The following, Livewire flight 2975 from NTTP to NTAA, was my final flight as Senior Captain for Livewire Airlines before being promoted to Chief Captain. I was expecting an enjoyable hour and fifteen minute VFR flight but was shocked to find it took place after sunset! While it was not what I had expected, it turned out to be a beautiful and challenging flight.
The following images had to be adjusted to allow you to see generally what I saw in the cockpit. I also chose a black background to allow one's eyes to adjust better to the images. While dark, these scenes were quite stunning when filling a whole screen and I hope will prove similarly enjoyable to you.
After first arriving at my aircraft, I was treated to the last vestiges of the setting sun.
Within five minutes, what little light the sunset was providing was gone, and all became dark but richly beautiful.
Just after takeoff on runway two-six, I turned north towards Tahiti.
Behind me is a big, big rock that I discovered is very hard to see at night when you are heading directly towards it. Nevertheless, after a few adrenaline pumped moments, this gentle flight continued. (Someone really needs to put some lighting on that thing!)
Climbing to altitude I am treated by moonlight cascasing off the Pacific
Later, after climbing above the clouds and turning north by northeast, I get to see the moon itself peeking from behind the clouds.
Nearing Tahiti, I change my course to begin my approach.
On final, I note the many fine tourist accomodations on the island. I decided to treat myself to a penthouse in that hillside hotel. I'm just about to be promoted and I deserve it!
All is well on short final, with a gentle crosswind.
Faaa International peeks out at me as I decelerate.
I noted instead of showing me my aircraft from the local tower, 'tower view' gave me a pleasant look at the tower itself from a local's fishing boat.
I hope you enjoyed!
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