WINGS OVER THE CANYON

When it comes to flying, sign me up! The exception to my enjoyment of flying is when it comes to getting on those commercial flying buses, where you have to sit for hours in seats that are designed for 4'8" midgets. Commercial flying is most often a necessary evil, with no enjoyment involved, except perhaps the take offs and landings.

Well, yesterday was the type of flight that was not only enjoyable, but incredibly scenic. The DeHaviland Twin Otter Aircraft pictured above, is a really neat airplane that is used by Grand Canyon Airlines. This same airplane was used in Skagway, Alaska for scenic flights, and we flew on one over some equally beautiful country, to include several glaciers & ice fields.

It was a perfect day with light winds, and visibility for 100 miles. Flying OVER the Grand Canyon gives you a perspective of how big this hole in the ground really is. Taking advantage of the "locals" discount price of $20, I boarded the aircraft with a group from China, and as they set there headsets to Chinese, I listened to the English version of the narrative.

Just visible to the right, is the Little Colorado River where it intersects with the main Colorado

Looking downstream, with a couple of rapids visible

One of many majestic red rock formations, this one standing alone like an island

A closer view of the turquoise Little Colorado River to the right

Not sure why the Little Colorado River has such a different color

This red rock canyon wall was on the North Rim

Coming in for the landing at Grand Canyon Airport in Tusayan

Almost back on the ground

It was a fantastic way to spend an hour, as the aircraft did a counterclockwise loop around the central part of the Grand Canyon. My point and shoot Kodak digital camera doesn't do justice to the scenery, but at least some of the beauty was captured.

Today is my Monday, as I start my workweek. Even though Patty and I don't enjoy the same days off, I'm glad we both got a chance to take advantage of the opportunity to see the Grand Canyon from a birds eye view. It truly is an amazing natural wonder!