North to South and back again – Bangladesh to Australia

It was a harsh cold wind this morning with blowing snow. I read this morning that the search for lost fishermen was not hopeful – made much worse with the cold rugged water. 30 feet waves and 45 knot winds.

There really are so few words in response to tragedy such as this – but being close to the water – I feel a small sense of how incredibly big (I literally have no other word) this would have been.

Before departing we put on dry suits – as we do for any big water crossings. As well – right behind our seats are life jackets and an inflatable raft.

Soon into the flight we went up high – over 19000 feet.

The reason we fly this high to get out of the clouds is due to icing. This aircraft has limited de icing equipment – one of the first things I learned when getting my license was – icing is bad for flying – it increases drag and decreases lift. Especially flying an aircraft weighed down with fuel.

The Azores comprise of 9 volcanic islands that spread over 370 miles

Upon arrival we we told that there is a no fly zone over Mali due to political unrest. Our route over Africa is affected and so we will be here a few days getting a new route and clearances.

Thanks for joining us today and have a good night.