Charity Flight
There is a STAR program that arranges for US and European detectives to spend some time in each others' operations. While their weekdays are spent gaining knowledge that can be utilized to improve outcomes in their respective countries, the weekends are for some entertainment.
One of the detectives involved with the program in Austin is a pilot, and a few years ago he got a couple friends together and they flew a few of the participants to Fredericksburg (T82) for breakfast. Over the past few years, that has grown to take all of the participants along with their local hosts. I was invited to participate this year, and was able meet Stefan, and we had a great day.
I needed to get from my home airport, 40XS, to Georgetown (KGTU) just 10 miles away to meet the group. That part of the flight profile took me 20 minutes! When I left home for the hangar, KGTU was 1100 broken. As I picked up ATIS, it had fallen to 900 broken. Fortunately, visibility was great as I could see the airport but just couldn't get there. So, I called up Austin approach and asked for a special VFR clearance. It took them a while because there was other traffic on the IFR approach. I just maneuvered in my happy VFR neighborhood and waited patiently, OK, well, as patiently as I can wait.
Loading up in Georgetown.
Stefan at the controls for the first time in his life. The only instructions I gave him were to go generally 'that' way, don't fly into the clouds and don't fly into the ground. He complied perfectly.
Always need the in-air selfie. Stefan sported the CQ1 with style.
Stefan and a local detective, Tank, at the diner. I asked Tank where he got his name. He pulled out his work ID, and while is started with 'Tank' I'm pretty sure that every letter of the alphabet was in his last name somewhere! Yep - no more explanation needed.
Stefan bought my breakfast and thanked me for flying him out. He asked why I chose to do so. Simple. First, I love to share aviation with those that are interested. Second, and most importantly, it is a small way I can show my appreciation to those that serve their communities in ways as challenging as policing.