PREFLIGHT» Join the show Fly to a major aviation event THERE IS NOTHING quite like attending your first airshow as a pilot. As a child you loved the performers because it was beyond anything you could imagine. As a pilot you’ll love them because now you can appreciate just how difficult and amazing it is to fly upside down a few feet above the ground. Although they will let you drive in to a place like AFTER THE CHECKRIDE Sun ‘n Fun in Lakeland, Florida, flying in is the only way to get the full show experience. It can be daunting for a student or a new pilot, but there’s nothing to be afraid of. Every major show coordinates a notam that lays out a standard arrival and departure procedure so you know exactly what to expect ahead of time. Braving the arrival is truly worth it. Being able to say you flew yourself in to the show when someone asks will be a seminal moment in your pilot career, and one that makes you feel like a true member of the club. This year’s Sun ’n Fun takes place at Lakeland Linder Regional Airport (LAL) from March 27 to April 1. Airshow highlights include the B-29 Fifi and the USAF Thunderbirds. CHECKLIST... WHAT TO DO BEFORE YOU GO • Always check notams before flying to a major event. You can find Sun ’n Fun’s notam online (www.sun-n-fun.org). • Make a Plan B in case the airport is closed when you arrive. • Bring your own tiedowns in case you are parked in the grass. • It’s a great idea to bring another pilot or even a nonpilot passenger to spot traffic. 14 / FLIGHTTRAINING.AOPA.ORGhttp://www.sun-n-fun.org http://FLIGHTTRAINING.AOPA.ORG