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Testimonials - James Stanley |
| I've never been one for watching the weather reports but over the last month or so I have been avidly watching and searching out the latest forecasts, my life was governed by the weather. Having one false start at Kemble and almost taking off, insomuch as engine running, canopy closed only for the plane to go u/s, my excitement was barely contained when we were told its on for Sunday 2nd March. We met up with the ground crew at Exeter who were very friendly, made us a cup of coffee and put us at ease and showed us over the jets in the hangar. Thank you to you all... |
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| It was warm and sunny with 'The Simpsons' type of clouds and little wind. Perfect. Brian Grant, my pilot introduced himself and went through the safety procedures and what to expect when airborne. I had flown gliders before but this was a different ball game. Brian was fantastic and gave off an aura of confidence and professionalism. I had 100% trust in him. Once strapped in, we quickly taxied and zoomed off, climbing to about 3000 feet. The view was super, with Brian following a course towards Wales. We were banking over at 90 degrees on most turns which gave great views of the countryside and towns we passed with gentle g forces. We had unlimited vision. Of the many highlights, one that jumps out for me is the low level flypast at Cardiff International Airport with the air-traffic controller inviting us to fly as low at the windsock, which we duly obliged (almost) and hearing the feedback via our headsets of their roars of laughter,excitement and our own jet noise as we blasted by them. The best experience was crossing the Bristol channel to Lynmouth and diving sharply from 4000 feet to 100 feet and flying parallel to the beach with the cliffs higher then us and looking up at the coastguard lookout points and few houses that were there. Fantastic. A few seconds further on there was a horse galloping through the surf and then we were pulling up and away. We did a loop and pulled just about 4g, wow, gulp, so that's what 4g feels and looks like. Unforgettable. My colour vision did return with a rush when the g lessened and to be honest I did feel a bit queasy although this soon settled after a bit of straight and level flight...! We performed a few more maneuvers with myself hanging onto the controls. What a sensitive aircraft it is, wonderful, so responsive. Brian then guided us towards Exeter and we did the obligatory flypast and then a perfect landing. The looks on the faces of the passengers watching as we taxied past the public airport side was one of amazement. I waved and instantly had half a dozen waves back from adults and children alike. The whole flight was one of the best experiences of my life with one of the most experienced Hunter Pilots in the World. There are so many parts of the flight which I have not described or can cover in such a short summary... | |
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A big thank you goes to Brian Grant for helping me achieve a dream, being the perfect gentleman and companion for our Sunday afternoon blast across the skies. As always there are about 10 other vital members of the team behind the scenes, people who make this all possible. A special thanks must go to John Sparks and all the other 'Johns' for looking after such a wonderful aircraft as the Hunter and for taking care of my wife and myself throughout our time with you. Thank you to Chris as well. My wife enjoyed it almost as much as I did, which looks promising for me saving for another flight...! |
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