What Are Adventure Flights? Following lesson after lesson during flight training is an efficient way to gain knowledge about how to become a professional safe pilot, but it’s easy to get burnt out completing one lesson after another. At Hawkins Flight Academy we are determined to expand our students pilot education by offering fun ways to expand their knowledge by getting outside of our normal “bubble” of Shelbyville. Adventure flights are a great way to gain experience being a true cross country pilot by taking what we have learned in the books and applying them to real world flying.

“I’ve learned more in my long cross country flights than any other time… it’s an accelerator for learning and pushes you to get comfortable on the radios and with procedures in busier airspace and airports.” -Wes

“The Adventure Flight was definitely an adventure, but also a huge learning experience. I learned all kinds of things I might have never learned just doing short cross countries to Upper Cumberland and back. These trips give you the sense of what being a real pilot is all about!” – Bailey

Adventure Flight to Upstate New York: Expanding Flight Training To More Than Just Local Flight Lessons.

There’s something about flying small planes that brings adventure, freedom, and a unique perspective on the world. Recently, we set out for an unforgettable journey, flying a Piper Cherokee and Evektor Harmony from Shelbyville, TN, to the picturesque landscapes of upstate New York. Along the way, we experienced strong headwinds, breathtaking views, and immersed ourselves in aviation history, making it a trip we’ll never forget.

The Journey Begins: Headed North

Our adventure started in Shelbyville, Tennessee. After meticulously checking our planes and weather conditions, we took off, heading northeast. The flight began smoothly, but as we crossed into Kentucky, strong headwinds challenged our progress. Despite the winds slowing us down, the scenery below kept us in awe.

We made our first stop in Kentucky for fuel and a quick break, then continued into Ohio. The headwinds persisted, but so did our excitement as we neared our destination. As we crossed into Pennsylvania, the views became increasingly captivating. The landscape below transformed into a sea of vibrant autumn colors, as the leaves began changing to their fiery hues of red, orange, and gold. We could tell we were getting closer to upstate New York.

Arrival at Penn Yan (KPEO) and Keuka Lake

Our final destination for the first day was Penn Yan Airport (KPEO) in Penn Yan, NY. Nestled in the Finger Lakes region, this area is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and it did not disappoint. After landing, we made our way to a cozy lake house on the shores of Keuka Lake, where we would spend the night. The serene waters and surrounding hills provided the perfect backdrop for a peaceful evening, allowing us to reflect on the day’s flight and plan for the next leg of our journey.

Morning at the Glenn Curtiss Museum

The next morning greeted us with a hearty breakfast that fueled us for another day of exploration. But before taking to the skies again, we made a stop at the Glenn Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport, NY. This hidden gem is dedicated to the life and achievements of Glenn Curtiss, often referred to as the father of naval aviation. The museum is packed with artifacts, early aircraft, and fascinating stories of Curtiss’ contributions to aviation and motorcycling.

Learning about Curtiss’ fearless innovation and pivotal role in advancing aviation, especially naval aviation, added a deeper appreciation to our own flying adventure. It was a reminder of the pioneers who made modern flight possible.

“Glenn Curtis needs wayyyyy more recognition than the Wright brothers.” – Wes

Over Niagara Falls and Back Home

With the museum visit behind us, we took off once more, flying northwest toward Niagara Falls. As we approached the falls, the excitement built. Seeing the majestic falls from the sky is an awe-inspiring experience, with the roaring water plunging over the cliffs, creating mist that rises into the air. Flying over this natural wonder was undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trip.

Afterward, we turned our planes south and began the journey home. This time, we were treated to strong tailwinds, a much-welcomed change from the challenging headwinds we faced on the way up. The smooth and swift return flight allowed us to soak in the final views of the changing autumn landscape, making the trip feel even more rewarding.

Conclusion

This adventure from Tennessee to upstate New York, with stops in Kentucky, Ohio, and the Glenn Curtiss Museum, was a perfect blend of flying challenges, scenic beauty, and historical exploration. The thrill of flying over Niagara Falls and the serenity of Keuka Lake made it an experience we’ll carry with us for years. For anyone with a love for aviation, history, and the open skies, this kind of journey is nothing short of extraordinary. Join Hawkins Flight Academy on our next adventure and take your flight training to the next level. Remember, the skies not the limit, IT’S HOME!

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