What to me has been a fabulous journey ... one of my personal favorites ... will draw to a close as we land in Salta later this morning.
Sally, my very capable co-pilot, has asked to stay on with me until we get back to the US ... I have agreed of course.
The cargo for this last flight is being guarded closely by officials from Argentina who will accompany the items ... billed as radio equipment ... I don't know - I don't care ... it's just another load of cargo to me.
Sad that the Andes Airways' mission will be complete, but looking forward to spending some "Quality" time off while I wait to hear what Juan Trippe has in store for me.
Caught by surprise at my arrival ... sooner than expected ... he is currently en route to Salta from New York with several stops of his own to make along the way.
Could be "camped out" in Salta for several days or longer, but by being a guest of the Peron family and thought very highly of by the owners of this DC-3 that I have "brought home", I'll be well taken care of and likely spoiled rotten before he arrives.
I will be receiving messages from Mr. Trippe as he travels via shortwave radio from his aircraft to the Pan American facilities ... then by wire to Salta.
Looking over my shoulder at the last cot, bench or floor that I will be sleeping on for a while, I grab my satchel, and flight bag and start towards the plane.
Taking Off: SCCF - SASA
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 26,200
Takeoff Weight: 23425
Empty Weight: 16,145
Fuel: 940.3
Payload: 6,000
Crew: 340
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