For several months one of Mercy Air's hangars has been home
to a beautiful Cessna 210 which is operated by the United Methodist Church (U.M.C.) in
the Democratic Republic of Congo.
After extensive maintenance here in South Africa, it was time for
this workhorse to return to service. But, first the plane needed to be flown
back up, across South Africa, Botswana and Zambia. With a full day of flying,
fuel stops, paperwork and uncertain weather conditions Rukang (UMC pilot)
invited Azarja (one of the Mercy Air pilots) to join him. After an hour delay with paperwork, they were airborne and on their way.
Despite the clouds and isolated
thunderstorms which littered their entire route, they did not end up having to
divert significantly. The newly installed engine performed flawlessly and they had a good time taking turns flying.
It was great
getting to know Rukang better. His passion and commitment to mission aviation
are a real treat. With thankful hearts for answered prayers they landed just
before sunset in Ndola.
The next day Rukang briefly showed
Azarja around town. To his surprise there was a Subway (which had to be checked
out)!
In the afternoon Azarja took a commercial flight back to
South Africa while Rukang flew the last 45 minute leg back to his home base in
D.R.C
Thank you
The Mercy Air team.
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