On Sunday, November 25, 2007, Dad and I took to the air for a late Fall flight which would take us over two amusement parks, one of which is now defunct. We flew southeast to begin with, heading directly to Six Flags Great Adventure. I prepped the camera, descended to an altitude of about 1,500 feet and flew a few counter-clockwise circles around the park. I distinctly wanted to photograph the dismantling of one of the park's larger coasters, Batman & Robin: The Chiller, and what I noted that day was that it had almost been completely cleared from the site, minus the station and queue. I also noted that a large water ride that resided next to this dismantled coaster had also been removed. All of this to make way for the new arrival in Spring 2008; Batman: The Dark Knight indoor coaster.
After shooting pictures from other areas of the park as well, I climbed to 2,000 feet and headed southwest, destined for South Jersey Regional airport in Lumberton, NJ. I decided that I would transition McGuire Air Force Base's airspace rather than fly around the perimeter of it, so I contacted the control tower for permission. Of course, permission was granted, and I was asked to SQUAWK a specific code on my transponder. Once this was done, I proceeded to over-fly the base, heading directly over the aircraft apron and mid-point of the airfield itself. Quite a stunning sight indeed, and in the interest of National Security, that is all I will say.
Moving on, I was cleared by the base's controlling agency to SQUWK VFR, and radar contact was terminated. I was now on my own, which is just the way I like it assuming the weather is as nice as it was this past Sunday. We landed at South Jersey Regional airport for a stretch, to use the facilities and to take a look around. Not wanting to grab a snack in the over-crowded but very pleasant and friendly restaurant there, we boarded the plane and flew back to our home base airport in northwestern New Jersey. Once back home, we parked and ate our picnic lunch in the car, which was a lot more comfortable than in the rather cramped cockpit of our Cessna.
The weather was really turning beautiful and the little wind in the morning dropping off even more so. We then took off and this time headed north, destined for a small children's park, which is now defunct, located in Oak Ridge, New Jersey. Fairy Tale Forest is its name, and now has a storage facility built directly on a portion of its property. I was told there might still be signs of the park's existence, but I needed to wait until the majority of the leaves fell from the trees since this park was nestled in the woods. I remained at a rather high altitude, about 2,500 feet, due to the rather limited emergency landing sites that existed in this hilly, tree-covered area of far northern New Jersey. I flew a few circles of the park's property, and was pleasantly surprised that much of the structures still existed. Several buildings from the Fairy Tales were present, the large Shoe from "the was an old woman who lived in a shoe" and the castle-like front entrance. Even the road sign and parking lot was still intact.
After shooting quite a few pictures, Dad and I noticed a fire burning on a hill just east of where we were, so we flew there next to take a closer look. It turned out to be only some small brush or flare fires that were set, though we had no idea why. We did not see any flames, but there was a LOT of smoke. We then headed northwest towards Vernon Valley Great Gorge and McAfee ski areas. Some snow was made, but very little since it was still too warm outside. Continuing west, we spotted Sussex airport in Sussex, New Jersey, and setup for a landing. After parking, we used the facilities there, and noted the fuel price wasn't too bad ($2.45/gal). It was rather depressing there with little to no activity except for some kids on a quad running around the aircraft apron. There was some construction equipment on site as well, working on adding a NEW taxiway to the southern portion of the field. It was getting late now, the temperature was dropping and the sun would be setting very soon. It was time to leave, and that we did, heading directly for our home-base airport.
On the way, though, we spotted a rather large Corn Maze in Hackettstown, New Jersey, and I decided to circle it once to snap a few pictures of this truly impressive corn field masterpiece. Finally reaching the airport, I set up the plane and landed with a "grease job", which in pilot terms means the landing was so smooth, the tires barely make a sound as the plane ever so gently makes contact with the runway.
Take a look at my Six Flags Great Adventure photos from today, as well as my Fairy Tale Forest coverage as well. It was a great flying day with exceptional weather....Weather we hope will again be with us well into the winter months of 2007/2008....Thanks for reading !!!
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
And then the Winds Came.....
This will be a short entry, and the high winds are to blame for that. It was Sunday, April 29, 2007 that we arrived at the airport under mostly cloudy skies with only a peek of sun here and there. The winds were predicted, via the aviation weather that pilots MUST call prior to flying, to be around 10 mph from the west, at most. The general forecast on T.V. and the internet were saying 10-15 and 10-20 mph. Not too bad if the wind is down the runway and you do not have to land in a crosswind. We took-off directly into the wind which was now a good 15 or so mph and climbed to approx. 2,500 feet, staying near the airport to check things out.
After flying a circle around the field, I flew northeast towards the location of my house and snapped a few pictures of my freshly painted home. Needless to say, even with image optical stabilization, the pictures STILL came out a bit fuzzy. We continued northwest towards Washington, NJ, then headed southwest. I suggested we fly to our usual destination of Queen City airport near Allentown, PA. Bumping along, we noticed that the clouds were diminishing and an abundance of blue skies and clear air was ahead of us in eastern PA. We entered the traffic pattern and got slammed as we over-flew the mountain range just east of the airport, then set-up for runway 33, which was directly into the wind. The landing was effortless, so to speak, in that our actual "GROUND SPEED" was about 30 mph or so upon touchdown....Nice and gentle. We parked for about 30 minutes or so, taking a walk along the access road and noting a few eating establishments we might want to check-out in the near future when my wife joins us.
By now it was getting pretty breezy, and we noted the windsock in the middle of the field was straight out, indicating at least a 20 mph wind. We boarded the plane and took-off, again directly into the wind. We were airborne within a few hundred feet. I flew a bit west of the field to take a look at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom amusement park, which I bought a season's pass to and will be enjoying their selection of coasters when the park opens in the beginning of May.
Heading east and in a direct route back to our home-base airport, we were really getting slammed; up, down, left, right....Some moderate turbulence here with some hard gusts making us glad we had our seat belts tightened hard and fast across our laps. The wind now had turned to a more northerly direction and even using the cross runway to land would be a 45 degree crosswind. Doing the best I could, I got the plane down safely, though a bit rougher than I am used to. We fueled the plane and parked soon thereafter. While enjoying our picnic lunch from the back of my car, protected from the onslaught of the wind, I took out our hand-held wind meter and noted that the winds were now 15 - 20 with gusts to 25 and 30, and even one gust read 35....OUCH....Landed just in time. Oh well, still an entertaining flight with some more knowledge gained on how to deal with windy conditions....Thanks for reading !!!
After flying a circle around the field, I flew northeast towards the location of my house and snapped a few pictures of my freshly painted home. Needless to say, even with image optical stabilization, the pictures STILL came out a bit fuzzy. We continued northwest towards Washington, NJ, then headed southwest. I suggested we fly to our usual destination of Queen City airport near Allentown, PA. Bumping along, we noticed that the clouds were diminishing and an abundance of blue skies and clear air was ahead of us in eastern PA. We entered the traffic pattern and got slammed as we over-flew the mountain range just east of the airport, then set-up for runway 33, which was directly into the wind. The landing was effortless, so to speak, in that our actual "GROUND SPEED" was about 30 mph or so upon touchdown....Nice and gentle. We parked for about 30 minutes or so, taking a walk along the access road and noting a few eating establishments we might want to check-out in the near future when my wife joins us.
By now it was getting pretty breezy, and we noted the windsock in the middle of the field was straight out, indicating at least a 20 mph wind. We boarded the plane and took-off, again directly into the wind. We were airborne within a few hundred feet. I flew a bit west of the field to take a look at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom amusement park, which I bought a season's pass to and will be enjoying their selection of coasters when the park opens in the beginning of May.
Heading east and in a direct route back to our home-base airport, we were really getting slammed; up, down, left, right....Some moderate turbulence here with some hard gusts making us glad we had our seat belts tightened hard and fast across our laps. The wind now had turned to a more northerly direction and even using the cross runway to land would be a 45 degree crosswind. Doing the best I could, I got the plane down safely, though a bit rougher than I am used to. We fueled the plane and parked soon thereafter. While enjoying our picnic lunch from the back of my car, protected from the onslaught of the wind, I took out our hand-held wind meter and noted that the winds were now 15 - 20 with gusts to 25 and 30, and even one gust read 35....OUCH....Landed just in time. Oh well, still an entertaining flight with some more knowledge gained on how to deal with windy conditions....Thanks for reading !!!
Monday, April 23, 2007
Hershey Park & The Amish Land...
Ah, a real summer day, this past Saturday, April 21, 2007 was. With temps in the high 70's to low 80's, combined with light wind, it was a real treat. What wasn't a treat, despite these low winds, was the turbulence we experienced throughout the day. Though nothing significant, it became a nuisance by the time we returned home. Still though, we had a great flight as I will try to convey below.
After arriving at the airport, a standard pre-flight was in order, followed by a quick trip to the airport office to check last minute weather and use the facilities. I already knew where I wanted to fly to, and Hershey Park in Hershey, PA was it. Before we could actually fly there, we figured on a quick fuel stop at Queen City airport in Allentown, PA. This is our usual fuel-stop and rest area before, during or after a day of flying, if we are in the area of course.
Upon departing, I headed southwest, paralleling I-78. We overflew Kutztown and the university located there, as well as the small airport with one paved runway and the other turf. Continuing, we flew just north of a rather large, irregular shaped lake due northeast of Reading, PA. Soon after, I could see the town of Lebanon in the distance, and knew that Deck airport was around the area. We were both getting hungry and since it was a little past noon, we decided on a visit to this quaint, farm country airport amongst the cattle and corn fields of PA. After taxing, parking and shutting down the engine, we emerged from the cockpit to utter silence. It's almost spooky to hear nothing at all in the midst of a corn field. If it wasn't for a Piper and a few other planes departing and landing, it would have been too weird. We pulled out our step stool and used it as a make-shift seat and enjoyed our picnic lunch which we always haul around with us. WaWa subs, chips and pickles with Gatorade, plus cookies for dessert.....Delicious and re-energized, ready to photograph the coasters of Hershey Park.
After departing on the same runway we had just landed on, 01 (10 degree heading), we were soon leveled-off at approx. 2,000 feet. It's good we had climbed this high, because I had no idea the park was actually open that day. I was figuring the park to be closed before May like nearby Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown, PA is. Anyway, I throttled the engine back just a bit and entered a shallow, left-hand turn. With pops assisting me and helping me check for traffic, I commenced snapping my camera's shutter button on anything resembling a coaster that jumped in front of my lens. Seriously, though, I was there for one purpose, to photograph each and every coaster and add these photos to my website. Click HERE to check-out my Coaster "Aerial Photo" Page if you have not done so already.
Our next stop was Donegal Springs airpark, which lies south of Hershey in Mount Joy/Marietta, PA. Smack dab in the middle of a corn field, the airport features a large Piper Aerostar maintenance facility and parachuting operation. After a brief walk around the airport grounds and watching some dare-devils diving their towards the earth with their chutes strapped to their back, we departed and headed southeast towards Lancaster. This is a large city, and I never realized this until this flight as we flew directly overhead, snapping many pictures of this spread-out gathering of homes and buildings. We noted Lancaster airport to the left (northeast) of our course, and soon found Smoketown airport up ahead. The field is nestled withing the confines of an Amtrak rail line and small roads on its' three other borders. There is an aircraft painting operation there, as well as many tie-downs and hangars available for rent. A short walk away are many fine Amish, country-style restaurants, as well as an amusement park known as Dutch Wonderland. Check it out if you're ever in the area.
While walking towards the office, we noted three Grumman Tiger airplanes flying in formation overhead, then breaking off one by one to land. Something you don't see everyday. We poked around a bit by the operations area, seeing many spectators relaxing on the patio and watching the planes take-off and land. There was much hustle and bustle that day, due mostly to the outstanding weather. After 15 minutes or so, we were taxiing to the runway and were soon climbing away from the traffic pattern, on our way to nearby Strasburg Railroad grounds, including an indoor/outdoor museum and train ride. We flew a few circles around the complex, taking a look at all of the activity there and noting the large, steam locomotive huffing and puffing in anticicpation of its next load of excited families, ready to tour the Lancaster countryside.
Now we were due east of Strasburg and I noticed that a large portion of a field had been mowed down to spell the phrase "Wild West City". Of course I snapped a few pictures of this, then a lot more of the never ending, Amish farm countryside. Quite an amazing site indeed. So, after all of this flying, airport hopping and photographing, it was time to head for home. A direct route from the Strasburg area to western NJ, flying just east of Reading and southeast of Allentown, PA. This was a day that we hope is an example of many more to come....See after the next flight !!!
After arriving at the airport, a standard pre-flight was in order, followed by a quick trip to the airport office to check last minute weather and use the facilities. I already knew where I wanted to fly to, and Hershey Park in Hershey, PA was it. Before we could actually fly there, we figured on a quick fuel stop at Queen City airport in Allentown, PA. This is our usual fuel-stop and rest area before, during or after a day of flying, if we are in the area of course.
Upon departing, I headed southwest, paralleling I-78. We overflew Kutztown and the university located there, as well as the small airport with one paved runway and the other turf. Continuing, we flew just north of a rather large, irregular shaped lake due northeast of Reading, PA. Soon after, I could see the town of Lebanon in the distance, and knew that Deck airport was around the area. We were both getting hungry and since it was a little past noon, we decided on a visit to this quaint, farm country airport amongst the cattle and corn fields of PA. After taxing, parking and shutting down the engine, we emerged from the cockpit to utter silence. It's almost spooky to hear nothing at all in the midst of a corn field. If it wasn't for a Piper and a few other planes departing and landing, it would have been too weird. We pulled out our step stool and used it as a make-shift seat and enjoyed our picnic lunch which we always haul around with us. WaWa subs, chips and pickles with Gatorade, plus cookies for dessert.....Delicious and re-energized, ready to photograph the coasters of Hershey Park.
After departing on the same runway we had just landed on, 01 (10 degree heading), we were soon leveled-off at approx. 2,000 feet. It's good we had climbed this high, because I had no idea the park was actually open that day. I was figuring the park to be closed before May like nearby Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom in Allentown, PA is. Anyway, I throttled the engine back just a bit and entered a shallow, left-hand turn. With pops assisting me and helping me check for traffic, I commenced snapping my camera's shutter button on anything resembling a coaster that jumped in front of my lens. Seriously, though, I was there for one purpose, to photograph each and every coaster and add these photos to my website. Click HERE to check-out my Coaster "Aerial Photo" Page if you have not done so already.
Our next stop was Donegal Springs airpark, which lies south of Hershey in Mount Joy/Marietta, PA. Smack dab in the middle of a corn field, the airport features a large Piper Aerostar maintenance facility and parachuting operation. After a brief walk around the airport grounds and watching some dare-devils diving their towards the earth with their chutes strapped to their back, we departed and headed southeast towards Lancaster. This is a large city, and I never realized this until this flight as we flew directly overhead, snapping many pictures of this spread-out gathering of homes and buildings. We noted Lancaster airport to the left (northeast) of our course, and soon found Smoketown airport up ahead. The field is nestled withing the confines of an Amtrak rail line and small roads on its' three other borders. There is an aircraft painting operation there, as well as many tie-downs and hangars available for rent. A short walk away are many fine Amish, country-style restaurants, as well as an amusement park known as Dutch Wonderland. Check it out if you're ever in the area.
While walking towards the office, we noted three Grumman Tiger airplanes flying in formation overhead, then breaking off one by one to land. Something you don't see everyday. We poked around a bit by the operations area, seeing many spectators relaxing on the patio and watching the planes take-off and land. There was much hustle and bustle that day, due mostly to the outstanding weather. After 15 minutes or so, we were taxiing to the runway and were soon climbing away from the traffic pattern, on our way to nearby Strasburg Railroad grounds, including an indoor/outdoor museum and train ride. We flew a few circles around the complex, taking a look at all of the activity there and noting the large, steam locomotive huffing and puffing in anticicpation of its next load of excited families, ready to tour the Lancaster countryside.
Now we were due east of Strasburg and I noticed that a large portion of a field had been mowed down to spell the phrase "Wild West City". Of course I snapped a few pictures of this, then a lot more of the never ending, Amish farm countryside. Quite an amazing site indeed. So, after all of this flying, airport hopping and photographing, it was time to head for home. A direct route from the Strasburg area to western NJ, flying just east of Reading and southeast of Allentown, PA. This was a day that we hope is an example of many more to come....See after the next flight !!!
Monday, April 02, 2007
Rugged Terrain, Endless Fields....Where else, but Pennsylvania !!!
Finally, a day filled with superb visibility, smooth air and great company since my wife joined Dad and I this time. It was Saturday, March 31, 2007 that we took to the air, first heading north. Our plans were to fly west, but because of the ominous weather in that direction, we decided to head towards lower NY state. As we flew further north, the skies looked brighter towards the west, so I put the plane on course towards Towanda, PA, due west of Scranton. Bradford County airport was our first destination, just south of town.
While flying due west from northern NJ, we took note of the Delaware Water Gap and the large reservoir that is perched high on the ridge, overlooking Blairstown, NJ to the east and East Stroudsburg, PA to the west. East Stroudsburg airport was soon approaching, as was Camelback ski resort in the distance and to the south of our course. Our next major landmark was the populous valley of Wilkes-Barre / Scranton, PA. We flew just to the north of the international airport located in this valley, and I took this opportunity to shoot some photos which I will someday post to Flyin Phil's Photos, as well as many other photos that I shot that day. Continuing, we passed just south of the small town of Tunkhannock, PA and the little airport that sits directly behind the shopping center and adjacent to a mobile home park. The runway is only 2,000 feet, but at least it is paved. Again, I snapped a few pictures of this field as we continued on towards our destination.
The hills, endless fields and rather rugged terrain was phenomenal, and my wife and I recalled our drive last summer along the road towards Towanda as we made our way towards Erie, PA. Soon, in the distance, we could see the Bradford County airport. I was flying at an altitude of about 4,500 feet, so I figured I would shoot some aerial photos of the airport, then circle the town while I descended. This worked-out well, and I set-up the plane in a left-hand traffic pattern for runway 05 (50 degree heading). The approach was scenic, and my wife was shooting video for my website as well. After a smooth and uneventful landing, we taxied to the main ramp, parked and shut down the engine. The office/pilot lounge there was business-like, clean and comfortable. We took a short rest, taxied the plane to the fuel depot, filled the tanks, then took-off, heading south this time.
Danville, PA was our next destination, and the little airport that resides just west of the town. This course took us over terrain we had never flown over before, and was quite the spectacle. Rugged, mountainous terrain interlaced with roads that snaked all around the valleys of these mountains. There was little in the way of population, though that was a good thing. My wife and I took this opportunity to shoot many photos of this naturally beautiful area of eastern PA. Within 15 or so minutes, we were just east of Williamsport, PA, and noticed a thick, greenish smog lying in the valley to the west of our course. Dad and I remember this sight from a previous flight a few years back. Crossing I-80, Danville was soon ahead of us as my wife shot some more video of the pretty views that we were treated to. After landing at the airport here, I taxied to the parking ramp and shutdown the engine. Nothing spectacular here, though rather quaint with a feeling like you've stepped back in time to the early days of flying (aside from the modern aircraft in the large hangar adjacent to the office).
After a restroom break and a stretch, we were back in the air, this time heading for Knoebels Amusement Park in Elysburg, PA. This would be our second time over-flying this quaint, little park for some photo-ops. I particularly wanted to photograph their three roller-coasters; the Phoenix, Twister and the newest edition to their collection, the Flying Turns (similar to a bobsled track). Continuing further to the east, we took note of 4 radar domes that provided me with a great photo-op. By now we were getting hungry and ready to eat our lunch which we always bring with us. I landed at nearby Hazleton airport and we enjoyed our sandwiches, the friendliness in the pilot lounge and the parachuting activities after lunch at this airport atop a hill, just north of the town. Upon taking-off, I flew a slight turn to the right to avoid over-flying a large Wal-Mart and strip mall just off of the west end of Hazleton's runway. After climbing and levelling out at about 3,000 feet, I suggested flying to Jake Arner Memorial airport, just west of Lehighton, PA. The last time Dad and I were there was with our motorized bikes in the back of the plane, but that's a whole other story which I will someday add to my website.
After a quick landing at this small airport near historic Jim Thorpe, we decided enough was enough. I quickly took-off without shutting down the engine and we headed southeast. I flew through the gap in the Appalacian ridge just north of Slatington and south of Lehighton, where a river runs through and the PA Turnpike Northeast Extension tunnels its way through as well. This course also took us over Nazareth and Bath, PA, and I took note of the now CLOSED Nazareth Speedway which is in the process of being demolished. Large rock quarries, cement plants and other factories were in the nearby Easton area which I photographed as well. Soon, we were crossing the town of Easton and the many auto and rail-road bridges that traverse the Delaware river in this congested area of eastern PA.
Finally, back to NJ and just north of Milford, we could spot our home-base airport up ahead. I entered the pattern and made a downwind landing (usually, not the best choice), though it worked-out well as the gas pumps were at the far end from where I touched down. Fuel prices are still rather inexpensive at $3.30 per gallon, but expected to rise as the next load of fuel arrives. Taxiing into our tie-down spot was our last destination, and we were all reflecting on what a memorable day we were treated to, thanks to Pennsylvania's rugged, mountainous terrain and endless fields. We only hope that our next flight will be this much fun....See you after the next journey !!!
While flying due west from northern NJ, we took note of the Delaware Water Gap and the large reservoir that is perched high on the ridge, overlooking Blairstown, NJ to the east and East Stroudsburg, PA to the west. East Stroudsburg airport was soon approaching, as was Camelback ski resort in the distance and to the south of our course. Our next major landmark was the populous valley of Wilkes-Barre / Scranton, PA. We flew just to the north of the international airport located in this valley, and I took this opportunity to shoot some photos which I will someday post to Flyin Phil's Photos, as well as many other photos that I shot that day. Continuing, we passed just south of the small town of Tunkhannock, PA and the little airport that sits directly behind the shopping center and adjacent to a mobile home park. The runway is only 2,000 feet, but at least it is paved. Again, I snapped a few pictures of this field as we continued on towards our destination.
The hills, endless fields and rather rugged terrain was phenomenal, and my wife and I recalled our drive last summer along the road towards Towanda as we made our way towards Erie, PA. Soon, in the distance, we could see the Bradford County airport. I was flying at an altitude of about 4,500 feet, so I figured I would shoot some aerial photos of the airport, then circle the town while I descended. This worked-out well, and I set-up the plane in a left-hand traffic pattern for runway 05 (50 degree heading). The approach was scenic, and my wife was shooting video for my website as well. After a smooth and uneventful landing, we taxied to the main ramp, parked and shut down the engine. The office/pilot lounge there was business-like, clean and comfortable. We took a short rest, taxied the plane to the fuel depot, filled the tanks, then took-off, heading south this time.
Danville, PA was our next destination, and the little airport that resides just west of the town. This course took us over terrain we had never flown over before, and was quite the spectacle. Rugged, mountainous terrain interlaced with roads that snaked all around the valleys of these mountains. There was little in the way of population, though that was a good thing. My wife and I took this opportunity to shoot many photos of this naturally beautiful area of eastern PA. Within 15 or so minutes, we were just east of Williamsport, PA, and noticed a thick, greenish smog lying in the valley to the west of our course. Dad and I remember this sight from a previous flight a few years back. Crossing I-80, Danville was soon ahead of us as my wife shot some more video of the pretty views that we were treated to. After landing at the airport here, I taxied to the parking ramp and shutdown the engine. Nothing spectacular here, though rather quaint with a feeling like you've stepped back in time to the early days of flying (aside from the modern aircraft in the large hangar adjacent to the office).
After a restroom break and a stretch, we were back in the air, this time heading for Knoebels Amusement Park in Elysburg, PA. This would be our second time over-flying this quaint, little park for some photo-ops. I particularly wanted to photograph their three roller-coasters; the Phoenix, Twister and the newest edition to their collection, the Flying Turns (similar to a bobsled track). Continuing further to the east, we took note of 4 radar domes that provided me with a great photo-op. By now we were getting hungry and ready to eat our lunch which we always bring with us. I landed at nearby Hazleton airport and we enjoyed our sandwiches, the friendliness in the pilot lounge and the parachuting activities after lunch at this airport atop a hill, just north of the town. Upon taking-off, I flew a slight turn to the right to avoid over-flying a large Wal-Mart and strip mall just off of the west end of Hazleton's runway. After climbing and levelling out at about 3,000 feet, I suggested flying to Jake Arner Memorial airport, just west of Lehighton, PA. The last time Dad and I were there was with our motorized bikes in the back of the plane, but that's a whole other story which I will someday add to my website.
After a quick landing at this small airport near historic Jim Thorpe, we decided enough was enough. I quickly took-off without shutting down the engine and we headed southeast. I flew through the gap in the Appalacian ridge just north of Slatington and south of Lehighton, where a river runs through and the PA Turnpike Northeast Extension tunnels its way through as well. This course also took us over Nazareth and Bath, PA, and I took note of the now CLOSED Nazareth Speedway which is in the process of being demolished. Large rock quarries, cement plants and other factories were in the nearby Easton area which I photographed as well. Soon, we were crossing the town of Easton and the many auto and rail-road bridges that traverse the Delaware river in this congested area of eastern PA.
Finally, back to NJ and just north of Milford, we could spot our home-base airport up ahead. I entered the pattern and made a downwind landing (usually, not the best choice), though it worked-out well as the gas pumps were at the far end from where I touched down. Fuel prices are still rather inexpensive at $3.30 per gallon, but expected to rise as the next load of fuel arrives. Taxiing into our tie-down spot was our last destination, and we were all reflecting on what a memorable day we were treated to, thanks to Pennsylvania's rugged, mountainous terrain and endless fields. We only hope that our next flight will be this much fun....See you after the next journey !!!
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
A Tour of Northern & Central NJ (and a bit of PA)
It's been 2 weeks since the last flight, and I was ready with camera in hand for flying this past Sunday, March 25, 2007. The weather was pleasant; not too warm and not too cool, though in the morning hours while pre-flighting the aircraft with a slight wind from the north, it was a bit chilly. Dad and I boarded, brought the Lycoming engine to life, warmed it up, taxied to runway 08 and took-off. With a 90 degree turn to the southeast, we were now on our way.
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ was our first aerial photo destination. It had been over a month since my last park fly-over, and since opening day is next weekend, I wanted to shoot some photos of construction and such taking place during this time. And indeed, lots had taken place. The new "Wiggles World" children's area was practically complete, and one of the large coasters there, The Chiller, had some of its track replaced. The park looked good, and many rides were testing as they readied the place for opening day.
After a few CCW circles at over 2,000 feet, we turned north and headed for the Wayne / Patterson area. I initially wanted to shoot pictures of the I-80 / Rt 46 / Rt 23 interchange in Wayne, as well as the Willowbrook mall, and planned on flying in the only altitude slot available (between 2,700 ft and 3,000 ft) without required radio communication. As we flew north past New Brunswick and crossing Rt 22 and the First Mountain, it became apparent that the base of the clouds that day were not going to let me climb to that altitude. The plans were ditched, and we transitioned through Morristown airport's airspace. Soon we were over the Boonton reservoir and the I-80 / I-287 interchange in Parsippany, NJ, headed for Lincoln Park airport. We hadn't been to this airport in quite some time, and this was my original home-base airport. After a little rest, we had our picnic lunch in the cockpit while sitting on the ramp, then decided to depart and head northwest towards Sussex, NJ.
With a quick turn to the northwest after taking-off of runway 01, we began flying over the mountainous terrain of southern Passaic county along Rt 23. This took us north of Ogdensburg and Franklin and to our next aerial photo destination, the now defunct Gingerbread Castle in Hamburg. I had always wanted to shoot aerial coverage of the castle and its grounds, and I did just that. The pictures all came out great, and will post them to my Amusements Page 2 in the near future. After this photo shoot, we turned north towards Vernon ski area and Mountain Creek. The only snow present was on the slopes and this created a neat effect. I shot some pictures here as well, and again will post them to my site in the near future. The main lodge was open for business with many skiers present, though not nearly as many as in the winter months.
We were now ready for a cup of coffee and some dessert, and wanted to try the Sussex diner adjacent to the Sussex county airport. While setting-up the plane for final approach on runway 03, I had to take note, and how could you not, of the home sitting almost directly at the end of this runway. A white house with green trim and a green shingled roof that I felt could almost blend into a green, summer field. My dream has always been to live near an airport, though not this close. Upon landing almost directly over this home and touching down on the runway, we taxied to the ramp and squeezed the plane into a parking spot. We headed down the wet, spongy dirt road to the cute, little diner, which happened to be closing in 20 minutes. Their cheesecake was so "cheesey" (in a GOOD way) and their coffee was most enjoyable. We then decided to depart Sussex and head for Allentown, PA. After starting the engine, we noticed that both taxiways were in very poor condition with potholes and loose rocks / stones present. Since there was no traffic present, we decided to back-taxi down the runway, turn 180 degrees and take-off. Soon we were heading south at about 2,000 feet.
We flew along Rt 206, passing just west of Newton and east of Swartswood lake, then over the quaint town of Blairstown. Because of no leaves on the trees, I could see the defunct Paulinskill railroad line, which is now a bike route, snaking through the hilly countryside. Up ahead and in the distance, we could see the Delaware river and far ahead, the smog from the Allentown area of PA. As we approached Allentown, we noticed the small airport of Easton, then made a shallow turn to the left and flew directly over the town of Easton. This diversion was done to clear the LehighValley International airport's airspace, and gave us more of a scenic flight as well. We than flew along I-78 as it passed just northwest of Hellertown, PA, then through a cut in the mountain ridge into Allentown. Like always, there's Queen City airport just ahead, and we enter a left downwind approach for runway 07. After a sl0000w and smooth landing into the wind with a vertical decent of over 1,000 feet per minute, we taxied to the main ramp for fuel. We always enjoy this airport for it's fuel service, pilot lounge, multi-runway option and the large, open feeling it gives when taking-off / landing here.
Soon, we were on our way, heading back east towards our home-base airport in NJ. Crossing the Delaware, we took note of some impressive mansions in the northern Hunterdon county area, then looked ahead at the mountain ridge surrounding Round Valley reservoir. After landing, we taxied back to our tie-down spot and shut her down, hoping the next flight will be just as memorable....Thanks for Reading - See you after the NEXT flight !!!
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ was our first aerial photo destination. It had been over a month since my last park fly-over, and since opening day is next weekend, I wanted to shoot some photos of construction and such taking place during this time. And indeed, lots had taken place. The new "Wiggles World" children's area was practically complete, and one of the large coasters there, The Chiller, had some of its track replaced. The park looked good, and many rides were testing as they readied the place for opening day.
After a few CCW circles at over 2,000 feet, we turned north and headed for the Wayne / Patterson area. I initially wanted to shoot pictures of the I-80 / Rt 46 / Rt 23 interchange in Wayne, as well as the Willowbrook mall, and planned on flying in the only altitude slot available (between 2,700 ft and 3,000 ft) without required radio communication. As we flew north past New Brunswick and crossing Rt 22 and the First Mountain, it became apparent that the base of the clouds that day were not going to let me climb to that altitude. The plans were ditched, and we transitioned through Morristown airport's airspace. Soon we were over the Boonton reservoir and the I-80 / I-287 interchange in Parsippany, NJ, headed for Lincoln Park airport. We hadn't been to this airport in quite some time, and this was my original home-base airport. After a little rest, we had our picnic lunch in the cockpit while sitting on the ramp, then decided to depart and head northwest towards Sussex, NJ.
With a quick turn to the northwest after taking-off of runway 01, we began flying over the mountainous terrain of southern Passaic county along Rt 23. This took us north of Ogdensburg and Franklin and to our next aerial photo destination, the now defunct Gingerbread Castle in Hamburg. I had always wanted to shoot aerial coverage of the castle and its grounds, and I did just that. The pictures all came out great, and will post them to my Amusements Page 2 in the near future. After this photo shoot, we turned north towards Vernon ski area and Mountain Creek. The only snow present was on the slopes and this created a neat effect. I shot some pictures here as well, and again will post them to my site in the near future. The main lodge was open for business with many skiers present, though not nearly as many as in the winter months.
We were now ready for a cup of coffee and some dessert, and wanted to try the Sussex diner adjacent to the Sussex county airport. While setting-up the plane for final approach on runway 03, I had to take note, and how could you not, of the home sitting almost directly at the end of this runway. A white house with green trim and a green shingled roof that I felt could almost blend into a green, summer field. My dream has always been to live near an airport, though not this close. Upon landing almost directly over this home and touching down on the runway, we taxied to the ramp and squeezed the plane into a parking spot. We headed down the wet, spongy dirt road to the cute, little diner, which happened to be closing in 20 minutes. Their cheesecake was so "cheesey" (in a GOOD way) and their coffee was most enjoyable. We then decided to depart Sussex and head for Allentown, PA. After starting the engine, we noticed that both taxiways were in very poor condition with potholes and loose rocks / stones present. Since there was no traffic present, we decided to back-taxi down the runway, turn 180 degrees and take-off. Soon we were heading south at about 2,000 feet.
We flew along Rt 206, passing just west of Newton and east of Swartswood lake, then over the quaint town of Blairstown. Because of no leaves on the trees, I could see the defunct Paulinskill railroad line, which is now a bike route, snaking through the hilly countryside. Up ahead and in the distance, we could see the Delaware river and far ahead, the smog from the Allentown area of PA. As we approached Allentown, we noticed the small airport of Easton, then made a shallow turn to the left and flew directly over the town of Easton. This diversion was done to clear the LehighValley International airport's airspace, and gave us more of a scenic flight as well. We than flew along I-78 as it passed just northwest of Hellertown, PA, then through a cut in the mountain ridge into Allentown. Like always, there's Queen City airport just ahead, and we enter a left downwind approach for runway 07. After a sl0000w and smooth landing into the wind with a vertical decent of over 1,000 feet per minute, we taxied to the main ramp for fuel. We always enjoy this airport for it's fuel service, pilot lounge, multi-runway option and the large, open feeling it gives when taking-off / landing here.
Soon, we were on our way, heading back east towards our home-base airport in NJ. Crossing the Delaware, we took note of some impressive mansions in the northern Hunterdon county area, then looked ahead at the mountain ridge surrounding Round Valley reservoir. After landing, we taxied back to our tie-down spot and shut her down, hoping the next flight will be just as memorable....Thanks for Reading - See you after the NEXT flight !!!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
A Stiff Breeze & Warm Temps = A Great Day of Flying
Today (Sunday - March 11, 2007) was a bit different than most, as far as my flying goes, because the winds were predicted to be out of the northwest at 15 mph with peak gusts to 25 mph. Dad and I arrived at the airport and saw that indeed, the windsock was showing a stiff crosswind at about 15 mph with stronger gusts, just as the weather service predicted. Now what makes this day different is that since we are based at a new airport, the field has a cross runway, and one that happens to be northwest/southeast, and will allow us to take-off and land with relative ease. Still, though, we sat in our warm car, sipping coffee and contemplating some more if we wanted to fly in such a strong breeze which we normally would not.
Ok, let's do it. I pre-flighted the aircraft, started the engine and taxied to runway 31. The wind was still kicking from the north-northwest as I positioned the aircraft on the runway and applied full throttle. It seemed as if we were practically standing still, yet we very quickly had an airspeed well over 60 mph, and with a gentle pull of the control yoke, we were airborne in only a few hundred feet. So far, effortless, despite the strong winds and all thanks to an airport having an additional runway for just such breezy days.
While climbing to the west, away from the airport, we were commenting on how relatively smooth the air was. Not "calm wind" smooth, but relatively smooth for the wind that day. Also, the weather did not call for any turbulence at altitude and that held true for much of the day. We leveled out at about 2,000 feet MSL (feet above mean sea level) and over-flew the town of Milford, NJ. Continuing, we saw that areas along the Delaware river still had ice where there was standing water, and homes further west had measurable snow left in the shady areas of their yards. As we approached our first destination, Queen City airport in Allentown, PA, I descended just a bit to clear Lehigh Valley International airport's airspace. We then spotted Hellertown to the north, then the outlet shops at Saucon Valley, just south of I-78. Finally, we traversed the last mountain ridge before the airport at about 500 feet, then circled the field. Of course the wind was still blowing hard, and we chose this airport because it too has an additional runway that runs northwest/southeast, perfect for the wind direction today. I entered the traffic pattern, reduced the throttle and put in 10 degrees of flaps. After a quick base leg turn then another quick turn to final approach, I applied 20 more degrees of flaps and reduced the throttle. What seemed like an eternity due to the headwind, we slowly approached the runway. Reducing the throttle some more, I flared and touched down within a few hundred feet, nice and slowly. If you don't have to land with a cross-wind, flying in a stiff breeze is actually simpler, and is gentler on the airplane's landing gear, too.
We taxied to the general aviation ramp and as the attendant greeted us, we said we were just staying a short time. I needed to use the "facilities" and did so in a hurry. After a brief rest, we decided to fly to Chester County-Carlson airport in Coatesville, PA. We haven't flown there in a while, and wanted to check their restaurant again. We always remember the great coffee and amazing desserts they feature at the Flying Machine Cafe on the field.
After taking-off of Queen City airport, we headed west just a bit toward Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom amusement/water park, then turned south on course. This took us over Bally, then just west of Pottstown. We could see the amish farm country just beginning to appear to our west as Chester county is rather nearby Lancaster county. Entering the traffic pattern at Chester county airport was, let's just say, a nuisance, due to many aircraft landing in front of me, and the fact that one of the aircraft was a corporate jet who was on an extremely long final approach. No problem though, and after a few circles of the airport, I entered the pattern and landed without incident in the 45 degree crosswind. We taxied directly behind the jet that had just landed and used most of the 5,400 foot runway, then parked almost directly in front of the restaurant. Entering the cafe, we were quickly seated in the "solarium like" seating area. We both ordered a cup of coffee and their succulent carrot cake, and just like we remembered from years back, it hadn't changed in quality and taste. Finishing our snack, we exited the cafe to use the facilities and check the weather once again. We knew we needed fuel, but weren't sure that our home-base airport would be open when we returned, so we decided to head back to Queen City airport. After a quick take-off and circling to the left to abide by the noise abatement procedures in effect at Chester county airport, we were soon headed back north towards Allentown.
Upon landing at Queen City airport, we taxied to the exact same place we were parked the first time that day. Fuel prices are relatively inexpensive here @ $3.85/gal, about $1 more per gallon than car gas. We had to wait a while before being fueled due to some paperwork that had to be done, so we took the time to relax and chat a bit. Soon, though, we were fueled and on our way, back to our home-base airport in New Jersey. Upon reaching the airport, we saw the wind was still kicking a bit and of course decided to use the cross runway that we used to take-off from in the morning. It was my first time using this rather short (1,800 feet) runway that was half the width of the standard runway. Of course, no problems were had, and we landed in a few hundred feet, directly into the wind. We commented how it was good that we flew back to Queen City for fuel because our home-base airport's office was shut-down, and they do not offer 24 hour self-serve fuel.
We taxied to the tie-down ramp and into position, shut her down and did most of the post-flight, cockpit cleanup inside of the cabin. Why freeze in the blowing wind when most chores can be done in a nice, warm cabin. Finally, though, we had to exit the plane and tie it down. So what began as a day predicted to be breezy turned out to be a day most memorable, with myself gaining much confidence and knowledge on how to handle these kinds of conditions.....See you after the next flight !!!
Ok, let's do it. I pre-flighted the aircraft, started the engine and taxied to runway 31. The wind was still kicking from the north-northwest as I positioned the aircraft on the runway and applied full throttle. It seemed as if we were practically standing still, yet we very quickly had an airspeed well over 60 mph, and with a gentle pull of the control yoke, we were airborne in only a few hundred feet. So far, effortless, despite the strong winds and all thanks to an airport having an additional runway for just such breezy days.
While climbing to the west, away from the airport, we were commenting on how relatively smooth the air was. Not "calm wind" smooth, but relatively smooth for the wind that day. Also, the weather did not call for any turbulence at altitude and that held true for much of the day. We leveled out at about 2,000 feet MSL (feet above mean sea level) and over-flew the town of Milford, NJ. Continuing, we saw that areas along the Delaware river still had ice where there was standing water, and homes further west had measurable snow left in the shady areas of their yards. As we approached our first destination, Queen City airport in Allentown, PA, I descended just a bit to clear Lehigh Valley International airport's airspace. We then spotted Hellertown to the north, then the outlet shops at Saucon Valley, just south of I-78. Finally, we traversed the last mountain ridge before the airport at about 500 feet, then circled the field. Of course the wind was still blowing hard, and we chose this airport because it too has an additional runway that runs northwest/southeast, perfect for the wind direction today. I entered the traffic pattern, reduced the throttle and put in 10 degrees of flaps. After a quick base leg turn then another quick turn to final approach, I applied 20 more degrees of flaps and reduced the throttle. What seemed like an eternity due to the headwind, we slowly approached the runway. Reducing the throttle some more, I flared and touched down within a few hundred feet, nice and slowly. If you don't have to land with a cross-wind, flying in a stiff breeze is actually simpler, and is gentler on the airplane's landing gear, too.
We taxied to the general aviation ramp and as the attendant greeted us, we said we were just staying a short time. I needed to use the "facilities" and did so in a hurry. After a brief rest, we decided to fly to Chester County-Carlson airport in Coatesville, PA. We haven't flown there in a while, and wanted to check their restaurant again. We always remember the great coffee and amazing desserts they feature at the Flying Machine Cafe on the field.
After taking-off of Queen City airport, we headed west just a bit toward Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom amusement/water park, then turned south on course. This took us over Bally, then just west of Pottstown. We could see the amish farm country just beginning to appear to our west as Chester county is rather nearby Lancaster county. Entering the traffic pattern at Chester county airport was, let's just say, a nuisance, due to many aircraft landing in front of me, and the fact that one of the aircraft was a corporate jet who was on an extremely long final approach. No problem though, and after a few circles of the airport, I entered the pattern and landed without incident in the 45 degree crosswind. We taxied directly behind the jet that had just landed and used most of the 5,400 foot runway, then parked almost directly in front of the restaurant. Entering the cafe, we were quickly seated in the "solarium like" seating area. We both ordered a cup of coffee and their succulent carrot cake, and just like we remembered from years back, it hadn't changed in quality and taste. Finishing our snack, we exited the cafe to use the facilities and check the weather once again. We knew we needed fuel, but weren't sure that our home-base airport would be open when we returned, so we decided to head back to Queen City airport. After a quick take-off and circling to the left to abide by the noise abatement procedures in effect at Chester county airport, we were soon headed back north towards Allentown.
Upon landing at Queen City airport, we taxied to the exact same place we were parked the first time that day. Fuel prices are relatively inexpensive here @ $3.85/gal, about $1 more per gallon than car gas. We had to wait a while before being fueled due to some paperwork that had to be done, so we took the time to relax and chat a bit. Soon, though, we were fueled and on our way, back to our home-base airport in New Jersey. Upon reaching the airport, we saw the wind was still kicking a bit and of course decided to use the cross runway that we used to take-off from in the morning. It was my first time using this rather short (1,800 feet) runway that was half the width of the standard runway. Of course, no problems were had, and we landed in a few hundred feet, directly into the wind. We commented how it was good that we flew back to Queen City for fuel because our home-base airport's office was shut-down, and they do not offer 24 hour self-serve fuel.
We taxied to the tie-down ramp and into position, shut her down and did most of the post-flight, cockpit cleanup inside of the cabin. Why freeze in the blowing wind when most chores can be done in a nice, warm cabin. Finally, though, we had to exit the plane and tie it down. So what began as a day predicted to be breezy turned out to be a day most memorable, with myself gaining much confidence and knowledge on how to handle these kinds of conditions.....See you after the next flight !!!
Monday, February 12, 2007
Chilly, Bumpy & Beautiful !!!
On this Sunday, February 11, 2007, the air was cold, crisp and relatively clear, with a 5-10 mph breeze from the west-northwest. There were no AIRMETS predicted for turbulence, yet all day long we experienced light to moderate chop. After a quick stop for a morning cup of java, we continued on to the airport. Dad and I were flying today as my wife had yet another previous engagement. I really miss when she is with us as she adds extra commentary and joy to our flights together. Plus, she takes great videos for me so I can add them to the website.
This morning was our first flight from the new airport, after having relocated the plane here two weekends ago. Because the air was so bitterly cold for the past two weeks, and due to the temps being below freezing the night before, we decided that pre-heating the engine was a good idea. Once my pre-flight was complete and we were loaded on board, I pumped the throttle 6 times and commenced cranking. After only ONE turn of the propeller, the engine sprang to life in the cold, morning air. Within 15 minutes of warming her up and checking the controls, we were airborne and heading southeast.
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ was our first destination. I wanted to yet again check on the NEW attraction construction at the park as it readies itself for opening day come early April. Not much had changed, though I shot many pics nonetheless for further review. After flying a few circles around the park, we headed east, then south, as we flew along the eastern circumference of Lakehurst Naval Base's airspace. Toms River / Robert J. Miller Airpark was our next stop for a stretch, a restroom break and because we realized our front window indeed needed washing.
Entering the traffic pattern was bumpy, and no other planes were present. My altitude was high when I turned final to runway 24, but after applying full flaps, throttling back and dumping the nose, we were positioned at a steep angle downward, dropping at over 1,000 feet per minute. Within seconds, I touched her down ever so gently and taxied to the general aviation ramp. After shutting down and securing the old girl, I reached into the cargo door for the window cleaner and noticed the cleaner itself in the aerosol can had frozen into a clump, and was banging around the inside of the can. I tucked it in my jacket and while using the restroom, I placed it under the hot water in the sink. It took much shaking and more hot water over the can before the cleaner was in a usable form. Soon, we were out there in the breeze that produced below 10F windchills, cleaning the windows of the plane. I tell you, we couldn't finish quick enough. OUCH - that wind actually hurt. Anyway, after starting the engine, followed by a LONG taxi, we were airborne and heading southwest for a flight over the vast Jersey Pine Barrens.
I needed to locate the defunct rail line that began at Whiting and continued through the Hammonton area because I wanted to view Caranza's Memorial from the air, as well as snap some pics of this monument. During and after photographing this area, we noticed a large fire was burning just to the south and east of our flight path. Flying closer, it appeared that this fire was a controlled burning as it looked as if only the underbrush was burning, and the fires were in long, straight, lines. Still, though, a neat sight to see. Turning more west, we located Cross Keys airport, entered the traffic pattern, landed and parked on the grass. We took out our lunch and ate right there in the warm airplane, not even getting out once. While eating lunch, we noticed that despite the 20 degree temps, folks were parachuting there. Cross Keys airport has a HUGE parachuting business on the field, and in the warmer months, turbo-prop aircraft carry as many as 25-30 jumpers aloft for the time of their lives. But today, we were shocked to see even a few folks jumping. Of course with less jumpers, the aircraft used was the next size up from ours. After an enjoyable sandwich, chips, pickles and a drink, I started the engine, taxied to runway 27 and applied full throttle. Soon, we were climbing and heading west toward Philadelphia.
I chose to head west because I wanted to shoot some more pictures of Clementon Amusement Park in Clementon, NJ. I traversed this area from south to north, west to east, trying to locate the lake that the park resides on. Finally, Dad spotted it to the right of our flight path and I pointed the plane in that direction. I flew a few circles of the park and shot many pics of their two coasters, as well as the park and water park in general.
After this little deviation in our flight, we headed north to the Lumberton area and landed at South Jersey Regional airport for some coffee and dessert. It felt good to drink something HOT, and after a 15 or so minute rest, we were back in the plane, rocketing upward and turning northwest for our flight home. We traversed the Delaware river, just north of Philadelphia, then continued west of Trenton, again joining the Delaware as we flew on the PA side past Lambertville, Stockton, Frenchtown and Milford. I pointed-out the Sand Castle Winery to Dad because my wife and I just visited there yesterday, and it looked quite spectacular from above.
Before long, we were getting tired and felt that was enough flying for the day. We headed back to our home-base airport, taxied to the gas pits, and had her tanks topped-off. With a quick taxi back to our tie-down spot, we secured her in place, readying her for another great day of flying, this time to the north for a change. See you here after the NEXT flight !!! :) - Thanks for Reading....
This morning was our first flight from the new airport, after having relocated the plane here two weekends ago. Because the air was so bitterly cold for the past two weeks, and due to the temps being below freezing the night before, we decided that pre-heating the engine was a good idea. Once my pre-flight was complete and we were loaded on board, I pumped the throttle 6 times and commenced cranking. After only ONE turn of the propeller, the engine sprang to life in the cold, morning air. Within 15 minutes of warming her up and checking the controls, we were airborne and heading southeast.
Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ was our first destination. I wanted to yet again check on the NEW attraction construction at the park as it readies itself for opening day come early April. Not much had changed, though I shot many pics nonetheless for further review. After flying a few circles around the park, we headed east, then south, as we flew along the eastern circumference of Lakehurst Naval Base's airspace. Toms River / Robert J. Miller Airpark was our next stop for a stretch, a restroom break and because we realized our front window indeed needed washing.
Entering the traffic pattern was bumpy, and no other planes were present. My altitude was high when I turned final to runway 24, but after applying full flaps, throttling back and dumping the nose, we were positioned at a steep angle downward, dropping at over 1,000 feet per minute. Within seconds, I touched her down ever so gently and taxied to the general aviation ramp. After shutting down and securing the old girl, I reached into the cargo door for the window cleaner and noticed the cleaner itself in the aerosol can had frozen into a clump, and was banging around the inside of the can. I tucked it in my jacket and while using the restroom, I placed it under the hot water in the sink. It took much shaking and more hot water over the can before the cleaner was in a usable form. Soon, we were out there in the breeze that produced below 10F windchills, cleaning the windows of the plane. I tell you, we couldn't finish quick enough. OUCH - that wind actually hurt. Anyway, after starting the engine, followed by a LONG taxi, we were airborne and heading southwest for a flight over the vast Jersey Pine Barrens.
I needed to locate the defunct rail line that began at Whiting and continued through the Hammonton area because I wanted to view Caranza's Memorial from the air, as well as snap some pics of this monument. During and after photographing this area, we noticed a large fire was burning just to the south and east of our flight path. Flying closer, it appeared that this fire was a controlled burning as it looked as if only the underbrush was burning, and the fires were in long, straight, lines. Still, though, a neat sight to see. Turning more west, we located Cross Keys airport, entered the traffic pattern, landed and parked on the grass. We took out our lunch and ate right there in the warm airplane, not even getting out once. While eating lunch, we noticed that despite the 20 degree temps, folks were parachuting there. Cross Keys airport has a HUGE parachuting business on the field, and in the warmer months, turbo-prop aircraft carry as many as 25-30 jumpers aloft for the time of their lives. But today, we were shocked to see even a few folks jumping. Of course with less jumpers, the aircraft used was the next size up from ours. After an enjoyable sandwich, chips, pickles and a drink, I started the engine, taxied to runway 27 and applied full throttle. Soon, we were climbing and heading west toward Philadelphia.
I chose to head west because I wanted to shoot some more pictures of Clementon Amusement Park in Clementon, NJ. I traversed this area from south to north, west to east, trying to locate the lake that the park resides on. Finally, Dad spotted it to the right of our flight path and I pointed the plane in that direction. I flew a few circles of the park and shot many pics of their two coasters, as well as the park and water park in general.
After this little deviation in our flight, we headed north to the Lumberton area and landed at South Jersey Regional airport for some coffee and dessert. It felt good to drink something HOT, and after a 15 or so minute rest, we were back in the plane, rocketing upward and turning northwest for our flight home. We traversed the Delaware river, just north of Philadelphia, then continued west of Trenton, again joining the Delaware as we flew on the PA side past Lambertville, Stockton, Frenchtown and Milford. I pointed-out the Sand Castle Winery to Dad because my wife and I just visited there yesterday, and it looked quite spectacular from above.
Before long, we were getting tired and felt that was enough flying for the day. We headed back to our home-base airport, taxied to the gas pits, and had her tanks topped-off. With a quick taxi back to our tie-down spot, we secured her in place, readying her for another great day of flying, this time to the north for a change. See you here after the NEXT flight !!! :) - Thanks for Reading....
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Flying to a NEW Home....
Yes, today I flew the plane to a new home, or airport I should say. On Saturday, January 27, 2007, Dad and I removed the tie-down ropes and chocks from our pad at Solberg airport, pre-flighted the ole girl and loaded her up for a journey to another airport in northern New Jersey. The move was prompted by both costs and convenience.
While pre-flighting the airplane and checking the oil, I noticed that there was a large amount of visible (frozen) moisture on the oil dipstick, something I have NEVER seen before. And while pre-heating the engine, we noticed visible water droplets dripping from the oil breather tube, again something we have NEVER seen before. Just something to keep our eye on, that's all. So, after a nice and toasty engine pre-heat she started like a champ, and within 15 minutes we were airborne, on our way to the plane's new home. Upon landing, we taxied directly into our new tie-down location on the aircraft ramp, then checked-in with operations to pay our first month's rent. My wife then arrived after having dropped us off at Solberg, waiting for us to start the engine, then driving to this new airport. We all then boarded the plane and headed south, destined for South Jersey Regional airport in Lumberton, NJ.
The weather was overcast over northern NJ with a bright, band of orange (clear skies) to the south, hence one of the reasons we were heading in that direction. We climbed to about 2,000 feet and found the air rather calm, but as we approached the brighter skies, the air became more and more turbulent. Reacting to this, I climbed even higher until it became smooth again. But just as we were again getting used to the calm air, it became turbulent yet again. We put up with it for another few minutes but after crossing the Delaware river just north of Philadelphia, PA, the air became still and the turbulence disappeared. Of course my wife was happy as a clam, and I was relieved I would not have to fight the plane into the traffic pattern at the next airport.
Upon landing, the wind was a light 5-8 mph from the northwest. We taxied to the parking area in front of the restaurant and shut her down. Of course, as always when we visit this airport, we headed in for some coffee and a muffin. After a nice, relaxing warm-up, we boarded the plane once again, this time heading for the Jersey Shore, or so we were hoping.
Before take-off, I asked my wife to shoot some video of each take-off and landing that I did so I could place the clips on my website. And so she filmed away, just until I was clear of the airport at about 800 feet in altitude. Quickly we headed northeast, wanting to fly around McGuire AFB's airspace, then over Six Flags Great Adventure for a check on the latest developments for the 2007 season.
What we noticed while flying due east, just north of McGuire was a really interesting phenomenon, and one that I can't recall ever experiencing, or noticing, before. We had a DIRECT tailwind (wind from behind) and I could tell this because we did not have a crab angle and were cruising a swift 150+ mph over the ground. But when we looked down at a few houses burning their fireplaces, we noticed the wind from the north by observing the smoke below. The wind at our altitude of about 1,500 feet was from the west, yet the wind on the ground was from the north. A direct crosswind effect between the ground and 1,500 feet. Neat !!!
After passing over Great Adventure and shooting a few pictures, we continued on towards the shore. One problem, though, I kept thinking that once I turned more to the north and finally west, we would have a major headwind that would reduce our ground speed significantly. This, and the fact that the weather was becoming gloomy once again, was my reason for avoiding the shoreline and flying a large, gradual 180 degree turn to the left, taking us over Freehold, Monroe township and just south of New Brunswick. And, just like I figured, our ground speed on the return trip was reduced some 50 mph down to about 100 - OUCH !!!
Up ahead, we intended to land at Solberg airport once again. Not for posterity's sake or because we missed the airport already, but because one of our safety flags from the cowl plugs was left behind. I made a landing with my wife filming, then taxied to our old tie-down location. Dad then jumped out and grabbed the forgotten flag, and I took-off once again with my wife making turning me into a film star. We headed west and finally saw our destination. With my wife filming yet again, I entered the traffic pattern of our new, home base airport and set the plane down gently on the runway. Since we were low on fuel, we parked at the fuel farm and had the airport attendant top us off for a "cheap" $3.55 / gallon. Relatively inexpensive.....Compared to automotive fuel, anyway.
My wife and Dad decided to walk back to our new tie-down area while I started the ole girl one last time and taxied her back to her NEW home. Yes, we turned this sort of gloomy, cold, damp day into a great flying day with much comraderie and fun. As always, we look forward to many more days in the near future that will be as rewarding as today turned out to be !!!
While pre-flighting the airplane and checking the oil, I noticed that there was a large amount of visible (frozen) moisture on the oil dipstick, something I have NEVER seen before. And while pre-heating the engine, we noticed visible water droplets dripping from the oil breather tube, again something we have NEVER seen before. Just something to keep our eye on, that's all. So, after a nice and toasty engine pre-heat she started like a champ, and within 15 minutes we were airborne, on our way to the plane's new home. Upon landing, we taxied directly into our new tie-down location on the aircraft ramp, then checked-in with operations to pay our first month's rent. My wife then arrived after having dropped us off at Solberg, waiting for us to start the engine, then driving to this new airport. We all then boarded the plane and headed south, destined for South Jersey Regional airport in Lumberton, NJ.
The weather was overcast over northern NJ with a bright, band of orange (clear skies) to the south, hence one of the reasons we were heading in that direction. We climbed to about 2,000 feet and found the air rather calm, but as we approached the brighter skies, the air became more and more turbulent. Reacting to this, I climbed even higher until it became smooth again. But just as we were again getting used to the calm air, it became turbulent yet again. We put up with it for another few minutes but after crossing the Delaware river just north of Philadelphia, PA, the air became still and the turbulence disappeared. Of course my wife was happy as a clam, and I was relieved I would not have to fight the plane into the traffic pattern at the next airport.
Upon landing, the wind was a light 5-8 mph from the northwest. We taxied to the parking area in front of the restaurant and shut her down. Of course, as always when we visit this airport, we headed in for some coffee and a muffin. After a nice, relaxing warm-up, we boarded the plane once again, this time heading for the Jersey Shore, or so we were hoping.
Before take-off, I asked my wife to shoot some video of each take-off and landing that I did so I could place the clips on my website. And so she filmed away, just until I was clear of the airport at about 800 feet in altitude. Quickly we headed northeast, wanting to fly around McGuire AFB's airspace, then over Six Flags Great Adventure for a check on the latest developments for the 2007 season.
What we noticed while flying due east, just north of McGuire was a really interesting phenomenon, and one that I can't recall ever experiencing, or noticing, before. We had a DIRECT tailwind (wind from behind) and I could tell this because we did not have a crab angle and were cruising a swift 150+ mph over the ground. But when we looked down at a few houses burning their fireplaces, we noticed the wind from the north by observing the smoke below. The wind at our altitude of about 1,500 feet was from the west, yet the wind on the ground was from the north. A direct crosswind effect between the ground and 1,500 feet. Neat !!!
After passing over Great Adventure and shooting a few pictures, we continued on towards the shore. One problem, though, I kept thinking that once I turned more to the north and finally west, we would have a major headwind that would reduce our ground speed significantly. This, and the fact that the weather was becoming gloomy once again, was my reason for avoiding the shoreline and flying a large, gradual 180 degree turn to the left, taking us over Freehold, Monroe township and just south of New Brunswick. And, just like I figured, our ground speed on the return trip was reduced some 50 mph down to about 100 - OUCH !!!
Up ahead, we intended to land at Solberg airport once again. Not for posterity's sake or because we missed the airport already, but because one of our safety flags from the cowl plugs was left behind. I made a landing with my wife filming, then taxied to our old tie-down location. Dad then jumped out and grabbed the forgotten flag, and I took-off once again with my wife making turning me into a film star. We headed west and finally saw our destination. With my wife filming yet again, I entered the traffic pattern of our new, home base airport and set the plane down gently on the runway. Since we were low on fuel, we parked at the fuel farm and had the airport attendant top us off for a "cheap" $3.55 / gallon. Relatively inexpensive.....Compared to automotive fuel, anyway.
My wife and Dad decided to walk back to our new tie-down area while I started the ole girl one last time and taxied her back to her NEW home. Yes, we turned this sort of gloomy, cold, damp day into a great flying day with much comraderie and fun. As always, we look forward to many more days in the near future that will be as rewarding as today turned out to be !!!
Monday, January 22, 2007
A Cold, Winter Flight with a Six Flags Great Adventure Aerial Photo Tour
Yes, today started out COLD. On this Sunday, the 21st of January 2007, the temperature read 18F on the thermometer in the wee hours of the morning. What I thought was definitely a No-Fly day due to the breeze combined with the frigid temps turned out to be one of the better days to fly. With that said, it was Dad and I taking to the skies today, as my wife unfortunately could not be with us.
Since it was so cold in the morning combined with the fact that the engine had not run in 2 weeks, we decided to pre-heat our trusty Lycoming. After a 10 minute pre-heat and a thorough pre-flight, I pumped the throttle 5 times, but to no avail.....She didn't start. With 3 more pumps, the ol' girl came to life, and within 15 more minutes after a warm-up we were airborne, climbing at over 1,000 feet/minute at 100 mph.
I pointed the nose southeast and headed directly towards Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ. I didn't expect much to be changed since my last park fly-over two weeks ago, but I was quickly proved incorrect in my assumptions. Much work had been done to the park in preparation for opening day in late March. The NEW kids area, Wiggles World, is cleared and construction is ready to commence. One of the larger coasters, Chiller, is having one section of its track modified/replaced and other areas are receiving minor but necessary improvements.
After two CCW circles of the park, I headed west for a bit, then south.....All this to clear McGuire AFB's controlled airspace. While traversing the outer boundaries of this airspace, we spotted something we'd never seen hadn't noticed before in almost 12 years of flying....A massive flock of white geese flying low over the corn fields. I snapped a bunch of pictures of this neat sight and one that I will eventually post to my website in a future update.
South Jersey Regional airport was our next destination for some HOT coffee and a banana nut muffin. The restaurant was packed as usual, though we grabbed our grub and headed for the airport's FBO (fixed base operator) lounge. After a nice rest and a warm-up, we were back in the air, this time heading northwest towards Queen City airport in Allentown, PA. This route took us north of Philadelphia, over the Delaware river, just north of Northeast Philadelphia airport and on toward the now defunct Warminster Navy base in the town of Warminster. Continuing, we spotted Doylestown to the right and an intriguing highway intersection that I just couldn't pass up snapping a picture of for a future update. Next was Lake Nockamixon on the right with Pennridge airport on the left. Further on was the bustling town of Quakertown, then finally over the mountain ridge to Queen City airport, just south of Allentown.
After landing to the northwest on runway 33 (330 degree heading), we parked at the FBO ramp and had them give us a top-off (fill both gas tanks). We originally planned on going there for not only fuel, but to eat our picnic lunch in the cafeteria, though when we arrived we weren't that hungry on account of that muffin we ate earlier. So, we paid for the fuel, cranked up the engine and commenced taxiing back to runway 33. This time, though, I wanted Dad to shoot a video of the take-off for posting in a future website video update. Turns out, the video came out great and I look forward to sharing it with everyone soon.
With a quick CCW circle around Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom after take-off to shoot some pictures of a few of their coasters, we were headed back east, enroute to Alexandria airport in Pittstown, NJ. Soon we were crossing the Delaware river once again, just north of Milford. Quickly after, I set-up the plane for a landing on runway 26 while checking for traffic. We wanted to visit this airport because we are thinking of moving the plane here from Solberg. The tie-down is less expensive and it is a freshly paved area as well. I met the airport owner ??/manager Linda and we had nice, albeit brief, chat about the tie-down issues. Satisfied with that, we were soon heading northeast toward the Spruce Run and Round Valley reservoirs to shoot more aerial photos of this pristine area. The engine oil temperature was once again back to where it should be so as to vaporize all of the water from the oil, so we then decided to head back to Solberg and finish our day of flying.
As we entered the traffic pattern, the wind was non-existent so we decided to land on runway 04 (40 degree heading). After gently touching down and a quick taxi back to the tie-down spot, we pushed the old girl back to her resting place until the next time she comes to life and carries us on yet another memorable flying adventure !!!
Since it was so cold in the morning combined with the fact that the engine had not run in 2 weeks, we decided to pre-heat our trusty Lycoming. After a 10 minute pre-heat and a thorough pre-flight, I pumped the throttle 5 times, but to no avail.....She didn't start. With 3 more pumps, the ol' girl came to life, and within 15 more minutes after a warm-up we were airborne, climbing at over 1,000 feet/minute at 100 mph.
I pointed the nose southeast and headed directly towards Six Flags Great Adventure in Jackson, NJ. I didn't expect much to be changed since my last park fly-over two weeks ago, but I was quickly proved incorrect in my assumptions. Much work had been done to the park in preparation for opening day in late March. The NEW kids area, Wiggles World, is cleared and construction is ready to commence. One of the larger coasters, Chiller, is having one section of its track modified/replaced and other areas are receiving minor but necessary improvements.
After two CCW circles of the park, I headed west for a bit, then south.....All this to clear McGuire AFB's controlled airspace. While traversing the outer boundaries of this airspace, we spotted something we'd never seen hadn't noticed before in almost 12 years of flying....A massive flock of white geese flying low over the corn fields. I snapped a bunch of pictures of this neat sight and one that I will eventually post to my website in a future update.
South Jersey Regional airport was our next destination for some HOT coffee and a banana nut muffin. The restaurant was packed as usual, though we grabbed our grub and headed for the airport's FBO (fixed base operator) lounge. After a nice rest and a warm-up, we were back in the air, this time heading northwest towards Queen City airport in Allentown, PA. This route took us north of Philadelphia, over the Delaware river, just north of Northeast Philadelphia airport and on toward the now defunct Warminster Navy base in the town of Warminster. Continuing, we spotted Doylestown to the right and an intriguing highway intersection that I just couldn't pass up snapping a picture of for a future update. Next was Lake Nockamixon on the right with Pennridge airport on the left. Further on was the bustling town of Quakertown, then finally over the mountain ridge to Queen City airport, just south of Allentown.
After landing to the northwest on runway 33 (330 degree heading), we parked at the FBO ramp and had them give us a top-off (fill both gas tanks). We originally planned on going there for not only fuel, but to eat our picnic lunch in the cafeteria, though when we arrived we weren't that hungry on account of that muffin we ate earlier. So, we paid for the fuel, cranked up the engine and commenced taxiing back to runway 33. This time, though, I wanted Dad to shoot a video of the take-off for posting in a future website video update. Turns out, the video came out great and I look forward to sharing it with everyone soon.
With a quick CCW circle around Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom after take-off to shoot some pictures of a few of their coasters, we were headed back east, enroute to Alexandria airport in Pittstown, NJ. Soon we were crossing the Delaware river once again, just north of Milford. Quickly after, I set-up the plane for a landing on runway 26 while checking for traffic. We wanted to visit this airport because we are thinking of moving the plane here from Solberg. The tie-down is less expensive and it is a freshly paved area as well. I met the airport owner ??/manager Linda and we had nice, albeit brief, chat about the tie-down issues. Satisfied with that, we were soon heading northeast toward the Spruce Run and Round Valley reservoirs to shoot more aerial photos of this pristine area. The engine oil temperature was once again back to where it should be so as to vaporize all of the water from the oil, so we then decided to head back to Solberg and finish our day of flying.
As we entered the traffic pattern, the wind was non-existent so we decided to land on runway 04 (40 degree heading). After gently touching down and a quick taxi back to the tie-down spot, we pushed the old girl back to her resting place until the next time she comes to life and carries us on yet another memorable flying adventure !!!
Tuesday, January 09, 2007
Calm Between Two Storms...
Sunday, January 7, 2007 was a spectacular flying day. It was a day surrounded by high winds and extreme temps. Saturday was unseasonably warm in the 70's with high winds and Monday was seasonably cool as the winds slowly delivered temps in the 30's by late afternoon. But in between on Sunday, there were relatively calm winds and moderate temps in the 50's, perfect for flying and shooting aerial photos. Dad and I were flying today as my wife was otherwise pre-occupied. We arrived at the airport and all was uneventful as we applied full throttle and left the tarmac on runway 04. With a quick 180 degree turn to the left, we were soon headed southeast to our first destination.
This morning I had Six Flags Great Adventure theme park in mind for my first aerial photo shoot as I wanted to see what was happening as the park readies itself for the 2007 season. I flew a couple of CCW circles around the park, shooting over 30 pictures before leaving the area to the southwest. As practice, I decided to call the control tower at McGuire Air Force Base and ask for clearance to transition their airspace to the southwest. After a few calls and having me enter a certain code on my transponder (gives an aircraft's position to the controller) I was cleared at or below 1,000 feet. Descending from 2,000 feet to the assigned altitude range, we transitioned over Fort Dix and McGuire AFB. After leaving their airspace and getting the ok to switch radio frequencies, we headed to South Jersey Regional airport for a coffee and muffin at their airport restaurant.
While at the airport, we sat in the pilot's lounge and had our snack, then took a stroll on the general aviation tarmac to check-out some military aircraft that were re-located there from the Air Victory Museum that is on the field. If you're ever in the Lumberton, NJ area then by all means check-out this fascinating museum located at South Jersey Regional airport. At this time, we did not visit the museum, though we have been through it previously and will definitely visit again in the future.
After a take-off to the east, we decided to fly southeast toward the vast pine barrens of Ocean County. We wanted to test our VOR instrument and confirm if it worked properly or not, so we tuned-in the Coyle VOR which happens to reside along Route 72 just west of Manahawkin. After making some minor corrections and noting that the VOR was never directly ahead of us as it should've been according to the instrument, we realized that the instrument was for decoration only. The VOR instrument is based on out-dated technology, though many folks still rely on it, assuming the instrument in the aircraft is working properly. Ok, back to the trusty GPS receiver and a left turn towards Robert J. Miller Airpark in Toms River, NJ. While flying nearby the airport, I spotted the Popcorn Park Zoo that I once attended as a child. We then entered the traffic pattern and landed on runway 06, stopped in at the fixed base operator (FBO) there and used the facilities. The plane's fuel tanks were both about 3/4 full so we decided to wait until we landed back at our home field to fill-up.
Soon we were off once again and climbing to the east, just south of Holiday City in Toms River. Shooting pictures of this vast complex of senior citizen homes, we continued over the town of Toms River, then turned northeast towards Asbury Park. On we flew, shooting pictures of all familiar landmarks that are in that area such as the Ocean County Mall, College and other landmarks and buildings that offered an interesting view. Since I grew up in Ocean County, all of this terrain is very familiar to me. Continuing, we flew further north, just east of the Earle Ammunition Depot in Colts Neck, then over the Monmouth Mall at the intersection of Routes 35 and 36. Finally, a turn to the west as we over-flew the now defunct Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, the city of New Brunswick and then the Bridgewater Mall, shooting pictures of each of these places.
In the distance to the west, just before the mountains surrounding the Round Valley Reservoir, we could see our final destination; Solberg airport. Upon landing, we taxied to the gas pit area and fueled-up for what we hope will be a day just like today, only this time with my wife joining us !!!
This morning I had Six Flags Great Adventure theme park in mind for my first aerial photo shoot as I wanted to see what was happening as the park readies itself for the 2007 season. I flew a couple of CCW circles around the park, shooting over 30 pictures before leaving the area to the southwest. As practice, I decided to call the control tower at McGuire Air Force Base and ask for clearance to transition their airspace to the southwest. After a few calls and having me enter a certain code on my transponder (gives an aircraft's position to the controller) I was cleared at or below 1,000 feet. Descending from 2,000 feet to the assigned altitude range, we transitioned over Fort Dix and McGuire AFB. After leaving their airspace and getting the ok to switch radio frequencies, we headed to South Jersey Regional airport for a coffee and muffin at their airport restaurant.
While at the airport, we sat in the pilot's lounge and had our snack, then took a stroll on the general aviation tarmac to check-out some military aircraft that were re-located there from the Air Victory Museum that is on the field. If you're ever in the Lumberton, NJ area then by all means check-out this fascinating museum located at South Jersey Regional airport. At this time, we did not visit the museum, though we have been through it previously and will definitely visit again in the future.
After a take-off to the east, we decided to fly southeast toward the vast pine barrens of Ocean County. We wanted to test our VOR instrument and confirm if it worked properly or not, so we tuned-in the Coyle VOR which happens to reside along Route 72 just west of Manahawkin. After making some minor corrections and noting that the VOR was never directly ahead of us as it should've been according to the instrument, we realized that the instrument was for decoration only. The VOR instrument is based on out-dated technology, though many folks still rely on it, assuming the instrument in the aircraft is working properly. Ok, back to the trusty GPS receiver and a left turn towards Robert J. Miller Airpark in Toms River, NJ. While flying nearby the airport, I spotted the Popcorn Park Zoo that I once attended as a child. We then entered the traffic pattern and landed on runway 06, stopped in at the fixed base operator (FBO) there and used the facilities. The plane's fuel tanks were both about 3/4 full so we decided to wait until we landed back at our home field to fill-up.
Soon we were off once again and climbing to the east, just south of Holiday City in Toms River. Shooting pictures of this vast complex of senior citizen homes, we continued over the town of Toms River, then turned northeast towards Asbury Park. On we flew, shooting pictures of all familiar landmarks that are in that area such as the Ocean County Mall, College and other landmarks and buildings that offered an interesting view. Since I grew up in Ocean County, all of this terrain is very familiar to me. Continuing, we flew further north, just east of the Earle Ammunition Depot in Colts Neck, then over the Monmouth Mall at the intersection of Routes 35 and 36. Finally, a turn to the west as we over-flew the now defunct Marlboro Psychiatric Hospital, the city of New Brunswick and then the Bridgewater Mall, shooting pictures of each of these places.
In the distance to the west, just before the mountains surrounding the Round Valley Reservoir, we could see our final destination; Solberg airport. Upon landing, we taxied to the gas pit area and fueled-up for what we hope will be a day just like today, only this time with my wife joining us !!!
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
A "Christmas Break" Holiday Flight
Ah, 10 days off of work, yet only ONE day I was able to "stretch my wings", so to speak. Friday, the 29th of December 2006 was the day, and my wife and father were joining me for a flight to who knows where ??? Arriving at the airport, we were greeted with calm winds and fair skies. The temperature was already in the 40's at 10:30AM, and we were looking forward to a day of interesting destinations.
After pumping the engine throttle 6 times, the old girl came to life. Soon after our standard warm-up and short taxi to runway 04 (40 degree heading) we leaped off the tarmac and climbed out to the west. Reading, PA was our destination and the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum that is based on the field. Soon we were on course and cruising at a modest 140 mph due to the fact that the wind that day was from the east, and we were enjoying what little tailwind there was. Crossing the Delaware river, I noticed that there was much haze to the west-southwest, the direction we were heading. The haze/smoke is always prevalent in this Lancaster-Reading, PA area, most likely due to folks burning wood I would assume. Upon our descent into Reading we all could see the visible clouds of smoke boiling up over the mountains as we made our final approach to the airport.
After the plane was chocked and secured, we headed on foot to the nearby museum grounds, which are in fact part of the general aviation parking ramp. There, we saw an older model transport aircraft, an early model jet fighter, an experimental aircraft, a WWII bomber and a Coast Guard helicopter. We shot some pictures of these planes and headed over to the museum hangar. Inside, they have the majority of their aircraft, but since we wanted to take advantage of the great flying weather, we opted not to visit them this time. Dad and I were to this museum in the past, and we will visit again, but this day was for venturing the skies of eastern PA.
After a quick stop at the general aviation business on the field (the name slips my mind at the moment), we contacted the control tower, taxied to the runway and took-off, heading north towards Scranton. We quickly noticed that once we left the Reading area, the smoke just disapppeared, leaving us with clear skies and awesome visibility to the north and west. Soon we were over-flying the town of Hamburg, PA and the enormous Cabella's. Then we saw the Appalacian ridge, stretching as far as the eye can see both to the northeast and to the southwest. Crossing this ridge is awesome as the ridge is quite like the blade of a knife, in some areas more than others. Continuing at 3,000+ feet in altitude and cruising a healthy 130+ mph, we were soon over-flying the mining towns of Lansford, Pottsville and the small surrounding towns as well. It's really a treat to see these old towns tucked into every nook and cranny of the mountains in this area. My wife and I drive these roads occasionally and it is rugged and beautiful, but to fly this area is something spectacular.
Just then, Dad suggested we head to Bloomsburg, PA and the small airport near the college town. With a quick turn to the left and a heading of west, we were soon on a course, taking us just south of the bustling metropolis of Hazleton. Soon, we were traversing more mountain ridges, continually search for a sign of the airport, even though we had our trusty GPS locked-in. Passing the last mountain ridge and with the river directly below us, we sawBloomsburg University high on the hill, overlooking the bustling town below. The airport was just south of town, and lies directly on a flood plain. I set-up for a landing to the east and touched down ever so gently. After parking and shutting down the engine, we were happy to see the office was open. A few other times when Dad and I visited the airport late on the weekend, the office was closed. The folks there were pleasant and had no objections to us picnicking in their office lounge with the sandwiches we had brought with us. After talking with an older gentleman, we found out that the office belonged to Columbia Aircraft Services, a business on the field which specializes in aircraft engine overhauls. We were commenting on pictures posted to the bulletin board showing the entire airport flooded, with the exception of the western end of the runway. This only dry part of the airport is where most of the planes were located until the flood waters subsided.
After finishing our picnic lunch, talking some more about the flood situations at the field and a quick walk down to the river bank, we took-off and headed southeast towards Queen City airport in Allentown, PA. We headed there because we wanted to take advantage of the full-serve treatment provided by the crew at this airport. This, and the fact that fuel prices are generally lower here as well. Enroute to Queen City and before we once again traversed the Appalacian Ridge, we noticed a new line of Wind Generators perched high on a mountain ridge, just west of Lehighton and Jim Thorpe. There were over 10 of them if I remember correctly, and I snapped a few pictures that I will eventually post to my website. As we approached the Allentown area, we flew near Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, an amusement / water park in the area. I shot a few pictures and will also place them on my website in the near future.
Upon landing, we taxied to the apron and parked next to the gas pumps. An attendant quickly greeted us and asked how much fuel we would like. A "top off" (fill'er up) was in the works for us that afternoon, and we decided to relax a bit in their lounge area and have a cup of coffee/hot cocoa. There were even some pastries left out for all to enjoy, and as we did we chatted a bit about the fabulous day we were having. Paying the fuel bill and cranking the engine was all that remained before we could depart for our home base airport in Readington, NJ. Soon we were climbing out to the east, crossing the Delaware river once again just north of Milford, NJ. We flew near Alexandria and Sky Manor airports, over route 31 in Hunterdon County, then just south of Round Valley Reservoir and on towards Solberg airport, our final destination. After a soft landing, I taxied the ole' girl to our tie-down spot and shut her down. With a final push-back where she will rest until we awaken her once again, we were very pleased with the day we just experienced and hope to relive these fun times in the near future.....
HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!
After pumping the engine throttle 6 times, the old girl came to life. Soon after our standard warm-up and short taxi to runway 04 (40 degree heading) we leaped off the tarmac and climbed out to the west. Reading, PA was our destination and the Mid-Atlantic Air Museum that is based on the field. Soon we were on course and cruising at a modest 140 mph due to the fact that the wind that day was from the east, and we were enjoying what little tailwind there was. Crossing the Delaware river, I noticed that there was much haze to the west-southwest, the direction we were heading. The haze/smoke is always prevalent in this Lancaster-Reading, PA area, most likely due to folks burning wood I would assume. Upon our descent into Reading we all could see the visible clouds of smoke boiling up over the mountains as we made our final approach to the airport.
After the plane was chocked and secured, we headed on foot to the nearby museum grounds, which are in fact part of the general aviation parking ramp. There, we saw an older model transport aircraft, an early model jet fighter, an experimental aircraft, a WWII bomber and a Coast Guard helicopter. We shot some pictures of these planes and headed over to the museum hangar. Inside, they have the majority of their aircraft, but since we wanted to take advantage of the great flying weather, we opted not to visit them this time. Dad and I were to this museum in the past, and we will visit again, but this day was for venturing the skies of eastern PA.
After a quick stop at the general aviation business on the field (the name slips my mind at the moment), we contacted the control tower, taxied to the runway and took-off, heading north towards Scranton. We quickly noticed that once we left the Reading area, the smoke just disapppeared, leaving us with clear skies and awesome visibility to the north and west. Soon we were over-flying the town of Hamburg, PA and the enormous Cabella's. Then we saw the Appalacian ridge, stretching as far as the eye can see both to the northeast and to the southwest. Crossing this ridge is awesome as the ridge is quite like the blade of a knife, in some areas more than others. Continuing at 3,000+ feet in altitude and cruising a healthy 130+ mph, we were soon over-flying the mining towns of Lansford, Pottsville and the small surrounding towns as well. It's really a treat to see these old towns tucked into every nook and cranny of the mountains in this area. My wife and I drive these roads occasionally and it is rugged and beautiful, but to fly this area is something spectacular.
Just then, Dad suggested we head to Bloomsburg, PA and the small airport near the college town. With a quick turn to the left and a heading of west, we were soon on a course, taking us just south of the bustling metropolis of Hazleton. Soon, we were traversing more mountain ridges, continually search for a sign of the airport, even though we had our trusty GPS locked-in. Passing the last mountain ridge and with the river directly below us, we sawBloomsburg University high on the hill, overlooking the bustling town below. The airport was just south of town, and lies directly on a flood plain. I set-up for a landing to the east and touched down ever so gently. After parking and shutting down the engine, we were happy to see the office was open. A few other times when Dad and I visited the airport late on the weekend, the office was closed. The folks there were pleasant and had no objections to us picnicking in their office lounge with the sandwiches we had brought with us. After talking with an older gentleman, we found out that the office belonged to Columbia Aircraft Services, a business on the field which specializes in aircraft engine overhauls. We were commenting on pictures posted to the bulletin board showing the entire airport flooded, with the exception of the western end of the runway. This only dry part of the airport is where most of the planes were located until the flood waters subsided.
After finishing our picnic lunch, talking some more about the flood situations at the field and a quick walk down to the river bank, we took-off and headed southeast towards Queen City airport in Allentown, PA. We headed there because we wanted to take advantage of the full-serve treatment provided by the crew at this airport. This, and the fact that fuel prices are generally lower here as well. Enroute to Queen City and before we once again traversed the Appalacian Ridge, we noticed a new line of Wind Generators perched high on a mountain ridge, just west of Lehighton and Jim Thorpe. There were over 10 of them if I remember correctly, and I snapped a few pictures that I will eventually post to my website. As we approached the Allentown area, we flew near Dorney Park and Wildwater Kingdom, an amusement / water park in the area. I shot a few pictures and will also place them on my website in the near future.
Upon landing, we taxied to the apron and parked next to the gas pumps. An attendant quickly greeted us and asked how much fuel we would like. A "top off" (fill'er up) was in the works for us that afternoon, and we decided to relax a bit in their lounge area and have a cup of coffee/hot cocoa. There were even some pastries left out for all to enjoy, and as we did we chatted a bit about the fabulous day we were having. Paying the fuel bill and cranking the engine was all that remained before we could depart for our home base airport in Readington, NJ. Soon we were climbing out to the east, crossing the Delaware river once again just north of Milford, NJ. We flew near Alexandria and Sky Manor airports, over route 31 in Hunterdon County, then just south of Round Valley Reservoir and on towards Solberg airport, our final destination. After a soft landing, I taxied the ole' girl to our tie-down spot and shut her down. With a final push-back where she will rest until we awaken her once again, we were very pleased with the day we just experienced and hope to relive these fun times in the near future.....
HAPPY NEW YEAR !!!
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