Girl Makes First SOLO Flight on 16th Birthday
Natalie makes her first solo flight in an airplane on her 16th birthday at KRNT. This video is the first of 3 laps in the pattern at KRNT. She flies N5213U, a Cessna 162 Skycatcher out of Rainier Flight Services. 16 is the youngest age you can solo an airplane. What did you think? Please leave a comment in the section below and remember to share the video and sign up for our free newsletter!
February 16, 2021 @ 5:12 pm
I remember my first solo flight. On turning final, I realized that an airliner (Ozark, at that time) was holding short just for me. I wondered if anyone else knew it was my first time…
February 16, 2021 @ 3:43 pm
like many others who have commented, I to, remember my first solo flight in a T-34 trainer at Saufley Field in Pensacola in 1966. I was a 26-year-old Marine 2nd LT, Butter Bar at the time. My reaction was about the same as hers was. I am very happy for her.
The only thing I would mention is that I wish her flight instructor had taught her to keep her head on a swivel and learn how to set up a scan pattern. She only looked to her right once during the whole flight.
February 16, 2021 @ 1:49 pm
You go girl! Don’t forget to call your congressman for an appointment to Colorado Spring and the Air Force Academy! You look to be well on your way. Good Luck!!
February 16, 2021 @ 12:23 pm
I read Jane Johnson’s comment. I’m even older than she is. Always wanted to fly, but life took so many different turns for me. I have a handicapped child and two others. As a senior citizen, I adopted my 3 precious grandchildren. Our dreams don’t always come true, but if you’re a Christian, even better things can happen. I don’t’ know where you live and this is not a ploy to find out. But if you’re ever flying in the vicinity of NW AR, I’d love to fly with you. I’m near XNA International Airport. You are a charming young lady and I could feel your excitement. Be sure God is always the wind beneath your wings. Whenever I see a small plane flying above me, I’ll say a prayer for you.
February 16, 2021 @ 12:15 pm
MY MEMORY- the empty seat where my Instructor formerly sat!
February 16, 2021 @ 12:13 pm
What I remember most is the feeling of the empty seat formerly occupied by my Instructor!
February 16, 2021 @ 4:08 pm
Unfortunately if the left get their way there won’t be any sense in learning to fly because after they ban petroleum products there will only be horse and buggy for travel!
February 16, 2021 @ 9:24 pm
Just had to make political, didn’t you?
February 16, 2021 @ 11:22 am
I hope more 16 yr. old’s follow your example. You didn’t learn that skill being a BULLY and lazy kid. Kudo’s to you and I hope you continue to be an inspiration to your piers. Awesome Girl Stay Safe.
February 16, 2021 @ 11:03 am
I shed some tears. Took me back to May 1946 when I soloed on my 16th birthday in an old WWII trainer, a BT-!3. Such a thrill. You go, Natalie! Here’s to many more birthdays in the air.
February 16, 2021 @ 10:20 am
Is she still in the air or did she land that plane? Would have been nice to have seen that. Brave girl to fly a one prop plane. Yikes!
February 16, 2021 @ 4:22 pm
She did land.
February 16, 2021 @ 9:49 am
So very proud of this young lady. I almost felt like I was flying with her. Great job!!