Joel’s solo video in a beautiful 59’ Cessna 182!

October 6th, 2019 was the day my dreams came true.

I remember turning 40 and thinking about some of the goals I had made for my life. Many of the goals had been accomplished but there was one unfulfilled goal that had alluded me, becoming a pilot. As I shared this with those I am close with I was encourage to go for it. My brother in law was gracious enough to allow me to begin working on my private pilots license in his 1959 Cessna 182. I was also fortunate to have my close friend Nathan Collins become my flight instructor. Nathan was recently hired at SkyWest and now living in Boise. I had no excuse to postpone the dream any longer.

The morning I was fueling the plane and a corporate jet was parked right next to the fuel island. The pilots came over to admire my brothers beautiful aircraft and attempted guessing the year. I’ve since learned this is normal anytime N722BS is at the fuel pump. I told the Captain and First Officer that I was about to solo and asked if they had any advice for me. The Captain told me to enjoy every minute if it! After taking off and successfully navigating the upwind, crosswind, and establishing the aircraft on downwind I was able to pump my fist and heed the Catpain’s advice. Flying an airplane is one of the best things I have ever done and today I was doing it all alone. As I came in for my third landing I noticed the corporate jet was holding short and would have a front row seat for my landing…. I greased it! As I made my radio call I announced that my solo concluded I was met with congratulations from the Captain and FO. It was an overwhelming feeling to be met by Nate and Jason (Brother in Law) and niece Amelia (Named after Amelia Earhart). My shirt tail was cut off like all the aviators before me who had accomplished this feat. I felt like I was an Aviator now!

The day would have been perfect if not for taxiing with my flaps extended. Rookie move! I’m sure Nate covered ‘After Landing Checklists’ on the following lesson.