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Into The Clouds

rstark
Adventurer B
As I liftoff from the runway in Orlando enroute to Phoenix, I start a turn as directed by Air Traffic Control (ATC). As the turn progresses, I see we will pass through a few clouds lingering south of the airport. I pause for a second and think how flying blind through cloud layers has become so much a routine part of aviation nowadays. We do it almost without thinking about it. Earlier this week, after flying with my daughter who was practicing for her instrument checkride_0008.jpg, I have had the opportunity to reflect yet again on how we today benefit so greatly from the hard work of the trailblazers in the early days of aviation. In the past, clouds were to be avoided at all costs. Instruments had not yet been developed to allow pilots to fly their aircraft with certainty and precision with no reference to the earth's horizon. Without a reference to fly by, the human balance system will lull a pilot not flying on instruments into turning upside down and losing control. Clouds meant almost certain peril. Pioneering work by famed aviators such as Wiley Post and Jimmy Doolittle made safe operation inside a cloud a possibility. Because of the risks these early pilots took to prove their ideas would work, today people who have no idea how planes can fly in weather can still enjoy the advantages of what has become a routine operation. And so can my daughter. She passed her check ride this week, one of many she will have to pass as she earns the ratings and experience necessary to someday apply here at Southwest Airlines. Though I received my flying training in the Air Force, the effort and energy required along my own career path has been considerable at times. Looking back across a quarter century of flying experience, I marvel at the energy of youth. Her training will cover years of effort, thousands of hours aloft, and cost her well in excess of $100,000 but there is no doubt where she wants to be.... Inside a blue and orange jet. Inside a cloud.  
7 Comments
Edd_Kerkow
Explorer C
I recently flew from Dallas TX to Harlingen TX with Captain "Ole" Olsen from Midland, TX (I Believe). I think "Ole" loves to fly, and I mean "really " loves to fly! He maneuvers the 737 with gentle but authorative control movements which can only be detected by knowlegeable pilots. The landing at Harlingen was especially interesting as he spooled up momentarily after flaring to ensure a smooth touchdown in an unusually strong north wind. Kudo's to Ole and I hope to fly with him again. Edd Kerkow
Jenny4
Explorer A
I really enjoyed the storyline - and proud you can foster and support your daughter's efforts, knowing what she wants to do and following in the footsteps of her father. Our youth, often times, get lost. Not knowing who or what they want to be. Sometimes it is a lack of motivation - mostly though, I believe youth lack the inspiration to dream and to follow their dreams. A strong male role model, bonding time and even more a father that is connected with his child. Now. Get back to work. You have a flight education to help pay for! :) Thanks for sharing and sharing with the world - its OK to keep your head in the clouds. Jenny Frasco
GNA
Explorer C
Hi Captain Ray - Great post. I still think of flying as a magical experience. I understand the concepts of flight but there's just something special about watching the moment a plane transforms from a ground machine to a flying machine. I work near LAX and spend many a lunch hour at the edge of the 24's...give a wave if you see a convertible PT Cruiser on final! Best of luck to your daughter as she continues her training.
Justin
Explorer C
Great post Captain Stark. I am relatively new to the SWA family, but just finished your book last week. I really enjoyed finding this post as a follow up to your stories about flying with your daughter. Thanks for your always entertaining writings.
FriendofBlogBoy
Frequent Flyer B
Captain Ray, Thank you for another in your series of well-written and very moving blog submissions! I agree with my pal Jenny above; it is great that you can share your love of flying with your daughter at the same time you're savoring that deep pride that a Dad feels when they suddenly "see" that their babies have quickly grown up overnight (it feels like it) to become amazing and fully adult people. Congratulations to your daughter, Kim 🙂
rstark
Adventurer B
Thanks to all of you. It is kind of odd to think of your kid one day running out the door to play and seemingly, only a few short years later, here she is competently flying her little plane around Phoenix. I think kids are like milepost markers in life. They put things into unmistakable perspective. Thats a good thing for those of us who notice. To GNA: I too marvel at that magic time when an aircraft transitions from "bus" to "plane" and back again. Even flying my models, I find that magical point enthralling. Take care all, Ray
rstark
Adventurer B
PS. I just noticed the date of my original post: December 7th. I realize that was my father's birthday. Dad was a civilian pilot all his life and imbued his kids with a love of aviation. His grandaughter Allison was a great joy to him. He would be so proud of her today if he were here to share her accomplishments. As am I. Ray