Flying big commercial jet like Boeing 777 or Airbus A320 series , you definitely want to associate safety with size of an aircraft. The bigger the better ? The first time I was in an utility single engine propeller plane , I had my doubt, but that did not limit the expection and excitement I look forward to. THE THRILL OF TAKING OFF ON A GRAVEL AIRSTRIP.
Once the engine starts and the propeller beat the air backward. The wind created raised the dust and the dust block visibility. Small stones started flying off. The plane thrust forward and gain speed.Further acceleration , the aircraft start vibrate rigorously , at this stage you already bouncing off the seat. First time you may find it discomforting and after a while you get accustomed to enjoying the thrill. Sooner , the plane escape into the sky.
IT IS LIKE CLIMBING A MOUNTAIN.
Except it’s a new aircraft. Single engine plane don’t zoom off to the sky effortlessly. The pilot need to rev the engine , the sound goes high and low. You feel the push from your back.looking forward, you wonder where exactly you are going to in the vast empty sky .It is not like being in well paded big jets, flying utility plane could be intimidating, it is like a dream of ridding a bicycle in the sky.
HERE COME THE TURBULENCE
small planes don’t weather the storm, they ride with it. Normally , air turbulence you will not even notice on a big commercial aircraft will cause small plane to vibrate.The plane will veer left and right as the co-pilot tries to stabilize it. Nothing to worry about, it’s all part of the excitement.
THE REWARDING AMAZING VIEW.
The best prize for flying in an utility plane is the spectacular view from above. You are surrounded by windows on all sides ,and the pilot window is just in your front .The sky is the limit goes the saying and that is true as to what you can see from the aircraft . Nothing exciting has having a view of earth landscape from this type of ircraft.
IF YOU HAVE TO FLY AN UTILITY AIRCRAFT
1. Prepare for a deafing noise. Small plane don’t effectively shied from noise emanating from the propeller . I will advise taking ear muffler or plugs along with you.
2. The Cabin pressure control is not so gentle. The plane re- pressured rapidly that the middle ear will struggle to adjust. Ear drum won’t burst but the experience could be extremely painful. Getting a proper ear plugs will do the trick.
3. At 20,000 feet , the temperature will definitely drop . You feel the cold . The wall of the utility craft are thin and not well insulated compared to commercial jets, so expect it to be colder than usual. There is no air hostess that will help with thick wool blanket. so remember to take a sweater with you.