I had been planning for weeks that during the summer holiday I will visit the “Hármashatárhegy” airport in Budapest as I am interested in the work of other aeroclubs, their airplanes and the teams and also the popularity of gliding in the country.

However, I was surprised when I realized that on Friday morning I was standing at the tram stop with a map in my hand and trying to find the way to this airport surrounded by the hills of Buda. One of my friends came with me to on that small trip.

Everything was ideal for a flying day, it wasn’t raining, there was light breeze and it wasn’t too hot—and what is more—n the morning I had to wear my jacket when we were walking near the forest in the hills. My flight was arranged in advance as I have a very nice friend in this aeroclub. That day I couldn’t meet him, it’s a pity. However, the other members of the club were also friendly and helpful, so I wasn’t dissappointed.

I was so excited when I looked at the airplanes in their hangar. The well-known “Góbé” was waiting for the day in front of the buildings while the others were bringing out other airplanes. We introduced ourselves quickly and one of the instructors showed us the system and the assets of the club. I really liked the blue-silver “Góbé.” it’s so rare in this country; the typical colour is yellow or orange. We could see an Astir, PW-5, Ka-8, Jantar, PIK-20 and a few Pirats in the back. (The Pirats can’t be used any more; they are too old and used.)

I took a few pictures as I wanted to treasure the memories and the nice hospitality of the airport. The team was a convergent group of young people. They have their own nicknames, funny stories and common experiences. I really enjoyed the atmosphere there!

We left our bag in their van (used for carrying things) and went to the launch point by foot. I didn’t want to miss those unforgettable moments when we were walking in the green grass and between the beautiful flowers and I felt the dewdrops on my legs.

I didn’t have so much time to admire the scenery; the instructor asked us who wants to have the first flight. As my friend has never flown before, I took the first flight.

Our runway in Miskolc is plain and we don’t have to deal with hills, but there they have more difficulties with the relief. You should pay attention to the mountains and the high voltage power line. In the last turn the trees are so close…it looks dangerous, but the forests are green in the summer which is amazing to look at.

It is not easy to take off as you should keep the exact direction and stay correct through the takeoff.

But I couldn’t sit in a chair after my friend and the instructor took off; I had to fly again. :) I felt that there were some thermals and I was smiling widely. It was a fascinating experience at this new airport!

Time was running incredibly quickly and unfortunately, we couldn’t spend the whole day there;the train won’t wait for us. But I hope that I will have the chance to return and fly again there and show more of my knowledge. :) Now I just wanted to stay in the role of a passenger, but I shouldn’t forget about the fact that I am a pilot too. :) And if I need, the instructor can help in the new surroundings. :)

This short trip showed me that pilots have a cooperative community in the country; this hobby keeps us together.

After this trip I want to visit other airports if I have to travel to somewhere. It’s the best way to make friends and improve my skills a bit. :)