The last few weeks has been filled with academics and flying. The first "phase" of my T-1 training is called the "Transition" phase. The purpose of this phase is to get you familiar with the jet. This includes getting a feel for how it handles in flight and how the different systems work together.
A typical flight includes me, another student who sits in the jump seat, and an IP. There are maneuvers that we need to get down that are fundamental to flying the aircraft. We will go to the MOA (Military Operating Airspace) and practice steep turns, stalls, and some slow flight. The student sitting jump will swap seats with me in the left seat and he will do the same maneuvers. After the area work is finished, we head out to a designated out-base where we practice our pattern work and learn to land the T-1. We practice landing in different flap configurations which helps us be more proficient no matter what configuration we are in. Emergencies are also practiced in the pattern. The IP will bring one engine to idle and we have to land the aircraft with just one engine. It may not sound like that big of a deal, but with only one engine running, a large yawing or turning motion is created due to differential thrust. This makes landing quite a challenge lol. Anyway...it's all coming along very well! So far I have been getting good grades on my flying. I just hope I can keep it up.
My first check ride will be coming up soon. If things keep going as well as they have been in the last few weeks, I'm confident that the check ride should go well.
Next: Memorial Day! Coming home for Dad's wedding and to see friends and family. Transition Check Ride in early June.
