Cam had seen too much cold in his outdoor job as a re fueler so was looking for a warm climate for a quick trip. He called Thursday night and asked me to explore Phoenix, but the 5 day forecast had it as low 60s with drizzle. So, we suggested Austin and 5 day forecast had it partly cloudy and low 70s. He and his friend, Eric, the owner of a very nice Vans RV-10 experimental aircraft, agreed to the destination and all they needed was some free lodging and deep discount food. Grandpa and Grandma north of Austin were willing to be the perfect host, so that is where they are tonight through Tuesday.
They departed a bit after 1015pm for a night flight to Amarillo where they would stop for fuel and a nap in the pilot's lounge Lazy Boys. It was his highest flight ever (altitude of 17,000 feet) and the first where they had to have oxygen flowing as the air is a bit thin up there. Cruising speed about 180 mph. Upon arrival, they asked to borrow the fleet car that most Fixed Base Operators offer to their pilots and in to town they headed for their midnight snack---Whataburger!
The beauty of a sunrise as you fly over the flatlands of Texas...
When you have your instrument rating, you get to fly above God's cotton balls...
