OUR MAGIC CARPET – As we venture through this tumulus election year many of our readers will have opportunity to fly various candidates and officials. Today most of them are pretty air savvy but just a few years ago I picked up one of our “fearless leaders” in Indiana and was surprised to find him with great apprehension about flying in … “That machine!”. His staff was obviously well aware of his concern and had a limo on standby to give him an optional exit .
Not wishing to loose the desired impact of the aerial presentation, I suggested this was merely our magic carpet for the twenty minute flight and we could just lift a few inches to experience the feel of hover … then he could make his final choice, carpet or limo. His small twelve year old son was eagerly pulling at dad’s trousers, “Let’s try the carpet, Dad”, he said eagerly.
Not wishing to loose the desired impact of the aerial presentation, I suggested this was merely our magic carpet for the twenty minute flight and we could just lift a few inches to experience the feel of hover … then he could make his final choice, carpet or limo. His small twelve year old son was eagerly pulling at dad’s trousers, “Let’s try the carpet, Dad”, he said eagerly.
“Only a couple of inches”, the congressman prompted as we slowly lifted.
“See the fringe on the carpet flutter in the breeze”, I replied, attempting to get him to release his death grip on the seat. Then, I asked him let go of the carpet and wave at the gathered crowd … they ALL waved back!
That’s all it took for a professional politician, “Let’s fly this carpet!” he shouted …
It takes more than a salesman to sell helicopters, fly friendly!