Airports can enthrall, challenge pilots

Q: What was the scariest airport you have ever landed at and why? — Ron, New Jersey

A: I would not call it scary, but one of the most challenging was Bluefield, W. Va. The crosswinds and mountains combined with the short length made it a real challenge on some days. Piedmont operated one of the largest airplanes to use that airport, the YS- 11A, requiring precision flying. Another was a small airport in Chicago called Meigs Field that no longer exists.

Q: Do you have a favorite airport to land and take off? — Bob Mogus, Pittsburgh

A: There are special things about several airports. A few examples: Landing on runway 13 in LaGuardia from the south provides a spectacular view of Manhattan. Flying into Key West with the beautiful clear water and picturesque boats in the harbor was always enjoyable. One of my most vivid memories was departing Boston Logan and turning out over the shipping channel as the tall ships were sailing. The most beautiful airport was San Francisco; the mountain and the bay combine for a spectacular sight.

Q: Is it much harder to fly into congested airports/ airspace? — Chris, Chicago

A: Any of the high- density airports are challenging. With the large amount of air traffic in the airspace, controller instructions are numerous and precise. All of the traffic has to perform to exacting standards to keep the traffic flow running smoothly.