Airports of Yore
Hesler-Noble Field in Laurel, MS When flying without a co-pilot, we usually throttle back our 601HDS, N314LB, to 4,400 rpm. This produces about 40 hp and requires 3 gal/hr of fuel. A light load on the 80 hp engine indeed. Speed is close to 90 kts. In automotive terms, speed is more than 100 mph, and we get 33 mpg. Once en route, the autopilot takes over. ADS-B supplies radar weather and details about airports. The Garmin Pilot displays the map with the icon of the plane. Endurance is more than 6 hours. Urgency of fluid output is no longer a problem, thanks to a simple solution: a bottle. With the problems of old times—piloting, weather, navigation, endurance, and fluid pressure—solved, we just sit back and enjoy the views for hours on end. Compared with driving = work, we have flying = vacation. Now and then such a trip takes us back in time: When airports were bustling with activity, service was provided beyond the call of duty, and the vis...