Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author recently acquired and began flying a unique and rare Corby Starlet aircraft.
  • During a flight, the plane's distinctive appearance led to an interaction with air traffic control.
  • Amused by the small size, the tower operator humorously gave the author a new, personalized call sign, "N81 Chuck Chuck," which the author now uses.
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I just started flying my new-to-me Corby Starlet (only four flying in the U.S.A!), and on my first trip into Santa Rosa, California, STS, a KingAir pilot at the hold line asked the tower:
“What is that little plane that just landed?”

She came back:
“I’ll have him tell us.”

My response was:
“N8I Charlie Charlie — an Australian-designed wood-fabric with VW power and 18-foot wingspan.”

When it was my turn to take off, the tower operator said:
“‘Charlie’ is short for ‘Charles,’ and because you are so small, your call sign should be N81 Chuck Chuck.”

That was what she used for my call sign — and I still use it!


Lee Beery (a.k.a. Harry Landing)

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