G'day Captain Reddo, how ya going mate? ;) Wotz Andy doin these daze?

Ever since I joined PPRuNe, I've been a firm believer in "horses for courses". There's a shyteload of places that jets go into that are every bit as pants changing as many of the places served by other types of aircraft. I think that those who already have experience in the said "other types" might have a slight advantage over those who haven't, but the fact is that the drivers of heavier metal have to qualify for the difficult places anyway.

Therefore, I don't necessarily believe all the things I used to believe about the value of GA experience - provided the qualification process is appropriate. And I have to say that, for some of the places (e.g. Kathmandu), that the heavier metal uses, the qualification process seems to work pretty well.

Unhinged... A DHC-7? :eek:
I hope the take-off is easier than the approach and landing appears to be! The well-known "paddle steamer" was never renowned for its climb performance after take-off. :uhoh: Or did you mean the DHC-8?

Reynolds... I'm pleased to see that you're still getting around the world and just want to know yer secret regarding the acquisition of Chivas Regal! :)

Too many engines for a Dash 8 ! Departure was full length, full noise on the brakes, then let go and head straight for the checkerboard, and turn left as soon as you're above the trees around the airport.

http://i15.tinypic.com/7xlm3q1.jpg

Also enjoyed this extract from the local traffic regs for the island:
"Aircraft that intend to do/exercise circuit and landing at Pulau Tioman has to depart from RWY 02. Turn left to join left down wind RWY 02 and at mid down wind make a right 1 minute tear drop to joint right down wind RWY 20 before joining right base or final RWY 20 for a full stop landing."

Not as good as Chuck's strips of course, but all part of life's rich tapestry !

Oz, we're both good. Checkers is still commanding a B737 around Europe, should go to the Airbus 319 later this year. Life's good. :ok:

Right... 4 engines, when 6 might've been better
 

Okay Unhinged, you convinced me but...
How long did it take, after take-off, to get above the trees? Or weren't they all that high? :}

Chimbu
In early 70's was crewchief on RAF Britannias flying Gurkhas home on leave from Hong Kong. On one occassion had to abort landing when cattle seen crossing runway. It was hazy vis. too My first view of the mountains was stunning

Unhinged Palau Tioman
 

UnHinged,
Just had a look at that on Google earth. Fairly interesting. Got any more Photos?
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Oz
I was down the back so the only view was through the oil-covered windows. I did write down the time from BR to rotate and then starting the turn, but I'm away from home this week and will look for it when I get back. The trees were big enough but not outrageously so; the palm trees behind the orange roof give an indication. It's just that the take-off is towards the checkerboard, so it's rising terrain covered in trees.

185
Might have some of the approach, but they'll only be out the side windows - I'll check when I get home.