Local student Patrick Montgomery is no stranger to an aeroplane cab, having undergone training to be a pilot from FN Aviation, Moree.
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April 19 was like any other flight for Mr Montgomery, except for the fact he was operating the aircraft solo.
At 17:00 hours, Mr Montgomery took a Jabiru J170C aircraft for a first flight, completely unassisted.
FN Aviation chief flying instructor Fred Nolan said the youngster held promise, completing a perfect circuit in a light cross wind.
Mr Montgomery is a year 11 student enrolled at Moree Tech High School, but has already completed a flight with a very “smooth landing” on runway 19 at Moree airport, Mr Nolan said.
Mr Nolan said cross wind weather conditions could be quite trying for pilots of any experience.
“But I could not have done it better myself,” Mr Nolan said.
Patrick is the eldest son of Moree Plains Shire councillor Mike Montgomery and his proud mother Nell was on hand to welcome him back to earth.