We started the day with visibility that was nil across the bay and doubts in our minds that we could leave Ketchikan. A call to FSS at 7am proved our theory that the weather was a "no go", the issue icing from 9k and up. The route of flight required a 9k MEA.
More daring souls left in the morning and picked up a little ice along the route. We called those and hoped for a pilot report, but by noon we had not heard from anyone. We finally decided to go, got to the curb in front of the cab and then changed our minds. We waited another hour and finally we got a call from one of the "pioneers". The report was realistic, the temperatures had increased so we called "green light".
We departed Ketchikan with a clearance for 9,00, which was right at the freezing level. we were lucky because we were at the end of the line and benefited from everyones report. We spent the next 3.5 hours in and out of the clouds and never got any ice even though the conditions were right. We think the rain was heavy enough to help prevent ice. I thank Herschel for his experience and reports, Joe for telling me that I should make decisions that keep me flying for years and Dad for believing I was capable.
We landed at Moses Lake at about 8:40, the tower asked how many air miles it was from Ketchikan and I replied it was further than I wanted to know but it was 4 hours 34 minutes 55 seconds. FYI it was about 722nm or 830 miles for you groundlings. After we taxied we found the FBO manager had come back to meet us, give us 2 free cars and have made us hotel reservations. Herschel was ahead of us and arranged the hotel to keep the "Prime Rib Buffet" open for us. After a great meal and 2 double crown 'n sevens it is time for bed.
Tomorrow, towards home...
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