First Solo Flight of Student Pilot Eric Paul Laus Balboa

Since July and most of August this year, heavy rainfall continuously affected Northern Luzon provinces as a result of the onset of the annual occurrence of the southwest monsoon phenomenon commonly known as Habagat. The twenty (20) days extended lull in soloing (the last was August 8, 2018) finally ended this morning on or about 0910H, August 28, 2018, when Student Pilot Eric Paul Laus Balboa, a 25 year old resident of Apalit, Pampanga and a graduate of PATTS College of Aeronautics, BS AMT flying RP-C7653 was released for 1st Solo Flight by the newly upgraded Senior Flight Instructor, Capt Ronald Nario. SP Eric “Rocky” Balboa, the 1st Soloist for the day, achieved the long overdue highlight of his early flying career with so much thrilling suspense as he should have soloed earlier or equivalent to more than two (2) weeks delay caused by the fury of Habagat, which is beyond anybody’s control. Incidentally, Eric, a distinguished member of Batch “Delta” 2018 was apparently assessed by the assigned checker to be SAFE and was able to gain the required CONFIDENCE, made smooth touchdowns during landings for him to get the outright release for solo within 15 flying hours. Obviously, during this period of unpredictable weather condition, a “Go-No-Go Policy” of the school or suspension of flight training operations in case of heavy downpour will always prevail and as always SAFETY will and shall never be sacrificed in attaining the programmed set goals and objectives. Be that as it may, effective immediately, the young and daring eaglet who successfully made his 1st Solo Flight is now officially cleared and authorized to safely explore and conquer the infinite vastness of the horizon as well as the clear blue skies of San Fernando Airport, La Union, the home sanctuary of the LEIAAI Flying Eagles!
Congratulations to the brand new 1st Soloist for the day, SP Eric “Rocky” Balboa for achieving the most memorable event of your early flying career! Unforgettable indeed! Have a Happy & Safe Flight always! Cheers and God bless!