Flying Trip of a Lifetime: Anchorage to Johnson Creek and Home

Charles B. Cafaro

Friday, May 08, 2015 at 05:53 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

An experienced airline pilot fulfilled a lifelong dream by flying a custom-built Super Cub from Alaska to Illinois with his son, turning it into a college graduation gift and an invaluable bonding experience.
Despite extensive airline experience, the author and his son underwent significant training, including tailwheel endorsements, and sought guidance from Alaskan bush pilots to prepare for the challenging backcountry and mountain flying conditions.
The journey immersed them in the unique aviation culture of Alaska and the Canadian Yukon, with a particular highlight being the vibrant backcountry flying scene in Idaho and the widespread hospitality from fellow aviators.
This ambitious trip created lasting memories and a profound sense of happiness and adventure for the author, solidifying a unique father-son bond through shared aviation experiences.

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Like many, flying has always been my dream. By some miracle, I have been able to turn that dream into a successful career and hobby. As I passed midlife, suddenly realizing how valuable time is, I thought it time to fill that “bucket” that has loomed in the back of my head for so many years.

My college graduation gift to my son would be to fly a light aircraft from Alaska to Illinois as he was just beginning his career in aviation. That may sound like an awfully gracious gift, but in truth the gift was for me. To spend some 60 hours and two weeks with your 22-year-old son, one on one on a headset, was the blessing of a lifetime.