First Solo Flight of Student Pilot Isaac James Fernandez Estrada and

August 8, 2018 (08/08/18) is a very lucky date in numerical terms based on the traditional Chinese fengshui with three (3) 8’s meaning an overflowing of blessings from the high heavens! That’s why the 1st Soloist for today is one very lucky flightless eaglet who may now slowly loosen his frail weak wingspan and extend it to safely soar to the great beyond. Flying RP-C7843, on or about 0930H, 21 year old BS AMT graduate of Philippine State College of Aeronautics, Student Pilot Isaac James Fernandez Estrada born in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental and a resident of Moonwalk, Parañaque City was released for solo flight by the newly upgraded Senior FI, Capt RJ Tejada within the standard flying time before solo. Incidentally, the dashingly handsome 1st Soloist for the day who’s following the footsteps of his ancestors successfully achieved the highlight of his early flying career in the presence of his loving parents, Capt Mel and Chel Estrada who made a surprise visit in support of their son. The mere presence of James’ dad and mom didn’t bother nor distract his focus and performance, which all the more validates his being stable under pressure, a qualification for very good pilots. Obviously, flying runs in the blood of our brand new 1st Soloist as his dad, Capt Mel Estrada, PMA ’91 was a former seasoned pilot in the defunct Philippine Constabulary Aviation Group, now PNP and currently a Pilot-in-Command in PAL’s Airbus 330 and 340 and training for his A350 rating. Moreover, his grandfather, retired Gen. Manuel Estrada, PMA ’63 and PAF Flying School ’65 was once upon a time a veteran transport pilot of the famous C-130H, flying all over the country and overseas in the 60’s and 70’s which chronicled him by the local press as the “Hero in the Sky”! Hence, James is a 3rd generation of the Estrada Family Clan of aviators who have long conquered the clear blue skies not only in-country but also internationally, as manifested by his dad’s and grandpa’s legacy in the aviation industry.
Once again, congratulations SP James Estrada for the once in a lifetime personal achievement, the unforgettable 1st Solo Flight! Likewise, same compliments goes to the proud and very supportive parents, Mel and Chel for raising a gifted young and daring eaglet who now is cleared for takeoff to safely explore and conquer the infinite vastness of the horizon as well as the clear blue skies of SFLU. Have a Happy and Safe Flight always! Cheers & God bless!