On our way home from physio yesterday we were coming to the Billy Bishop Regional Airport just east of Owen Sound when we saw a large military-looking transport plane approaching. Out of interest we pulled into the airport parking lot to see if it was going to land. It was larger than any other aircraft we'd ever seen here.
I should explain that we have a large army base near Meaford, formerly known as 'the tank range', locally 'the base', but now officially the 4th Canadian Division Training Centre. Primarily used for summer training of the Primary Reserve force, we hear the big guns going off regularly on busy summer weekends, There are a number of large dormitory buildings, dining hall, fitness facilities and so on. But there is no runway for landing large planes like the Hercules. so when it is called in they use Billy Bishop Regional Airport, which is really just down the road 20 minutes.
The engines roared, the big plane headed down the runway and disappeared in the distance. First time we've ever stopped to simply watch a plane land and depart. All these photos were shot through the windshield, which accounts for the dull lighting.
Back in my old mid sixties Navy days I was fortunate enough to get a 'flip' (free military ride) on a Hercules from the Shearwater military base near Halifax Nova Scotia to the Trenton military base in Ontario. From there I hitch-hiked home to Tavistock Ontario. I remember the ride being very noisy. There were no seats so myself and a few other Navy guys had to sit in a strap affair along the sides. Those Hercules planes can land and take off on very short runways. If they need an assist on take-off they can attach Jato-Rockets to both sides at the rear to boost them into the air. I've seen them demonstrate that at air shows. That was nice you were able to see that plane come in and take off again.
ReplyDeleteGosh, I'd forgotten that term for the free flights. Thanks for the memory.
DeleteThe airforce base at Ohakea, not too far from our home, has Hercules often landing, or taking off,they have that deep throaty roar as they prepare for the descent. And we can usually tell which direction they are going as they fly northwards over us. At night their lights are on, showing us the huge wing span. What a delight to be there for the landing, unloading and takeoff.
ReplyDeleteThat's quite the plane, developed in the 1950s, used extensively in Vietnam and still being manufactured -- quite a record. We see them here occasionally, apparently doing touch and go landings at the local airport.
ReplyDeleteSummerside had a Canadian air base until the early 90’s. The airfield is still in use for private aircraft and Hercules from Greenwood for training, we enjoy watching the aircraft too.
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You were certainly in the right place at the right time. Whatever they needed to pick up, it was very important or as you mentioned, perhaps it was just a training flight.
ReplyDeleteWe have a regular flight of them over our house as they travel between Trenton (where they are based) and Petawawa. There were several of them flying overhead while I travelled to the town early this afternoon. On my return trip, there were military helicopters (based in Petawawa) flying in rather tight circles. I wonder what that was about? My cousin was posted to Meaford for some time. He did something to do with tanks. My grandson also works with tanks, but he is posted to New Brunswick.
ReplyDeleteThe engines BOOB . You feel the sound rather than hear it. I've always wanted a ride on a herc.
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We see these planes occasionally over the years. Sometimes they will fly over us for an hour or two - obviously a pilot in training.
ReplyDeleteA nice series of photographs recording the brief visit of the plane. From time to time I pass by RAF Lakenheath which, despite its name is home to a US air base. Whenever we pass there is always a small posse of photographers with long-lenses awaiting the arrival or departure of the planes. In some countries I believe you can end up in jail if you try to photograph such things.
ReplyDeleteWhat a wonderful post! I am so glad you stopped for it!
ReplyDeleteWhat a neat and unusual event and post. Good for yu for seeing what was about to happen and waiting for it.
ReplyDeleteImpressive plane. Occasionally we see a huge military plane flying over. I hear they fly them out here on training missions.
ReplyDeleteincredible pictures and you must have a keen eye to have noticed it!! we have a pretty large military base, fort dix, about 30 minutes from home but we often see these military planes flying overhead!! the base is very close to the property we sold, when we were there, i would see a lot of planes coming and going!! i find it all so interesting!!
ReplyDeleteIt was good the see the Hercules plane. It reminds me of the C-130 we had at RAF Bentwaters where items were loaded on it by a team I was in. It was my first tour of duty with the US Air Force. Good to see the inside of it and speak with pilots as well. I am glad you were able to see it and take photos of it. I took photos of a sunset when we were in the car on way back to Anchorage. One came out relatively good. Too many bug guts on windshield as the windshield wiper fluid was not the best at all. Have a good week and stay warm and happy! Thanks for your comments on my blog!
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