Crosswinds at Wellington

Today was fairly windy with surface winds this afternoon up to around 47 knots [about 87 km/hr], but including crosswind components in the mid-20 knots at times.

Needless to say, this made for some interesting arrivals. Although photos don't really do justice, here are a sample of the more interesting photos. I should point out that all of these landings worked out really well; none of them were as bad as the photos might suggest... all credit to the flight crew!

Top to bottom we have:

Boeing 737-8KG, VH-VUY, Virgin Australia Airlines
ATR-GIE ATR72-212A, ZK-MCY, Mount Cook Airline [Air NZ]
Raytheon [Beech] 1900D, ZK-EAO, Eagle Airways [Air NZ]
ATR-GIE ATR72-212A, ZK-MVC, Mount Cook Airline [Air NZ]

A new aircraft online, a visitor and a couple of regulars

I had a quick visit to the aero club today, just enough time for 4 photographs.

The first is of a "new" aircraft to the club flightline, Beech C23 Sundowner, ZK-DVB. I am not sure if this will be a permanent or temporary arrangement, but I'm sure it will be popular for type ratings from curious club pilots.

A visitor was an Alpha R2160, ZK-VCA, from Canterbury Aero Club in Christchurch.

The "regulars" referred to in the post title were a couple of Air New Zealand branded aircraft. A Beech/ Raytheon B1900D, ZK-EAO, registered to Eagle Airways Ltd, and Boeing B737-3U3, ZK-SJC, registered to Air New Zealand Ltd.

More plane spotting...

I've found a really good viewing area to take photos of aircraft at Wellington. Best of all, it's less then 5 minutes walk from home, so it is very easy to get to!

As you can see, with the exception of a few power poles and stuff, there are almost unobstructed views of the airport. Looks like this will be a near-perfect spot for when aircraft are using on rwy 16. One day I'll see if it's any good for when rwy 34 is in use.

Here's a few of the photos. Obviously, they're all reduced size, but if anyone wants a copy of the originals, just get hold of me [I'm usually happy to oblige]. I won't get too upset if you want to use them for [almost] anything, just ask first [!], and attribute them to me.

Any comments would be greatly appreciated!