Published: June 29, 2016
Today went by pretty fast. We had our second block test, which covered material from the last few days. It went significantly better than the first test, for me. I scored 100% (though I believe the test was also easier than the first…). From what I overheard there were several other perfect scores, but also a share of not-so-perfect scores. I felt good about it, even though it’s pretty insignificant in the grand scheme of things for grading (1%).
After that, we did an “ungraded” test – the tower visibility certification test. This test doesn’t count towards our class grade, only a pass/fail grade we needed for passing the course itself. I passed this on the first try and only missed one question. Some of it was spoon fed to us before the test though, and the rest of it was in the LMS directly prior to the test, so I’d probably have to review it if I actually had to do it some day at my facility.
After this we had a long break after we waited for everyone to finish the test (we’re talking an hour plus here…). I talked to some of my classmates about facilities and past lives before applying for ATC, but it was mostly forgettable small-talk.
We went back after our hour plus break and went over clearances, SVFR procedures, and VFR-On-Top procedures. This lesson seemed to drag on and on, but this may have been because it was nearing lunch time. After lunch we finished this lesson and went over another lesson on “basic control” which was a little taste of “real” Air Traffic Control techniques and rules (mainly stuff for lab, though). We discussed some separation issues/techniques, taxi routes at AAC airport, and safety alerts. This took us up until the end of the day, and here we are.
Pretty uneventful day overall and I anticipate that tomorrow will be pretty similar. After this week, only one week of the classroom left and we’ll be moving into the labs (FINALLY!).
I need to run out and get some groceries tonight, and find time to study. Also, it’s still scorching hot out. I would really use another storm down here to cool things off a bit.