When I was 12, my dad, a Controller and a Pilot, gave a talk at Clemson University on the benefits of an aviation career. As with most college-age people, there had to be something to keep their interest, or they zoned out. Dad had a secret weapon.

The night’s highlight was the Vertigo Chair. It was a chair that spun around and had a joystick that simulated the controls in an aircraft for left and right and up and down. An individual put on site-blocking goggles and was spun around in the chair. Once stopped, they were instructed to turn in a specific direction and climb or descend. No one was able to follow the directions. Some even got sick, but not me; I loved it. Of course, I wasn’t trying to fly a plane at the time either.

Being a strictly VFR Pilot, I’m fortunate that I never experienced Vertigo while flying. I love a good storm, with lighting even, as long as I’m in my home and looking out the window. Frankly, flying in clouds is not for me. It scares me. I need to see what’s around me. I am that pilot, the one who would decide my instruments were wrong and probably end up splat on the ground.

My dad, the most intelligent man I have ever known and a great pilot, advised those who are Instrument rated to always rely on your instruments and make small head movements while in clouds.

I’m sure that is excellent advice because my dad said it.