The other day I flew on this airplane. No big deal for many folks, I realize. However, when I walked up to my gate in Philadelphia and saw this little plane I was incredibly excited. Strange, huh?
This is a De Havilland Dash 8 and for some reason having to do with the way it looks and the landing gear extending down from the wing, I've been wanting to ride in one since I first saw one fly out of La Gaurdia a few years ago.
The first time I flew I was 19. I flew from Dallas, Texas to Mexico City, Mexico and I fell in love. I've never been a fearful flyer. I loved the take off and landing, the speed, watching the lights on the ground, the whole experience. However, prior to the Finman I never gave much thought to the vehicle in which I flew.
Being involved with a walking encyclopedia of airplanes both flying and not changes your perspective. The first time I flew with Fin as the pilot I had no fear. It never even occurred to me that I might. In fact, it wasn't until after many flights together in a small plane that I started noticing small plane accidents on the news. Now, I do read about them and think about them but it's still a thrill to fly with Fin, my pilot.
Flying with Fin in a small plane also changes perspective. That's why I was momentarily surprised when I heard people around me speaking about how small the Dash 8 was.
As for my inaugural Dash 8 flight, I had a great time. I sat in the first seat by the door, without a seat partner and with the propellers powering along, not overwhelming loud but reassuringly real, sounding just right, thrumming through the plane. I soon dozed off and woke over the Atlantic as we came across to the coast of Long Island.
For me, it often is the small things.
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