An interesting day, more experiences, 5 of not my best landings, 1 good one.
Instructor was running late but that was no problem, I am never in a hurry on a flying day.
Eventually I was sent to pre-flight. There were LOTS of a/c manoeuvring on the small apron but I did the inelegant clamber to dip the tanks, found a lose fastener (is it just me who loves the chance to use the screwdriver?), got through a few other checks then my Instructor appeared and apologised but said we had to swap a/c. So I put her back to bed, control lock, pitot cover, chock etc. Moved to a new-to-me a/c and started again!
So I jump up to the tanks again (who needs a gym membership?!) and now I have to tackle the new 4-point harness (it's an aerobat), and get used to a new, slightly odd panel (a mix of steam and e-instruments). I struggled to see the tacho because it was deep-set and I was full-forward!
Anyway, after realising the rudder pedals were easier and more responsive than I am used to I settled in, until the sun blinded me on crosswind. I couldn't see the e-AI properly but was reminded that the actual horizon was perfectly visible
I found it easier to stay balanced in the turns, got a bit low on Base and too flat on Final so not brilliant.
Raised the nose a little too soon on round 2. Took the sage advice from RHS next time and it was almost OK but I'd got heavy-handed on the throttle so power adjustments on Final were not subtle enough. Grrrr. This is frustrating. I can do this, why not today?!
Cut to the last circuit, ahhh, finally a decent landing, held off for long enough to enjoy it
I admit to being unusually quiet on the taxi back in as I reflected on 2 steps forward and 1 back. I must have looked a bit crestfallen because my Instructor told me not to be downhearted, my general flying was good and the landing was coming on fine.
It certainly is a rollercoaster experience
I decided to re-set before I drove home so I popped into the clubhouse for a brew and a natter and that did me good - laughter's the best medicine and sharing other folks' flying experiences is always interesting.
At it again next week