This past year has been an extraordinary chapter in my aviation journey, filled with new experiences and adventures that have reshaped my flying story.
In the spring and summer, I participated in numerous counter-drug missions with the Civil Air Patrol. One particularly memorable sortie involved piloting a Cessna 182 RG for four hours in 90-degree heat—while wearing a flight suit. It was as challenging as it was exhilarating. I also plotted courses and search patterns in our state-of-the-art Cessna 182 G1000, where I found both fun and purpose in the skies.
As fall arrived, I reconnected with my flying club, taking on a dual role: continuing as a board member and stepping into a new, paid position as General Manager. This opened up exciting opportunities, including flying a Cirrus and embarking on cloud-piercing adventures. Just last week, I served as Pilot in Command for a 154-mile cross-country flight to N71 near Harrisburg, PA, and back. Cruising at an altitude of 6,500 feet, it was both the farthest and the highest I’ve ever flown—a notable milestone in my flying career.
The pinnacle of this incredible year came unexpectedly: an invitation to fly aboard a Falcon 900B business jet from Rochester, NY, to Boca Raton, FL, and back. While most of the trip was spent in the jump seat, I had the unforgettable opportunity to ride shotgun for an hour on the return leg. The experience was surreal, a dream I never imagined would come true.
I’ve shared some videos of these adventures on my blog—take a moment to watch them and share in the joy of flight.
Happy Holidays to all, and here’s to even more sky-high adventures in the coming year!
One response
Sounds like you have had a fantastic year Barry, good for you buddy! I wish we had the ‘enthusiasm’ for a Civil Air Patrol here in the UK, I’d join up! :-/