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Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author's planned ski vacation was complicated by an airline "chess game" involving pilot scheduling changes and a first officer's proactive request for a different international route, leading to multiple itinerary adjustments.
  • His unexpected flight to London involved discovering a dispatcher's fuel calculation error and then navigating a "storm of the century" snowstorm that severely impacted Heathrow operations.
  • Despite the challenging weather and operational hurdles, the crew successfully managed their return flight from London, and the author ultimately made it to Park City for his ski vacation as planned.
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After writing the title for this month’s Jumpseat column, I chuckled to myself. I hadn’t meant to create a tongue twister. But the title summarized the trip. I’ll explain why.

In February Carol and I had planned our annual ski vacation to Park City. Prior to our departure, we had been entertaining guests nonstop in our Florida home for over a week. Carol had been the consummate host. She would be ready for a well-deserved break.

Les Abend

Les Abend is a retired, 34-year veteran of American Airlines, attempting to readjust his passion for flying airplanes in the lower flight levels—without the assistance of a copilot.

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