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> Introduction
A vacation to my grandparent's condo in Ft. Myers, Florida, was a great way to celebrate the end of my first trimester of eighth grade. It was also a real treat to share it with my older cousin; not to mention that he is also a first-time flyer. There were numerous things to be done before the trip. Unfortunately, that included putting our seventeen-year-old family dog to sleep.
This was about my twelfth vacation to Florida ever since I was three. Sure I look forward to actually getting there and enjoying the sun, but my favorite part is flying and passing through the airports. Though our destination was Ft. Myers, Florida (CODE=RSW), tickets were much cheaper to destine to Tampa Bay, Florida (CODE=TPA) via the Twin Cities - Minneapolis/St.Paul (CODE=MSP), and then a two hour drive to Ft. Myers/Estero Island. I would have proffered the direct flight on a Boeing 757-200 with the offer of a meal. Yet, I am thankful for any flight.
Please, sit back, relax, and enjoy a long, simple, but detailed trip report.
Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003 (Thanksgiving Day)
Flight: 874
Aircraft: N8921E / DC-9-30
Seat: 16A
Depart: Fargo, ND - FAR (1:15 PM / 1315 hrs) Rwy. 17/35
Arrive: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP (2:11 PM / 1411 hrs)
It was once again a wonderful feeling to step in the Fargo Hector Intl. Terminal composed of five gates. I had looked forward to this for a while. Earlier this year in March, I was granted my request for a free and personal tour of the whole airport. Basically, I knew this airport pretty well.
For your knowledge, Northwest operates many flights to Minneapolis using DC-9's, RJ-85, A319, and A320 and United Express operates several flights to Denver and Chicago O'Hare by Skywest and Atlantic Coast Airlines with CRJ's. Fargo also has many charters in the winter going to Mexico and Las Vegas on Trans Global/Ryan using 737-400's and A321's; Sun Country using 737-800's; and Casino Express using 737-200's.
Like a routine, my dad drops us off with our baggage and goes to park the van approximately two and half to three hours before our flight departs. As I stood there gazing about the terminal with my cousin, he reminded me by mentioning this was his first time in an airport. It was going to be great to share this first-time-flying experience with him.
After my dad parked the van, we approached the check-desks. As usual, there was nobody in line.
Possibly, the longest period of time we have spent waiting at the check-in desk in Fargo is ten minutes. On average it is less then five minutes.
The same check-in agents have been working at Fargo for as long as I can remember. A different agent, however, checked us in using the Northwest E-Ticket check-in machine. It was more as a demonstration to show us how easy and useful it can be in the future; and I agree, it was a nice tactic. Our baggage was briefly checked over by the same, friendly T.S.A. agent in the past before being checked-in.
We then headed up the escalator to find the newly remodeled cafe. It had a great new look and I no longer considered it "boring." Also on the second floor is a gift shop, restrooms, and hidden past a door is the hallway leading to the administration offices. We purchased a few snacks from the cafe and spent our time waiting by walking around. Because of the few flights that pass through Fargo at this time we are restricted to enter the gates area until about forty-five minutes prior to boarding. Besides, there is absolutely nothing to do in the gates area except wait.
Time didn't exactly fly by before we passed through security. Again, there wasn't anyone in line and we passed through quickly and briefly with a "smile" and "thanks" from one of the three T.S.A. security agents on duty.
We were about the last to enter the gates area and yet we were the first passengers to arrive at the terminal today. About twenty other passengers were flying with us today giving our flight a %20 load factor - the lightest I was to ever fly on. I was looking fofward to see if I would be flying on a new scheme.
Our flight arrived from Minneapolis and previously from Pittsburgh with what looked to be a full flight when the passengers debarked - unlike ours. As the plane was approaching the terminal, it looked as if it was the lone Northwest DC-9-10, a one-of-a-kind in Northwest's fleet, which passes through Fargo often. Unfortunately, it wasn't a new scheme nor a DC-9-10. Yet, I am thankful for any aircraft.
Prior to boarding, the gate agent for the United Express flight to Chicago O'Hare repeatedly made an announcement for a couple of passengers. Obviously they hadn't shown up. As that flight departed, one of our pilots came up the jetway to receive some information he printed out and I noticed another pilot exit the jetway and inspect the plane for an unknown reason or just for a routine checkup. I snapped a photo of him:
"Due to the many passengers on the flight, we will be boarding all rows!" announced our gate agent. Everyone giggled and formed a short queue. As I strolled down the jetway ahead of everyone I listened to Coldplay's "Beautiful World" and thought of what an awesome hobby aviation enthusiasts share.
I was greeted by a friendly flight attendant as she was preparing something in the forward galley. I took my designated window seat and had the row to myself. Everyone was spread out throughout the aircraft; I was liking this a lot! I took a picture prior to takeoff:
We taxied to runway 17/35 while the flight attendants did the safety demonstration. On our way we past United Express flight #6668 that just arrived from Denver.
The takeoff was uneventful and I captured a photo of the airport terminal:
It was an absolutely beautiful day above the gray clouds. Unfortunately, we knew we wouldn't be able to see our hometown of Fergus Falls, MN, approximately one hour southeast of Fargo and three hours northwest of the Twin Cities. On clear sky days we are usually able to about five to ten minutes into the flight.
The flight attendant came around with small cups of orange juice or water. It turned out my orange juice was frozen and she happened to find another one which wasn't. I can't remember if we received "Spinzels," Northwest's mini inflight snack of buttered pretzels.
The whole flight was smooth and uneventful with a few of those "drops" on decent into the Twin Cities. We passed a Northwest Airlink / Mesaba Saab 340 as we began our decent and were put on a long holding pattern and basically took a tour of St. Paul's industrial side as we came in from the south instead of northeast. Here we are somewhere over a suburb on a left bank:
As far as I can remember we had a smooth landing on the runway alongside concourse "C." Due to our early arrival, we had a short taxi to our new gate at concourse "E." Upon arrival at Minneapolis, I saw the new Northwest scheme on several aircraft:
Once again, it was another great feeling to step into Lindbergh Terminal. I visited the airport so many times in the last year I have become very aquatinted with it. Likewise, we checked the flight status monitors and headed for a good walk to the end of concourse "G" where our flight to Tampa departed. For some reason, it had been a very long time since one of our flights departed from the "G" concourse. I have good memories of this part of the airport and the unique Northwest Airlines mural on the hangar directly aside from the concourse seen from the window. I had good times staring at it as a kid.
To catch the heavy metal in Minneapolis, you had to be here right about now from 1 PM to 3 PM depending on the season. I went to the small area most of the overseas international flights depart from remembering the flight to Amsterdam should be here right around now. And sure enough the Boeing 747-200 was there. In the near future it will be a heavy Airbus sittin' at the ramp.
We arrived at our gate area to find it packed with passengers. Believe it or not, the flight to Ft. Myers was departing right next to us on what I thought might have been a 757-300. It was definitely a full flight.
We had a good half-hour until boarding our Airbus A320, so, we got a bite to eat which we hoped would last us a while. I picked up a FLYING magazine devoted to the Concorde to read during the flight. When we returned to the gates area my dad said the flight was overbooked. Just recently did I learn that if airlines didn't overbook, our fares would cost %20 greater. After a quick decision, my dad and I approached the very busy gate counter to volunteer for a later flight and take advantage of some vouchers. Although we were never needed, the next flight to Tampa was around 8 PM.
Boarding for the flight to Ft. Myers came and went. A good chunk of the crowd had left. Then, the boarding process began for our flight.
After the flight my E-ticket disapeared so I can't remember my seat, but it was a few rows behind the wing. It was a good seat as I personally picked our seats for each flight.
Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003 (Thanksgiving Day)
Flight: 438
Aircraft: Airbus A320
Seat: N/A
Depart: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP (3:27 PM / 1527 hrs)
Arrive: Tampa Bay, FL - TPA (7:20 PM / 1920 hrs)
As I found my seat, I watched the flight to Ft. Myers pushback. Again, this was a full flight like I am used to (except for the first leg earlier.)
We taxied on-time and I of-course had my head poked out the window while the flight attendants performed the safety demonstration; I wouldn't have even noticed if they didn't. I wasn't expecting much out of this flight except for a beautiful sunset and maybe a cabin photo. I have to admit I wasn't focused on the flight itself.
As soon as we reached our cruising altitude that evening, "Spinzels" and beverages were distributed. I really like Spinzels. I noticed the new logo on the back and I mentally reminded myself to save one when returning to the Twin Cities for my collection.
There isn't really much to say about the rest of the flight. I did watch the sun go down but I didn't dare take a picture of the cabin because I didn't want to disturb everyone with a flash. I did pay a visit to the lavatory and from what I saw it was very clean.
We had a smooth arrival into Tampa. The first thing I could clearly see in the darkness was a Delta logo on a hangar. We parked next to a Southwest 737 without winglets and it was awesome to feel the warm air as we debarked. When I entered the gates area, the terminal was very spacious and of course, deserted It was just how I left it several years ago from my first visit; except for the incredible new security layout. As we took the tram to the main building, memories again came back of when I was last here. I was looking forward to returning in a week to explore when we stayed at the Marriot located in the airport.
> Conclusion
In case you're wondering, my cousin (a first-time-flyer) did just fine. He didn't fill one barf bag. I think he rather enjoyed it. The bottle of motion sickness pills did the job.
You also might have realized I am not focused on the service on each flight. But as far as I can remember, it was acceptable. That's what I am used to on Northwest. I also do not rate my flights. Overall, they were pleasurable flights. That's all that matters.
Now it's time to spend some time in the sun but I cannot wait for the most exciting part of the trip. No, not Busch Gardens.
> Return
The time has finally come! Can you believe I was actually looking forward to the end of my vacation? True. My dad says returning a rental car at Tampa Bay International Airport is easier than anywhere else and I had to agree.
We lugged our luggage along to the Marriot Hotel located almost in the center of the airport. My arm had never felt worse afterwards. I was very excited to check out the view from our room. Just over a year ago I stayed at the Fairmont at Vancouver International Airport which had an incredible view!
We found our room on the floor just under the rotating restaurant on top. Even though it was dark out, I immediately opened the shades and got out the flight schedule. I watched a couple planes come in, and then decided to take a walk around the check in area and the floors around it to collect some baggage tags and information. It all ended up being a great addition to my collection.
Before our flight departed back to the Twin Cities from my last visit to Tampa several years ago, we ate at an Apple-Bee's near the hotel in the airport. Being the only sit-down restaurant around, we ate there again this time, and I think we sat in the same exact table. Kitty-corner to the restaurant is a store called "Aviation Inc." I wanted to stop and look around last time, but we were in a rush to catch our flight after eating. I remember seeing all these little boxes stacked together wondering what they were. Well, it just so happens that the next year I started collecting miniature diecast aircraft models which come in small boxes. You know what I'm getting at. I was eager to be sure to check the shop out but most of the airport shops were closing at 8 PM (2000 hrs) so I didn't reach it in time. Oh well, that was no problem; I just simply looked through the window and spied many Herpa models waiting for my precious hands to reach them tomorrow.
Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003
Flight: 435
Aircraft: Airbus A320
Seat: N/A
Depart: Tampa Bay, FL - TPA (1:25 PM / 1325 hrs) Gate A9
Arrive: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP (3:44 PM / 1544 hrs) DELAYED
Now, I have to admit I have some pretty cool talents. But, among them all, my favorite is my mental morning alarm clock. It work out great as I woke up at about 8 AM (0800). My mom and cousin were still sleeping and my dad headed out with me when he went to get a workout. First, we stopped at the lounge room. It was a small area crowded with some business travelers. I had a small breakfast but the service lady was great. She was very helpful in offering us all kinds of stuff. This must be how it feels to be in an airline lounge.
Our flight didn't depart until around 12:30 PM (1230) so I had a lot of exciting time to kill. From here, I went and bought several Herpa 1:500 scale models at Aviation Inc: United 747-400 NG, British Airways Concorde, Northwest DC-10, Western Pacific 737 "Simpsons," and a Southwest 737 N/C. My dad was able to fit them into his carry on.
Throughout the morning I went to the hotel's pool deck and captured a shot of an AirTran 717 and watch some planes come and go. It was a busy day at the airport today. Even all of the conference rooms were in use. I also made sure I went outside to feel the warm Florida air one last time while I walked around the check-in counters and baggage claims. My dad spent his time finishing up on his sun tan on the pool deck. Somewhere in-between then we checked in our baggage. We picked a good time to do so when there wasn't a single person in line. Again, the agent checked us in using the E-ticket self service machine. I really like that strategy.
I had a great morning venturing through airport and watching people come and go and planes arriving and departing. It had a great impact on my aviation interest to persuade me to be involved in a related career.
After taking the short tram, which provided an excellent view of the tarmac, we went through security very fast. The agents were just ending their shift. Unluckily, I wanted to peek around just a little bit more of the gates area, but our flight was already boarding. You guessed it, it was a full flight. When taxiing, I spotted which was probably our hotel room. We took off on the same runway I had been watching throughout the morning. I would have never guessed the air-traffic would die down as much as it did during the noon hour. I did manage to catch a glimpse of a Song 757 and two DC-8 cargo planes. So long for now Florida:
We turned over the bay and soon we were over the clouds on a nice day. The usual, Spinzels and beverages were served by a flight attendant who gave true smiles. I again didn't want to disturb the cabin with my flash for a photo. I had no way to control it with my disposable camera.
Nearly halfway into flight, I saw an aircraft flying the opposite direction out my window at what looked like to be an incredible speed. For sure it had to be a military jet. I could tell by its distinct shape, though it was quite a distance away. I lost sight of it in about fifteen seconds. I was going to take a picture, but I was so excited I couldn't find my camera where I thought it was in my carry-on under the forward seat. Just before, I paid a visit to the lavatory and since the camera hung around my neck I probably took it off and forgot it there. I went back to check, but it wasn't there! I peeked behind the back galley and told the flight attendant about my loss. She looked at me puzzled like I'm nuts and asked why I carried a camera to the bathroom. I explained it to her and said I'd check back with her later. I returned back to my seat and looked through my carry-on once more. My camera had been there all along - it happens!
Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003
Flight: N/A
Aircraft: Douglas DC-9-(30/40/50)
Seat: N/A
Depart: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP
Arrive: Fargo, ND - FAR
Upon our arrival into the Twin Cities, there was some active snow we expected judging by the forecast. Although, it wasn't bad enough to delay or cancel both of our flights today as I hoped. Yet, there was still a surprise we were about to experience. I noticed we were coming in at a great speed as we approached the same runway we did a week ago arriving from Fargo. I was still expecting us to land but we immediately shot back up into the sky! It was awesome; a moment I had been waiting for. We must of had a cabin full of frequent flying passengers because there really wasn't much of a reaction. The lady sitting in the aisle seat in my row didn't even know what was happening. I assumed we over-shot the runway, and until today I still think we did. Too bad we weren't bound back to Florida as one might wish. Five minutes later the pilot announced a DC-10 was late from lifting off the runway and we would have run into it's flare. He also stated MSP tower was playing it a bit close today. This only caused a ten-minute delay.
We had about forty-five minutes until our departure back to Fargo. I had to make sure I visited what I would think is my most enjoyable place in the world: the observation deck. Hidden in the corner is a series of stairs near the small "D" concourse. It isn't advertised very well and I rarely find someone else up there. I enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of soft music and planes coming and going. I know a couple of aviation enthusiast friends who also seem to enjoy this spot. Here is a picture I took last February from the observation deck on my way back from Houston, TX:
Someday I will take a picture of the room to show you what it looks like. Look for it in my next trip report in several months.
My dad rushed up the stairs and told me it was time to board. Somehow, our seat reservations changed so I didn't get a window seat. That was fine. It was dark out anyway. We were served beverages consisting of water and orange juice. My orange juice was rock solid. The flight attendant knew it was but didn't apologize or care to give me another one. I had a stomach ache through the whole flight. Luckily, it was a short hop flight.
We arrived in Fargo smoothly and thankfully or baggage did too. The flight crew ended their day here too but the DC-9 still had a return to Minneapolis in a while. It was a nice welcome back home in the freezing temperature and blustering snow.
> Conclusion
What another great adventure I had. There isn't much too say except my apology for the lack of in-flight service ratings.
I hoped you enjoyed my report and I look forward to writing another one in the near future. You are now to free roam about your area and continue to do as you wish.
Best Regards,
Mark
"Science, freedom, beauty, adventure - aviation offers it all."
-Charles A. Lindbergh
A vacation to my grandparent's condo in Ft. Myers, Florida, was a great way to celebrate the end of my first trimester of eighth grade. It was also a real treat to share it with my older cousin; not to mention that he is also a first-time flyer. There were numerous things to be done before the trip. Unfortunately, that included putting our seventeen-year-old family dog to sleep.
This was about my twelfth vacation to Florida ever since I was three. Sure I look forward to actually getting there and enjoying the sun, but my favorite part is flying and passing through the airports. Though our destination was Ft. Myers, Florida (CODE=RSW), tickets were much cheaper to destine to Tampa Bay, Florida (CODE=TPA) via the Twin Cities - Minneapolis/St.Paul (CODE=MSP), and then a two hour drive to Ft. Myers/Estero Island. I would have proffered the direct flight on a Boeing 757-200 with the offer of a meal. Yet, I am thankful for any flight.
Please, sit back, relax, and enjoy a long, simple, but detailed trip report.
Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003 (Thanksgiving Day)
Flight: 874
Aircraft: N8921E / DC-9-30
Seat: 16A
Depart: Fargo, ND - FAR (1:15 PM / 1315 hrs) Rwy. 17/35
Arrive: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP (2:11 PM / 1411 hrs)
It was once again a wonderful feeling to step in the Fargo Hector Intl. Terminal composed of five gates. I had looked forward to this for a while. Earlier this year in March, I was granted my request for a free and personal tour of the whole airport. Basically, I knew this airport pretty well.
For your knowledge, Northwest operates many flights to Minneapolis using DC-9's, RJ-85, A319, and A320 and United Express operates several flights to Denver and Chicago O'Hare by Skywest and Atlantic Coast Airlines with CRJ's. Fargo also has many charters in the winter going to Mexico and Las Vegas on Trans Global/Ryan using 737-400's and A321's; Sun Country using 737-800's; and Casino Express using 737-200's.
Like a routine, my dad drops us off with our baggage and goes to park the van approximately two and half to three hours before our flight departs. As I stood there gazing about the terminal with my cousin, he reminded me by mentioning this was his first time in an airport. It was going to be great to share this first-time-flying experience with him.
After my dad parked the van, we approached the check-desks. As usual, there was nobody in line.
Possibly, the longest period of time we have spent waiting at the check-in desk in Fargo is ten minutes. On average it is less then five minutes.
The same check-in agents have been working at Fargo for as long as I can remember. A different agent, however, checked us in using the Northwest E-Ticket check-in machine. It was more as a demonstration to show us how easy and useful it can be in the future; and I agree, it was a nice tactic. Our baggage was briefly checked over by the same, friendly T.S.A. agent in the past before being checked-in.
We then headed up the escalator to find the newly remodeled cafe. It had a great new look and I no longer considered it "boring." Also on the second floor is a gift shop, restrooms, and hidden past a door is the hallway leading to the administration offices. We purchased a few snacks from the cafe and spent our time waiting by walking around. Because of the few flights that pass through Fargo at this time we are restricted to enter the gates area until about forty-five minutes prior to boarding. Besides, there is absolutely nothing to do in the gates area except wait.
Time didn't exactly fly by before we passed through security. Again, there wasn't anyone in line and we passed through quickly and briefly with a "smile" and "thanks" from one of the three T.S.A. security agents on duty.
We were about the last to enter the gates area and yet we were the first passengers to arrive at the terminal today. About twenty other passengers were flying with us today giving our flight a %20 load factor - the lightest I was to ever fly on. I was looking fofward to see if I would be flying on a new scheme.
Our flight arrived from Minneapolis and previously from Pittsburgh with what looked to be a full flight when the passengers debarked - unlike ours. As the plane was approaching the terminal, it looked as if it was the lone Northwest DC-9-10, a one-of-a-kind in Northwest's fleet, which passes through Fargo often. Unfortunately, it wasn't a new scheme nor a DC-9-10. Yet, I am thankful for any aircraft.
Prior to boarding, the gate agent for the United Express flight to Chicago O'Hare repeatedly made an announcement for a couple of passengers. Obviously they hadn't shown up. As that flight departed, one of our pilots came up the jetway to receive some information he printed out and I noticed another pilot exit the jetway and inspect the plane for an unknown reason or just for a routine checkup. I snapped a photo of him:
"Due to the many passengers on the flight, we will be boarding all rows!" announced our gate agent. Everyone giggled and formed a short queue. As I strolled down the jetway ahead of everyone I listened to Coldplay's "Beautiful World" and thought of what an awesome hobby aviation enthusiasts share.
I was greeted by a friendly flight attendant as she was preparing something in the forward galley. I took my designated window seat and had the row to myself. Everyone was spread out throughout the aircraft; I was liking this a lot! I took a picture prior to takeoff:
We taxied to runway 17/35 while the flight attendants did the safety demonstration. On our way we past United Express flight #6668 that just arrived from Denver.
The takeoff was uneventful and I captured a photo of the airport terminal:
It was an absolutely beautiful day above the gray clouds. Unfortunately, we knew we wouldn't be able to see our hometown of Fergus Falls, MN, approximately one hour southeast of Fargo and three hours northwest of the Twin Cities. On clear sky days we are usually able to about five to ten minutes into the flight.
The flight attendant came around with small cups of orange juice or water. It turned out my orange juice was frozen and she happened to find another one which wasn't. I can't remember if we received "Spinzels," Northwest's mini inflight snack of buttered pretzels.
The whole flight was smooth and uneventful with a few of those "drops" on decent into the Twin Cities. We passed a Northwest Airlink / Mesaba Saab 340 as we began our decent and were put on a long holding pattern and basically took a tour of St. Paul's industrial side as we came in from the south instead of northeast. Here we are somewhere over a suburb on a left bank:
As far as I can remember we had a smooth landing on the runway alongside concourse "C." Due to our early arrival, we had a short taxi to our new gate at concourse "E." Upon arrival at Minneapolis, I saw the new Northwest scheme on several aircraft:
Once again, it was another great feeling to step into Lindbergh Terminal. I visited the airport so many times in the last year I have become very aquatinted with it. Likewise, we checked the flight status monitors and headed for a good walk to the end of concourse "G" where our flight to Tampa departed. For some reason, it had been a very long time since one of our flights departed from the "G" concourse. I have good memories of this part of the airport and the unique Northwest Airlines mural on the hangar directly aside from the concourse seen from the window. I had good times staring at it as a kid.
To catch the heavy metal in Minneapolis, you had to be here right about now from 1 PM to 3 PM depending on the season. I went to the small area most of the overseas international flights depart from remembering the flight to Amsterdam should be here right around now. And sure enough the Boeing 747-200 was there. In the near future it will be a heavy Airbus sittin' at the ramp.
We arrived at our gate area to find it packed with passengers. Believe it or not, the flight to Ft. Myers was departing right next to us on what I thought might have been a 757-300. It was definitely a full flight.
We had a good half-hour until boarding our Airbus A320, so, we got a bite to eat which we hoped would last us a while. I picked up a FLYING magazine devoted to the Concorde to read during the flight. When we returned to the gates area my dad said the flight was overbooked. Just recently did I learn that if airlines didn't overbook, our fares would cost %20 greater. After a quick decision, my dad and I approached the very busy gate counter to volunteer for a later flight and take advantage of some vouchers. Although we were never needed, the next flight to Tampa was around 8 PM.
Boarding for the flight to Ft. Myers came and went. A good chunk of the crowd had left. Then, the boarding process began for our flight.
After the flight my E-ticket disapeared so I can't remember my seat, but it was a few rows behind the wing. It was a good seat as I personally picked our seats for each flight.
Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003 (Thanksgiving Day)
Flight: 438
Aircraft: Airbus A320
Seat: N/A
Depart: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP (3:27 PM / 1527 hrs)
Arrive: Tampa Bay, FL - TPA (7:20 PM / 1920 hrs)
As I found my seat, I watched the flight to Ft. Myers pushback. Again, this was a full flight like I am used to (except for the first leg earlier.)
We taxied on-time and I of-course had my head poked out the window while the flight attendants performed the safety demonstration; I wouldn't have even noticed if they didn't. I wasn't expecting much out of this flight except for a beautiful sunset and maybe a cabin photo. I have to admit I wasn't focused on the flight itself.
As soon as we reached our cruising altitude that evening, "Spinzels" and beverages were distributed. I really like Spinzels. I noticed the new logo on the back and I mentally reminded myself to save one when returning to the Twin Cities for my collection.
There isn't really much to say about the rest of the flight. I did watch the sun go down but I didn't dare take a picture of the cabin because I didn't want to disturb everyone with a flash. I did pay a visit to the lavatory and from what I saw it was very clean.
We had a smooth arrival into Tampa. The first thing I could clearly see in the darkness was a Delta logo on a hangar. We parked next to a Southwest 737 without winglets and it was awesome to feel the warm air as we debarked. When I entered the gates area, the terminal was very spacious and of course, deserted It was just how I left it several years ago from my first visit; except for the incredible new security layout. As we took the tram to the main building, memories again came back of when I was last here. I was looking forward to returning in a week to explore when we stayed at the Marriot located in the airport.
> Conclusion
In case you're wondering, my cousin (a first-time-flyer) did just fine. He didn't fill one barf bag. I think he rather enjoyed it. The bottle of motion sickness pills did the job.
You also might have realized I am not focused on the service on each flight. But as far as I can remember, it was acceptable. That's what I am used to on Northwest. I also do not rate my flights. Overall, they were pleasurable flights. That's all that matters.
Now it's time to spend some time in the sun but I cannot wait for the most exciting part of the trip. No, not Busch Gardens.
> Return
The time has finally come! Can you believe I was actually looking forward to the end of my vacation? True. My dad says returning a rental car at Tampa Bay International Airport is easier than anywhere else and I had to agree.
We lugged our luggage along to the Marriot Hotel located almost in the center of the airport. My arm had never felt worse afterwards. I was very excited to check out the view from our room. Just over a year ago I stayed at the Fairmont at Vancouver International Airport which had an incredible view!
We found our room on the floor just under the rotating restaurant on top. Even though it was dark out, I immediately opened the shades and got out the flight schedule. I watched a couple planes come in, and then decided to take a walk around the check in area and the floors around it to collect some baggage tags and information. It all ended up being a great addition to my collection.
Before our flight departed back to the Twin Cities from my last visit to Tampa several years ago, we ate at an Apple-Bee's near the hotel in the airport. Being the only sit-down restaurant around, we ate there again this time, and I think we sat in the same exact table. Kitty-corner to the restaurant is a store called "Aviation Inc." I wanted to stop and look around last time, but we were in a rush to catch our flight after eating. I remember seeing all these little boxes stacked together wondering what they were. Well, it just so happens that the next year I started collecting miniature diecast aircraft models which come in small boxes. You know what I'm getting at. I was eager to be sure to check the shop out but most of the airport shops were closing at 8 PM (2000 hrs) so I didn't reach it in time. Oh well, that was no problem; I just simply looked through the window and spied many Herpa models waiting for my precious hands to reach them tomorrow.
Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003
Flight: 435
Aircraft: Airbus A320
Seat: N/A
Depart: Tampa Bay, FL - TPA (1:25 PM / 1325 hrs) Gate A9
Arrive: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP (3:44 PM / 1544 hrs) DELAYED
Now, I have to admit I have some pretty cool talents. But, among them all, my favorite is my mental morning alarm clock. It work out great as I woke up at about 8 AM (0800). My mom and cousin were still sleeping and my dad headed out with me when he went to get a workout. First, we stopped at the lounge room. It was a small area crowded with some business travelers. I had a small breakfast but the service lady was great. She was very helpful in offering us all kinds of stuff. This must be how it feels to be in an airline lounge.
Our flight didn't depart until around 12:30 PM (1230) so I had a lot of exciting time to kill. From here, I went and bought several Herpa 1:500 scale models at Aviation Inc: United 747-400 NG, British Airways Concorde, Northwest DC-10, Western Pacific 737 "Simpsons," and a Southwest 737 N/C. My dad was able to fit them into his carry on.
Throughout the morning I went to the hotel's pool deck and captured a shot of an AirTran 717 and watch some planes come and go. It was a busy day at the airport today. Even all of the conference rooms were in use. I also made sure I went outside to feel the warm Florida air one last time while I walked around the check-in counters and baggage claims. My dad spent his time finishing up on his sun tan on the pool deck. Somewhere in-between then we checked in our baggage. We picked a good time to do so when there wasn't a single person in line. Again, the agent checked us in using the E-ticket self service machine. I really like that strategy.
I had a great morning venturing through airport and watching people come and go and planes arriving and departing. It had a great impact on my aviation interest to persuade me to be involved in a related career.
After taking the short tram, which provided an excellent view of the tarmac, we went through security very fast. The agents were just ending their shift. Unluckily, I wanted to peek around just a little bit more of the gates area, but our flight was already boarding. You guessed it, it was a full flight. When taxiing, I spotted which was probably our hotel room. We took off on the same runway I had been watching throughout the morning. I would have never guessed the air-traffic would die down as much as it did during the noon hour. I did manage to catch a glimpse of a Song 757 and two DC-8 cargo planes. So long for now Florida:
We turned over the bay and soon we were over the clouds on a nice day. The usual, Spinzels and beverages were served by a flight attendant who gave true smiles. I again didn't want to disturb the cabin with my flash for a photo. I had no way to control it with my disposable camera.
Nearly halfway into flight, I saw an aircraft flying the opposite direction out my window at what looked like to be an incredible speed. For sure it had to be a military jet. I could tell by its distinct shape, though it was quite a distance away. I lost sight of it in about fifteen seconds. I was going to take a picture, but I was so excited I couldn't find my camera where I thought it was in my carry-on under the forward seat. Just before, I paid a visit to the lavatory and since the camera hung around my neck I probably took it off and forgot it there. I went back to check, but it wasn't there! I peeked behind the back galley and told the flight attendant about my loss. She looked at me puzzled like I'm nuts and asked why I carried a camera to the bathroom. I explained it to her and said I'd check back with her later. I returned back to my seat and looked through my carry-on once more. My camera had been there all along - it happens!
Thursday, Dec. 4, 2003
Flight: N/A
Aircraft: Douglas DC-9-(30/40/50)
Seat: N/A
Depart: Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN - MSP
Arrive: Fargo, ND - FAR
Upon our arrival into the Twin Cities, there was some active snow we expected judging by the forecast. Although, it wasn't bad enough to delay or cancel both of our flights today as I hoped. Yet, there was still a surprise we were about to experience. I noticed we were coming in at a great speed as we approached the same runway we did a week ago arriving from Fargo. I was still expecting us to land but we immediately shot back up into the sky! It was awesome; a moment I had been waiting for. We must of had a cabin full of frequent flying passengers because there really wasn't much of a reaction. The lady sitting in the aisle seat in my row didn't even know what was happening. I assumed we over-shot the runway, and until today I still think we did. Too bad we weren't bound back to Florida as one might wish. Five minutes later the pilot announced a DC-10 was late from lifting off the runway and we would have run into it's flare. He also stated MSP tower was playing it a bit close today. This only caused a ten-minute delay.
We had about forty-five minutes until our departure back to Fargo. I had to make sure I visited what I would think is my most enjoyable place in the world: the observation deck. Hidden in the corner is a series of stairs near the small "D" concourse. It isn't advertised very well and I rarely find someone else up there. I enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of soft music and planes coming and going. I know a couple of aviation enthusiast friends who also seem to enjoy this spot. Here is a picture I took last February from the observation deck on my way back from Houston, TX:
Someday I will take a picture of the room to show you what it looks like. Look for it in my next trip report in several months.
My dad rushed up the stairs and told me it was time to board. Somehow, our seat reservations changed so I didn't get a window seat. That was fine. It was dark out anyway. We were served beverages consisting of water and orange juice. My orange juice was rock solid. The flight attendant knew it was but didn't apologize or care to give me another one. I had a stomach ache through the whole flight. Luckily, it was a short hop flight.
We arrived in Fargo smoothly and thankfully or baggage did too. The flight crew ended their day here too but the DC-9 still had a return to Minneapolis in a while. It was a nice welcome back home in the freezing temperature and blustering snow.
> Conclusion
What another great adventure I had. There isn't much too say except my apology for the lack of in-flight service ratings.
I hoped you enjoyed my report and I look forward to writing another one in the near future. You are now to free roam about your area and continue to do as you wish.
Best Regards,
Mark
"Science, freedom, beauty, adventure - aviation offers it all."
-Charles A. Lindbergh
Very detailed and the pictures just add to the whole experience. I'll be flying on Northwest in July but I'll be going through DTW instead of MSP.
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