Program gives pilots' spouses chance to learn how to land planes in emergencies

The course started April 23, 2012 at Lyncrest Airport, near Winnipeg. 

Updated: Mon Apr. 23 2012 18:10:19

ctvwinnipeg.ca

A course believed to be the first-of-its kind in Canada is offering the spouses of pilots the opportunity to learn how to land aircraft in emergency situations.

"It's sort of like wearing a helmet when you're riding a bicycle – just a little bit of insurance," said Jill Oakes, organizer of the Learning to Land program. The program is operating out of the Lyncrest Airport, near Winnipeg. 

The course was spurred by an incident earlier this month in which a Wisconsin woman's 81-year-old husband lost consciousness while flying a plane and died. 

With assistance from another pilot who gave information and talked her down, the woman was able to land the aircraft. 

Darlene Stewart was among a group of women who participated in the Manitoba course on Monday.

While she hopes she never has to land an aircraft on her own, she said she now feels more confident with what she's learned. 

"It's there if I ever need it," she said. 

The course began on Monday and organizers said they'll be holding classes every Monday and Tuesday for the next two weeks.

- with a report from CTV's Jon Hendricks 

http://winnipeg.ctv.ca