May 25, 2012
After my great experience of my day cross country, Jerry thought it time for me to get some night cross country experience. I planned a flight from KEXX to KSOP (Southern Pines). Without daylight, I realized that check points would be hard to find. I picked KHBI (Ashboro) and 43A.
One thing that I learned was that I really didn't want an engine failure at night. There just are not a lot of options when it is dark. Perhaps a road or two, but that's about it. It is true what they say about an emergency landing - "Turn on the landing light; if you don't like what you see, turn it off!"
I tracked the Sandhills VOR, and then I made the turn for KSOP. Entered the downwind for 5, turned on the lights, and made a good landing. The runway at night tends to come up quickly, so I know I have to be prepared for that.
After a very brief time on the ground, with the wind calm, I taxied to Runway 23 and took off. Now it was time to try some simulated instrument time. I put on Jerry's "foggles" and began a GPS direct course back to KEXX. I finally truly experienced spatial disorientation. I kept feeling like the plane was turning left, even though the AI said I was level. Very weird. You definitely have to trust the instruments.It does take a lot of concentration to keep the plane level and flying in the direction you want to go. Jerry directed me through a turn or two and set me up on a final for Runway 24. At about 500 agl, he had me remove the foggles, and I did a visual approach and landing. When we landed, I was covered in sweat!
One thing I have noticed about night flying...traffic is a lot easier to spot. Flashing beacons and bright nav lights allow you to see the traffic that is almost invisible on hazy days.
A great night....I got into bed about 11:30 p.m.!
Can't wait to fly again!
