Short Final

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • A DC-9 pilot requested a wheelchair to meet the flight for the captain's symbolic "last landing."
  • The landing was unexpectedly rough, featuring a spectacular bounce upon touchdown.
  • Following the poor landing, a humorous request was made for 98 wheelchairs, implying the entire plane's occupants might need assistance due to the bumpy arrival.
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Many years ago, I had just landed at Cairns in Far North Queensland, when an incoming DC-9 called over the radio:

DC-9:
“Cairns Tower, TN 123. Request a wheelchair to meet the flight on arrival. It’s the Captain’s last landing.”

Tower responded appropriately. I thought this was too good to miss, so I stayed on the air. Eventually the DC-9 appeared, touched down, and bounced spectacularly before finally getting under control and rolling through.

DC-9 (a different voice this time) :
“Tower, can you make that 98 wheelchairs?”

Terry Wesley-Smith
via e-mail

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