Flying at Nevada County Airport, like other airports, has its own set of challenges and unique situations that a pilot must be aware of and take into consideration when conducting flight operations. When you research flying at Nevada County Airport, you will notice that the information states to be aware of air tanker operations during July-October. More likely this time period is reflective of the fire season and should include May and June as well. You will know when the crew is in town as there is no mistaking the sound of turbine engines flying above town. When you taxi for runway 25 you will pass right by the air attack base. when flying recently David mentioned that if they should be in the seats then we would hold short while they roll out for take off. Sounds like a plan to me.
I have watched from below for a number of years as these flight operations take place. Mostly I would see them fly back and forth and think no more about it. Now that I am in flight training, I find myself gong to the airport not only for training but during unusual weather conditions, when I know planes carrying Lance Armstrong is coming in or as flight operations for fire fighting are taking place. Compared to a Cessna 152, these S-2's and the OV-10 spotter plane take off with gusto. The take off on Rwy 25 near their base and land back on Rwy 7 which has the rising gradient. This is less stressful on the brakes if they come home loaded plus it is a shorter route to the base to refuel and reload before heading out again. I am amazed that the turn around time is so short compared to the deliberate and careful operations of this new pilot before taking off.
These flight operations are just one more thing to be aware of and I have a healthy respect for these pilots as they perform their work. If any pilot is reading this, check out the link to the article from the Nevada Union newspaper and I am sure you will agree. Bombers for Blazes.
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