Flight Time–Keystone Heights

With another forecast for perfect weather, I planned a flight to another new airport. This one was in Keystone Heights, which is northeast of Gainesville. Susan had plans, so this flight was solo. I left Valkaria just before 2:00 PM and arrived in Keystone Heights at 3:25. The trip took longer than normal due to a pretty strong headwind at 6,500 feet. My ground speed for much of the flight was less than 100 knots.

Once on the ground, I taxied to the fuel pumps and topped off the tanks. Then I taxied to the FBO and parked. The FBO was small, but practically brand new. I met the manager, and we talked for a little while.

Keystone Heights FBO

While talking, he got a call. He excused himself to take care of some business. Turns out, two US Army Blackhawk helicopters were inbound and needed fuel.

US Army Blackhawk helicopter

While the helicopters were being re-fueled, I walked around the ramp and got a closer look at the former Australian Navy P-3 Orion planes. Apparently, they are being used for training now.

Former Australian P-3 Orions

Former Australian P-3 Orion

I departed at 4:30 and climbed to 7,500 feet. I contacted Jacksonville Approach and requested flight following to Melbourne. I was quite pleased to see that my ground speed now was over 140 knots. I was handed off to Daytona Approach, who told me to fly to the shoreline before heading south. I proceeded to the shoreline, then followed the coast south past New Smyrna Beach. Finally, I was told to resume on navigation. I was then handed off to Orlando Approach, where I was told to descend to 6,000 feet. As I approached Melbourne, I asked to cancel flight following, but the controller was concerned about the quantity of traffic in the area, so he kept me with him for five more miles. I was back on the ground at Valkaria at 6:00.

The flight tracks are shown below.

Valkaria to Keystone Heights

Keystone Heights to Valkaria

Flight Time: 3.5 hours
Total Time: 694 hours