Hays, KS
September 18, 2008
Flying through the Rocky mountains was quite an experience. As we wove our way through glorious peaks and valleys we observed a few rain showers off in the distance. Lush forests and tiny lakes dotted the landscape, and for a backdrop spectacular cloud formations. The L12A seemed to take all of this in stride. This plane was meant to fly. To cross the Rocky's we flew at 12,500 ft - remember this airplane is not pressurized. Curt is a superb pilot, he easily maneuvers Miss Ellie around thunder clouds and through valleys.
From the Rocky Mountains to the vast open spaces of Kansas. I've always been fascinated with the circular farm technique which dots the land. Wonder who decided to plant their crops in circles? late rI learned this system was developed for efficient irrigation. Flying on to Hays was a cruise. Farm after farm, each with their own crop. its obvious why the midwest is called the bread basket of America.
Our original flight plan was another fuel stop in Lamar, Co, but we were doing so well, had plenty of fuel to make it on to Hays, so we continued. From Santa Maria, CA. to Hays, KS and only 2 quarts of oil. I know of cars that use more oil than that!
Ruth is usually busy on her Blackberry responding to all of her email. We have Verison satellite connection on the plane - so "we have the internet".
Hays airport is a small, friendly stop. Taxiing in just off of the runway were dozens of large rolls of hay, with classic farm houses in the background. I'm learning small airports are fun, people are friendly, and very laid back. A couple of the airport locals to take a mini tour of "Ellie" and one man said he was grateful to simply look at history.
This journey is about the people we meet and the opportunity to see America from 10,000 feet.
We laid over in Hays, KS - the phonebook in my room was the size of a Readers Digest book. Small towns are nice.
Friday morning we had a warm send off from the local people at Hays Airport. Everyone stopped by to take a few pictures, meet Curt and Ruth and of course a a photo op of Miss Ellie.
As we left Hays, our new friend Bob followed along in his own aircraft a Swift, which he rebuilt from a pile of Swift parts. Beautiful airplane. We received a warm send off as a small group local residents waved us on. Thanks Hays and thanks Bob.
Bob flying his Swift and a Kodak moment for everyone. Fly safe!
Kaye
Photos from our friends
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Bob Dolpita's shares an action shot
of Miss Ellie from his own Swift aircraft.
Swift meets Lockheed. Bob shared his picture of Miss Ellie on the Swift A/C website. Click here to see link.