One of our favorite countries in the world is Scotland and that is where Nang Fah is headed today. Perhaps we love Scotland because I was born there, but I don't think that is the real reason. It is a rugged, beautiful country with a simplicity to it that is enjoyable.
Our destination is Wick on the extreme north east tip of the country. We had debated going to Edinburg or Inverness ; but eventually settled on Wick. It is known as an easy and friendly airport frequented by many trans. atlantic flights. In the end we were very pleased and feel we made the right choice in going to Wick. Andrew Bruce operates Far North Aviation and he really “runs” everything. Andrew even called us before we departed Iceland to ensure we had everything. Frequencies, procedures, weather, hotel, car – you name it. He knows what people like us forget to do and goes out of his way to minimize difficulties. Andrew really makes Wick Work!!!!
Mustang immersion suits on; leaving Iceland…….
The flight across from Iceland was very nice, clear blue sky and a slight tail wind. One hundred miles out of Wick the situation changed. As forecast, we encountered solid cloud at our flight level of 11,000' and remained in it all the way to Wick. Fortunately there were no turbulence and nothing showed up on the Stormscope; we felt very comfortable.
Nearing the coast and about 40 miles from Wick, Scottish Control told us to leave their frequency and contact Wick. I thought this was a bit strange being so far out, solid IFR conditions and Wick tower was closed. But broadcasting to Wick traffic frequency was certainly possible and OK if that is the procedure. Just a few minutes later we heard this voice calling on the Far North unicom frequency – which Andrew told us to monitor on the way in. There he was again. Maybe not an official controller but ensuring we were OK to navigate and situate from well offshore. Amazing and helpful guy – that Andrew Bruce.
Flying the VOR/DME approach into Wick ………..
Runway in sight……..
We were booked into a small hotel, the St. Clair Arms, in Castletown, about 15 miles from the airport. A typical small, stone, Scottish hotel run by a young family. Not many conveniences but a sincere and enjoyable place.
At the hotel, we met two pilots from a Gulfstream that was parked at Wick. They were flying a well known American family who were staying at a nearby “castle” on holidays. It was neat to hear some of the experiences they related about their job and their wealthy employer……..sorry cannot tell you!!!!!! Later, at the airport, they invited us on board the Gulfstream. Fabulous airplane, not only the cockpit but the cabin was something to behold. You get quite a lot of airplane for $30million don't you?????
After getting our own airplane cleaned up, refueled and oxygen refilled, we left the airport and were off for a two day driving tour of North Western Scotland. Absolutely beautiful, rugged country…….
We drove the North West coastal highway, then down and across to Inverness ; home of “Nessee” the Loch Ness Monster. Of course we toured through Urquhart Castle which stands on the edge of Loch Ness. I had been there more than 20 years earlier; before it became as commercialized as it is today. The castle is the same but the surrounding, toll booths, parking attendants and souvenir stands spoil what was such a naturally historic environment years before.
The Gulfstream at Wick Airport……….
As you know, Scotland is full of castles. Many are rented out to tourists who get the full “royal” treatment if they can ante up the thousands of dollars a day it costs to stay in them…….
Lec at Urquhart Castle…………
After a great time in Scotland we here moving on the Sweden . We will tell you about that in the next log book update. .
Reykjavik to Wick, Scotland
The Gulfstream at Wick Airport……….
