As of today I'm halfway through this two month adventure! Can't believe how much has gone by. Still plenty of good stuff coming up, though.
Since the weather wasn't cooperating yesterday, I didn't get a chance to explore the Finger Lakes as much as I'd hoped. But, this morning it was clear and calm so I flew out to Cayuga Lake to get a few water landings in before heading out. While I was getting set up I met a couple guys who do survey work in a twin engine Tecnam. It's interesting to learn about some aviation jobs I never realized existed. It's not glamorous work, but it's the kind of stuff that needs to get done and lets people build experience towards their next gig.
My first landing on the lake drew a bit of a crowd. I had a couple of rowers come by for a closer look and the State Troopers pulled up to make sure everything was OK - then asked a bunch of questions about the A5. 🙂
I did a few more water landings and then headed back to the airport to fuel up and get on my way.
The first leg was from Ithaca to Bradford, Pennsylvania. I knew there was going to be a headwind, so I planned a stop about halfway. Plus, it's good to get out and stretch a bit every few hours. Bradford was first class airport. The runways and taxiways were all in excellent condition and well-maintained. There's some small regional airline service that goes in and out of there, so I guess that helps keep it up.
The leg from Bradford to Akron was pretty bumpy, which made for some exhausting flying and slow progress. I think these are the most frustrating types of flights on this trip, where I'm just trying to get to the next stop. But, any time I start getting grumpy I remind myself that I'm FLYING. That never fails to reset my mood.
After a loooong approach into Akron-Canton, I taxied over to the MAPS Air Museum. Wow! They have a LOT of aircraft. I wasn't able to grab pics of anything, since I was dealing with getting the A5 settled in and meeting with the museum director. I'll get a bunch tomorrow.
I have a speaking opportunity at their pancake breakfast in the morning. Looks like they're expecting a good crowd! Guess I better make some notes tonight.
😀👍🏼