By SIERRA DELOACH
Photos taken on the iPod Touch 4th gen or Canon 30-300 ALEXA
In my family, the day that the first float plane takes off from Beluga Lake is the first day of spring. And spring is here! Pilots have cleaned up their float planes and inspected them for leaks, and off they go!
In my family, the day that the first float plane takes off from Beluga Lake is the first day of spring. And spring is here! Pilots have cleaned up their float planes and inspected them for leaks, and off they go!
Floatplanes require an ice-free lake to take off from. Usually they would not be able to take off this early in the year, but the weather’s been warm enough to melt the lake almost completely. Pilots have taken advantage of the early start, it seems.
My dad and his best friend are both pilots, and like to make use of the good weather. With how lovely it’s been, I’m sure they’ll be out flying in no time! Though watch out—the leeches have thawed out, and they have a tendency to chase people in the water. Beware the attack of the leeches!
Enjoy our lovely weather by watching floatplanes take off from the lake, or even riding one yourself! Bear viewing expeditions are available soon. You will take off from Beluga lake, circle the area looking for bears, then land safely back on the waters of Homer.
Float planes are a sure sign of spring in Homer. As Beluga Lake thaws out, expect to see more of our mechanical water birds in the sky. Maybe the Beaver will even make an appearance! Either way, it’s time to sit back and enjoy the sounds of spring—splashing water and engines.