A week on the ground...

Heya!!

Today I realised I haven't updated this blog for more than a week, so it's about time I give some updates. I wasn't at all busy with flying during the past week. My last flight was on Friday 19th. December, so it's been quite a while now. I'm flying again tomorrow and I hope I'll manage to get back to normal as soon as possible. It's not healthy to spend so many days without any flying, especially knowing I have to improve those landings! Yep, last time I had a couple of hard landings unfortunately, so I'll hope to improve them tomorrow. I also visited William's Gateway Airport last time, where I made some traffic patterns alongside some departing 707's! Anyway, we'll see how it goes tomorrow.

This week I also uploaded some photos of my first few days in Arizona. I know I had to upload them before but I've got quite a lot of photos to sort out. (And really, I'm not the type to get things done immediately ey! :-p ) Here's the link to the album.

First few days in Arizona

During the past week, I found some time to go a bit around the place; (which adds to more and more photos to be uploaded). On Sunday, we visited the Commemorative Air Force Museum which is here in Mesa. It was a great day and I enjoyed every minute of it. It's a museum full of old aircraft, some of which are also in flying condition. Below are two photos, one with a P-51 Mustang and the other on the rear side guns of the B-17 Flying Fortress (which is also in flying condition) We also got to know about another aviation museum in Tucson, which I want to visit one day.

The day before, on Saturday, we went to a place called 'Fountain Hills'. There's a huge fountain which goes off every hour, and overall it's quite a nice relaxing place. As regards Christmas, (btw, Merry Christmas to everyone... belated I know, but better late than never :-p ), basically I spent Christmas here with some of my mates. We went to Midnight Mass together (for a change, I slept) and then had Christmas Breakfast here together. On Christmas Day we also made a meal here together, so basically I spent my Christmas at our flat with my friends. But I enjoyed it. The day after Christmas, we went to the Apache Trail, which is a road going through mountains and valleys, with very nice scenic views. We spent a whole day there and we only managed to see part of the whole trail. So we might go again one day. Below is a photo of me out there.On Sunday we went to a theme park called 'Castle Coasters'. It was fun, even though the rides weren't so 'thrilling'. There was also a go-kart race (which was too slow, but still fun). We enjoyed it. In the evening, I discovered that I wasn't flying on Monday (today) and so I decided to go to 'Out of Africa' with Josef. It's a wildlife preserve with a lot of animals running around (behing fences of course!!). There was a sort of Safari tour around some animals and it was great. There also was a show, 'Tiger Splash', with tigers playing around in a pond of water. And, there was also a 'Giant Snake Show' which I thought it wasn't a very good idea at first :-) But ye actually we ended near two big 'friendly' snakes. Below are two photos; one at 'Castle Coasters' and the other at 'Out of Africa'.

So, that was a bit of an update of what happened during the past week. I have loads of photos to sort out which I'll try to do as soon as possible. I need to get them organised in different albums on PicasaWeb. I'm also going to be away for New Year's Eve. We're going to Las Vegas!! So, not to be late again, Happy New Year to all of you in advance!! I'm off now because tomorrow I have to wake up early o prepare for my flight

Till next time!!

Weather cancellations... but the skies are clear again

Hey there!

Things are getting quite busy over here. This week I was scheduled to fly everyday but unfortunately the weather wasn't quite good. In fact, on Tuesday I had my flight cancelled. Visibility and cloud ceiling were low and so I had to stay on the ground. I was pissed off because I had waken up at 5am since I was scheduled to fly at 0730 and then I had to cancel my flight. And I really wanted to fly!

I got back to flying yesterday but the weather wasn't so good either. Yesterday I made some S-turns and turns around a point as well as a sort of traffic pattern on a road so as to practice for the actual patterns at airfields. And today was the day for touch and go's. I took off from Falcon Field and stayed in the pattern and did some nine touch and go's. The first few landings were quite hard but they got better by the end. However, I have to get my approaches stabilised because they were too flimsy! By the end of the flight, the ride became more and more bumpy with clouds closing in. But it was great and I enjoyed it as always! I'm flying again tomorrow and the weather is now back to normal so hopefully tomorrow I'll go to Mesa Gateway Airport for some touch and go's there. Gateway is an airport with three infinite runways, with big birdies landing there. So it should be fun. I'm really looking forward to it.

I think that was all as regards flying. Tuesday we decided to go to a shooting range nearby and shoot a couple of rounds. It's incredible here; you just go, rent a lane, a firearm, buy ammo an targets and you're all good to go and shoot. We had a great time and I'll go another time for sure. I actually discovered a sort of "hidden" talent in me hehe. I actually got the aim right!! So beware if you ever get in my sights ;-) heh!! Below are some pictures.

Anyway, I'm off to sleep because I actually have to wake up very soon for my flight!! I have to take the 6am van... take-off at 0715. Hope everyone's doing great!! Till next time!!

First Landing!! Still alive to tell the tale :-)

Hello everyone!

I had two more flights since my first flight and today I also did my first landing! As you can see, I'm still alive... no injuries, no damages :-) It wasn't bad, but quite far from a soft landing. Well, practice makes perfect and I wasn't expecting my first landing to be smooth!

In these last two missions, I practiced steep turns, slow flight, trying to track over a road, crabbing and side slipping in the wind, stalls and other basic flying stuff. Slow flight today was quite cool, especially when turning. It feels like you're coasting freely above a point. Stalls were great as well but rather a bit "uneasy" until I got the feel of it. Steep turns were better last time so I have to try and improve them. And radio communications are getting along quite well as well (apart from one minor glitch of calling the dispatch frequency with a practice area call! Ye I can't imagine the flight dispatcher's face hehe)

But ye, overall, I'd say "so far, so good." I'm really enjoying flying. Before the flights I'm always thinking "Let's go flying! Let's go flying!" Up there it's just great. You people on earth are really missing something! :-p

Below are some pictures of today's flight. First one is me taxiing to the runway for departure on N4110R, and second one is me taking off!

I'm really looking forward to fly again and I'm scheduled to fly tomorrow morning (that's in eight hours time!) but most probably the flight will be cancelled due to weather! What?! Here in Arizona?! Yes unfortunately, the weather isn't too good here at the moment. Today it was very cloudy with low cloud ceiling and tomorrow it is forecasted to be worse. So most probably I'll have to end up cancelling the flight. This is the current TAF for William's Gateway Airport, (which is very close to Falcon Field)

KIWA 160548Z 1606/1706 10007KT P6SM VCSH SCT045 BKN060 OVC100
FM161200 12006KT 6SM -RA SCT020 BKN030 OVC060
TEMPO 1614/1618 3SM SHRA SCT005 BKN010 OVC030
FM162200 22006KT P6SM -RA SCT030 BKN050 OVC070
FM170300 27005KT P6SM VCSH SCT040 BKN070 BKN100 LTD TO CLD VIS AND WIND TIL 161300

Basically that's a lot of letters and numbers which says that at the scheduled time of my departure, visibility can be as low as three statute miles with clouds as low as 500 feet above ground level. If the weather forecasting is right (which normally is), I'll be staying on the ground tomorrow unfortunately! But anyway we'll see how it goes.

I'm off to sleep now! I still need to get some rest and I still have to wake up early! Till next time!!

FlyingJohnny is now FLYINGjohnny!!

This has got to be one of the "historic" posts... why?
Because... I'm finally up in the air... I'm FLYING!!!

Yep... I had my first flight yesterday and there's one word to describe it... AMAZING!! Finally I witnessed for real what flying really is. Really, I think I can't actually describe the real feeling I had up there. It just feels great... you're free... floating freely in mid-air... as if nothing and no one can bug you... up there, it's just you and your aircraft (well and your flight instructor telling you to watch your altitude speed etc. heh!) But ye, it's one great sensation!

I was really excited and looking forward to my first flight. I went quite early to the Flight Dispatch to get things done as early as possible. I went through the weather briefing and prepared the mass and balance and performance documentation. I then met my flight instructor who gave me a short briefing of what we will be doing during our first flight together. He would do the take-off and landing (first time ey!!) and then I would fly to the south-east practice area for some turns, climbs and descents and familiarisation with the area. We picked up the aircraft keys from dispatch and off we went to our aircraft, N4107A. We performed a walkaround together and the little birdie seemed good enough to fly. And then, it was time to get in the cockpit and kick off!! I plugged in my headset, sat in the cockpit and my instructor helped me out with the cockpit flows (which I still had not yet studied well!)

Engine startup... few rounds and the engine came to life!! Then came the first radio call... "Sabena Dispatch, Diamond 4107A is leaving the ramp..." For some time, I couldn't really beleive I was actually going up in the air! Then, a taxi clearance to the run-up area, then to runway 04R and... "Diamond 4107A cleared for take-off, runway 4 right..." Full power and off we went! I was finally in the air! After take-off, the instructor gave me the controls and we proceeded to the South-East Practice Area. I couldn't beleive I was actually flying... for real!! But I was! I then performed some basic turns, climbs and descents and the instructor also showed me some visual reference points on the ground. We flew for about an hour, but really time passed so quickly up there!

We flew back towards Falcon Field where I handed over the controls to my instructor. He performed the landing and then we taxied back to our parking position. My first flight was over. Later on I had a de-briefing with my instructor and he signed my logbook. I now have my first flying hour for real!! Below is a photo of me and my instructor taxiing back to our parking position after the flight. Thanks to Andre' for the photos!!

And now, I can finally say it myself...

"When once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward, for there you have been, and there you will always long to return"

It is a quote attributed nearly everywhere to Leonardo Da Vinci. Some dismiss this however, including an expert on Leonardo Da Vinci (according to http://www.spacequotations.com/). Whoever said it, I think it's true...

And now... next flight, tomorrow (or rather today now) 12th December at 1115 local time (1915 Malta time). Obviously, I'm looking forward to it... I want to fly!!

Till next time!!
FLYINGjohnny!!

Delayed on the ground... but tomorrow we take off!!

Hi all!

After several delays and delays, and more delays, the big day has finally arrived! Tomorrow, I should start flying!! Wuhuuu!!! Finally, we beat gravity and take off to the skies!!

I was so anxious to start flying this week but at first it seemed we were never going to get started! I was getting annoyed hearing "maybe" and "but" all the time! Now that I'm here, I just want to fly ey! But finally, I was given a date and time, and a plane, and hopefully it won't change and so, I'll start flying.

I should be taking off at 1145 local time and the first birdie to take me to the air should be N4107A, a Diamond DA-20. Most of the flight will be a demo by the instructor and I will only have the controls for a short time when airborne. But it's the start, and I'm really looking forward to it.

Anyway, that was a short post for today because I'm soon going to sleep. I need a good rest! I hope everyone's doing well down there on the little rock. Over here, things are going pretty well so far, and tomorrow they should get better! I'm finally flying!! Anyway, I'm off to sleep!! I'll try upload some photos as soon as I can!!

Take care everyone!! Till next time!!

First week in Arizona

Hello all!!

A week has already passed since I arrived here in Arizona. Well, a week and two days to be exact. I wanted to update this blog earlier but I wanted to get some pictures organised before posting, something which I still have to do. Besides, I also had some problems with my laptop, which are now hopefully fixed.

During this week, we were supposed to have a number of briefings in order to get ready to fly but... surprise surprise, the whole briefings schedule was messed up! Why?! Organisation... as usual. But you know, "these things do happen sometimes." So yes, most of our briefings were cancelled, which left us with quite an empty week as regards our training. We were told we will be having these briefings during the weekend. So tomorrow, Saturday, we'll be having these briefings. We were supposed to start flying as early as next Monday and hopefully we'll get these briefings done so that I can finally start flying.

The week was still busy however. We got a car, a 1997 Chevrolet Malibu, and so we had quite a number of stuff to settle. And then I also had to fix my laptop. In the meantime, I also found some time to go enjoy the pool and jacuzzi... busy ey?!

Anyway, it's 2230 here and I'm really tired today so I'm calling it a day. Tomorrow I have to be up by 7am and I better rest. I hope I'll get some pictures sorted by next time!

Take care everyone!!

Johnny in Arizona!!

Hey all,

Finally, I'm now sort of settled here in Arizona and I can write my first post from here! I was trying to find some time to update the blog but I've been quite busy settling in, in the past three days. I arrived last Wednesday at 8pm local time. The flight was very tiring. First an eight hour flight from Brussels to Washington DC, and then, after passing security and immigration checks, we had to walk all the way through the terminal to get to our gate which of course, was the last one at the end of the terminal, and then another five hour flight from Washington DC to Phoenix.

At the airport we were met by the other Maltese guys from our previous prom and by a guy from Sabena Airline Training Centre who took us to our apartments. I'm now living in "The Springs" at Alta Mesa which is a sort of complex of "luxury" apartments. It took us a while for us to settle in but as days go by, I'm getting used to the place.

I've got a few words to describe the USA so far... BIG, HUGE, INFINITE... Ye, everything's so big over here; the roads are big and wide, the cars are massive (no you won't find any Fiat Punto romaing the sreets here!) everything is big and exaggerated... mind you, even women!! Sorry US citizens but you really need to start working out on your fat bellies ehh!! And no, BigMac's won't help!! Ye, welcome to the US. But so far it's all going well. Thursday was also Thanksgiving Day which is a well known and celebrated holiday here in the US. We "celebrated" it by eating out at a steak house; typical American food, BIG steak, BIG plate... ye you can easily gain on weight over here! But anyway, it was good.

On Friday we had our first day at the school. We had a welcome briefing and oun fingerprints were also taken for the FBI. Now, the FBI will decide whether they will allow me to fly in US airspace!! Yes my fingerprints will actually tell them whether they can trust me or not!! Then again, welcome to the US! We were then taken around the school; administration offices, flight dispatch, the hangar, and then out on the apron!! It was cool going around the aicraft, thinking that in a few days time, I will be flying in one of them! I can't wait to start flying!! We were shown the Diamond DA-20, which is the aircraft I will start flying on! I've got a couple of photos of my first day but I will upload them next time until I get them sorted out. The following are two of them; me and Josef in the DA-20, and me next to a photo of an aircraft I'll be flying in a couple of months!!

Speaking of photos, I have also uploaded some photos of my visit to Malta, with various farewells with friends and families. Click on the album below to see the photos!!

Farewell Malta!!

Anyway, I'm calling it a day today. It was quite a long post but I had to give some updates! Next time I'll upload some photos of my first days in Arizona! I'm now off to sleep because I'm qutie tired and I'm still trying to get into the local time here.

Until next time... take care everyone!

Farewell Malta... miss you all!!

Unfortunately, my short visit to Malta is soon coming to an end and this morning I'm packing up the last few things and by half past noon I'll be at the airport. It's one of those sad moments of course, but at the same time I'm also looking forward to start my flight training. So ye, a day of mixed emotions I would say.

Since my last post, I had more and more meetings and farewells with friends. I really enjoyed all my time here! Thanks to everyone for such great times! I've got some photos and I'll try to upload them as soon as I can when I arrive in Arizona.

I also went out for lunch with my family on Sunday and I really enjoyed it, especially watching my little nephew running about the restaurant! Thanks to my family for a wonderful Sunday afternoon spent together... will surely miss you all!!

Anyway, I better switch off and continue packing! Unfortunately I might not be having internet for a couple of days until I get a connection in Arizona so I probably wouldn't be able to update the blog, reply to e-mails etc. during the first couple of days. I will upload some photos of my visit to Malta as soon as possible.

I'm off... I bid you farewell Malta... farewell my dear friends... farewell my caring and loving family... will miss you all and see you in a couple of months time!!!

Bye bye!!

Greetings from Malta!!

Finally, I'm back on the rock for a couple of days, half of which are already over! I was going to write something as soon as I arrived on Thursday but it was quite late and the only thing I wanted was a good rest in my bed!!

Anyway, first of all, I should write something about the ATPL exams which are now over and done with! Finally I can say that the ground school is truly over once and for all and next week I will start with the second phase of my training... flying... wuhuu!!! I'm really excited about it and can't wait to take off and soar the skies!

Back in Malta, these past few days have been full of meeting with friends, catching up on things and bidding farewell. On Friday I had a meal with a couple of ex-colleagues from my summer job and then I went to meet a couple of friends in Paceville. I had a great evening and enjoyed every minute of it. Yesterday evening I also met some more friends and had another freat evening! Thanks to all those who made the past two days possible ;-) I'll try and post some photos as soon as I can.

Today I went out for lunch with my family; my parents, my sister and her husband and my nearly-two year old nephew, who's growing quite fast I must say! I really miss him! Anyway, it was another great afternoon. This evening I might meet some more friends. So yes this weekend is the weekend of farewells unfortunately! I know I'm going to miss everyone but I'll be back in a few months time!!

Anyway I'm off to see what I'll be doing this evening!! Farewell everyone... Till next time!!

Final days in Belgium...

Today I can say that I'm keeping up to my mid-November resolution of updating the blog more regularly! And finally, finally I can say that ground school is nearing completion and soon I will be starting the second phase of my training... the best phase... flying!!

Exams went pretty well so far. I had Mass & Balance, Flight Planning, Performance, Radio Navigation, General Navigation, Principles of Flight, Human Performance & Limitations, Airframes & Sytems, Instrumentation and Air Law. On Thursday I have the final four; Meteorology, Operational Procedures and VFR & IFR Communications. So yes, today I spent my day trying to understand how clouds form, what is instability in the air... pity it all contributed to my current mental "instability" heh! Actually meteorology is interesting, but rather boring to study. But anyway, it's over in a few days! And finally I also get to visit Malta again!! I'm really looking forward to having a short break before taking off for flight training.

Speaking about Malta, this Friday 21st November, if you happen to know me (duhh you're reading my blog! :-)) and wish to say hi and bid me farewell before going to the "US-and-A" drop by at Ryan's Pub at around 11pm. I would be happy to see a couple of old friends before departing ;-) I'm only staying in Malta for four days but I tried to find some time to meet some people and catch up on things. So see you there!!

In my last post I forgot to mention my recent visit (well... about a month ago) to the Control Tower here at Brussels Airport. It was interesting to see the actual environment of air traffic control and see the people who will one day give me clearance to land in their airport. Below is a photo of me sitting at the ATCO's desk :-) change of job?? Well, air traffic control is interesting... but I'd rather fly ;-) The view is much better... and the office is a bit "higher"!!

Anyway... off to continue studying. I hope everyone is doing well and hope to see a couple of friends in Malta!! Take care everyone!!

DOOH!!! Just remembered I had a blog!!!

So, ok.. it's been like more than two months since my last post, and I must say, I had nearly forgotten I had a blog to update! So I can say that my attempt in keeping an up-to-date blog failed miserably during the past weeks. So here's a little update, together with a little promise to start updating a little bit more often... yes, something like New Year's resolution in mid-November!!

I must say that lots and lots of stuff happened during the past two months. I had a look at my last post and it seemed so long ago! Ye I still had to do my last observation flight to Corfu, something which I did, and which was yet another great experience for me. And yes, I can't wait to be flying on the line! Then I had a short break in Malta, a weekend which I really enjoyed. Next week I should be back there for a couple of days and I'm really looking forward to see my family... especially that cute little nephew of mine!

Anyway, back in Belgium, September was very busy with simulator sessions. Sometimes, I had up to five missions in one week. It was getting tiring, and stressful. But mission after mission, I made it through and my dream of flying in the skies was slowly slowly coming true.

But dreams... well... the word says it all... they're dreams, and they can have the tendency not to become real, and we really have no control over them. But it gets so disappointing, when you beleive so much in a dream, and then everything gets shattered in an instant. I'm not talking about my dream to become a pilot... But yes, other dreams I had, seem to have faded away, and I had no control over it. It did shatter me, and the past weeks weren't at all easy. For some time, I was also feeling bad about being here... and ye I did feel that even my pilot dream was getting shattered at some point... it wasn't an easy time at all.

A week or two ago, I received a card from someone with a short poem and I felt the words were impressive, especially given the circumstances I was facing... I actually thought of writing it down here so here it goes...

Son,
When problems overwhelm you,
Here's a little poem for you to remember...

Carry On

Carry on as I would, Son.
Lay your problems down to rest.
Put all bad times behind you,
And strive to be your best.

Carry on with confidence,
Your hands now hold the reins.
Don't think your talents won't compare,
For my blood runs through your veins.

Carry on with honesty,
You know what's right and fair.
Just call on me when problems strike,
You know that I'll be there.

Carry on the dream, my son.
Let your conscience be your guide.
Remember when you feel alone,
I'm standing by your side.

(Shelley McDaniel)

Obviously, I don't think I have to say who sent the card... quite obvious... but I found the words really impressive... as well as encouraging.

Anyway, show must go on ey... it's not easy but in some way or another, show must go on...

At the end of my simulator sessions I had the checkride, and luckily, I made it through, and perhaps, it was my first achievement in this career. I was glad about it, and it was a boost for me as well. And then came exams, which of course, as with any exams time, is not a very great time! So yes, studying and stress and bored and whatever... so far I had half of the exams and I made it through. Next week, I have the remaining half, so yes I'm still studying and I'm actually quite fed up about it! But hopefully, it will be over in a couple of days time.

So yes, that's about it, a little update finally which brings me to the present day. Next week, if all goes well with exams, I'll have a short break in Malta, which I'm obviously looking forward to! I need a little break, and I need to see my family as well. After this short visit it's seven months away from home, so I do need to spend some time in Malta. Ye, I should be leaving for my flight training in Arizona. I'm looking forward to it but the idea of being away for such a long time is a bit like, worrying as well. But anyway, time will pass and it will be over before I know it!

Anyway, I better conclude now because it's late and I need to get some sleep. But at least I managed to bring my blog a bit up-to-date. I'll try not to let two months pass before writing something again :-p

Well.. I think I'm going to have quite a lot to write about in Arizona... ;-) you're soon cleared for take-off Johnny!!

Till next time!!

One week to the rock!!

Nearly another two weeks have passed since my last post. August was very very busy so far and September is going to be worse! Since my last post, we had three progress tests in all, instrumentation, piston engines and air law again. I did well but now we have too many tests, coupled with the preparation for simulator sessions and so we're quite tight and the situation is somewhat stressfull. And the school makes it even more stressfull! Planning is hopeless.

Anyway, I also had another simulator session last week and I did quite well in that. I had NDB interceptions and tracking and another ILS approach. Today I have another session, this time with VOR interceptions and a VOR approach. We'll see how it goes!!

This Saturday I will also do my third observation flight with Thomas Cook. I will go to Corfu!! Obviously I'm looking forward to it. Observation flights are quite motivating; meeting the crew, being in the cockpit, watching everything going on... it's cool :-) So yep, Saturday is an early morning wake up because by 0415 I have to be at the crew room. The departure is at 0600! Below is a photo of the stunning approach in Corfu... pretty nice isn't it?! Credit to Airliners.net and the photographer of course.

But the most thing I'm looing forward to next week is... Malta!! Yep finally I have a weekend off and so I'm able to go down to Malta, and see my family and my girlfriend Ingrid. I miss you loads and can't wait to see you again! Just one week to go!! I do need a break, and I'm in desperate need of Malta, my family, and my girlfriend! One week to go...

Anyway thats just about it for today. I'm off to prepare for my simulator session. Hope everything goes well!!

Till next time! Malta... see you soon!

News from the land of boredom...

Hey there!

Ye I know... it's been nearly three weeks since my last update on this blog! I haven't yet written anything in August and we're already in the middle of the month! Well there are only a few words to describe the past three weeks... BUSY and BORING!!

The past weeks were full of tests. We had performance, meteo, principles of flight and next week we have instrumentation and piston engines, with air law in the following week. So yes, it's a hell with studying at the moment. So far I did well in tests, but as from next week, I'm not going to give them anymore priority. I have to concentrate on the simulator sessions now. They're more important, and in life you have to set your priorities right when you're overloaded with work!

Talking about simulator sessions, about two months ago we were promised that we have to fly at least once every week! But here's the contradiction, my last sim session had been on the 27th of July!! Yes that's three weeks ago... no match for the promised "you need to fly once every week." Luckily this week I had one on Wednesday. At first it felt horrible, after three weeks without any flying, and the instructor pointed that out as well. The thing is, the instructors themselves emphasize how important it is to fly frequently, but the school doesn't do anything about it!! But anyway, on the whole it was quite good considering the long undesired break I had from the sim.

What else happened in the past three weeks... aah yes we had no hot water for three weeks over here... surprise... and we also got the split of the groups to go to the USA and I'm in group A! Departure date to the USA should be around the 24th of November... at least that's what they promised, but then again... promises should be taken with a pinch of salt!

I would also like to say a big welcome back to my girlfriend after spending a month in Egypt!! I wish I was there to greet you back :-( I'm glad you enjoyed your experience and I can't wait to see you again. I really miss you! My parents arrive from their well deserved holiday as well today, so welcome back to you too. I hate it not being there :-(

Ye unfortunately that's the worst thing I have to endure over here; being away from my girlfriend, my family and my friends! I miss you all, and much as I'm looking forward to start flying in Arizona and all that, I'm mostly looking forward to finish off this course once and for all and be back in Malta for good. It's tough being away from your closest ones! I was really looking forward to go down to Malta in August but, we were not allowed!! That doesn't do any help of course. It only increases the boredom and lowers your moral!! (which at the moment is quite down)

Anyway, I better go and continue reading Piston Engines.

Till next time!!

Sim session with a difference!

Hi!
It's time for a short break (another one from LOTS of "short breaks") from studying Air Law. I have a progress test next Wednesday so I have to prepare for it. Anyway, some news about this week...

The greatest thing which happened this week was a simulator session we had on Wednesday. No it wasn't an FNPT-II simulator session. It was a demo session in the B737NG simulator! And there's one word to describe it... COOL!! It was part of the Instrumentation course and the aim was to see how some stuff in the cockpit is used during a typical flight. The flight was from Brussels to Ostend and then back to Brussels. I was in the First Officer's seat but most of the flight was performed by the autopilot. During the flight we saw stuff like, the Traffic Alert & Collision Avoidance System (TCAS), the Ground Proximity Warning System (GPWS), use of the autpilot and different flight modes, as well as different sounds of warnings which you could get in the cockpit, like stall warning, overspeed etc. At Ostend, we did a touch & go with autoland and then we headed back to Brussels. As we approached Brussels, I was told to try and land the plane manually. This was em... cool... but it was the first time with a 737 in hand! But, there's always the first time, and... it was quite good. I always say I can't wait to be flying the real thing! Overall, this was another great experience. Below is a picture after we landed in Brussels. In a few months time, I hope I'll be able to take the same photo with a slight difference; sitting in an A320 and having the 3 stripes on my shoulder and flying for real!

On Thursday I had the 5th. mission of FNPT-II. It was similar to mission 4; precision approaches, but this time I had to do more things by myself. I also performed a blind take-off, with very low visibility. During the mission, I performed the usual air excercises. I also had to fly a bit on the standby compass which is quite difficult. The approach and landing were quite good and I was quite satisfied with my performance. After the mission was over, some time was still left so the instructor told me to take-off again and to expect an engine failure. He told me roughly what has to be done. After taking off, the left engine failed but with some hard struggle on the rudder, I was able to keep the aircraft flying. I didn't land the plane again but it was good to get an idea of what an engine failure feels like.

I think that's just about it for this week. There's not much else to say... oh yes maybe, we have some few days of sunshine here in Belgium!! I would like to know how long it will last!! Eh I miss sunny Malta!!! Now, back to studying Air Law...

Till next time!!

Observation flights: A great experience!!

Heya!

Last weekend I made two observation flights with Thomas Cook. There's one word to describe them: Amazing!! They were great and I look forward to do more observation flights and even more, I look forward to start my career as an airline pilot! Really, this is the best job you could get. I mean, you're given a plane to fly, and you get paid for it! :-)

These two observation flights showed me what it's really like to be an airline pilot and they were also very motivating. My first flight was on Saturday night to Girona. I arrived at the crew room at around 8pm and was given the flightplan, weather information and Notams. The crew had not yet arrived so I had time to go through the papers. Soon after, cabin crew started to arrive and everyone was very friendly. I felt quite at ease immediately. The First Officer of my flight then arrived and we went through the flightplan and papers together. The Captain arrived shortly afterwards. The flight crew was very friendly and they kept telling me to ask any questions I would have which was of course very encouraging. We then took the crew bus, passed through security and then took another bus to the plane. In the cockpit, I watched as the First Officer entered the flightplan into the FMS. Anyway we took off at around 2200 and all I can say is that it was a great experience! I also had the headset on so I listened to all radio communications going on. We flew towards France, over Paris and the Captain told me to take his seat! I was like...."wow... first observation flight and I'm sitting in the Captain's seat!" The First Officer asked me to try and enter the return flight plan into the FMS, which I did with his help of course. Mid-way through the flight it was dinner time. Anyway we started our descent (where I was back in the jump seat of course ;-) ) and soon landed in Girona. The whole flight was WOW and all the crew were really friendly and I got along quite well with them. The turnaround wasn't quite long and after some further preparations we were taxiing again to the runway for our return flight. Back in Brussels, surprisingly enough it was cloudy! But it was cool descending through the clouds, and it were you can really realise how fast you'd be flying! We landed back in Brussels and after the shutdown checks we took the bus back to the crew room. Overall it was one great experience. Below is a picture of the aircraft I flew on (OO-TCI) (thanks and credit to the photographer and Airliners.net)

My next flight was to Lourdes on Monday morning so I had to wake up at 3am! I arrived at the crew room and once again was given the flightplan, weather and notams and started to read through them. The crew arrived shortly and once again they were very friendly. I went through the flightplan with them. We then took the crew bus to the security checkpoint and then to the aircraft (OO-TCP). The Captain asked we whether I want to observe the cockpit preparation or perform the walkaround with him. I decided to see the walkaround. Surprisingly enough... it was raining!! Anyway, we took off at about 6am. During the cruise, I really enjoyed talking to the crew and they answered any questions I had. The captain also told me about his training, and I also heard some stories be has been through during flying. The weather at Lourdes was rather cloudy but I could see the Pyrenees mountain tops sticking out of the clouds. Below the clouds, the view was amazing! Anyway, we landed at Lourdes and then started the preparations for the return trip. Turn-around was a bit long, but soon we were on our way back to Brussels. Ater descending through the typical Belgian clouds, we landed in Brussels airport and that was the end of my second observation flight. It was another amazing experience and it was all motivating for me, and ye, I want to fly!!

I would like to thank all the crew of both flights, both flight crew and cabin crew, who made these observation flights as best as they could. I would like to thank the flight crew for showing me what a typical flight would be like and for also answering my questions and sharing their experience with me throughout the flights. Thanks a lot!!

As for the rest, over here things are going well. Today I have a demo sim session in the Boeing 737-800 as part of the instrumentation course. I'm really looking forward to it! I also got my Gas Turbines progress test result and it was ok. Next week I have the second Air Law test so I've got quite a lot to study this week. I still don't know whether I have any FNPT-II sim sessions this week. Anyway, I'm off to start preparing for today's sim session in the 737.

I would also like to wish my girlfriend the best of luck during her stay in Egypt. You're in my mind ;-) and I hope to see you in August!! Miss you!!

Till next time... bye bye

Way to go... Keep it up!!

Finally, after weeks of waiting, the University engineering examination results are finally out and so I would like to tell my girlfriend Ingrid...

CONGRATULATIONS FOR YOUR SUCCESS!!! WAY TO GO... KEEP IT UP!!

You passed with flying colours and did great so now you have a well deserved summer break. Studying was hard and tension was high but you finally have your results, which you greatly deserve. I wish you a successful third year ahead! Keep it up!! ;-) *hugs* miss you!! Glad you're also enjoying your trip in Egypt qalbi!!

As for me here, yesterday I had my fourth mission in the FNPT-II simulator. I did great and was very satisfied with my performance. I also performed my first precision approach. It was quite ok for the first time.

Till next time!!

News from far far away...

Hi all,

So this week was quite busy again. Last Thursday I had my third FNPT-II mission which involved a flight from Rotterdam to Antwerp with some air excercises on the way, like climbs descends, timed turns etc., a touch and go in Antwerp, some traffic patterns and go-arounds, and ending with a full stop landing in Antwerp. I need to improve on my landings however, because I flared too early and too much. Tomorrow I have my fourth mission which also involves a precision approach. I hope I'll do well!! The last mission was in the simulator at HubAir which feels better as far as controls are concerned, but there isn't a 180deg field of view so we can see nothing other than the front view! Tomorrow's mission is planned over there as well. The picture below, that's me after the last mission.This week I also had the Gas Turbines progress test. I don't think I did well but I'll wait for the result. As far as tests are concerned, the next one is Air Law, which is planned on the 30th July I think.

This weekend I'm also having my first observation flight and I'm quite looking forward to it. It will be my first time ever doing a whole flight in the cockpit as well as the pre-flight briefings with the crew. I have a flight Saturday night to Girona and another flight Monday morning to Lourdes. Both flights are with Thomas Cook on the A320.

I also would like to say a big good luck to my girlfriend who is currently abroad in Egypt doing voluntary work! Take care of yourself and hope to see you soon! I miss you loads!! xxx

I think that's just about it for today. I'm now off to start studying and practicing the flows and checklists and other procedures for tomorrow's simulator mission.

Till next time!!

Bye Bye!!

A few hours on the rock...

Hey there!

My last post was a week ago and this is because of one great weekend, that is, last weekend! I was in Malta!! The last time I had visited Malta was in April so that was nearly 3 months ago. I really needed to go back down, see my family, my little nephew and my girlfriend Ingrid.

Unfortunately my trip to Malta did not start very well because of... guess what... a delay! Actually not a delay but a DELAY!!!!! I was scheduled to arrive in Malta at 2300 but ended up arriving at 0300 on Saturday morning!! Four hours delay!! I was dead tired when I arrived in Malta. But anyway it was still worth it. I'm really glad I breathed some Maltese air. The weekend was great and I enjoyed every minute of it. Ingrid prepared a couple of little surprises which made the weekend even better! Saturday night, we went to a Wine Bar and I thought we were going to be alone but found some friends waiting there! It was great to meet some friends I hadn't seen for months. Thanks a lot for coming guys and gals! When I get back to Malta for good, I need to make a big reunion with lots of people!

I was also happy to see my cute little nephew again. Having discovered the art of walking, he's now moving all around wherever he goes, always trying to find out and do something naughty heh! I was also happy to see my parents again. Anyway, on the whole it was great and thanks to everyone for making it so, my parents, my sister and husband, my friends, and... my girlfriend Ingrid, for the wonderful surprises and memories. I miss you!!

I will try to go again to Malta in August. I do need to feel the Maltese summer sun and heat!! So, I hope I'll see you all once again in August!! As for the course here, I'm doing well. We had a progress test of Meteorology today, which is why I haven't updated the blog immediately. I did great. Next test is next Wednesday, Gas Turbines. I have quite a lot to prepare for it. Tomorrow I also have my third FNPT-II mission so tonight I have to prepare some flows and checklists again. Below is a picture from last week's sim session. That's after the mission, "parked" in Falcon Field with the airplane shut down after 1 hour 30 minutes of flying!

Anyway... I'm off to start going through some flows and checklists... Till next time!! Miss you all!

Flows & checklists...

Avionics Master Switch .......... OFF
Electrics Master Switch .......... ON
...
Yep, that is what I've been going through over the past 24 hours; reading through checklists and flows and trying to remember every single detail of which switches I should press and which knobs I should turn! Today I have my second simulator session on the FNPT-II DA42 so I had to prepare myself by studying the checklists and flows. I hope my session goes well. I'm quite looking forward to it but it got quite busy with these sim session eh!

I haven't updated this blog for the past two weeks nearly! I've been quite busy in fact. First of all, I had one weekend to remember! My girlfriend came here and we went a bit around the place. They were two great days and I have to write something about them for sure, in my next post! Then, I had two tests, Airlaw and Instrumentation. I did ok. Next test is today week, Meteorology... which I haven't yet got any clue about it other than it talks about clouds and stuff! So ye, busy as usual!!

Anyway, I'm gonna have to stop here today because I have to start preparing for my sim session!! Till next time... bye bye!

First flight in simulator!!

Heya!

I have finally started my FNPT-II simulator sessions and had my first "flight" yesterday afternoon. It was cool taking the right hand seat for the very first time! It really feels so realistic and it does feel that you're in a real cockpit. As soon as you sit down, you have the complex looking Garmin G1000 in front of you and dozen of other buttons and switches. The view is also great. This is what it looks like. I will try to take some photos myself next time!

I flew for approximately one hour and a half. I started on the apron at Falcon Field Arizona. I taxied to the runway and then took off and made some climbs and turns. The controls are very sensitive and you really have to be careful because the slight excessive movement can take you out of control. I then landed and that was the end of my first flight! It was great overall but now I look forward to start flying with radio navigation and all that stuff.

Today I also had the Performance test. I think I did well; I just have to wait for the result. Anyway I'm off to start studying some stuff. Tomorrow someone special is coming to visit so I have to get some work done

;-)

Till next time...

FNPT-II Simulator: Take off tomorrow!!

Hi all,

Tomorrow is my first day in the FNPT-II simulator, so I'm going to be a step closer to flying. Obviously I am more looking forward to the real thing in the air, but at least I'll start getting a taste of what it will be like in the air!

Unfortunately, my first session came a bit at the wrong time, because on Thursday I have the "Performance" progress test and so I am very busy with studying. Ye, thanks to SFA and their really efficient planning, I have a sim session on the eve of a test. Next week I also have the "Air Law" test. So having so much to do and adding a simulator session to it is a bit hard, but again, it is all thanks to the highly efficient SFA planning... obvoiusly I'm being ironic. Anyway, I'll try my best ;-)

So, tomorrow at 1500 I'll be in the DA-42 Simulator for my first ever "flight"!! Until then... study study study!!!

Garmin G1000...

Hello there...
So, yesterday we had another briefing about the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit which we will fly with on the Diamond DA-42 Twinstar, both in the simulator and in the air. The G1000 seems quite a good gadget but it also seems a little bith complicated in theory... lots of buttons and switches to press and turn!! The photo below shows the G1000 on a Cessna 172.

I don't know whether these briefing are actually helpful or not. I mean, trying to figure out what all buttons and switches do in a couple hours isn't the best helpful thing you can do. Ye but they told us we can "practice" using the Garmin G1000 on the computer simulator... one computer for 16 people (at least...) Never mind, we'll wait for the simulator, which we were told we will start "soon" but the word "soon" isn't really a reliable word here!

I'm off because I have to drive to Brussels to apply for my Student Licence today.

See you all and best of luck to those still doing exams... they're soon over!!

FNPT-II Simulator briefings...

Heya there...
Today we started with our FNPT-II simulator briefings. We had a funny instructor but he's quite good. The simulator is a Diamond Da-42 Twinstar. The real aircraft is shown below. (Credit to Airliners.net and the respective photographers for the photos ;-) ) The DA-42 is equipped with the Garmin G1000 glass cockpit so it seems quite cool to fly. Ye I can't wait to fly the real one but first we have to do it on the simulator of course.

We have been told we will start the simulator sessions soon after we finish the briefings but the school said a lot of stuff and lately I started to take everything with "a pinch of salt". Anyway if we do start simulator sessions soon, it will be hell... lessons till 1730, simulator sessions in the evening, simulator sessions in weekends, tests?! Ye sounds crazy eee... welcome to SFA.

Things are going ok so far but ye, getting busy and busy each day. Next Monday I have another test, Mass and Balance so this weekend I'll work on it. I also have to go and apply for my Student Pilot Licence next week.

Good luck to everyone doing exams in Malta, especially to my girlfriend ;-) best of luck!! They will soon be over!

Anyway, I'm off to start some studying myself!! Till later!!

Good Luck for exams!!

The exam period has started at University in Malta so I would like to take the opportunity to wish everyone the best of luck for exams.

Most of all, good luck luck to my girlfriend. Exams aren't the nicest happiest moment of course but they have to be done, and they'll be over soon... best of luck qalbi!

As for me, today I have my BFC "checkride" in the afternoon. I did well in mst session so I hope I'll keep up my performance during the test!!

Off to "fly"...

Johnny turns 23...

Hello,
It's been nearly two weeks since my last post. Again, I was quite busy preparing for tests. I had another progress test of Radio Navigation (which is over next week with yet another final progress test) and today I had the second and last progress test of Flight Planning. That also means I'm done with Flight Planning as well for the time being. I did well in both tests and I'm happy with the results.

Last Thursday I also "celebrated" my birthday. Yes, I'm getting older... 23! Note the "celebrated" of course; my birthday "celebrations" had to include the studying for the Radio Navigation test which was on Friday. But at least on Friday I went a bit to Leuven with my friends. It's very lively over there and so we went bar-hopping around! So at least I did celebrate a bit for my birthday.

I also had another BFC session this week and I performed great in it. Next week I have my BFC "checkride" which will conclude the Basic Flying Course. I hope I'll do well!!

Anyway I'm off to sleep because in 7 hours I have to be awake again to prepare for a day of Principles of Flight and Performance.

Till next time!! (hopefully soon)

Birthday surprise...

Hello all
I havn't written anything for quite some time so I have a lot to say but I'll keep it very short. Last week we had 2 days of holidays so I had some time to roam about the place. I visited Aachen in Germany and also went to Mini-Europe in Brussels, next to the famous "Atomium". I have a couple of photos to upload so yes, more photos to be added to the list of "Photos to upload". Ye, I must find some time and put them up.

Anyway, on to more important things! This week, I had a big surprise... a VERY big surprise indeed!! Next week is my birthday, but I wasn't expecting such a great present and in such a way!! My girlfriend called me in the evening and told me to look around the room, because apparently my birthday present from her was here. And how could my birthday present travel all along from Malta to Belgium?! I looked around the room to find a BIG present, the Saitek X-52 Flightstick and Throttle (see pic below). My friends went down to Malta during the weekend and they got it with them. So ye, thanks a lot to you guys for bringing it up here!!

But above all, thanks to you my dear girlfriend for the wonderful present! I really appreciate it, but even more, I appreciate the planned surprise and all the effort behind it!! Thank you qalbi!!! It was a very big surprise. Thank you, thank you thank you!!

There were also cards & gifts from my parents, my sister and her husband and my cute little nephew and from my girlfriend's parents. Thanks to all for making my birthday a special day to remember. I really appreciate. Thanks everyone for everything and thanks again to my dear special girl ;-) XxX

As regards the course, I had two little progress tests this week; mass & balance and Physiology. All went well. Next week I have the second Radio Navigation test so I'm gonna be quite busy.

Anyway I'm off because it's about time I do some studying. Well had to spend some time trying out my birthday present ey?! :-)

Till later...

BFC Session 4... & visited Luxembourg

Heya! Time to write something...
Last Thursday I had my fourth BFC session. In this session, we were introduced to ATC, radio navigation as well as a 2-crew cockpit, with a "pilot flying" and a "pilot monitoring" so it got closer to the real stuff. We also had the chance to try out the new equipment, with three monitors, so the view was better :-)

I did quite well. I still have to improve some stuff but so far it's going well. In our next session, wind will be introduced so it will get a bit more challenging, especially in landings!

Last Sunday we also visited Luxembourg. It was really sunny and it reminded me of my days in Malta. I've got a couple of photos so I will try to upload them as soon as possible.

I'm off to start... take care everyone.

The dormant blog...

Hello... welcome to the dormant blog!
I know, I haven't updated my blog for more than 2 weeks! I have nearly forgotten this blog existed in the first place! These two weeks were like hell with tests and I was very busy.

I didn't even right something about my visit to Malta, something which I should have obviously done! Ye I was looking forward for that weekend! I arrived in Malta on Friday evening (that's 2 weeks ago) and was so happy to see my girlfriend and my parents again. The weather was brilliant, sunny and quite hot! Malta is so good for weather (ye Belgium, you wish the sun shines that much!) But the best part of Malta, was obviously the time with my girlfriend. I can't wait to go down again.

On the flight back to Belgium I also had the chance to go a bit to the cockpit and have a chat with the crew. They were very friendly and it was great to have a look at my "future office"!! I also witnessed the landing and it was so cool. Ye I can't wait to do it myself! :-)

During the past 2 weeks I had 2 tests as well, Electrics and Flight Planning, which is why I was really busy. I did well in both of them. Finally I have a week without any tests but May is going to be tough as well it seems. Today I also had another BFC session in which I did quite well. But I'll write about that tomorrow!!

Till later...

Basic Flying Session 3... and landing! 4 days to MALTA!!

Yoo!!
Once again I am late in writing something in this blog. I wanted to write this last Thursday but I was busy studying for tests; there's not much to do anyway!

Last Thursday I had my thirds BFC session and it was great. Things were pretty much the same as session 2 but more manoeuvres which need a bit more thinking were added, including taking time in consideration during combination of turns and climbs/descents. I did pretty well but I have to give more importance to the airspeed indicator. But really, there's a lot to do and think about when performing a simple climb or turn, and sometimes I miss something. So I have to practice more on that. Well, practice makes perfect ey! Session 3 was also cool because I made a full stop landing!!! I was given some instructions to descent and then "turn left heading..." until a runway popped up in front of me. It was then followed by "cleared to land..." WOHOOO!!! The approach was good but the landing was a bit bumpy. But ye, it was cool to bring the little bird down! I look forward to the fly the real bird of course! Below is a picture of the airport I "landed" in. Credit to the photographer and Airliners.net of course!!

Today I'm also very close to the day I'll visit Malta again for 2 days. That's next Friday and I can't wait for it. I'm looking forward to make the best of the little time I have with my girlfriend and my family. See you soon!! I miss you all! I'm sure it' going to be a great time over there. Tuesday... Wednesday... Thursday... Friday... soon soon...

Yesterday I also had the General Navigation test so yes I spent last weekend turning my flight computer around and working wind problems! I should have done well, just have to wait for the mark now. Next Thursday I have the physiology progress test, followed by AC Electrics on Tuesday. So, these 2 days are extremely busy because I have to study 2 subjects, since I'll be in Malta during the weekend and don't want to waste any time studying over there eh! So I'm off.
Till next time!!

Basic Flying Course Session 2! 10 days to Malta!!!

Hello...

Today I had my second BFC session. Obviously it got more complicated; several new instruments were introduced. I think my performance was much better than my first session. I was more focussed and I handled the controls pretty well. I performed some climbs, descends and turns and they were quite good. It's interesting of course, but I'm looking forward to when I start on the actual simulator and more than that, the actual flying in the real sky!! Flight Simulator is good, but now that I know I'll actually get in the air for real, I obviously want it more than Flight Simulator!! Below is a picture of the aircraft we're using; a Piper Archer. It is not the actual aircraft in our Flight Simulator but it is similar. That's also the first aircraft I will fly for real!!

The day when I'll be coming to Malta is soon arriving as well; 10 days more!! Note the word "coming" to Malta and not "going" to Malta. That simply says that Malta IS my home and there's nothing better than that... and I can't wait to be down there for good!! I miss my girlfriend, my family and all my my friends. Yes, 10 days, and counting...

As regards our internet, yesterday we had a guy from the ISP coming over to our house to check the signal (if there was a signal...). He said he found a bad connector out in the street and replaced it. Pity that didn't seem to solve the problem because one hour later, I didn't have any internet connection again... (bad connector... sure). It's incredible...

Anyway I'm off because I've got loads to do. I have two progress tests next week so... better study!!

See ya!!! (Malta... 10 days!!)

2 months out... 12 days to Malta!

Tomorrow, two months would have passed since I settled here in Belgium. Honestly, it's not the nicest country to live in (Sorry Belgians...) Weather is hopeless... but you Belgians cannot do anything about that (other than moving to Malta ;-) ) but hey, you can get your freaking internet service right, and you can get your freaking water supply right to0!!

Anyway enough of Belgium, there are nicer things to talk about after all! In twelve days, I'd be on my way to Malta!! It's another short visit of course, but at least I get to see my girlfriend, family, and my cute little nephew, who by now has discovered the art of walking!! I can't wait for these twelve days to pass.

Things are getting tougher here with more tests. I already have four planned tests in the coming weeks. In fact, today I spent most of the day reading about how my heart pumps blood all around me and all that physiology stuff (which is not quite interesting). Last Friday I had the Basic Radio test and I think I did well but I'm still waiting for the result.

Anyway, I'm going back to that boring physiology stuff.
Till next time...

Snow in Belgium...

Belgium, in my opinion, is not the nicest place to live in (nothing compares to Malta anyway). For example, there are three spoken languages, so it could be that you go and talk to your next door neighbour in one language, and his reply would be in some other sort of language. Unless you switch to his language, you're doomed to live next to an non-understandable guy. In Malta, measuring a few kilometres wide, we have our own ONE language. And if you want to piss off or tell off you next door neighbour, you can easily do it in one plain simple language (with a wide vocabulary available at hand as well).

Secondly, plumbing over here is hopeless. I still have to understand why two people cannot use two different showers at the same time, or why you can't wash your clothes while brushing your teeth, or even, why upstairs you have to get to smell what someone filled up the drains with a couple of hours before, downstairs!! Oh, and is it so difficult to put up a curtain on a circular window?! And is it so difficult to put up a curtain on a rectangular window, without it falling off every now and then?! Yes, welcome to Belgium!

Weather... I think over here the word "sun" is hardly found in any vocabulary dictionary. I don't think they actually teach the meaning of the word in primary school... (it's useless anyway). I have been told that Summer over here starts in April, and ends in April. Rain and gloomy grey weather is common in August, a month which in Malta is commonly referred to as Summer!!

Anyway at least over the past two days, I had some "cool" weather experience. It snowed!! Yes, obviously not the nicest of snow (it's Belgium remember) but at least it was something "different". It snowed most on Friday evening. The car was covered in snow, so being Maltese, we took some time to throw a few snowballs at each other. Below are some photos I took yesterday.

Anyway, snow was probably the only good thing which happened last week. I also had the progress test of Radio Navigation and I did great. Next Friday I have another progress test, Basic Radio. So I have things to work on again this week.

I also would like to say a "Happy Easter to all"... miss you all...

Basic Flying Course... 1st session

Hello...
Last Monday I had my first 'Basic Flying Course' session. It consists of a couple of lessons on basic flying, on MS Flight Simulator. It's quite good to get the basics of flying. The first session consisted of straight and level flight, turns, climbs and descents, focusing only on the attitude indicator and the power indicator (RPM). My first session wasn't so good but it wasn't so bad either. I have to adjust the throttle lever "blindly", without looking, in order to keep focused on the attitude indicator and that is where I was getting stuck. I have get the power adjusted to the correct position immediately. Hopefully it would get better with every session. I also have to be more careful on the attitude indicator, keeping the pitch at the right level.

That was probably the only 'new' thing which happened in the last few days as regards the course. I have a test on Friday, 'Radio Navigation', so I'm busy studying for it. Anyway, back to studying...

Well done...

I would like to congratulate and say a big WELL DONE to my girlfriend on passing all her first semester exams! Congratulations ging!! Keep it up and you'll make it. It's tough but hey... no pain no gain ;-) Congratulations!!!

As for me, well over here it gets more busy by the minute. Next week I have a Radio Navigation test so I'm quite busy working on it. I also had the Communications test and I did very well. We also had our first Basic Flying Course briefing and next Monday I have my first "flight" on Flight Simulator (on PC, the real fun on real simulators will come later ;-))

Anyway I'm off to study...
Take care all

Back in Belgium :-(

So, yet another late post...

On Saturday I left for Brussels again and here I am once again. I didn't post anything before because I was very busy during the weekend. I had a test this morning and I had to spend all Sunday studying for it (coupled with the long awaited wait for the election results, about which I will try to write something later).

Anyway something about my short stay in Malta; it was nothing more than EXCELLENT. I spent all the time with my girlfriend... unforgettable memories, which I dearly miss... and also together with my family, parents, sister & her husband and my growing cute little nephew. It was a great time and I can't wait till I go down again. That's my home... not here!!

The time I spent with my girlfriend was simply great, right from the moment I arrived in the arrivals lounge, till the sad moments at the departures lounge. And here I'll address her directly... I miss you a lot, and can't wait to be back with you. Thanks a lot for spending such a short but splendid time with me. XXXX

I would also like to thank a couple of friends who made it to the airport to say hello!! Thanks dudes, I really appreciated that. I hope to see you soon again!!

Anyway, I'm off. Later on I'll try to post something about yesterday's elections count as it merits some discussion.

Till later people....

Miss you all...

Johnny in Malta...

So... I'm back in Malta, and as I currently speak (or rather type) someone very special is by my side :-) (N.B. for anyone who read my previous blog... I had a misprint and corrections were duly made for the benefit of all parties involved :-))

Joking apart... coming back to Malta was something I was really looking forward to. It's been a month since I've seen my girlfriend (1...) so yes, we've been counting down the hours till my arrival in Malta. It was also great to see my family as well as friends. Thanks to all who came to greet me at the airport, despite two huge crowd gatherings commonly known as "mass-meetings"!! Thanks a lot. Today I also saw my cute little nephew. He grew taller and more naughty!

Anyway, I don't want to waste any more time here... because I have obviously better ways to use my little time in Malta rather than blogging. One last thing... tomorrow there are elections. To all fanatic die-hards who don't have anything useful to do other than calling people asking "Inti mort tivvota?", I will go and vote when I feel like it, so please do not bug me with calls "Int mort tivvota?" My answer would simply be... "get a life dude..."

Anyway, I'm off... aaaa Malta...

The Big Day!!

The big day is with us!! Yes, today 6th March 2008, I'm flying back to Malta for a short time only unfortunately. Yet still, I'm obviously looking forward to it and can't wait for the moment to step my feet on Malta again, and then see my girlfriend, my parents and a couple of friends at the airport.

Life here is still busy. I have a test next monday, Radio communications. It shouldn't be difficult though I'm not quite convinced about it. We'll see.

There has also been another update this week which I didn't have time to mention. Johnny had a haircut... with yet another change of style... I shaved my hair. Yes so after the trauma of having to cut my long hair, I went to the other extreme and shaved my hair. I like the new look but ;-)

Anyway I'm off to bed because obviously, this blog is being updated at 1am.

Good night and... SEE YOU SOON MALTA!!!!!

6 days to Malta...

The day is fast approaching. In 6 days, I'd be on a flight to Malta. It is only for a short time but at least I'll be there. Obviously I am really looking forward to see my family, my parents, my sister & her husband and my cute little nephew!!

And obviously I am really looking forward to see her... my girlfriend. Being away from her is quite tough. So I am really looking forward to it even if it's for a short time. Ye I look forward to a nice dinner with her on Friday night... that is, in 7 days... final countdown starts ;-)

Aah yes forgot to mention the election. I have recently discovered I have the honour of having 2 ballot papers to fill in rather than 1, because apparently we also have Local Council Elections. Ye really I couldn't care less, I mean, politics in Malta follows quite the usual "same shit different day..." and whoever wins the next election, it's either "same shit same party" or "same shit different party" welcome to Malta...

First test... GREAT... visiting Malta in 9 days!

So, once again, another week has passed since my last post. Yes I haven't got much of free time unfortunately. But I'll try my best to keep this blog up to date.

Anyway, I had my first progress test yesterday; DC electrics. I did great and I'm very satisfied. So... first test is done. As regards courses, we started two new courses last week; Air Law and Flight Planning. Flight Planning looks great but Air Law looks a bit boring. I hope it gets a bit more interesting.

Another great news is that I shall be visiting Malta next week... for elections... ye right!! To hell with elections, I just want to see my girlfriend, my family & my cute little nephew!! But ye I'll take the time to go and cast my vote, keeping in mind the country was, is, and will always be run by assholes... commonly known as politicians.

I'mm looking very forward to go down to Malta because that's were my heart lies... and some people know what I mean!

Take care all...

Lost and found...

Hello all,
It has been a week since my last post. Things here are quite busy so I have very little time available for me to update this blog. But I'll try to keep it as up-to-date as possible.

During the past week we were introduced to three new courses; Principles of Flight, Radio Navigation and today we had Airframe and Systems. All three of them seem to be very interesting. Most of the subjects are not that difficult so far but the material we will be covering is a lot.

Anyway, back to the title of the post; Lost and Found... why? So, last Saturday, we decided to drive to Brussels city centre in the evening. We went to a bar and played some billiard but I didn't want to stay out late so I decided to drive back home on my own. It wasn't my first time driving here of course but some important things to note include a) I never drove from Brussels centre to our house in Nossegem b) It was 1am in the morning (my brain is usually switched off IF it had been on in the first place) c) Given the time... it is usually dark at 1am d) The car was thirsty, aka fuel low e) No GPS or any sort of modern navigational aid other than my brain (switched off...) So, off I left from Brussels to find my "home sweet home"... straight out... tunnel... out of the tunnel... perhaps a wrong turn... damn where the hell am I? Yes, I ended up wandering in some forgotten area of Brussels. Anyway this unexpected sightseeing tour around Brussels wasn't so interesting so I tried to make my way back home once again. After a few "go-arounds", a sign "Ring" emerged in the dark. This is the ring motorway around Brussels. Once you get to it, following signs should take you home. And luckily for me it did. After what seemed like hours of driving watching the fuel tank slowly approach the bottom, and getting tired of seeing "Zaventem" signs without any sign of Zaventem, I reached Zaventem and then Nossegem; aka home. So ye I had my little adventure of Lost and Found.

I'm off because tomorrow I have another full day again. I should be starting a new course, Communication. This should teach us how to communicate with ATC and other aircraft in a civilised way, hopefully.

Till later...
PS Sorry for any e-mails which remained unanswered. I will try to answer ASAP.

First test coming up...

Hi all,
When it comes to studying, time is literally flying. And free time seems very limited, so much that this blog has been 'silent' for the past few days. Anyway better not waste time...

Since my last post, we had our first lecture from another new subject; powerplants. We started with piston engines and the topic doesn't seem that difficult. Today we also had another lesson of psychology. I'm finding this subject quite interesting. We also had another lesson of electrical and we were told about our first test, which will be on 25th February (that's 2 weeks!!) so serious (ye right!) studying will now commence!

On Sunday we also went to Brussels Centre in the afternoon. I uploaded some photos in the online photo album; link available on the right or simply click here to go to the album directly.

I also would like to excuse myself to anyone (family and friends) who has sent me any e-mails and have not yet received any answer. My time is very limited! Sorry peeps, but I promise I will reply as soon as possible.

Till later peeps,
Miss you all...

PS I heard Malta is quite cold at the moment. Over here, it is not hot obviously but guess what... the sun is shining!! :-) (during the day of course)

Elections 2008...

I forgot to write something about the forthcoming general elections in Malta (which for everyone's info, will be held on the 8th of March). Obviously I will not bother writing about who I think will win and all that crap. I'm leaving that task open for all the idiot fanatics who obviously think THEIR party will win. Funny how at the moment, both parties say they are going to win! Welcome to Malta, the land of winners... ye...

Well, I'm not really interested in the current politics and in fact I'm quite grateful for the fact I will not be present to witness the low level of politics we have in Malta; like those useless mass meetings where a bunch of blue/red painted heads gather on some open area (such as the famous "Fosos" or Granaries, ye to hell with Heritage Malta for election time) and the red/blue leader reddens/blues the crowds with tons of low level talk and countless promises.

I do look forward to elections 2008 however. They should be my first opportunity to go down to Malta. I'm really looking forward to that because obviously I am missing people; my girlfriend, my family, that little nephew of mine... So I look forward to go down to Malta and "vote"... ye right... and most importantly, see again my girlfriend and family.

Miss you all dear peoples...

Update from far far away...

So, I've been very very busy lately and didn't have much time to waste on the blog. Basically in the last 4 days we were introduced to 5 new subjects; electrical, instrumentation, meteo, human performance and limitations (phsycology part) and general navigation. Instrumentation is so far the most interesting. It does not seem so difficult so far either. So far we covered some air data instruments like the airspeed indicator, vertical speed indicator and pressure altimeter. Electrical is ok but I'm finding it a bit boring. Human performance is quite relaxing and today I also had navigation and it looks interesting too. Tomorrow we might start using the CRP5 Flight computer as well. Meteo seems my nightmare so far. I didn't understand much.

Anyway, I'm off to start reading something cause it is quite busy over here!! Lots and lots of stuff in a short time. The course is very intensive and it is leaving me with very free time!

I also updated the online photo album. I added some photos I took at Brugge last Sunday. The link on the right should take you to the album. Or simply Click Here.

I'm off... miss you all!

Brugge visited...

Hello all,
I just got back home. We visited Brugge today. It is quite a nice place with splendid buildings, especially Cathedrals. The drive to Brugge took about an hour and we stayed there for about 3 hours.

I'm also putting up the first 2 photos, which I should have put up in my previous post but had not downloaded the pics from the camera yet. The first photo shows all the stuff we were given on Friday, and the second one shows me in SFA uniform.

That's all for today. Tonight I'll try to clear up my room and read something about the first topic we have covered yesterday. I will also try to put up some photos of Brugge in my online photo album. Oh and I also plan to upload some of my old photos from Malta but I ahve to try and find the time as it is qutie limited!

Bye Bye!

Geared up and "took off"

So I wanted to post this yesterday but it was a hectic day and I was too tired to write something. Yesterday we had our first visit at Sabena Flight Academy and we had an introductory briefing. We were told the rules of the school, the program of the course and some other information. We were also taken around the building and saw the various simulators. We got into a 737NG simulator. It was so cool. It is so realistic and I am really looking forward to the sim sessions. We were then given our stuff, which is quite a lot of stuff; 15 books, a flight computer, student air route manual, plotter, ruler and protractor, flight back, kneeboard, student airroute manual an our part of our uniform. So I've been geared up with some real pilot stuff. I'll try to put up some photos as soon as possible.

Anyway this morning we "took off" and had our first lesson on Basic Radio Theory. It doesn't seem difficult. Next lesson is on Monday but I haven't looked at the schedule yet.

See you around

The Dream Begins...

Here we go... I am now in Brussels and my lifetime dream of becoming a pilot is set to start. We arrived in Brussels at about 1930 yesterday evening. The flight was ok though the landing was not entirely smooth as it was very windy. We met an Airmalta captain and were later greeted by 2 guys from SFA. They took us straight to our accomodation. The place is great; large living room, kitchen and dining room, bedrooms and a shower/toilet. We just thre our stuff at the residence and were taken to an Italian resturant for a meal. We were als given a car, Volkswagen Touran!! Anyway, back at the residence we tried setting up our internet but had some problems at first, but should be ok now. We ended up sleeping at 3am since we unpacked our stuff and settled in. This morning I woke up at 7am and couldn't sleep again so I wrote this blog.

This morning we will try to go around looking for shops and to get to know the place. At 1200 we're being picked up and taken to the academy for our first briefing. We'll probably also be given the tons of books we have to study!!

I would like to say hi too all my family, girlfriend and friends. Missing you all and hope to see you soon.

I'm off...

Final night in Malta...

Today happens to be my final night in Malta before I depart to Brussels to start training to become a pilot! So yes, this will be my final night in my cosy Maltese bed! Today I spent some time packing things up because surprisingly enough I didn't bother to start packing before. That's typically me. And to be honest, I haven't yet finished packing things up so I will have to spend the morning before I leave, ensuring that I took everything I need.

Tonight I also had a farewell gathering with a couple of friends from ex-university (today better known as "engineers" ;-) ) and a couple of other friends. It was fantastic! It was good to meet some people whom I haven't seen for quite a while now! Thanks all for a great evening and I really appreciate!

The most special part of the day was in the afternoon, when I picked up my girlfriend after her exam and spent some time together. It just feels great when we're together!! I'm going to miss her so much. Being away from each other is one of the greatest sacrifices we're both gonna have to make now. But time will pass and I'll be back again. I must admit, I am looking forward to start the course, but I am more looking forward to arrive back, and be with her again. So that's something to look forward to once all the course and training is over! Here, I would like to wish her the best of luck for her remaining exams. Good luck qalbi! I'll miss you!

I also said a farewell to a few colleagues from my ex-summer job today. And I also had a visit from some relatives. So yes, today was the day of farewells! I'm gonna miss a lot of close buddies but time will pass and I'll be back, and guess what... I'll be flying by then!!!!

I'm off now, as I still have to clear up a bit my room, after which I will go to my cosy Maltese bed and sleep.

Goodnight and farewell to all!!

Day of the signing, off in a week!

So, first of all I began trying to tweak the blog and have added a slideshow of pictures and a link to my online photo album. I will be adding more photos soon. Blogger seems quite easy and straightforward to use and I like it.

Yesterday I had the signing of the contract with AirMalta, which will take me to Brussels next week to begin the road to becoming a pilot. Finally my lifetime dream is coming true! I will be training at Sabena Flight Academy (SFA). I will spend approximately 8 months in Brussels, covering the theoretical part and then head off to Phoenix, Arizona USA for 6 months of flight training. Then I'll go back to Antwerp for the final part of the training to get my licence and then go back to Malta. After some further training, I'll be sitting in the right hand seat and getting paid to fly!! Isn't that cool?!

I'm looking forward to start but I know it will be tough as well. It's quite a long time away from home, my family, my cute little nephew, and most of all my girlfriend. I know I'm going to miss her and all, definately. We'll see how it goes! A year and a half will pass and I'll be back, and by then I'll be flying!!

I'm off for now! Till then, keep on rockin' ;-)