First Solo on Another Type

**Highlander31** · 11th March 09, 04:42 PM

Congratulations Alex. That photo says it all. I had the same grin when I picked up my Private Pilots license in 1984. However, I did it the opposite of you. I couldn't fit in a 152 (I'm 6'3" 210lbs.) I started out in a Piper Warrior. Due to scheduling conflicts, I ended up soloing in an Archer (great airplane, it's 20hp heavier than the Warrior.) After I picked up my ticket, I cross trained in the 172.

So what's next? Are you going to start on the Instrument rating or just enjoy VFR for awhile?

**Hamish** · 11th March 09, 05:13 PM

Warmest congrats, Alex.

Take care,
Ham.

**cessna152towser** · 12th March 09, 02:32 AM

Are you going to start on the Instrument rating or just enjoy VFR for awhile?

I already hold an IMC rating. It can be a life saver if one strays into cloud or mist, though I much prefer VFR flying.

**Highlander31** · 13th March 09, 07:24 PM

Originally Posted by cessna152towser

I already hold an IMC rating. It can be a life saver if one strays into cloud or mist, though I much prefer VFR flying.

When I was a student pilot, the standing joke was if the visibility dropped, all one had to do was go to the deck and fly IFR (I Follow Roads.)

For those who are not pilots, IFR stands for Instrument Flight Rules. When a pilot is flying on his instruments, he is said to be flying IFR. If a pilot is flying by references outside the cockpit (i.e. landmarks such as lakes mountains, roads, etc.) he is said to be flying VFR (Visual Flight Rules.)