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Showing posts from June, 2009

Heavy Lifting Iron

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The loud whap-whap-whap is startling. The noise comes from Runway 31, which is in use. A big two-rotor military helicopter flies along that runway at low level. But wait, right behind this monster comes another one. And lo and behold, a third one is following number two. The procession flies to the midpoint of Runway 31, turns right, and flies along Runway 4, using it as a taxiway. The three helicopters take a sharp left at the end of Runway 4 and approach the FBO. The noise of the huge rotor blades and turbines becomes deafening. Then, neatly, one by one, they settle on the tarmac in front of the FBO. The blades and turbines wind down. Now there is silence again.    Marine CH46 Sea Knight Helicopters in Plainview, Texas Where is all this happening? At the Hale County Airport in Plainview, TX, of all places. We have known that airport for (1) strong winds from any direction, (2) two runways to cope with #1, and (3) a friendly and helpful FBO. But never for an impressive show o