A Check Ride for Seafood

Author: Robert Goree

Near the end of UPT, I was left with my Nav check. And of course, I drew the check pilot with the toughest reputation. The weather was bad in every direction, so I was very nervous about where to go. Then the check pilot walked in and said, “We are going to Tyndall.” And that settled it. When we got to Tyndall, Approach Control advised us that we had to be on the ground within a few minutes as sea fog was going to close the airport. My check pilot asked me if I could fly a 500-knot approach. Of course, I said yes. As we got close, you know the drill: idle, speed brakes, and slow down to Final Approach speed. The CGA went well, and after landing, we taxied to the ramp and shut down. A few minutes later, a bunch of people arrived bringing seafood. Apparently, the IPs were having a party since we couldn’t fly anymore. Besides, it was already dark, and some of the check items couldn’t be completed. Needless to say, I passed with flying colors.