God is great! Thank God it’s Friday (TGIF). Unforgettable indeed, as two (2) of Leading Edge’s flightless birds ruffled their fragile feathers to strengthen their respective frail wings soared high across the skies of San Fernando Airport, La Union and achieved the most coveted highlight of their career in flying, “1st Solo Flight”. Yesterday morning, June 3, 2016 on a generally good weather condition with the prevailing strong winds on the onset of the rainy season 2 weeks ago, two (2) young and daring eaglets successfully made their respective 1st Solo Flights one after the other. On or about 9:15 am, Student Pilot John Cyril Villaruel Occeña was released for 1st Solo in 21.1 Flying Hours by Capt Philmer Powao, while, on or about 9:45 am, SP Paolo “Puloy” Ibarra Santos Mendoza followed suit and released in 19.2 FH by Capt Ryan Dionela. Clearly, both student pilots proved to one and all that no amount of strong wind condition, estimated gust of about 15 knots directly headwind at Runway 190° could thwart their burning desires to make it as a future certified blue blooded aviators. Incidentally, a 3rd 1st Soloist candidate, SP Gian Mendoza would have joined the 2 new soloists if not for his birth date which falls yesterday, a “No Fly Policy” by the school for birthday celebrants. Thus, the Birthday Boy will have to wait for another day, probably next week to face the day of reckoning in his early flying career.
Once again, the Leading Edge Family would like extend its commendation and congratulations to the two ( 2) 1st Soloists for the month of June 2016 for attaining the most significant event in one’s flying career, “1st Solo Flight”, an unforgettable once in a lifetime thrilling experience! Both are now equipped in exploring and conquering the vastness of the infinite horizon as well as the clear blue skies of San Fernando Airport, La Union, the home sanctuary of the Eagles’ Nest of Leading Edge. May God, the Supreme Ruler of the Universe and Master of the Destinies of Men (Excerpts from the Pilot’s Prayer) guide and bless all your flights to the great beyond, so that you may fly back to your loved ones in one piece! Happy flying and have a SAFE Flight always! CHEERS!!!