Oh the Humanity! That's the thought that flashed through my mind as the helium-filled airship was plummeting to the ground. I was in it! But the shuttle bounced off the ground and returned to the air, this time with enough momentum to remain airborne. We were off! I was riding in the world-famous Goodyear Blimp! By the time I regained my composure and felt confident that my pants were dry, I remembered I had my camera, and began to shoot.
The unconventional maneuvers used to take off and land in this primitive vehicle are actually quite impressive once one gets over the abject terror of a potential crash-and-burn scenario. The fact that flammable hydrogen is no longer used in transports like these was only a relief after the fact. Still, the skill of the pilot and ground crew are to be respected.
I have flown in helicopters and airplanes of all sizes. The blimp was a new experience, and very different from helicopters and planes. It more seemed like what I would expect a hot-air balloon flight to feel. Perhaps the blimp could be described as a hybrid -- a cross between a balloon and a small, single prop airplane. I still don't think I would ride in a hot-air balloon though. I appreciated the technology in the blimp. I found comfort in the buttons and cockpit panels, especially from the vantage point of my co-pilot chair. Pulling strings and firing open flames into a visible balloon opening just seems too primitive for me!
Instead of explaining the whole experience in a narrative fashion, perhaps this poetic description will convey more:
To fly is something all men sometimes dream
Though relatively few the dream achieve.
For most that do, commercial jets are choice
Of other methods, few can scarce conceive.
Synthetic giant footballs filled with air
A fleet of well-known symbols take the skies.
The majesty and grandeur of the view
One would have to see with one's own eyes.
How frail and fragile mortal bodies are
The fear of falling captures heart and soul
And yet we choose to trust the hands of men;
Inventions of technology console.
What else could we achieve without the fear
Of self-placed limitations we hold dear?
