Flight Time–Quincy

Today we planned a flight to Quincy, Florida. Quincy is a small town northwest of Tallahassee. The airport is small, with a large grass field. This would be a perfect spot for an overnight fly-in.

We left Valkaria around 11:00 and headed north up the coast. As we approached Daytona Beach Class C airspace, we climbed to 4,500 feet. Unfortunately, the cloud bases beyond were at 3,500 feet, so we were forced to descend to 3,000 feet. After a few miles, the clouds cleared, and we returned to 4,500 feet. Although we were now flying in clear skies, we were confronted with a 15-knot headwind and spent the next hour being bounced around. When we turned west, the ride got smoother and more enjoyable.

We landed at Quincy and taxied to the fuel pump. I was impressed at both the low price and how quiet the pump ran. I wasn’t sure if it was even on. After topping off the tanks, we taxied onto the grass near the FBO. I was surprised to find that the airport was not surrounded by an ugly chain link fence, but instead had a nice white picket fence.

Andrew and Susan at the FBO

We went inside to use the facilities and check out the upper level, then ate some snacks on a picnic table outside. While there, we talked to another pilot, and met his dog, Ninja.

Upstairs at the FBO

N7207W parked in the grass outside the FBO

Soon we were back in the plane heading south to DeLand. After taking off, I contacted Tallahassee Approach and got permission to transition their Class C airspace. I asked if we could fly over Florida State University at 2,000 feet and was granted permission.

Tallahassee International Airport

Florida State University

Soon after passing the university, we turned back on course. As we turned, we passed over the capitol complex.

Florida State Capitol

Our flight south took us very close to the Gulf of Mexico and over Cross City and Ocala. We planned to avoid the restricted airspace to the east, but the Jacksonville Approach controller asked if we’d like to go direct to DeLand, and I said, “Yes please!”.

In DeLand, we met Mom at the restaurant. The place was completely packed, and we had to search for a table. The service was slow, as expected, so we only ordered some drinks – non-alcoholic, of course.

Soon, we were back in the air to Valkaria. This flight took an hour, and the sun was about to set as we approached the airport. While maneuvering to land, we passed a south bound Brightline train.

Southbound Brightline train

Below is the route we flew.

Flight to Quincy

Flight to DeLand

Flight to Valkaria

Flight Time: 6.2 hours
Total Time: 572 hours