UP IN THE AIR
The long tarmac glares before my eyes. The black macadam trails away in the distance. I walk with an unusual gait and there is a spring to my steps. My new aviator glasses shield the bright sunlight, and my shirt is sticking to my back from the sweat. The swanky leather jacket that I have worn for the occasion is not helping me at all, nor do the skin tight denims and the cowboy boots. Well what’s the fuss? It’s a Solo, I am going to fly, without the instructor, without the bossy instructions, and I am going to be free. I am going to leave the earth behind, the crowd behind, and I am going to be my self. The Beachcraft Baron 58 is waiting for me down the runway. It’s a very agile aircraft and pretty easy to handle. The twin turbo props can hurl you through the atmosphere at a max speed of 260Knots per hour, though it is advisable to keep your muscle under 220 knots. I climb into the spacious cockpit and put on my headphones. I check the flaps, the ailerons, and the rudder. I set ...