com. He has a lot to say and is an interesting guy with some great experiences to share.

My Dream Plane
While I don't have much aerobatic experience, I do have a little and I absolutely love it. I really think I could excel doing this type of flying and I have posted a picture of my desired platform in this post. I am taking donations from anyone... all major credit cards accepted (haha). :)

Clear skies!
Casey

Maybe the sun just went away...

2005-12-29T12:42:00.000-06:00

I really can't believe the run of bad weather we've been having. It's not terrible, but it's not the best to be training people in (private students). Low ceilings (< 1000') and poor visibility is tough. I don't know what we have done to earn this, but hey - take it and run, right?

Pretty quiet at the airport right now... everyone is at lunch. Of course, the air traffic on the radio is minimal, if existent at all. I guess everyone else is thinking the same thing I am.

A great web site
Another good web site (besides this one) was brought to my attention the other day. FlightAware.com allows people to watch live IFR traffic online for free. Yes, something is still free in this commercial world of ours! It is pretty nifty and does a good job, so check it out. Or don't... I guess I'm ok with it either way!

Time to go stare out the window some more....

Clear skies,
kc

I can't see anything!

2005-12-28T15:37:00.000-06:00

Yes, the wonders of the weather phenomenon known as 'fog' have come to visit Iowans. We have had some real warm weather and are currently fighting low ceilings and low visibilities. I haven't flown since Friday (23rd).

Ah well - I have been catching up on some other things and I guess that is good, too. I may get some chances to fly in a brand new (yes - just painted) King Air 200 sometime in the future. I have a connection that helped me out with this - thank you. I will be following up on that shortly as well!

Well - hope everyone has a great 2006!

Happy Holidays

2005-12-22T09:33:00.000-06:00

I know, I know... it's all about being politically correct now. But.... MERRY CHRISTMAS!

Well, it has been a fairly quiet couple of weeks. My military student passed his check ride on December 13th and headed off to Texas. I have some more students going and one that is also just about ready for the check ride - probably after the New Year.

Not much else is new - keep watching this site as some big things are coming! Enjoy the holiday and happy new year!

Clear skies,
Casey

TGIF

2005-12-09T08:21:00.000-06:00

Well, Friday has arrived... which doesn't really mean much for someone like a flight instructor, but still.. Friday is neat.

We got another 4-5" of snow yesterday - I have a bad feeling about this winter. We haven't had a good one in years, so I guess we're about due.

Maybe I'll do some flying today - need to get on the phone.

Clear skies,
Casey

Holy crap - it's cold!

2005-12-07T12:45:00.000-06:00

Wow. Winter is here in Iowa. Today we're struggling to make it above zero degrees. Morning lows today were around -17.

Not a ton of flying going on at the moment... although I have flown the Archer III some - it has a great heater (heck - it's a brand new airplane) and the owner warms the airplane and hangar up very nicely before we head out.

Of course, flying when it is this cold brings another thing to mind -- what happens if you go down some where? Good question. We've been bringing along coveralls, hats, gloves, etc. just incase that would occur. I know I'd be glad to have it all along.

Too bad it's so cold... winter flying is some of the best flying there is!

Clear skies,
kc

One Six Right

2005-12-06T07:58:00.000-06:00

If anyone is looking for a great Christmas gift, check out "One Six Right", a general-aviation documentary that has just been released. The aerial shots are EXCELLENT and the story is great, too.

The web site is located at http://www.onesixright.com (that was hard). I believe the DVD is around $30.00 USD - not too bad for something of this quality. You can also watch a trailer there.

Clear skies,
kc

Snow, sun, and cold

2005-12-05T18:05:00.000-06:00

Well, winter in Iowa has definitely arrived. We have 5+ inches of snow on the ground and below-zero temperatures. Don't believe we've had this for some time... maybe briefly last winter. It's been fairly mild.

Of course, this means the aircraft don't fly as much - mainly because their human counter-parts don't want to freeze to death. The old heater in the C-172 does not spring to life when the temps are single-digits. Dang.

School and other stuff - not too much going on at the moment. Maybe fly tomorrow? Only time will tell.

Clear skies,
kc

The Beauty of Flight

2005-12-02T14:36:00.000-06:00

Not much to say recently... don't forget one thing folks: aviation/flight is beautiful. Don't let people and "politics" get in the way of that.

Clear skies,
Casey

Time for an update!

2005-09-10T10:06:00.000-05:00

Wow, it has been awhile!

I have been fairly busy. The latter part of the summer has been better for flying and the people have also been more willing. It was a slow start, but things have picked up. I'm nearing 900 hours of flight time now, so I'm happy with that. Could I do more? You bet - but I'm still a college student and now school occupies some of my time.

I'm also working on a couple other new projects ... they should be neat. Stay tuned for that stuff. Keep the skies clear and let's go flying some time!

-kc

Fly, fly, fly...

2005-06-18T16:26:00.000-05:00

Tons of great flying going on lately.

Twin Time
I have been doing a lot of twin flying with Jim and seem to be getting fairly proficient. I enjoy the new toys and the power, but sometimes it feels like I'm driving more than flying and for that reason, I cannot say it is my favorite type of flying. But it is another form of the fun and you gotta give it credit for that.

Taylorcraft
Now here is where the true flying is. The 'ol T-Craft keeps on teaching me lessons, but I have tamed the beast some as well, so we're starting to work together a little better now. These old airplanes are the most fun an aviator could as for and I really do enjoy every minute of tailwheel/T-Craft flying. I can't imagine how I ever survived as a tricycle gear-only pilot. Wow.

Welp - day off tomorrow for Fathers Day, but back at it again on Monday. Having too much fun - should be illegal.

Clear skies,
kc

The windy, dreary day

2005-06-14T22:24:00.000-05:00

Hey all...
It was another one of those days in Iowa - windy and dreary and raining if you were in the right spot. I hate days like these because they are hard to predict and it's hard to figure out what one can get done. Oh well.

Tomorrow should be a busy day -- hopefully I can get all of the flying in that I had hoped to get in. Should be around 5 or 6 hours. That'd be great.

I'm tired and it's bed time -- gotta be at the airpot @ 6:30 a.m. tomorrow. Can't be fun (hey, I mean it... it is fun!!)

See ya tomorrow!

-kc

Airplane rides & stuff

2005-06-12T22:16:00.000-05:00

Well, this past weekend we gave some airplane rides. 23 people and 3.5 hours of flying took up my Saturday. It was good fun, but weather and wind moved in making for a rough ride. Lee Bowden, owner of the beautiful Taylorcraft, stopped in and gave a couple of rides as well. Always a good time.

Tomorrow is back to work with more instructing, a possible trip to Burlington, Iowa, and of course, mowing! :P

Clear Skies,
kc

Aviation Politics

2005-06-09T22:51:00.000-05:00

Folks, let's get down to brass tacks. Aviation is worse than running for a public office. The politics are terrible and the "friendships" that are made are often purely for personal gain. This is a hard reality that I have started dealing with recently, because all of my aviation relationships are pure and I truly enjoy the friends I have made.

So my question is -- why are some people so ruthless when it comes to this flying stuff? Some people will say anything about another person just to ruin them. I won't name names, but there was an opportunity for me to move up but I decided against it when I heard about the true nature of this gentleman's operations. Less than professional - let's leave it there.

Anyway -- besides being thrown into the political mess of aviation, I have had a blast flying recently. Everything from the Taylorcraft to the 2004 Seneca IV - I love it all. The Taylorcraft is still the most challenging and my favorite, but the Seneca is also quite the experience. I hope to get paid to fly it one of these days. We'll see.

I continue to flight instruct at IIB. Liking that as well.

Clear Skies,
Casey

Wow... sorry about that!

2005-04-23T21:56:00.000-05:00

Wow. It really has been a long while since I updated this. Things have been happening and happening and I should have been keeping you folks more up-to-date. What was I thinking?

I am now in the process of getting myself ready for yet another busy summer of mowing and flying at the airport. I really can't complain about my job - I love being at the airport and just taking in the atmosphere. It's great, really. The mowing can get a little boring, but hey... I'm still at the airport.

I am also in the process of starting to help with the Manchester airshow and fly-in this summer. I hope it actually happens this time around -- it went over well the first time, I thought.

Also! I thought I had some news, but I guess I don't. Finishing up ground school and then will be hopefully picking up some new students this Spring. Things are looking up, up, up!

Keep 'em flying.

kc

Hello world

2005-03-18T10:47:00.000-06:00

Another update for you! You (whomever you are) are getting spoiled.

So what's new? Well, got to fly into Waterloo the other day with only light gun signals. Took a plane to get the radios fixed... and boy did they need fixed. It worked out well, though, and was a good experience. Those lights aren't as bright as you might hope!

Ground school for the instrument students will be starting soon. I am looking forward to that, although it is quite a bit of work to get ready for. I always learn stuff myself, though, so it should be good fun.

Well, that's about it for now. REMEMBER! When flying a taildragger, mind the crosswind. That's all I'm gonna say. ;)

Taylorcraft for life.

-kc

Wow, an update!

2005-03-14T19:35:00.000-06:00

Well, well, well, you say. An update, finally!

I would say the same thing, except I know the circumstances behind not having any updates. You see, it's been quite the busy last couple weeks. A lot of flight instruction and a lot of flying in general. It's been great. The weather has been decent, so what more can I ask for?

Tomorrow I will pass 600 hours! I'm really just waiting to hit the 1000 hour mark, but I'll take 600 for now.

Anyway... more updates coming - promise.

Kenosha, WI and some other stuff

2005-03-02T06:59:00.000-06:00

Aloha! Just thought I would pretend I live in Hawaii.

Might be going to Kenosha, WI tomorrow morning with a guy to take a dog there -- he breeds them apparently. That should be a fun trip. About a year ago we tried the same trip and the weather turned IFR when it was supposed to be VFR and we didn't have any approach plates or anything, so we had to turn around. How disappointing. Hopefully this time goes better.

Good weather has arrived! Finally! Man, we paid for it, didn't we? I guess this weekend looks like crap again, but I have to be out of town anyway, so I guess it doesn't much matter.

Keep 'em flying -- kc

One down!

2005-03-01T17:20:00.000-06:00

Just an update for anyone that cares (all 1 of you): the ADF problem has been resolved! I'm pretty happy because that means we can start doing more instrument work with it.

The radios are still wacky... but that is getting looked at soon.

Keep 'em flying - kc

Ground school, wind, etc.

2005-03-01T06:19:00.000-06:00

Hello everyone. It's been a couple days... what's new?

We may be possibly setting up a formal ground school at Independence for the instrument rating. There has been quite a bit of interest so I think it would be beneficial to everyone involved.

It's been windy here the last couple of days - so not much flying. The airplane is going in next Monday to get the avionics worked on. The radios have background noise and the ADF (automatic direction finder) isn't accurate.

Keep 'em flying! - kc

Sunday, Sunday, Sunday!

2005-02-27T10:07:00.000-06:00

Well, it's Sunday. I'm bored. I was supposed to fly today, but the weather isn't going to work out, I don't think (snow and rain - mostly rain I would think). I have quite a few appointments tomorrow, though, so that should be cool.

Went to Des Moines Int'l (KDSM) Friday -- that was exciting. I always enjoy going into DSM. Pretty nice controllers and it gives me some excitement, especially after always being used to flying at an uncontrolled field.

That's about all I know for right now ... we're working on possibly getting a Part 141 school at Independence, so I will keep you all posted on the progress of that.

Keep 'em flying!

Welcome!

2005-02-23T18:38:00.000-06:00

Hey! Thanks for stopping by this crazy site of mine. I'm still dusting things off and picking up from the construction around here, so don't get too worried just yet.

Has anyone seen the new Mooney Ovation2 GX? Oh man... I'm taking donations right now to purchase one of those!

I'm headed for Tulsa, OK at 4:30 a.m. tomorrow morning. Will probably have an account of that trip on here for ya'll (practicing for the south) tomorrow evening.

Keep 'em in the sky. --- kc