We just had a great day at Nellis AFB and with northerly winds forecasted again, we chose to spend an additional day at this super base. Only…., the winds turned out to be much lighter than the day before, resulting in the use of Nellis’ favourite runway combination; Runway 03 for take-off and 21 for landing. Useless to us, so we travelled south to San Diego. We had planned to spend the weekend at Miramar’s Air Show anyway, so the Friday afternoon was to be spent at nearby NAS North Island.
NAS North Island, 3 October 2014
Having learnt from past experiences, with the S-3’s gone, North Island isn’t what it used to be. So, we didn’t expect much. After arriving at the Dog Beach we enjoyed the extremely high surf, fishing pelicans and, of course, the sh#tting dogs, some with attractive owners. Anyway, some planes were to be seen too.
MCAS Miramar, 4 & 5 October 2014
From 3-5 October, the annual MCAS Miramar Air Show was held. For photography, this air show is hell. The static display resembles a flea market and during the flying display you have the sun in your face all day. But there are some opportunities. For example, the choppers that participate in the MAGTF demo, a kind of Air Power demo. These helicopters operate from the most westerly platform. As this is close to one of the car parks, you can get quit close by and you’ve the sun in your back. Surprising that so few photographers make use of this opportunity.
We had been invited for a photo tour at NAS Fallon on Tuesday 7 October. As it’s a very long drive from San Diego to Fallon, we planned a stop in Fresno on Monday. After arrival, we noticed there was not much activity on the CA ANG platform. A very friendly local sheriff contacted his airport security colleagues. He was able to put us out of our misery. The Guard just concluded their drill weekend, so no flying on Monday.
NAS Fallon, 7 October 2014
The local PAO, Mr. Zip Upham, had arranged a photo tour for us. We reported at the main gate at 9:00 hours. Together with two Brits, two Japanese, one Swiss and one lovely American girl we started what was to be a memorable tour.
Unfortunately, no CAW was around and also local traffic was pretty slow. However, we did manage to make some very nice photos. Thanks to the ‘can do’ mentality of Mr. Upham and his team. Three cheers for Zip!
If only the US Navy would make all their aircraft as colourful are this one!
NAF El Centro, 8 October 2014
After a more or less failed attempt the previous week, we would try our luck again. This time there was much more activity, which T-45’s flying around in droves. Runway 26 was is use.
A word of advice. When you plan to go NAF El Centro, given the local Public Affairs Office a call. Just tell them you’re there. They want to know your name and the car model you drive. They really appreciate it. Instead of being harassed by the local LEO, as we were a couple of years ago, Base Security come up to thank you for taking the trouble of calling them. It’s a small effect, but it makes life much simpler. For all parties concerned.
MCAS Yuma, 8 October 2014
After getting bored by the Goshawks at El Centro, we made the hour long drive to Yuma. We arrived just in time for the recovery of the afternoon WTI mission. Again, runway 03 in use, so back to S 4th Ave.
The final part of this report will follow shortly.
