Random reminder

Press, 19 August 1978, Page 23

Random reminder

ANGEL IN ORBIT

Mount Cook aircrew have earned a reputation for valour in operation; “get there safely — regardless.” Through snow, driving rain and strong gales, planes are manoeuvred within close range of scenic mountains and the like. These bods are a tough lot, from the pilot with his skill in the cockpit right down the gangway to where the steward hangs out. He has to prepare to do what is termed the chunder mile, with paper bags and splattering beverages. The trips are packed with surprises, sights, sounds, perfumery, feelings and touch-downs. Added to these attractions are many obliging aspects which are modestly shrugged off as part of the service. Through the eye of a Japanese camera one such incident was captured. An interesting story accompanies a few metres of film, taken during what are now described as Wahine conditions. The scene was a desolate airstrip. The pilot and first officer were unloading the front of the aircraft, while the purser and steward coped with the rear end. At the same time the trolley was being driven into position to carry the baggage away. So the team spirit was working really well.

One Oriental visitor was stretching his legs and watching the procedure in astonishment. He extricated himself from the heavy equipment adorning his neck, and focused on the goings on in this unique country. So inspired was he at the sight of a four rank captain pulling his weight, that he was caught napping when the job was completed in record time. Not to be outdone, he ventured to ask the hero of the skies to hold his cupid pose. The captain remained standing on tip-toes, balanced on the end of the trolley, gold braided arms stretched up ever so high, with a large case perched on the palms of his hands. Unfortunately, the trolley driver had released the brake and alighted for a moment. There is a popular movie showing angels of mercy, and the cast is usually dressed in white. Yet somewhere overseas there’s a proud owner of a film doing a great promotion for Mount Cook airlines. It portrays an angel in grey uniform trimmed with gold braid who really does have wings and should by rights wear a halo. Perhaps he is wearing one — it is quite possible a large suitcase is obstructing its view.