Geneva and EBACE 2010

It's May so it must be Geneva again. This time it's the 10th EBACE and my 7th consecutive visit.
An early run round the motorways found me at the Gatwick long term car park at 06:20 and shortly after meeting up with Brian at the North Terminal. Usual travelling companion Peter was spotted in the security queue and we all got together for an early morning coffee. The 4th member of the group, Paul, was travelling from Heathrow and would meet us there.

Our flight EZS8570 was again departing from the satellite so we had to cross the bridge for the best view of the airport. Various based liners fell in the book plus a Norwegian Shuttle B738 but not the Cubana Il-96 which had gone tech. Our plane was A-319 HB-JZT which pushed back at 08:22 (7 mins late) and we headed for a rwy 08R departure at 08:35. 84 mins later, we were touching down on rwy 05 at Geneva.

The immigration boxes have been moved nearer the gates which I'm afraid has not speeded up the process. It was not long though before we were picking up our show passes and getting in the static park. Quite cold today but dry which was an improvement on the forecast. More than ever in the static this year but only the CJ4 was a new type.

Weather was cold but the threatened rain just about held off. Stayed in the static park until closing time and on the way out accepted an offer of cakes and champagne. Headed for the car rental where Paul had again booked a car for our stay. The long term parking area were checked before Jet Aviation was explored. Finished off at the flying club where dinner was taken. Our hotel was again the Campanile.
Wednesday started wet and didn't get much better. Brian and Paul decided to stay at the garage at the end of the runway while Peter and I were dropped off by the exhibition hall. Driest place with a view was the terrace where the helicopters parked. I tried to get in the static park whenever the weather eased but even I couldn't cope with the grim conditions. A good opportunity to get on board a few planes as business was slow. Did catch G450 N5113 arrive plus the Ghanaian Jetstar 2 (9G-ABF) so worth making the effort. Peter was going home this evening and I was picked up to finish again at the flying club.

Thursday was dry and much better so spent the day in the static. Still plenty happening to hold the interest. Early kick out of the static on the last day but held out as long as we could. Time to kill before the flight so went up to the Altitude Restaurant in the terminal. Flight home (EZS8577) was on HB-JZF which taxyed away at 19:35 (25 mins late) and was airborne off 23 at 19:44. Just 56 mins later we touched down on 08 at Gatwick.

Florida 2010

If it's February, it must be Florida. This year, the Superbowl was being held in Miami so plans were made to bring the trip forward to cover this although this meant missing out on Zurich as they were too close together.

The flight this year was with Virgin which meant a later departure although I think I met up with Brian at about the usual time in T3. We checked our bags in which was painless and we proceeded through the security checks. Again painless although one wonders what effect full body scanners will have when they're brought in.

As usual, double figures fell in the book with ease before boarding A-340-600 G-VMEG (Mystic Maiden). Flight VS 005 is scheduled to depart at 12:30 and we were 17 minutes late pushing back (12:47). The usual queue to get out and we finally were airborne off 27L at 13:19.

The flight was uneventful but the food was OK and the crew were friendly. It seemed to go on forever though as due to strong headwinds we finally landed at 18:10 local after a flight of 9 hours 51 minutes (45 mins longer than usual). It was therefore just getting dark as we landed and headed for the stand.

The usual queues at immigration as they took another copy of my fingerprints and we still had to wait for the bags. Once picked up though, outside just as the Budget car hire van came round the corner. Not long before we took command of a Kia Soul, a type I don't think I've even seen before let alone driven. As with all US cars, got a reasonable amount of 'poke' and we were soon back in the swing of it, heading up the I-95 to Fort Lauderdale. We were back in the Ramada Plaza so no problem finding it.

Wednesday 3rd Decided that as we arrived at Miami at sunset, we'd start our first day back here. The obligatory look round Signatures which resulted in a few words with the lady in Fed Ex next door. After explaining the facts of life, she agreed to leave us alone for 10 minutes. Saw our first TACA ERJ-190 before heading round to El Dorado by the south runway. Arriving here, we met some German photographers who told us this was the best weather they'd had in 4 days and had almost considered going home early. Good to get some heavies here. Just caught a LAN B777F and a pair of MD-11s (World and ex Alitalia). Went quiet about 1:00 so we decided to head over to Opa Locka.

ex ATI MD-80 of Insel Air landing rwy 09

Opa Locka is a fascinating field. The Antonovs are still here but less of them appear to be active. You can still see a line up of a DC-4 and a DC-6 and now there's a DC-7 (N836D). More biz about than I remember but these may be early visitors for the Superbowl. This is the nearest field to the stadium. After seeing all there was, we headed back up to Fort Lauderdale for the rest of the day. The Bombardier ramp provided some interest with Lear Jet 45 YV2567 parked outside.

Thursday 4th Started with our first visit to Exec. Always a good place to get older types and today produced a 'new' Falcon 10, Lear 25 and a Sabre 65. The rest of the day was spent over at the main Lauderdale airport. Highlight for me was the arrival of the San Diego Chargers Gulfstream 5. A Kentucky ANG C-130 was also a little different.

Friday 5th Back to Miami first thing so breakfast in Denny's. Caught our 3rd TACA EMB-190. One seems to depart regularly at 08:00. The usual selection of biz and liners (which included an Air France A320 which is based in this part of the world). Left here just after 9 and headed up to Opa Locka. Nice to see the all black G3 N734TJ but unfortunately the weather didn't do it justice. Managed to meet up with some friends who were being shown round some Jetstars. Getting quite busy here now with the Superbowl only 2 days away. Back to Miami by 12 where we stayed until it got dark. Plenty more biz and liners in the book.

Saturday 6th An easy day today. Started at Ft Lauderdale which was getting full of biz. Movements were in a westerly direction so the viewing area isn't that good. Decided at 10am to head for Opa Locka where we stayed until the light went. Found a nice spot to get pictures of arrivals.

Sunday 7th Breakfast at Miami again. Glorious sunshine so more pics in the NE corner. A G2 caught my eye and thought this would be better in the afternoon when the sun goes round. Up to Lauderdale Exec to find this was full with biz too. The cross runway had been closed so that aircraft could park here. The Dallas Cowboys G5 was a highlight for me but plenty more. Landing from the east here so decided to find a spot for landing shots. Found an area that was suitable but not long before we were chatting to security, police and even army. Was told it was OK for us to stand there but not the car. As it was a Sunday, easy to park over in the estate the other side of the road. We were here from noon for about an hour and caught several arrivals including a Westwind 2 which made it worthwhile.

You can't park here! Our Kia Soul

Back to Miami to shoot that G2 with the sun on it. Worth going back as a Falcon 7X had appeared and several new biz fell in the book. Ventured round to the south side of the airport (past El Dorado) and wondered why we'd never done this before. The road goes right next to the runway and we found the 94th Aero Squadron car park where many spotters go. Back up to FLL for the rest of the day.

Monday 8th After the exciting game last night (New Orleans won) it came as a bit of a shock how much biz had departed in the middle of the night. The overflowing ramps were almost deserted as we viewed FLL from the park. As they were still landing from the east, decided to sit on the Habiscus car park here and get some shots. Still a few biz departing including the once elusive G4 N857ST. At about 12:30, it was obvious that they were changing ends so we headed for the usual viewing area. The departure queue took ages to clear. A couple of G2 departures before it got dark.

Tuesday 9th Back to Miami for another TACA 190. Never seen as much military here. A C560, Lear 35 and C-12. Off to Opa Locka to just catch a departing G3 I needed. Up to Exec where 2 Sabres and a Jordanian CJ1 were good for me. On to Lauderdale for the rest of the day. A Mexican G2 was a highlight.

Wednesday 10th About time we went to Palm Beach as been here a week now. Stopped off at Boca Raton and past experience said we went to the fence on the campus side. Here a little after 7am so no problems although heard later that campus security was stepped up and were making it difficult. Palm Beach was a little on the quiet side so decided to have a look from the multi story car park. On the way round, stopped briefly by the crash gate only to look round to see that Homeland Security vehicles had pulled up behind us. We were quizzed and eventually 6 official cars became involved. We were finally released and allowed to continue to the car park. All a bit depressing so found ourselves back at Exec by 13:30. An Argentinean and Brazilian Lear were seen along with a Venezuelan Lear so spirits raised. Finished at Lauderdale where another dozen went in the book although mainly airliners.

Thursday 11th Back up on the car park at Lauderdale as still landing "the wrong way". Mid morning, decided it was time to have a look at Opa Locka. Got there just in time to see one of the new HC-144A (CN-235) of the Coast Guard arrive. Lovely weather so stayed here for a couple of hours. On then to Miami. Back to our new location on the south side to get a few liners in the book. Finished back at Lauderdale as a good G450 was due in. Nice shots of N178SD as she went out. A Marines UC-12B was also of interest. Anyone got a con for Cess 500 YV2245?

Friday 12th 2 new Gulfstream frames at Lauderdale was a good start. Left here about 10 and headed north to Palm Beach. Much busier for biz being a Friday and we stayed here until last light. Made about 50 here which is more like it.

Saturday 13th Started at Exec where nearly half of what I logged was Venezuelan. Back up the Hibiscus car park at FLL for an hour or so before deciding to head for Opa Locka. Not a lot happening here so on to Miami where I saw my first USAF C-130J. Back up to FLL but not before a quick stop at Opa Locka where I got a bit excited when I saw a G550 on approach but turned out to be just HB-JEV. Rest of the day at FLL. Missed a Brazilian Sovereign so went looking for it in the dark only to find new G450 N1DW which was nice.

Sunday 14th A quick look to find the Brazilian Sovereign (PR-BNP) at FLL before heading west along Alligator Alley to Naples on the Gulf coast. A good selection of biz here. Spent about an hour up on the bank overlooking rwy 5 to catch a few movements. Headed north to find Ft Myers - Page Field for the first time where a few more biz went in the book. Didn't stay here long before heading for Ft Myers RSW. Concentrated on the biz area but a few airliners were noted. Saw a few Gulfstreams in the big hangar but decided to come back when the sun had gone down as an Indian AF one was supposed to be in there. Back down to Naples where we spent over an hour by rwy 32. Highlight was an arriving G2. As the light started to go, headed back up to RSW and yes, you can see better in the hangar when the lights are on. Saw both sides of the Indian G3 but as the reg was scrubbed out both sides, it didn't make the log. Back down Alligator Alley in the dark which was fun. Over 400 miles done today.

Monday 15th A quick look at FLL where we were photographed by a woman in a car. Not long here before up to Palm Beach for the hoped for President's Day rush. Got here to find the gate hadn't been opened to the viewing area but we managed to park the car outside without anyone saying anything which really surprised me. Still able to walk in (with ladders) so no problem. The man finally arrived at noon and took all the stick well. Plenty going on here to keep the assembled crowd happy. Alex had been chatting to a chap who invited us at last light to have a look at his Falcon 2000 N18MV which of course we took him up on.

Not the typical response from FBOs

Tuesday 16th Last day so checked out of the hotel. Up on the car park at FLL for an hour or so before heading to Opa Locka for the last time. G550 N768JJ was just caught before it departed and then a Herc landed. Turned out to be Bolivian (FAB-65) which even taxied past our cameras. On to Miami where a Brazilian Falcon 7X finally got in the book. Round to the 94AS for a couple of hours before deciding it was time to give the car back and check in. A total of 1958 miles were done this year. Our flight was a little late and A346 G-VWIN pushed back at 2115 and was airborne off rwy 30 at 2128. We landed at Heathrow on 09L at 1011 local, 7 hours 43 mins later.

Logged nearly 1300 biz and made about 500 of them.

Thanks again to Brian who wants to do it again next year. Oh, alright.

Pics at http://www.bob-holland.fotopic.net/c1816660.html

Lisbon, Portugal

An email from my contact in Lisbon set in motion plans to visit this city (and country) for the first time. A summit of the Ibero-American heads of state and government was to be held which should involve representatives of most of the Spanish and Portuguese speaking nations i.e. all of South America.

Managed to talk my mate Brian in to going with me and flights were booked as was a hotel.

I was told that Sunday should be the best day to be there so the Saturday afternoon flight from Gatwick looked favourite. Not being regulars here, we decided to spend a few hours at LGW under the approach for some pictures. The sun shone and although movements seem to be down, 18 new numbers fell in the book. Our flight was departing from the north terminal and we passed through rapidly even though the e-ticket scanner wasn't working and we had to get boarding cards. Flight Easy 8719 was scheduled to depart at 13:40 and A-319 G-EZBH pushed back at 13:38. We were airborne off runway 26 at 13:47.

2 hours and 27 minutes later we were touching down on rwy 03 at Lisbon. The taxi in was past Falcon 900 CS-TFN and Ecuador Legacy FAE-051 which sports a terrific scheme. The usual queue at passports before bumping in to our host Joao who was going to chauffeur us around. As there was still some light, he took us to the main spotting area at the threshold of 03 but unfortunately we were probably the last to land on it before changing ends. As the light faded, we headed for our hotel, the Ibis Lisboa Saldanha, located in the city but only about 10 to 15 minutes from the airport. There is no restaurant here so a short walk to find a nice little place called the Portugalia which we used both nights.

Joao was working during our visit so had to pick us up at 06:30 (just as breakfast was starting so we had to stock up at the supermarket round the corner the night before). It was raining and runway 21 was still in use so Joao took us to a position midway along the runway which looks down on movements. There was also a degree of shelter here whereas the other position is in the open. The downside here is that there are bushes and trees blocking the runway so pictures had to be timed right. It wasn't long before they changed back to 03 but the odd shower made us glad we were here. Also, some locals turned up and kept us entertained.

The based fleets of TAP and Portugalia were knocked out along with the usual European visitors. Only US carrier seen was Continental with B757. First arrival for the meeting was Colombian BBJ FAC0001 followed by Argentinean B757 T-01 (which was on Brian's wish list). Today's Air Europa was EC-KRJ which we'd seen at LGW and it was this one twice a day for 2 days. Nice to see the TAP A-330s as not seen any previously. Another highlight was the Angolan B777 which was D2-TEF both days. Angolan Challenger VP-BES was pulled from a hangar and was put on the flight line. Joao picked us up about 3 and took us to the 03 end. Spanish Falcon 900 T.18-3 was another meeting visitor. One of their A-310s arrived after we left for the day.

Same plan for Monday but this time the weather looked better so spent the day at the southern end. The odd shower but I managed to talk a local in to letting us sit in his car. A Maersk 767 arrived on a freight flight but still dark. A Swiftair ATR and a DHL 757 were other freighters. Vueling A-320s seen this day along with a few biz including G550 EC-KUM. Pictures are difficult here until the afternoon when the sun goes round. Joao had to leave us a bit early but new friend Rui had offered to take us to the terminal for our flight home once the light went. Worth staying on as a Global Express landed and a LAN B767 which was the first of this type I'd seen with winglets.
Arrived at the terminal to find our flight was delayed. Brian planned to go in to work the following morning but this wasn't going to happen. Had something to eat and then just waited. A Brazilian EMB-190 was spotted arriving. Turns out that the flight from LGW had a problem closing the baggage door so an aircraft change was required hence the delay. New A-320 G-EZTM turned up for us and pushed back at 21:57, just over 2 hours late. 2 hours and 34 mins before landing at Gatwick. Thought we were never going to land as still hadn't touched down as we went past the 140s (where the biz park) but obviously we did. At this hour, the queues were light at passports and with a delay in scraping the ice off the windscreen, finally got home after 2.

Lisbon is a fairly quiet airport but a few goodies made it worth while plus everyone we came in contact with was very friendly. A nice experience. Thanks Joao.

Pics at www.bob-holland.fotopic.net/c1787462.html

Out of Africa

Saturday 19th Sept saw me heading down the M25 for Heathrow, this time Terminal 4, to meet up with Alpha Mike Tours for my first trip to Kenya and then on to South Africa for a week's visit. Check in and security checks were fairly easy and we were soon at the window where good views over the airport can be had.

We were flying Kenya Aw for the whole trip and our first sector was on B777 5Y-KYZ which pushed back just 5 minutes late and taxied out to runway 09R (past the Ugandan G550) and we were airborne at 10:51 for an 8 hours and 3 minute flight to Nairobi. Although this is the newest Triple in the fleet, the IFE system still has gremlins and I never did see a film all the way through. Kenya is 2 hours ahead of the UK so it was gone 21:00 when we cleared customs and found our local guide. Coaches then took us to the Holiday Inn in downtown Nairobi.

Sunday was a touristy day and we did a morning safari at the National_Park . We were taken round in a fleet of minibuses and it was a wonderful experience, never to be forgotten.

Monday was back to work with a full day at Wilson (Kenya's biggest GA field) where we were guests at the East Africa Aero Club where a buffet had been arranged. They also served a nice chilled Tusker lager here. Our ramp tour was delayed as the President was departing in Dash 8 304 and we weren't allowed on the ramp until there was no chance of him turning back. Once we got the word, we were bussed to the main gate and passed through security. A complete walking trip of the field was then undertaken. An interesting assortment of types here, the Congo registered Buffalo probably being the biggest followed by Dash 7, Fokker 50/F-27s and Dash 8s. 3 of the 4 Kenyan registered biz were seen. Good to see the old British types, 748s, Skyvans and an Islander.

Pics at www.bob-holland.fotopic.net/c1761502.html

Tuesday saw us back at Wilson for another walk round. Met one of the crew of Turbo DC-3 N467SP who was happy to let us view the cockpit. Lunch again at the Aero Club before we headed for the main airport for our next flight. A ramp tour had been arranged but were told no photos. Once on the ramp we pulled up behind 748 5Y-BVQ and were asked which side we wanted to take our pictures. The sunny side of course which enabled us to shoot a few others. We parked up further along to shoot a DC-9 and were nearly run over by F-27 5X-FFD that had just arrived. Thought we'd blown it at this point but our tour continued and we were dropped off opposite the active ramp. We were then taken to the terminal to check in. Spent until it got dark at a window taking pictures without any hassle. Then had to find a bar where another Tusker beer was enjoyed. Our flight KQ764 to Jo'burg on B738 5Y-KYC pushed back 15 minutes late and we were airborne at 21:04. The flight lasted 3 hours 47 mins. South Africa is only 1 hour ahead of the UK so we gained an hour arriving at 23:51 local in the pouring rain. The terminal is much bigger than my last visit, presumably beefed up for next year's World Cup.

Wednesday was a drive to Lanseria which took about 2 hours. There is plenty of construction work going on everywhere so the road network in a year or so should be really good. Lanseria is said to be the busiest GA field in Africa and there are certainly a good proportion of the ZS registered biz jets here. The airport allocated a security guard to us and he ensured that nearly every hangar was visited or at least peered in to. Also here is a large facility that works on Boeing 737s and Fokker F-28s. A China Southern A-300 (B-2329) dominated the long term parking area. Believe this has since gone Iranian. Like Wilson, a large number of Beech 1900s were seen so a very popular type in this part of the world. Most of the hangars are on the terminal side and when completed, we adjourned for lunch on the nice terrace for a toasted sarnie and a cold drink.

After lunch, we took the bus round to the other side and continued to look round the hangars. A few closed the doors when they saw us coming but most people are happy to chat when you show an interest. The visit finished with a walk round to the dumped aircraft area but must confess I was wilting by this time and didn't go the full distance.

Thursday began with an easier start so went on the roof of our hotel (Southern Sun) which had been arranged to be opened at first light for the duration of our stay. Good views over the domestic ramp and the nearest runway. First stop on today's coach trip was Grand Central where the highlight for me was Jetstar 2 ZS-ICC. We then continued to Rand where we were met by a fireman who took us round the whole field. Less stored machines than my last visit although there is now a museum, dominated by SAA 747s. DC-3 ZS-NTE is being prepared for flight while An-32 sits outside a hangar containing an An-24 that I managed to miss. Carvair 9J-PAA is still here. Got back to JNB for a few hours in the domestic observation area where reasonable pictures can be taken. Good to see my first Angolan B777 depart and we stayed on until it got dark and the arrival of a Mozambique E190.

Friday was a comprehensive tour of JNB starting with a visit round Denel Aviation. We were shown a pair of Cheetah fighters and the helicopter maintenance facility. Before leaving, we had a look at the area where they break up airliners. A SAA 747 was being broken up as we watched. Several B732s looked likely to be next. We then moved on to Safair and were shown their whole ramp where many old 737s and MD-80s look like they will end their days here. A good view over the departure runway from here so sometimes difficult to know where to look. Saw my first Arik A345 go (CS-TFW). We then got on the ramp at Federal Air and then in the hangar of Anglo American which contained several biz.

Some of the group then took the bus down to Lanseria for a couple of hours. A slightly disappointing visit with just a few new biz going in the book. Back to JNB to wait again for the Mozambique after dark. A B732 this time but ex Braathens. Dinner these evenings were taken in the terminal which kept expenses down.

Saturday was our last full day in South Africa. Our bus today first took us to Wonderboom. A complete walking ramp tour was done here. Mainly light aircraft but a few goodies scattered about. Before leaving, we were taken in groups in the back of a fire truck over the runway where a pair of Convair 340s of Rovos Air are parked along with a dumped UN F-27 and a pair of Gulfstream 1s. We then moved on to Swartkop for the museum which has a comprehensive collection of SAAF machines. A few active aircraft here as the nearby SAAF field is closed for runway maintenance. Again, we finished the day in the viewing area at JNB for an hour or so.

SA pics at http://www.bob-holland.fotopic.net/c1762047.html

Sunday was checking out of the hotel and checking in for our flight. Good views from the gates so still taking pictures. Our flight to Nairobi (KQ761) was on B738 5Y-KYB which pushed back 15 minutes early. The flight lasted 3 hours 29 mins. It was spitting with rain when we deplaned but this didn't last long. A couple of hours at the same window until it got dark. Then retired to the bar for a beer or two and watching the cricket on TV between England and SA (which we won but missed the end). Our final flight was B777 5Y-KYT (KQ102) which pushed back 9 mins late and took off 5 minutes after midnight. Flight lasted 8 hours 11 minutes and didn't get much sleep. Landed Heathrow on 27L at 06:16 and taxied to Terminal 4. The IRIS scanner was working which just means you wait longer for your bag.

Geneva and EBACE 2009

Held this year between 12th and 14th May, this was my 6th visit to this annual event.

Pretty much the usual routine with an overnighter at Horsham the night before meaning some time at Gatwick the day before. Decided that as I'd 'done' Gatwick recently, would only do an afternoon so only 8 new numbers in the book. Highlight was new Air Europa ERJ-190 EC-KYO.

Not too early a start as Peter and I headed for the North Terminal to meet up with Brian who was doing EBACE for the first time. Flight to Geneva this year was on A-319 HB-JZJ which pushed back at 08:15 (spot on time) and was airborne 19 minutes later from runway 08R. Flight time was 1 hour 18 minutes landing at 10:52 local. Parked on a remote stand this year so needed a bus to the terminal.

Easy entry formalities as usual and we were soon in the static park where we spent the day. Security is much easier getting through as they're only looking in bags and not scanning everything. Landing runway all week was 23 (from the right) so good pictures from this spot. We also met up with the 4th member of the group, Paul.

New types in the static park were the Phenom 100 and 300.

Baboo are the based airline and now have 3 Embraer 190s along with 2 Dash 8-400s. Myair are new and operated CRJ-900 EI-DUY (twice). Malev operated a Dash 8 which I think is different and Egyptair operated 737-800s which were my first of these. Finnair operated an ERJ-190 on one of the flights and Qatar Aw used a 319 so a good mix of airliners again.

As last year, Paul had booked a car which certainly makes life easier. The car rental desks have now moved to the end of the terminal (west end) and they operate a shuttle bus. We started off at the long term park area (east end) which was full of jets. Highlight was new Manx Global M-SALE. We then had a look at Jet Aviation which resembles a building site with a new hangar just gone up. We then adjourned to the flying club for dinner (and a beer).

Hotel this year was the Campanile across the border in France. Not bad although full of British spotters from the Alpha Mike trip so lots of familiar faces at breakfast.

Wednesday continued in a similar vein although without the showers of the other 2 days. First visit this year to the roof of the garage that overlooks the Jet Aviation ramp. Would be good for pictures when the other runway is in use. Peter was only doing a 2 day stint this year so left us mid-afternoon.

Thursday was our last day so check out, a look round the airport and back to the static park. Had made a comment about not seeing a Mustang move so to make up, the following duly arrived; OK-FTR, D-ISRM, F-HDPY, OE-FMZ and LX-FGL. The only Eclipse of the trip also arrived in the shape of N502TS. Good to see Alex, looking even smarter than me.

The static usually closes at 3 on the last day but didn't get kicked out until 3.30 this year when we then headed for the new restaurant above the terminal which is just about where the old terrace was. Drinks are not cheap but the view is very good from here. It was then time to head for the gate where spotting continued. In fact, had to leave the boarding queue when G4 N1086 arrived which was my 5th G frame of the trip which was very pleasing.

Our flight home was A-319 HB-JZG. The door was closed at 7.25 (15 mins late) and we were airborne at 7.42, landing back at Gatwick just 61 minutes later. Spotting still not finished as saw my first Norwegian 737-800 while crossing the bridge.

7th visit next year? A fairly good chance I'd have thought. Dates are 4-6 May.

Pics at http://www.bob-holland.fotopic.net/c1697849.html

Florida trip 2009

If it's February, it must be Florida.

Saturday 7th: Snow and ice before a big trip isn't a good start and a phone call first thing in the morning from my lift to say that he couldn't get his car out of the drive meant plan B and I was glad I'd swept the drive to my garage. Once I got up the hill round the corner from home, an easy run down the M25 to Heathrow where I met up with travelling companion Brian who is always far too jovial at that hour.

Again, we were on American's flight 57 (B777 N787AL) which pushed back spot on time at 09:45 and we were airborne off 27L at 10:17. 9 hours and 7 minutes later (2 minutes longer than last year) we touched down on 12 at Miami International.

We picked up the rental car (from Hertz) which this year was a Chevrolet Malibu which did us nicely. As is usual, we stayed at MIA until the light went before heading up to our hotel (Motel6) just north of FLL. Located on State Route 84, just minutes from the I-95, this is a great location and there's a nice eating place next door (Li'l Red's).

Sunday: A quick look at FLL before heading north, stopping off at Boca Raton before hitting Palm Beach for the rest of the day. Seem to be less Southwest flights here with US Aw now using a daily ERJ-190. The usual other airlines although less than last year. Still plenty of QS biz plus CS and FX ones too.

Monday: An easy day today starting with a couple of hours at Exec and then back to FLL. I always enjoy Ft Lauderdale Exec as you're bound to come across some old G2s and 3s plus Sabres and Jetstars. After an exhaustive look round, we ended up in the new Runway Cafe where a mug of coffee went down really well. The view out of the window is straight over the ramp. As usual FLL has a good mix of airliners and biz. Unusual to see a Finnair 757 here which was probably a cruise ship charter. Caribbean now operate in here with B738s. Skybus have gone of course so glad we caught a few of these last year.

Tuesday: A full day at Miami. Denny's on NW36 for breakfast at 7am followed by the biz park. We watched the movements on 08L/R for a while before moving round to the holes in the fence by rwy 12. Brian and his new Dutch friend then drove round to rwy 09 on the south side but I was getting twitchy as there was a Mexican G3 in and I wanted a picture of it. I joined up with them at about 10am next to the El Dorado furniture warehouse where a wonderful view of the runway can be had. Mainly arrivals and a lot of freighters. The sun going in and out behind clouds was a little frustrating but we got some nice shots. You are next to a railway line here where they park wagons so could be awkward if there are more wagons than this day. We gave up at about 3pm when the sun had gone round too far and returned to the north side. My G3 went out at 3:40 and the sight of a DC-4 on the move meant a good day. We retired after 6pm as the light faded.

08R arrival at MIA

Wednesday: North again today, stopping off at Boca Raton where the highlight was a Canadian Westwind, continuing then up to Palm Beach. Have to confess we got a bit bored and packed up at 1pm, stopping off again at Boca where I graphed 2 G2s and 2 G3s from the fence. On then to Exec before spending the rest of the day at FLL.

Thursday: Another easy day today. Started off at Exec and spent a while at the spectators area taking pics of landings which was very enjoyable especially when the based G550 arrived. Headed over to FLL at about noon and spent the rest of the day there. G2B N1CC departing at last light finished off the day nicely.

Friday: Up to Boca Raton to then spend the rest of the day at Palm Beach for the hoped for influx of biz for the weekend. A nice day but a little bit too much heat haze at times. Finished off on top of the car park for what looked like a spotters convention. Much shaking of hands and even found time to look over the ramps. Could count 32 different Gulfstreams parked up and in the hangars.

Saturday: Another easy day today. Started at FLL where a good G4 frame (N671AF) and an arriving Jetstar (N18BH) weren't bad. We'd just missed the Southwest in Sports Illustrated colours arriving but didn't have long to wait for it to go out again. Decided at about 11 that we should head for Exec where a few more biz fell in the book. Back to FLL for the rest of the day where we met up with our German friends from last year who have enormous sets of steps. The day finished with the Jetstar departing at last light.

Sunday: News that there were loads of biz at Naples including 2 Gulfstreams I needed meant that we should try and find this airport located on the Gulf coast of the state. A murky drive along Alligator Alley which is one of the straightest roads I've ever seen got us to Naples about 09:30 as the sun started to come out. A very friendly airport with no scheduled services of any major airlines. The security guard said help yourself when we asked if it was OK to take pictures through the fence. Found the mound at the end of the runway which was a familiar view even though I'd never been here before. Movements were quiet so we headed up to Fort Myers which isn't far away north up the freeway.

RSW is quite a large airport with plenty of the usual carriers but we concentrated on the biz. We had to go past the cargo ramp where there were 2 UPS 757s. The biz ramp is quite easy to access although we kept a low profile and had no problems.

Back to Naples for a couple of hours where movements had picked up and we found another mound at the end of a different runway once they'd sorted out which one to use. Packed up at about 2 and headed back along Alligator Alley, stopping off once but never did see a 'gator, continuing on to Miami where another good selection of numbers were logged. Should have made a note of the mileage today but it was certainly more than 300.

Monday: Started off at FLL but it was very misty and they were on westerlies which isn't much good from the viewing area. Missing pictures of a departing G2 and then a G3 meant I wasn't very happy. Decided to head north and the mist had cleared by the time we got to Boca. Fairly busy for movements here so a good visit before heading on to Palm Beach. A busy day for departures where I'm sure it took 20 minutes from going past us to taking off at times. A really good final bash here.

Tuesday: Our last day and I made the comment when leaving the motel that whatever we got today was a bonus. A G2 with tip tanks on approach was probably going to be N840RG again but it turned out to be N10123 with bumps and sensors so I was happy when I got my picture. A parked up G5 was reported to be one I needed and even got a sneaky shot on the Dolphins ramp. Glorious weather and we finally had to drag ourselves away but I had only just got round the corner when a G550 appeared taxying out which meant doing a racing turn and screeching back in to the car park which must have entertained the locals. Another good frame so I floated down to Miami. Dropped the car off after a while at the fence and it turned out that we'd done 1175 miles this year. Our flight home was on American B777 N782AN (flight 56). Airborne off 08R at 20:55 after an on time pushback (well, 3 minutes late) and bounced back on Heathrow's 27R at 10:35 after an 8 hour 40 minute flight. Same again next year? Yes please.

a great finish to the trip, minus some rubber

Thanks to Brian for putting up with me again and great to spend time with John and Dave who were in the same motel and had meals with us and kept us amused.

Pics at http://www.bob-holland.fotopic.net/c1656010.html

Zurich and the WEF 2009

The usual early start had me entering the Long Term Car Park at Gatwick North at 05:25 on Thursday 29th. Met up with Brian at the automated BA check-in and were soon through immigration and security. Our flight to Zurich was on 737-400 G-DOCU which pushed back spot on time at 07:40. The long taxi to 08 meant we were airborne at 07:55.

A 75 minute flight this year meant we landed at 10:10 (local) on runway 14. Terminal E must have been full as we went straight past, crossed runway 28 and parked on the remote southern stands. Swiftly through immigration and outside the terminal turning right to find where the bus goes to the new Terminal E viewing area. This is usually opened only in the summer but as the old terrace was closed, they'd opened the one on E just for the event. Tickets would normally be purchased from machines but as they weren't working, it was free. Once through security, you are bussed to the central terminal and up in the lift to the excellent terrace which gives great views over the whole field especially runway 28/10.

We had booked the 14:00 ramp tour and this was up to the usual high standards. The weather was cold and cloudy for the whole of our visit. WEF visitors seemed to be down a bit this year due to the economic climate but still plenty of interest. Gulfstream 5 N1KE was my favourite.

The terrace closes at dusk when we adjourned to Car Park 6 for an hour or so. Not too late as we needed to check in to our hotel. The Formule1 was closed so we used the Ibis next door. More expensive so Brian and I shared this time. Alex and James joined us at dinner as they had caught the Easyjet evening flight from Luton.

Friday morning was cold and cloudy so returned to the airport. All 4 of us were on the 10:00 ramp tour today which, as always, was slightly different and this time we managed to get to the ramp with the Brazilian Legacy which I think most tours didn't get to. Nice also to get up close to an IL-76. We had then planned to pick up a car to get to the end of runway 14 but we all decided that we would be better off on the terrace in view of the weather.

More of the same on Saturday. First time we had still been here at the weekend. Many of the WEF visitors were starting to leave but some still arriving. All too soon, it was time to think about checking in for our flight home. BA2755 was operated by 737-400 G-DOCS (my 75th flight on a 737). Push back was at 18:56 (4 minutes early) and take off from runway 10 was at 19:10 with a landing on Gatwick's 08 79 minutes later.

Let's hope for some better weather next year. The dates are 27th to 31st January 2010.

Pics at http://bob-holland.fotopic.net/c1646495.html