Hot Winds, New Crew, New Photos, and NEW PLANE!

Another day of flying comes to a close.  Did half the Northern Route today.  We stopped in Kunduz and then just flew straight on the Maimana, as nobody was getting on or off in Mazar-i-Sharif.

Landing back in Kabul was a bit sporting.  The tower reported on short final that the winds were 030 at 14 gusting to 40 knots (30 gusting to 74 km/h).  Though possible because of the pass through the ridge nearby, somewhat unlikely.  To make matters more challenging, this is virtually a 90 degree crosswind on the runway.

We managed to land uneventfully, which was good.  It certainly was windy though... And HOT!   At the time of this writing, its 4:30 PM and still +34 C.   You know it's hot when even the wind is hot.  Feels like a giant blow-dryer in your face all the time.  At least it's not humid here like Dubai.

We also have a replacement flight attendant that arrived and began working with us again.  I have the pleasure of continuing to work with Andrea for the next month.

Andrea returns to us because our previous flight attendant requested to go home.  Due to some of the recent activity by some of the less-than-reputable organizations in the region, she felt it was better to leave Afghanistan for her own safety.  We'll miss you over here Nickie!   It was fun while it lasted!

Certainly have to give a great deal of credit to her for knowing her limitations, and not trying to press on in spite of them.  We all have our different thresholds and must be very aware of them.  Additionally, it's great to have a company with people that support us back home.  People that are willing to accommodate the needs of their personnel over here.

With the growing awareness of PTSD and how invasive, and insidious it can be, I'm pleased to be working for a company that will provide whatever support it can to those that need it.  We don't need anyone having "horrible flashbacks" in the future because of anything that could have been avoided.

On a lighter note.  Here are some recent photos from around the country here

C-130 Landing at Kabul

Approaching VUSAR (Exit Waypoint for Bamiyan)

Another VUSAR Picture

Bamiyan from a Distance (New Paved Runway)

Another shot of the new runway.

Looks good!

Typical hazy afternoon in the Kabul Basin - This is what it looks like almost every day!

Kabul Airport from Above

The new plane is on its way as well.  Just landed in Iqaluit a few hours ago.  Getting ready to cross to Greenland tomorrow!  Will see how far they make it tomorrow and keep everyone up to date!