Post by Bruce on Oct 1, 2012 20:58:25 GMT 12
After Sunday's Forum meet, Andrew (Scrooge) had offered a scenic flight in Stan Smiths 1933 DH84 Dragon ZK-AXI. I had signed up for the flight, with my mate, Dean, when it was first advertised on the forum, but there was some doubt about whther it would go ahead due to lack of numbers. James' (JDK) shout of a flight for Dave helped make up the numbers and Errol and Efliernz made up a complete load. We all made our way out to North shore airfield where our aircraft awaited us:
Passengers first have to unfold their aircraft - choose your classic De Havilland!

Dean helps Andrew unfold the wings:

Yep, thats the other one secured too:

Check the locking pins and fold the jury struts:

Dave with his pre-flight smile (it was bigger post-flight):

Taxiing out, watched by an appreciative audience:

airborne over the Subritzky sheds:

The aircraft is extremely comfortable with good leg room and amazing views. There is a handy passenger flight information display on the forward bulkhead - marked in real figures MPH and Feet. Each seat has a huge flat panel entertainment display - called a window!

Peering through the cockpit peep hole over Andrews shoulder -

A view of the Whangaparaoa peninsular with a 1930s frame:

Orewa beach seemed busy on such a lovely day:

The visibility is excellent, and framed with lots of wings, wires, struts and engines and stuff...

Joining overhead North Shore airfield:

Bit of crosswind on finals, going by the crab angle:

The aircraft has a glass cockpit (The windows, not the instruments) and snug seating for 1 pilot. Flexibility is part of the job description!

an awesome experience and one that is highly recommened. thanks Andrew and Stan, and the other guys who filled the flight!
Passengers first have to unfold their aircraft - choose your classic De Havilland!

Dean helps Andrew unfold the wings:

Yep, thats the other one secured too:

Check the locking pins and fold the jury struts:

Dave with his pre-flight smile (it was bigger post-flight):

Taxiing out, watched by an appreciative audience:

airborne over the Subritzky sheds:

The aircraft is extremely comfortable with good leg room and amazing views. There is a handy passenger flight information display on the forward bulkhead - marked in real figures MPH and Feet. Each seat has a huge flat panel entertainment display - called a window!

Peering through the cockpit peep hole over Andrews shoulder -

A view of the Whangaparaoa peninsular with a 1930s frame:

Orewa beach seemed busy on such a lovely day:

The visibility is excellent, and framed with lots of wings, wires, struts and engines and stuff...

Joining overhead North Shore airfield:

Bit of crosswind on finals, going by the crab angle:

The aircraft has a glass cockpit (The windows, not the instruments) and snug seating for 1 pilot. Flexibility is part of the job description!

an awesome experience and one that is highly recommened. thanks Andrew and Stan, and the other guys who filled the flight!