The Unpredictable Side of Aviation – A Flight from San Carlos to San Luis Obispo

Flying from one airport to another in my Mooney M20E is always an exciting adventure, but as with any pilot, I know that aviation can be full of surprises—both good and bad. My recent flight from San Carlos, CA (SQL) to San Luis Obispo, CA (SBP) proved to be a perfect example of this reality.

The Flight Down

The journey started on a perfect flying day. Weather conditions were ideal, with clear skies and a slight tailwind pushing us smoothly along the California coastline. San Luis Obispo is a beautiful destination nestled in the rolling hills, and it's a treat to approach from the air. The flight from San Carlos was uneventful in the best way, and after a smooth touchdown at SBP, I taxied to ACI Jet, where we planned to enjoy a short stopover before heading back.

As a pilot who flies regularly, I have grown to appreciate the reliability of my Mooney M20E. It’s a great aircraft for cross-country flights like this, and it never fails to deliver excellent performance in terms of speed and fuel efficiency. But, as many pilots will tell you, aviation is all about being prepared for the unexpected.

The Departure That Never Happened

After a pleasant stay in San Luis Obispo, it was time to get back in the air. Everything was prepped for departure: the pre-flight inspection was complete, weather checked, and the flight plan filed. But as I cranked the engine, something wasn’t right. The usual growl of the engine turning over didn’t come—just silence.

I tried again, and again, but the engine wouldn’t start. This is the kind of moment no pilot wants to experience, but it’s a part of flying. You learn to expect the unexpected, and that’s what makes aviation both thrilling and humbling.

Troubleshooting the Problem

We went through the usual troubleshooting steps: checking the battery, the ignition system, fuel lines—you name it. But nothing worked. It quickly became clear that this wasn't just a minor hiccup. It was time to call in the professionals. The ACI Jet team was incredibly helpful and assisted us in diagnosing the problem. However, it became evident that we were facing a mechanical issue that required deeper inspection.

What caused the failure? It turned out to be a malfunction in the starter motor. This was something that couldn’t be addressed on the spot and meant an unexpected overnight stay while we waited for parts and repairs. This delay underscored a crucial lesson in aviation: no matter how well you prepare, mechanical issues can arise, and you need to stay flexible and patient when they do.

Unexpected Maintenance: A Reality of Owning an Aircraft

As pilots, we are meticulous about maintenance and ensuring our aircraft are airworthy before every flight. But the truth is, mechanical issues can still pop up at the most inconvenient times. My Mooney M20E is a reliable and well-maintained aircraft, but like any machine, it’s susceptible to wear and tear.

Unexpected issues like this are why regular maintenance and annual inspections are so important. It's also why every pilot should be mentally prepared for things not to go as planned. Aviation demands adaptability, and part of that means understanding that not every flight will go perfectly, even if you do everything right. Sometimes, parts fail without warning, and when they do, it's crucial to have a network of support to help you get back in the air safely.

The Importance of Patience and Flexibility

If there’s one thing I’ve learned through this experience, it’s that patience and flexibility are two of a pilot's greatest tools. No one likes dealing with delays, especially when they’re unexpected, but staying calm and focused is essential. Safety is always the priority, and if that means waiting for repairs or finding alternative solutions, then that’s what you have to do.

The trip to San Luis Obispo may not have ended exactly as planned, but it served as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of flying. Mechanical issues are part of the journey, and how you handle them defines your experience as a pilot.

For now, I’m grateful for the expertise of the ACI Jet team and the support from fellow aviators. These moments make me a better pilot, always learning and adapting to the challenges that come with owning and flying an aircraft.

Happy flying, and remember to always expect the unexpected when you’re up in the air!

This experience was a reminder that while aviation gives us freedom, it also keeps us on our toes. Whether you’re flying for fun or building hours like I am, it’s essential to stay flexible and maintain your aircraft carefully to minimize the chance of surprises. Safe travels!