Some Motivation

[skypirate88]

Some may be aware of the Wings and Wheels Heritage Festival at CYZD this weekend. I am one of the pilots offering rides around the CN tower. Today I was given the opportunity to give a ride to a former DC-3 captain, with 10 000 or so hours on the plane. He hasn't been at the controls of an aircraft in 20 some years, so when he asked if he would be able to fly it for a little I felt I had to let him get his hands at the controls. I actually ended up letting him land the plane which was done pretty well for someone who hadn't been at the controls for so long.
When we got off of the runway, he was almost in tears because he had missed flying so much. He couldn't stop thanking me for letting him back at the controls one more time. His happiness was a reminder why I got into flying...I love it. I saw today that I had better take any opportunity I am given because it is not certain how long I will be able to continue to fly.

Thank you Captain Nigel Eling for showing me how much I would miss aviation if it were taken away, and for giving me the motivation to continue.

[slowstream]

That was very kind of you, I am sure you made someone very happy!

Never underestimate the human experience, good post.

[kev1.1]

I met capt neil Eling and his family last weekend and boy, he ws so excited to go flying.He really made it my day.The moment I read the post I got the feeling it was him.
Thanks again,If you get to know him,you 'll learn that he a living history book.His flying dates back to ww2.
good luck

[EPR]

Reminds me of a time when i did a sight seeing flight with a couple from England. The gentleman who was in his 70's told me he was an ex RAF pilot, he flew the Vulcan bomber. Once we were out of the zone i turned to him and said "you have control" and without hesitation he came back with "i have control" and he was all business asking for vectors as we toured around..lol. It was pretty cool to see him living the dream once more!