So today I sampled what it would be like to be a charter pilot. We departed Essendon at around 8:00am, arriving in Warrnambool at around 9. On the way, I had control of the aircraft, a Piper Chieftain, and a very stable platform was she. I'm told that engine management is the key to successfully flying these aircraft. On descent into Warrnambool, we encountered some cloud and a little turbulence, but nothing special..
At Warrnambool, we waited in the terminal for 4 hours until our clients returned from whatever they were doing, then departed for Essendon.
This time, on the way back, I had control, but then the pilot asked me to reduce power in preparation for our descent....and in that moment, I learned just how sensitive the throttles can be. Just *thinking* about moving them will cause the manifold pressure to drop 6 inches..
Anyhow, it was a good day....I don't think I've quite made it yet, but it's getting closer...