I am still mourning after the BD DC9 was retired from service.
I spent many days at LBA to see & hear the BD 9'S roar off the runway!!
When R14 (cemetery end) was in use you got the full 'Blast' from both the engines, and if it was a hot day - well you got it all.
On a Sat there would be 2 or 3 9'S in sometimes together and would often depart after each other to LHR & JER.
The 9'S had a tendency to sit at the end of the runway awaiting T/O clearance and then ...3 2 1 push the throttles forward generating awesome 'Blast' down the runway, Like the pocket rocket 1-11's.
I loved the 9, It was always my ambition to fly a 9 but sadly not.
I was fortunate to fly on G BMAH, the 9 with the most airframe hours.
BD411 was nicknamed the 7' Oclock 'alarm clock' by the residents of Leeds & Otley & beyond.
You could always tell if the pilot flying was local to LBA because his/her landing would be in the same position.
According to my records the last DC9 14 - G BMAH was retired in October 1995?
The last DC9 32 - G ELDH was retired in May 1996?
Most of the 'Diamond Nines' ended up in Columbia, With a couple of 32 versions going to Africa.
I miss them all.
Those were the days!!
Regards.
