Submitted by Bob Waunch.

It was a cold overcast afternoon as Tony Simpson stepped out of the aircraft and told Nicholas Rivera, a senior at Orcas Christian School: “you’re on your own.”

Rivera then proceeded to make five takeoffs and landings solo — a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every pilot remembers vividly. You can ask any pilot about their first solo flight, and they’ll give you all the details: where and when it took place, in what aircraft, etc. Most of them will also tell you one of the first thoughts they had right after becoming airborne: “Oh boy, I just took off by myself! Now I have to get this aircraft back on the ground.”

The day was extra special because both his parents, Andy and Valentina, were there taking pictures and videos to record the occasion.

Nicholas is the 24th recipient of an Airhawks Flying Club student scholarship and plans to complete his training and receive his Private Pilot Certificate this summer before heading off to college where he will also continue with more advanced flight training. Additional information about Airhawks can be found at www.airhawks.org.