A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of attending an FAA Aerospace Physiology class at Beale AFB outside Marysville, CA. While the words Aerospace Physiology might sound a bit intimidating, the FAA simply says that Aerospace Physiology deals with the physical and mental effects on flight aircrew personnel and passengers. That being said, the primary focus of this class is to teach you about the affects altitude, and decreased oxygen, have on the human body. Anyone who holds a current FAA Medical Certificate may take the class at about a dozen or so locations around the country, at a cost of only $50. If you are interested, you can learn more about the training and other on the FAA’s Airman Education web site.
This class is required component of your training and certification if you are going to be flying pressurized aircraft, and the conclusion of the training you are given FAA Form 3150-1, which is often referred to as an “Altitude Card”. So why did I take the class if all I am flying is non-pressurized C172s? Why not! Seriously, I am always open to any form of training on new and old topics alike, and since reduced oxygen can have an effect on the body at almost any altitude I think the training is worthwhile for most any GA pilot.
I know, I know, I am way behind here. As I write this I currently have a backlog of five or six lessons to document. Shame on me! Until about a week ago, I had been putting long hours in on a BIG project at work, and it seems like my entire life has been on hold. My mind has been so occupied with this project that I have no idea what happened to the last half of May and first half of June. With the project now somewhat behind me, I am now playing catch-up in all aspects of my life, including this blog. Don’t worry, I haven’t lost interest, my plate has just been full (more like overflowing). One thing is certain, I’ve come to realize that my day job is getting in the way of what I really want to be doing! ;-)
No, not that type of traffic, but web traffic. As in, a lot of visitors to my blog over the past few days.
I am happy to report that on May 25th I passed my IFR Stage 1 check. For those of you unfamiliar withwhat a stage check is, it is simply a flight with a different (usually more senior) instructor where they evaluate your knowledge and skills up to that point in your training. It is a very common practice in flight schools, and whether you are training for your private, instrument, or some other rating, there are often several stage checks along the way. This was my first of three checks, and overall it went OK. Just OK? Yes, just OK.
