Day 4, Fri. Apr. 25, Hutchinson, KS to Albuquerque, NM

Now we're on the backside of the low-pressure system with low stratus.  We filed IFR (instrument flight rules) and popped up on top of the cloud layer after only about 3 minutes in the clouds.   I guess that instrument rating was useful.  








Meade, KS



It was clear when we landed in Dalhart TX for fuel and lunch break.



looking off towards Santa Fe on the way to Albuquerque, the Sangre de Cristo mountains are off in the distance.  Too bad we didn't take pictures as we crossed the mountains to Albuquerque.  I was busy flying and Marilyn was getting used to the idea of going over mountains.  



We had a great stay in Albuquerque.  The FBO (Fixed Base Operator, as if that explains it) at Double Eagle airport made reservations for us at the Best Western Rio Grande down by Old Town, which is a touristy place but since we are tourists that worked for us.  They arranged for a hotel shuttle for us and got us a good rate at the hotel.  What service!   We stopped at this little take-out place and ate our dinner in the square at Old Town where we watched people and relaxed.  I had the best green chili stew in 20 years and Marilyn had enchiladas.   I screwed up coming and going to the Double Eagle airport.  Coming, I was looking at the wrong airport in my flight guide so someone on the radio had to point out to me that runway 22 is right traffic, and then I had the altitude wrong so came in low; then going I took the runway while a guy was turning final.  I thought there was plenty of time and it turned out okay but I should have waited.  I hope they don't remember me because I'd like to return.