Jerez in January

The next stage in my pilot training is the CPL(Commercial Pilot's license) and IR(Instrument Rating). I had wanted to do this with Flight Training Europe in Jerez, Spain due to the reasonable price, good reputation and good weather but wasn't able to apply until after I received my ATPL examination results. So, when I received them the Saturday before last, I sent them with all my ratings and paperwork and have been waiting for a reply. Well, I say waiting, really what I have been doing is ringing almost every day only to be told that I will be called with an answer later that day. Of course, I haven't been until yesterday when I was told that I had a place. A great relief as now I can start to plan the preceding 3 months with a defined path ahead. The course starts in January and will last around 3 months.

I still need a few more flying hours before I start in Jerez so last Tuesday I was checked out in a 4-seater Warrior and also to fly to France. For the first time I had to go with an instructor and I also had a French instructor riding in the back. She had arrived from France the night before on some exchange deal and the first thing I did was take her back!! The weather when we arrived was hardly VFR but cleared up soon after we arrived. It is only a 1 hour flight to Le Touquet from Shoreham and popping over for lunch feels very decadent. I have also been flying with James and Adas.

I flew with Adas to Southend, a destination that a few years ago he took me to when he was still hour building. As well as the pleasant flight and the platter of seafood overlooking Southend pier it was really enjoyable because I felt like there was a certain symmetry in returning the favour.

Adas by the Seven Sisters








All I need to do now is find some work until January. Probably labouring, but not the best time of year to be looking for that. Until I find some I will be doing stuff for my mum.