Life Inverted

By: Aubri Guerrero

Aubri was one of this year’s lucky recipients of a media ride with the Phillips 66 Aerostars airshow team, made possible by AviNation, generously donated by Phillips 66.

Aerobatic flight is something I never considered when first putting my foot through the aviation door. I started my aviation journey roughly two years ago at California Baptist University. I showed up as an undeclared major but was easily swayed to try out aviation by department officials. Receiving the offer to partake in an aerobatic flight at the biggest air show in the world was unbelievable so, when presented with this unique opportunity, I immediately accepted. In addition, I knew this experience would expose me to another piece of aviation. Thus far, general aviation has been the only operation that I have gotten to see up close. Though no more than a fifteen-minute flight, the experience was truly unforgettable.

Prior to the flight, the Phillips 66 Aerostars reached out to ensure that I had viewed their safety video. While watching the safety video, my anticipation and excitement for this flight grew. I was able to grow familiar with the aircraft and the procedures specific to aerobatic flight. The precautionary parachute was a reminder that while an amazing experience, it requires every individual to be prepared in the event of unforeseen difficulties.

I rode along with Paul who has been training in aerobatic formation flight for over two decades. We spoke beforehand and he assured me that this flight was a simple operation that he had completed hundreds of times. Prior to departure, I knew which maneuvers we were going to complete, but nothing can prepare you for the feeling you get while executing each portion. As friends and family have asked about my experience, I have used a roller coaster to describe the feeling. Growing up, I always loved the feeling of acceleration, twists, turns, and loops. While the two concepts may not be exactly the same, it is the best comparison I can make.

During the flight Paul passed the controls to me, and as someone who hasn’t flown stick and rudder, I did not stay in formation too well. Despite the new control concept, Paul talked me through the process and helped me to stay in the proper formation. In flight, I could see the pilots motioning to each other in addition to the verbal communication that they maintained. They used hand signals to indicate formation changes, which I did not expect. The wrong interpretation of a signal could lead to major mistakes but is a relied upon source of communication for these pilots.

In my career, I would love to make it into the airlines. That being said, you cannot predict what opportunities will be sent your way. While I still plan on completing my flight training at California Baptist University, I’m not ruling out the aerobatic side of aviation. Not only does the appearance of an aerobatic formation flight look fascinating from the ground, it also allows pilots to test the theory behind the aerodynamics they are taught in the classroom. It truly allows the pilot to feel in control, yet free. I would highly recommend this opportunity to anyone who loves a thrilling experience.