We did some interesting and unusual trips on 48. This is Mahe in the Seychelles as they were building the new airport. As you can see it is a work in progress.
An RFA had engine problems just off the Seychelles and needed a new piston.
Now a ship's piston is not a small item ! A plan was hatched to see if it could be delivered by Herc to Mahe, landing on the small strip used by a puddle jumper from South Africa. The late G/C Sweatman (then a S/L) was sent to check. I do not think he used anything more scientific than his experience, certainly no formal CBR check. Yes he said so off we went. More pics in this series to follow.
Gopher more tales thank you. Did you see my pic of the Hercs at Easter Island earlier in this thread ?