There was at least one noteworthy incident in flight school that decidedly shaped the way I practice medicine. Learning to fly helicopters for the U.S. Army is definitely an adventure. For nearly a year, the thump of rotor blades and the smell of jet fuel permeate every aspect of life for the student pilot. Throughout training, the omniscient teacher and protector of the student is the instructor pilot. IPs are chosen for their experience and skill.
Patience varies somewhat.
One of my first IPs was quite amazing. I believed there was no situation or attitude I could put the aircraft into from which he could not easily and gracefully recover. As a novice, I frequently tested his reflexes, skills and patience. His competence gave me the confidence to explore the limits of the helicopter's performance. In addition to routine training in take-offs, landings and hovering, emergency procedures were something we practiced during every flight.