Page 27 - Volume 15 Number 12

aaasssk aFlying to Alaska evokes a mental picture of Ariel Tweto, marshalling an ice encrusted Caravan onto the ramp in Unalakleet during a 50-knot blizzard on an episode of “Flying Wild Alaska.” The reality is that flying to Alaska is a wonderful trip that is within the capabilities of any well maintained GA airplane from the Lower 48 with a current and competent pilot.My wife and I, along with our friends Toni and Tom Ebeling, loaded up our B55 Colemill President II Baron and flew up the Alaska-Canada Highway to Fairbanks, on to Anchorage, and returned along the Pacific Coast inan epic, yet comfortable, adventure that afforded us the chance to see Canada and Alaska in an up close and personal way that’s totally inaccessible to our land-bound friends and neighbors.What follows is not intended to be a “how-to” primer. We want to encourage everyone to embrace the capabilities of their airplane and either add “a trip to Alaska” to their Bucket List or, better yet, scratch it off.First things first; let’s look at some basics. It’s not a difficult trip. Any twin or turbine pilot flying regularly should not feel any concern about making the journey.Every effort should be made to do as much as possible VFR, because the whole purpose of an Alaska adventure is to enjoy the incredible views of the mountains, glaciers, and lakes. Flying from Fort Nelson to Watson Lake at 4500 feet, over the highway, between the hills, is where you can truly appreciate the experience. Given the choice between flying a King Air 200 and a B55 to Alaska, opt for the Baron. Fly low, fly slow, and enjoy the spectacular view.Pushing OffThe trip began on June 16, 2011 from KMCW at Mason City, IA; our plan was to fly to KMOT, Minot, NDby Doug RozendaalDECEMBER 2011TWIN & TURBINE • 25