Originally Posted by
Senior Skipper
not having a CFI there to hold your hand really does lots for your decision making ability. You may even scare yourself once or twice.
Oh yes, this is a great point and if you really think about it, this is a really good way to experience some good in-flight decisions first hand. This will undoubtedly make you a stronger, competent aviator. One tends to become lax when an instructor is aboard. And yes, I have had my share of scary experiences too.