On this page, there will always be updates and new posts! Stay tuned!
Jul 31, 2017
I attended an aeronautical engineering program at Embry-Riddell Aeronautical University this summer and had a really great time there--I loved the hands-on activities and met some amazing people. We had good lectures too on the science behind flying and I learned a lot, from designing airfoil on CAD and actually printing and testing how strong they are, to learning about engine efficiency and different materials, it was truly an eye-opening experience. They also have several different wind tunnels there, and we got to see how a different angle of attack affects the performance of the wing. We also designed and built balsa-wood gliders based on what we learned from the lectures and had a flying competition. We also learned some rocket science and launched our own rockets made out of water bottle.
I'm going to be sharing my favorite lesson from the whole experience with you all--Aircraft Stability. It's basic knowledge that an aircraft is capable of three different types of movements--roll, yaw and pitch--but what I didn't know is that aircrafts are designed in specific ways to be stable in all three movements. You might have noticed that commercial aircraft wings are not parallel to the ground and in fact have an angle, tilting upwards slightly. This is called a dihedral and it offers better row stability. Aircrafts tend to side slip as they turn. With a dihedral, the lower wing while turning and side slipping has better lift and therefore will have the tendency to return the aircraft to an upright position. High wing aircrafts (planes with wings above the fuselage) tend to have better roll stability. (The stability I'm talking about here is static stability). I was able to see the static stability in motion when we flew our balsa wood glider--our glider dipped down at one point and looked like it was going to nosedive, but then somehow picked up some lift and kept gliding for a while.
I attended an aeronautical engineering program at Embry-Riddell Aeronautical University this summer and had a really great time there--I loved the hands-on activities and met some amazing people. We had good lectures too on the science behind flying and I learned a lot, from designing airfoil on CAD and actually printing and testing how strong they are, to learning about engine efficiency and different materials, it was truly an eye-opening experience. They also have several different wind tunnels there, and we got to see how a different angle of attack affects the performance of the wing. We also designed and built balsa-wood gliders based on what we learned from the lectures and had a flying competition. We also learned some rocket science and launched our own rockets made out of water bottle.
I'm going to be sharing my favorite lesson from the whole experience with you all--Aircraft Stability. It's basic knowledge that an aircraft is capable of three different types of movements--roll, yaw and pitch--but what I didn't know is that aircrafts are designed in specific ways to be stable in all three movements. You might have noticed that commercial aircraft wings are not parallel to the ground and in fact have an angle, tilting upwards slightly. This is called a dihedral and it offers better row stability. Aircrafts tend to side slip as they turn. With a dihedral, the lower wing while turning and side slipping has better lift and therefore will have the tendency to return the aircraft to an upright position. High wing aircrafts (planes with wings above the fuselage) tend to have better roll stability. (The stability I'm talking about here is static stability). I was able to see the static stability in motion when we flew our balsa wood glider--our glider dipped down at one point and looked like it was going to nosedive, but then somehow picked up some lift and kept gliding for a while.
Jun 13, 2017
Hi guys, I'm free now and will be updating more in the next week or so. Today, I'll start off by telling you a story about my first cancelled flight and another about a flight that had to return to the origin after already reaching the destination.
The cancelled flight actually just happened a dew days ago while I was flying back to Hong Kong from Boston. We were already at the gate, ready to board, when they announced that boarding will be delayed by 15 minutes and they kept on saying 15 more minutes for basically the next hour. That one hour eventually dragged into three. At first they only said there were mechanical issues that needed to be fixed. Later, it was revealed that there was an issue with the engine, at which point we realized it was going to take longer than they are predicting. I knew the flight was getting cancelled, but of course I still had that little speck of hope inside me. As I predicted, after more than three hours, they announce that the flight was cancelled. The other story is slightly more interesting. It happened a long time ago when I was traveling to this place in China named Jiu Zhai Gou where the scenery is extremely beautiful but the weather often unpredictable. We boarded the two hour flight only to find ourselves back where we took off four hours later. The funny thing is nobody told us we were heading back because of the recent snowstorm until we landed at the airport. We learned about the legend that people made up and it goes something along the lines of "Out of 10 flights, 9 are canceled and 1 returns". It's a lot funnier with a Chinese pun that involves the name of the place.
Something else that I've been wanting to talk about for a long time is the musical "Come From Away", which I had the chance watch this April. You should definitely add it to your to watch list if you love anything that has to do with planes. It's not a glorious musical with a lot of catchy songs, but as an aviation enthusiast, I really felt a connection with many aspects of the musical. I walked into the theatre not knowing what it was going to be about, so when I found out it's about 9/11, I became very intrigued. It has a fresh take on the tragic event--the not so tragic side of things. I'm not going to spoil anything so that's all I will say regarding the plot. It's also very empowering, featuring a female pilot who shares her dream of flying and her journey up the ladder packed all in a single powerfully belted song "Me and the Sky". That song even has the line "American airlines has the prettiest planes" which I think is pretty funny.
Hi guys, I'm free now and will be updating more in the next week or so. Today, I'll start off by telling you a story about my first cancelled flight and another about a flight that had to return to the origin after already reaching the destination.
The cancelled flight actually just happened a dew days ago while I was flying back to Hong Kong from Boston. We were already at the gate, ready to board, when they announced that boarding will be delayed by 15 minutes and they kept on saying 15 more minutes for basically the next hour. That one hour eventually dragged into three. At first they only said there were mechanical issues that needed to be fixed. Later, it was revealed that there was an issue with the engine, at which point we realized it was going to take longer than they are predicting. I knew the flight was getting cancelled, but of course I still had that little speck of hope inside me. As I predicted, after more than three hours, they announce that the flight was cancelled. The other story is slightly more interesting. It happened a long time ago when I was traveling to this place in China named Jiu Zhai Gou where the scenery is extremely beautiful but the weather often unpredictable. We boarded the two hour flight only to find ourselves back where we took off four hours later. The funny thing is nobody told us we were heading back because of the recent snowstorm until we landed at the airport. We learned about the legend that people made up and it goes something along the lines of "Out of 10 flights, 9 are canceled and 1 returns". It's a lot funnier with a Chinese pun that involves the name of the place.
Something else that I've been wanting to talk about for a long time is the musical "Come From Away", which I had the chance watch this April. You should definitely add it to your to watch list if you love anything that has to do with planes. It's not a glorious musical with a lot of catchy songs, but as an aviation enthusiast, I really felt a connection with many aspects of the musical. I walked into the theatre not knowing what it was going to be about, so when I found out it's about 9/11, I became very intrigued. It has a fresh take on the tragic event--the not so tragic side of things. I'm not going to spoil anything so that's all I will say regarding the plot. It's also very empowering, featuring a female pilot who shares her dream of flying and her journey up the ladder packed all in a single powerfully belted song "Me and the Sky". That song even has the line "American airlines has the prettiest planes" which I think is pretty funny.
Mar 18, 2017
The most exciting thing that happened recently was seeing the A350 at HKG. I remember thinking to myself: what if I see the A350, and just laughing at the idea since Cathay only has 1 so far. Right as I was thinking that, I saw it and got some amazing photos. I'm also starting an aviation related project, so make sure to check out: http://mayyourdreamstakeflight.weebly.com/ I've also been looking into the details of MH370 more since its anniversary just passed. I remember thinking about why investigators were unable to find the blackboxes since I assumed it would be a pretty straight forward process, but apparently that's not the case. I will be talking about it more here.
The most exciting thing that happened recently was seeing the A350 at HKG. I remember thinking to myself: what if I see the A350, and just laughing at the idea since Cathay only has 1 so far. Right as I was thinking that, I saw it and got some amazing photos. I'm also starting an aviation related project, so make sure to check out: http://mayyourdreamstakeflight.weebly.com/ I've also been looking into the details of MH370 more since its anniversary just passed. I remember thinking about why investigators were unable to find the blackboxes since I assumed it would be a pretty straight forward process, but apparently that's not the case. I will be talking about it more here.
Jan 1, 2017
Happy New Year everyone! it's time for some updates. So much has happened and I'm going to try to remember what I intended on sharing today but it might not happen since it's been a while. First thing, I want to talk about the Columbian air crash. It's so sad how things turned out--there just happened to be another aircraft with a problem at the same time. What is even more scary to think about, is the fact that I was on a plane, in the air, at the same time as the LaMia plane. Things do happen. Maybe it's just me but I feel like there has been a lot of commercial aircraft accidents in 2016 and it's time for a better year.
When I flew to Boston a while ago, I got my hands swiped by a security officer before boarding. This random swipe was decided by my boarding pass, which had the number 262 printed at the bottom. It is totally random and I have no idea if the number changes from day to day. I was really confused because the airport workers let me skip the line several and kept on saying "here's another 262". They also kept my boariding pass for reference. Later on, I found out that this is testing for traces of explosives. I'm really glad that a test like this exists and simply to discover new airport secrets.
I visited Africa during Christmas and here are some photos and videos from the trip. I got to take some small planes by Beechcraft which was really cool. I also got to experience de-icing for the first time (that I remember), and it was not a gret experience. We waited for de-icing for over an hour and we were 3 hours behind schedule. JFK, out of any airport, whould be well equipped and prepared for snow days, but it clearly wasn't. The deicing fluid was pinkish and orangish and tinted the white paint which went away pretty soon.
Happy New Year everyone! it's time for some updates. So much has happened and I'm going to try to remember what I intended on sharing today but it might not happen since it's been a while. First thing, I want to talk about the Columbian air crash. It's so sad how things turned out--there just happened to be another aircraft with a problem at the same time. What is even more scary to think about, is the fact that I was on a plane, in the air, at the same time as the LaMia plane. Things do happen. Maybe it's just me but I feel like there has been a lot of commercial aircraft accidents in 2016 and it's time for a better year.
When I flew to Boston a while ago, I got my hands swiped by a security officer before boarding. This random swipe was decided by my boarding pass, which had the number 262 printed at the bottom. It is totally random and I have no idea if the number changes from day to day. I was really confused because the airport workers let me skip the line several and kept on saying "here's another 262". They also kept my boariding pass for reference. Later on, I found out that this is testing for traces of explosives. I'm really glad that a test like this exists and simply to discover new airport secrets.
I visited Africa during Christmas and here are some photos and videos from the trip. I got to take some small planes by Beechcraft which was really cool. I also got to experience de-icing for the first time (that I remember), and it was not a gret experience. We waited for de-icing for over an hour and we were 3 hours behind schedule. JFK, out of any airport, whould be well equipped and prepared for snow days, but it clearly wasn't. The deicing fluid was pinkish and orangish and tinted the white paint which went away pretty soon.
July 23 and Aug 1, 2016
Sorry for not posting in awhile. Summer has been pretty busy and I didn't have my laptop for a whole month, but I'll be catching up on everything I've done this summer right now.
I started working towards my private pilot license right after school ended and got over 20 hours in the air in a two week span. I've always wanted to fly for real and my dream has come true! It's definitely very different from piloting inside a simulator. First of all, the simulators I've flown in are all commercial planes, while the actual flying was done in a Skyhawk (C172R). The general concepts and scientific knowledge are very similar because they are the same across-the-board. However, there were some new concepts and interesting terms like dihedral (the angle at which a wing is mount onto a fuselage) and how it affects stability, especially when turning. In private planes, a big part of flying is controlling how lean the fuel mixture is, which is something that never came up at all in commercial plane lessons. For example, the mixture is richened before a climb and leaned out after the climb is complete. When I found out I was going to take over controls on the very first day, I was excited and kind of scared at the same time. While I could crash a plane without any consequences in a simulator, I can't do the same in an actual plane because it's a matter of life and death. The idea that I'm holding my life in my hands came up a lot during my private plane training, and kept me really alert at all times during a flight. The pressure to do well is almost instinctive when you realize that you're not just playing in front of a colored screen, when your brain registers this as real and senses the risk. It was exhilarating to actually stall and recover, fly through strong winds, and perform steep turns while feeling the increasing G-force pressing me into my seat; almost like what one would expect from a roller coaster ride, except for the fact that I actually had to use my brain and muscles to control the vehicle. In simulators, two of the first thing I learned to do were takeoff and landing. However, after two weeks in a private plane, I still needed assistance taking off and only control the flaps for landing. I really struggled with holding the yoke with one hand at all times because I'm so used to holding it with both hands. I also noticed that I rely on my instruments a lot which is another habit I've gained from flying commercial planes. Flying could be mentally and physically exhausting, but it was also like a vacation. My coach and I, we flew to a lot of different places, which was so cool and so much fun. We flew to places like Martha's Vineyard and Rhode Island. I even got to get a birds eye view of my school which was so awesome. I was able to conquer my fear of turbulence through flying. We flew on some pretty windy days, but I felt so in control as a pilot, and I believe those who fly us through nasty weather feel the same way and now trust them a lot more.
I also got to ride several different types regional jets: B717, MD-80 and CRJ400. Nothing special, really, but I always enjoy the experience of riding different types of aircrafts.
Last thing: Always great to check out the Skytrax awards at this time of the year
Sorry for not posting in awhile. Summer has been pretty busy and I didn't have my laptop for a whole month, but I'll be catching up on everything I've done this summer right now.
I started working towards my private pilot license right after school ended and got over 20 hours in the air in a two week span. I've always wanted to fly for real and my dream has come true! It's definitely very different from piloting inside a simulator. First of all, the simulators I've flown in are all commercial planes, while the actual flying was done in a Skyhawk (C172R). The general concepts and scientific knowledge are very similar because they are the same across-the-board. However, there were some new concepts and interesting terms like dihedral (the angle at which a wing is mount onto a fuselage) and how it affects stability, especially when turning. In private planes, a big part of flying is controlling how lean the fuel mixture is, which is something that never came up at all in commercial plane lessons. For example, the mixture is richened before a climb and leaned out after the climb is complete. When I found out I was going to take over controls on the very first day, I was excited and kind of scared at the same time. While I could crash a plane without any consequences in a simulator, I can't do the same in an actual plane because it's a matter of life and death. The idea that I'm holding my life in my hands came up a lot during my private plane training, and kept me really alert at all times during a flight. The pressure to do well is almost instinctive when you realize that you're not just playing in front of a colored screen, when your brain registers this as real and senses the risk. It was exhilarating to actually stall and recover, fly through strong winds, and perform steep turns while feeling the increasing G-force pressing me into my seat; almost like what one would expect from a roller coaster ride, except for the fact that I actually had to use my brain and muscles to control the vehicle. In simulators, two of the first thing I learned to do were takeoff and landing. However, after two weeks in a private plane, I still needed assistance taking off and only control the flaps for landing. I really struggled with holding the yoke with one hand at all times because I'm so used to holding it with both hands. I also noticed that I rely on my instruments a lot which is another habit I've gained from flying commercial planes. Flying could be mentally and physically exhausting, but it was also like a vacation. My coach and I, we flew to a lot of different places, which was so cool and so much fun. We flew to places like Martha's Vineyard and Rhode Island. I even got to get a birds eye view of my school which was so awesome. I was able to conquer my fear of turbulence through flying. We flew on some pretty windy days, but I felt so in control as a pilot, and I believe those who fly us through nasty weather feel the same way and now trust them a lot more.
I also got to ride several different types regional jets: B717, MD-80 and CRJ400. Nothing special, really, but I always enjoy the experience of riding different types of aircrafts.
Last thing: Always great to check out the Skytrax awards at this time of the year
April 17, 2016
Love flying your drones around and taking panoramas? Well apparently hundreds of drones almost collided into aircrafts and they're becoming a threat in the aviation world!
Love flying your drones around and taking panoramas? Well apparently hundreds of drones almost collided into aircrafts and they're becoming a threat in the aviation world!
April 17, 2016: Plane spotting before my flight to Boston(some Iphone quality photos). And yes, I had the pleasure of traveling on the spirit of HK plane again!
April 17, 2016
There are a lot of new info that I want to but didn't have time to share with all of you yet. First of all, I want to talk about the future of Hong Kong airport and the 2030 plan for a third runway. According to HKIA's research, the dual runway system will not be able to cope with future passenger/cargo demands.
Pros:
- More passengers and cargo
- Economic development
Cons
- Busy Air space
- Environmental impacts (CO2 emission, land fill etc.)
I think that the 3RS expansion plan is a good long term plan to solve the problem of increased demands, but it will also create long term environmental problems. There's no doubt that a third runway is necessary sometime in the future, but I don't know whether or not the demand will change or new technology will emerge.
There are a lot of new info that I want to but didn't have time to share with all of you yet. First of all, I want to talk about the future of Hong Kong airport and the 2030 plan for a third runway. According to HKIA's research, the dual runway system will not be able to cope with future passenger/cargo demands.
Pros:
- More passengers and cargo
- Economic development
Cons
- Busy Air space
- Environmental impacts (CO2 emission, land fill etc.)
I think that the 3RS expansion plan is a good long term plan to solve the problem of increased demands, but it will also create long term environmental problems. There's no doubt that a third runway is necessary sometime in the future, but I don't know whether or not the demand will change or new technology will emerge.
March 14, 2016
Questions that I hear a lot: Can you fly with glasses?
Answer: Yes! But you have to have 20/20 or 20/40 vision depending on what you are flying with or without correction.
Questions that I hear a lot: Can you fly with glasses?
Answer: Yes! But you have to have 20/20 or 20/40 vision depending on what you are flying with or without correction.
Feb 25, 2016
Didn't do too well, but... Try this: http://www.buzzfeed.com/perpetua/airport-code-quiz?bffbmain&utm_term=.upEjQoA0k#.dp3pXOJ4G
Didn't do too well, but... Try this: http://www.buzzfeed.com/perpetua/airport-code-quiz?bffbmain&utm_term=.upEjQoA0k#.dp3pXOJ4G
Feb 16, 2016
If you are in Singapore, make sure to go check out the airshow!!
A question for today: Will a plane crash if struck by lightning?
Answer: The main problem with lightning used to be that it affected the wires and circuits and caused sparks which could lead to fire and even explosion. There have been cases in the past where planes crashed because of lightning, but nowadays, we should have nothing to worry about. Electricity is conducted away from the important parts of the aircraft--it stays on the outside. Occasional, the cockpit displays might flash a few times, but no, the plane will not crash.
If you're interested, you should read this article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-happens-when-lightni/
If you are in Singapore, make sure to go check out the airshow!!
A question for today: Will a plane crash if struck by lightning?
Answer: The main problem with lightning used to be that it affected the wires and circuits and caused sparks which could lead to fire and even explosion. There have been cases in the past where planes crashed because of lightning, but nowadays, we should have nothing to worry about. Electricity is conducted away from the important parts of the aircraft--it stays on the outside. Occasional, the cockpit displays might flash a few times, but no, the plane will not crash.
If you're interested, you should read this article: http://www.scientificamerican.com/article/what-happens-when-lightni/
Jan 28, 2016
http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/28/aviation/dragonair-rebrand-cathay-pacific-dragon/index.html
^Dragonair is changing it's logo as a part of Cathay's rebranding plan... I'll miss seeing the familiar Dragon logo around :(
The photo below belongs to http://www.cathaypacific.com/cx/en_HK/cathaydragon/introduction.html.
http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/28/aviation/dragonair-rebrand-cathay-pacific-dragon/index.html
^Dragonair is changing it's logo as a part of Cathay's rebranding plan... I'll miss seeing the familiar Dragon logo around :(
The photo below belongs to http://www.cathaypacific.com/cx/en_HK/cathaydragon/introduction.html.
Jan 1, 2016
Happy New Year! Sorry for not posting anything recently. I've been busy getting used to my new school and heavier workload. I will be active again from now on! I will start off now by telling you about my recent plane experiences, and then move one to what I know/think about some interesting questions related to planes!
I've flown a lot recently, from JFK-HKG then HKG- BOS a few times. I also flew to Dubai and back. When I flew to Boston the last time, I was in seat 34A on a Boeing 777-300ER. There was a constant punching coming from below the floor. It was extremely frequent for quite a while after take off. It was also very frequent during turbulences. I felt like someone was kicking the floor from the cargo area. The passenger next to me felt it as well. It's quite strong and sharp too. You could almost hear a pop sound. i was really scared and so I told the flight attendant and she reported it to the cockpit. The first officer came and felt it too. There was nothing he could do about it -- obviously it was not worth it to land for a small problem like this. He did care about it thought, and came to check if things were okay every few hours. It did stop for a long period of time in the middle of the flight. Even till now, I still wonder what caused this problem and I would really love to know. I also hope that the pilots reported this problem after landing and got it fixed, but I guess I would never know! Something else that really surprised me was how quite A380 engines are! I was on an Emirates A380(second time on an A380 :)). I expected the rumbling of the engines to get louder when we were going into takeoff, but the difference is barely noticeable! Even at full speed, I thought we were going too slow or something because the engines didn't make a lot of noise!
Q1: Do planes still fly over the Bermuda triangle?
The Bermuda triangle(an area formed by linking Florida, Puerto Rico and Bermuda) is known for mysterious disappearances of aircrafts and ships, but planes do still fly over it. According to studies, the area has unusual magnetic properties which could have affected the functioning of compasses. Although the cause of some accidents still remain unknown, many have been cleared as just coincidences- it just so happened that the plane was in that area when there was a mechanical problem etc. Planes fly over the triangle everyday and nothing has happened in at least a few years, so I think there's nothing to worry about.
Q2: Are planes that have 4 engines safer and more powerful than those with 2?
Let's start off by exploring: Why are twin engine jets becoming more popular than four-engine ones? I believe I'm not the only who noticed the sharp declination of 747s in the past 5 years or so. Airlines are replacing their 747s because: 1. 4 engines= less fuel efficient= more cost to operate. 2. They don't want to deal with all the unoccupied seats with such a high operating price.
People often assume that a B747 is safer than a B777 simply because if a 747 looses an engine, there are still 3 left, whereas a 777 would only have one left. What one should realize is that the technology is improving. Nowadays, an engine on a 777 has almost the same amount of power as 2 engines on a 747. When this is true, why still have 4 engines? Although the total thrust produced by all 747 engines together is stronger than the total thrust produced by the 2 engines on 777, a single 777 engine is stronger than a single 747 engine, which makes their power pretty similar. A 777 can travel around 3 hours on one engine. In conclusion, one is not safer than the other -- they are both safe.
Happy New Year! Sorry for not posting anything recently. I've been busy getting used to my new school and heavier workload. I will be active again from now on! I will start off now by telling you about my recent plane experiences, and then move one to what I know/think about some interesting questions related to planes!
I've flown a lot recently, from JFK-HKG then HKG- BOS a few times. I also flew to Dubai and back. When I flew to Boston the last time, I was in seat 34A on a Boeing 777-300ER. There was a constant punching coming from below the floor. It was extremely frequent for quite a while after take off. It was also very frequent during turbulences. I felt like someone was kicking the floor from the cargo area. The passenger next to me felt it as well. It's quite strong and sharp too. You could almost hear a pop sound. i was really scared and so I told the flight attendant and she reported it to the cockpit. The first officer came and felt it too. There was nothing he could do about it -- obviously it was not worth it to land for a small problem like this. He did care about it thought, and came to check if things were okay every few hours. It did stop for a long period of time in the middle of the flight. Even till now, I still wonder what caused this problem and I would really love to know. I also hope that the pilots reported this problem after landing and got it fixed, but I guess I would never know! Something else that really surprised me was how quite A380 engines are! I was on an Emirates A380(second time on an A380 :)). I expected the rumbling of the engines to get louder when we were going into takeoff, but the difference is barely noticeable! Even at full speed, I thought we were going too slow or something because the engines didn't make a lot of noise!
Q1: Do planes still fly over the Bermuda triangle?
The Bermuda triangle(an area formed by linking Florida, Puerto Rico and Bermuda) is known for mysterious disappearances of aircrafts and ships, but planes do still fly over it. According to studies, the area has unusual magnetic properties which could have affected the functioning of compasses. Although the cause of some accidents still remain unknown, many have been cleared as just coincidences- it just so happened that the plane was in that area when there was a mechanical problem etc. Planes fly over the triangle everyday and nothing has happened in at least a few years, so I think there's nothing to worry about.
Q2: Are planes that have 4 engines safer and more powerful than those with 2?
Let's start off by exploring: Why are twin engine jets becoming more popular than four-engine ones? I believe I'm not the only who noticed the sharp declination of 747s in the past 5 years or so. Airlines are replacing their 747s because: 1. 4 engines= less fuel efficient= more cost to operate. 2. They don't want to deal with all the unoccupied seats with such a high operating price.
People often assume that a B747 is safer than a B777 simply because if a 747 looses an engine, there are still 3 left, whereas a 777 would only have one left. What one should realize is that the technology is improving. Nowadays, an engine on a 777 has almost the same amount of power as 2 engines on a 747. When this is true, why still have 4 engines? Although the total thrust produced by all 747 engines together is stronger than the total thrust produced by the 2 engines on 777, a single 777 engine is stronger than a single 747 engine, which makes their power pretty similar. A 777 can travel around 3 hours on one engine. In conclusion, one is not safer than the other -- they are both safe.
August 28, 2015
Just got a chance to upload the plane takeoff/landing video I made a month ago!! Here's the Video. Enjoy!! (You can use this link as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bx745jcTLxk&feature=youtu.be )
Just got a chance to upload the plane takeoff/landing video I made a month ago!! Here's the Video. Enjoy!! (You can use this link as well: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bx745jcTLxk&feature=youtu.be )
August 28, 2015
Sorry for not posting for so long. I've been preparing for school and everything. I new have a few new additions to my plane collection. Click "My plane collection" under "My Experience" to view the new models!!
Sorry for not posting for so long. I've been preparing for school and everything. I new have a few new additions to my plane collection. Click "My plane collection" under "My Experience" to view the new models!!
August 9, 2015
CHECK THIS OUT!!!
CHECK THIS OUT!!!
July 14, 2015
Hi! I'm back! Weeeeeeee. So I will be posting some plane related photos, videos and stories! It was actually a new experience for me since we landed under the condition of typhoon 8. It was surprisingly stable actually-definetely doesn't feel like I was stuck in a storm or anything. I could feel the landing was a bit weird, more like we were flying too fast and going overspeed- the clouds were passing by so quickly and gave us the illusion of travelling really quickly. I have definitely been on planes which passed through much more severe turbulence. Thunderstorm is probably the worst time to fly in in my point of view, they seem to be very turbulent.
Something else that is really cool is that I HAVE NEVER SEEN SO MANY 787s IN MY LIFE! Barely seen any before, then BAM they were just in rows in front of me.
Hi! I'm back! Weeeeeeee. So I will be posting some plane related photos, videos and stories! It was actually a new experience for me since we landed under the condition of typhoon 8. It was surprisingly stable actually-definetely doesn't feel like I was stuck in a storm or anything. I could feel the landing was a bit weird, more like we were flying too fast and going overspeed- the clouds were passing by so quickly and gave us the illusion of travelling really quickly. I have definitely been on planes which passed through much more severe turbulence. Thunderstorm is probably the worst time to fly in in my point of view, they seem to be very turbulent.
Something else that is really cool is that I HAVE NEVER SEEN SO MANY 787s IN MY LIFE! Barely seen any before, then BAM they were just in rows in front of me.
Boeing photos below, and the picture with loads of photos of random places are showing how big Boeing factory is compared to these places. Boeing is the red box.
Random plane photos below
May 21, 2015
Woah... https://youtu.be/iElkGfzYk2c
Woah... https://youtu.be/iElkGfzYk2c
May 16, 2015
So sorry for skipping this month's Plane of the Month- school was really busy and I also had a school trip! There is a good new though- I HAVE A LOT OF PLANE VIDEOS AND PHOTOS FROM THE TRIP TO SHARE WITH YOU GUYS, AND HERE THEY ARE!
So sorry for skipping this month's Plane of the Month- school was really busy and I also had a school trip! There is a good new though- I HAVE A LOT OF PLANE VIDEOS AND PHOTOS FROM THE TRIP TO SHARE WITH YOU GUYS, AND HERE THEY ARE!
April 5, 2015:
HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE! This is the closest I got to a "easter plane"(because of the bunny rabbit) -_-
Make sure you check this out too: http://www.airplanesmovie.com
^ so excited for the NG plane movie "Living in the Age of Airplanes"
HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE! This is the closest I got to a "easter plane"(because of the bunny rabbit) -_-
Make sure you check this out too: http://www.airplanesmovie.com
^ so excited for the NG plane movie "Living in the Age of Airplanes"
March 3, 2015:
How come I didn't know a CVR can only store around 2 hours of information and a FDR 25 hours? I just found out after watching new episodes of Mayday and researching -_- ...
How come I didn't know a CVR can only store around 2 hours of information and a FDR 25 hours? I just found out after watching new episodes of Mayday and researching -_- ...
March 1, 2015:
A lesson on engines! I got my information from this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AX7w2iEqmCc
I will be briefly outlining the contents of the video below:
85% of the airflow is sucked in my the turbines in the front and sped up and out of the engine. 15% of the airflow passes through multiple compressors and other mechanical parts which increases the pressure and temperature and ignites it. The 85% of air is more powerful than the other 15%.
A lesson on engines! I got my information from this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AX7w2iEqmCc
I will be briefly outlining the contents of the video below:
85% of the airflow is sucked in my the turbines in the front and sped up and out of the engine. 15% of the airflow passes through multiple compressors and other mechanical parts which increases the pressure and temperature and ignites it. The 85% of air is more powerful than the other 15%.
Feb 28, 2015:
New post in the special livery section! A little late, but a Chinese New Year plane!
New post in the special livery section! A little late, but a Chinese New Year plane!
Feb 1, 2015:
OK. So super basic lesson on forces.
So how exactly does a plane fly? There are four forces: lift, weight, thrust and drag. The wings are shaped in a way in which the top part is bulging upwards lightly and the bottom part flat. According to Bernoulli's principal, the air flow on the top will have to move fast because the curve means a longer distance in a shorter amount of time. With faster airflow on the top and slower airflow on the bottom, this generates high pressure on the bottom which can then push the plane up. Lift is calculated with an equation: L = (1/2) d v2 s CL
There are 2 types of drag, induced drag and parasitic drag. Induced drag comes naturally with lift. The different of pressure at the trailing edge of the wing creates vortices. Parasitic drag is created when the air collides with the body of the aircraft, creating friction and therefore producing drag
OK. So super basic lesson on forces.
So how exactly does a plane fly? There are four forces: lift, weight, thrust and drag. The wings are shaped in a way in which the top part is bulging upwards lightly and the bottom part flat. According to Bernoulli's principal, the air flow on the top will have to move fast because the curve means a longer distance in a shorter amount of time. With faster airflow on the top and slower airflow on the bottom, this generates high pressure on the bottom which can then push the plane up. Lift is calculated with an equation: L = (1/2) d v2 s CL
There are 2 types of drag, induced drag and parasitic drag. Induced drag comes naturally with lift. The different of pressure at the trailing edge of the wing creates vortices. Parasitic drag is created when the air collides with the body of the aircraft, creating friction and therefore producing drag
Jan 28, 2015:
First post in 2015! Since I post so much about experiences, I think it's time for some SCIENCE :)
I will start with what planes are made of. So, at first, they were wooden. Now, most planes are made of alloy which contain aluminium. The newest planes like the Dreamliner and A350 are made of composite materials like carbon fibre reinforced polymer.
First post in 2015! Since I post so much about experiences, I think it's time for some SCIENCE :)
I will start with what planes are made of. So, at first, they were wooden. Now, most planes are made of alloy which contain aluminium. The newest planes like the Dreamliner and A350 are made of composite materials like carbon fibre reinforced polymer.
Dec 28, 2014:
Pray for QZ8501 :/
Pray for QZ8501 :/
Dec 25, 2014:
MERRY CHRISTMAS HOHOHO
MERRY CHRISTMAS HOHOHO
Dec 18, 2014:
I was doing research for a project and here are some things I found:
Click here for a fact sheet about economic and social benefits of air transport by IATA
Statistics: (Aviation and environment)
- 3.1 billion passengers and 48 million tons of cargo transported through air
- increase in demand for international air travel, up to 5.7% in 2013 compared to 2012
- aviation industry $539 billion of GDP per year
- Boeing has more than 160,000 staffs working
- Civil aircraft manufacturing continues to be the top net exporter in the U.S
- 12% CO2 compared to 74% from road transports
- since 1990, CO2 emissions from international aviation have increased 83%.
- When jet fuel is burned, the carbon in the fuel is released and bonds with oxygen (O2) in the air to form carbon dioxide (CO2). Burning jet fuel also releases water vapour, nitrous oxides, sulphate, and soot.
- responsible for 4–8% of surface global warming
- the size of this industry will double in 15 years
- jobs, access to other countries
- 747 is 4.8 times more fuel efficient than a Concorde
I was doing research for a project and here are some things I found:
Click here for a fact sheet about economic and social benefits of air transport by IATA
Statistics: (Aviation and environment)
- 3.1 billion passengers and 48 million tons of cargo transported through air
- increase in demand for international air travel, up to 5.7% in 2013 compared to 2012
- aviation industry $539 billion of GDP per year
- Boeing has more than 160,000 staffs working
- Civil aircraft manufacturing continues to be the top net exporter in the U.S
- 12% CO2 compared to 74% from road transports
- since 1990, CO2 emissions from international aviation have increased 83%.
- When jet fuel is burned, the carbon in the fuel is released and bonds with oxygen (O2) in the air to form carbon dioxide (CO2). Burning jet fuel also releases water vapour, nitrous oxides, sulphate, and soot.
- responsible for 4–8% of surface global warming
- the size of this industry will double in 15 years
- jobs, access to other countries
- 747 is 4.8 times more fuel efficient than a Concorde
Dec 7, 2014:
HAPPY CIVIL AVIATION DAY! <3
HAPPY CIVIL AVIATION DAY! <3
Dec 1, 2014:
Woah- http://nypost.com/2014/11/30/terrorists-plotting-to-blow-up-5-planes-in-christmas-spectacular-report/
Woah- http://nypost.com/2014/11/30/terrorists-plotting-to-blow-up-5-planes-in-christmas-spectacular-report/
November 20, 2014:
It's good to hear that new belugas will be designed! Click here for more info!
It's good to hear that new belugas will be designed! Click here for more info!
November 17, 2014:
Yesterday, I went to Zhu Hai Flight Training Centre and flew on a few different simulators- not just single isle anymore, also wide-body jets! These are the planes I flew: B777-200, B757, A330, E190. (Yes, the WHOLE experience and ALL my thoughts are on the simulator experience page and there are 2 more pictures here) On the boat trip, we passed by Hong Kong airport and watch a few planes land on runway 25R and one on 25L. I actually have a video of a B787 landing- man, this is my first time seeing one and its caught on tape? :P
Yesterday, I went to Zhu Hai Flight Training Centre and flew on a few different simulators- not just single isle anymore, also wide-body jets! These are the planes I flew: B777-200, B757, A330, E190. (Yes, the WHOLE experience and ALL my thoughts are on the simulator experience page and there are 2 more pictures here) On the boat trip, we passed by Hong Kong airport and watch a few planes land on runway 25R and one on 25L. I actually have a video of a B787 landing- man, this is my first time seeing one and its caught on tape? :P
November 2, 2014:
This is so helpful!!!
And not related, but I just wanted to share a photo of the amazing view from the plane. Enjoy!
This is so helpful!!!
And not related, but I just wanted to share a photo of the amazing view from the plane. Enjoy!
October 26, 2014:
Wow. Had the most amazing experience on my flight to New York on the 18th. Remember how I've posted pictures of the "Cathay Pacific Spirit of HK plane"? Well, I got a chance to be on it! It all started when I was staring out the car window on my way to the airport and saw the spirit of HK plane parked at one of the gates. I convinced my dad that I was going to go to that gate and take a picture of the plane before we board our own flight. Surprisingly, the gate WAS our flight's gate! I was in shock. I remember researching about the plane, thinking I'm never going to see it, let alone get on it. It was just so exciting knowing you are going to board a special livery! Even though a special livery is nothing more than an extra coat of paint, it was still amazing just taking a look at a plane you have dreamed of seeing!
Wow. Had the most amazing experience on my flight to New York on the 18th. Remember how I've posted pictures of the "Cathay Pacific Spirit of HK plane"? Well, I got a chance to be on it! It all started when I was staring out the car window on my way to the airport and saw the spirit of HK plane parked at one of the gates. I convinced my dad that I was going to go to that gate and take a picture of the plane before we board our own flight. Surprisingly, the gate WAS our flight's gate! I was in shock. I remember researching about the plane, thinking I'm never going to see it, let alone get on it. It was just so exciting knowing you are going to board a special livery! Even though a special livery is nothing more than an extra coat of paint, it was still amazing just taking a look at a plane you have dreamed of seeing!
October 3,2014:
Just thought this video was amazing and wanted to share it: A350
Just thought this video was amazing and wanted to share it: A350
September 25, 2014:
SAVE THE DATE!!! Today is a day to remember. I remember watching youtube videos about first flight of aircrafts and thinking to myself, it's a shame I wasn't there. I thought I would never see a first flight of any plane. But today, today is the first flight of A320neo! It's not as special as B747, or A380, but I thought at least I witnessed the growth of the newest plane. I remember being in Airbus this summer, and seeing the first ever A320neo in the hanger, and now, just in less than 3 months, it's up and flying! This experience was amazing. I watched the first flight life on Youtube with the link provided by Airbus on Facebook. I missed the takeoff and didn't watch much, but I feel like I'm actually a part of this event and this is really exciting!!! I also just can't believe how fast technology developed. From a bad quality video from old times, to live videos online nowadays, it's all so amazing...
SAVE THE DATE!!! Today is a day to remember. I remember watching youtube videos about first flight of aircrafts and thinking to myself, it's a shame I wasn't there. I thought I would never see a first flight of any plane. But today, today is the first flight of A320neo! It's not as special as B747, or A380, but I thought at least I witnessed the growth of the newest plane. I remember being in Airbus this summer, and seeing the first ever A320neo in the hanger, and now, just in less than 3 months, it's up and flying! This experience was amazing. I watched the first flight life on Youtube with the link provided by Airbus on Facebook. I missed the takeoff and didn't watch much, but I feel like I'm actually a part of this event and this is really exciting!!! I also just can't believe how fast technology developed. From a bad quality video from old times, to live videos online nowadays, it's all so amazing...
September 21:
Ok. So most people find the science of sonic boom confusing like me. I was just researching about it so I might as well just put what I know so far down. The idea of sonic boom is often misunderstood as one bang that occurs when the plane first breaks the sound barrier. No. It's actually constant, meaning as long as the plane is flying faster than sound, sonic boom is present. It just when you hear it. It's only when you are in the area of projection of the sound that you will hear it. Here is an example of how a sonic boom happens. Imagine a stone. You throw it into a pond, then the waves go in all directions creating circles. When a boat is slowly moving, there are little bit of wave in front of it and more at the back. When the boat's speed is faster than the waves itself, then all the waves are going to be a cone shape with vortex on the nose of a boat and waves extending only behind the boat. This is basically like a plane going faster than sound.
Ok. So most people find the science of sonic boom confusing like me. I was just researching about it so I might as well just put what I know so far down. The idea of sonic boom is often misunderstood as one bang that occurs when the plane first breaks the sound barrier. No. It's actually constant, meaning as long as the plane is flying faster than sound, sonic boom is present. It just when you hear it. It's only when you are in the area of projection of the sound that you will hear it. Here is an example of how a sonic boom happens. Imagine a stone. You throw it into a pond, then the waves go in all directions creating circles. When a boat is slowly moving, there are little bit of wave in front of it and more at the back. When the boat's speed is faster than the waves itself, then all the waves are going to be a cone shape with vortex on the nose of a boat and waves extending only behind the boat. This is basically like a plane going faster than sound.
September 13, 2014:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BELUGA!!! YOU ARE 20 YEARS OLD TODAY :3 YOU ARE REALLY CUTE AND EVERYTHING SO I <3 YOU. BEST KISSES, MY OLD FRIEND! Photos below!!! <3 <3 <3 THIS LINK IS AWESOME: Airbus Beluga
HAPPY BIRTHDAY BELUGA!!! YOU ARE 20 YEARS OLD TODAY :3 YOU ARE REALLY CUTE AND EVERYTHING SO I <3 YOU. BEST KISSES, MY OLD FRIEND! Photos below!!! <3 <3 <3 THIS LINK IS AWESOME: Airbus Beluga
August 31, 2014:
Can't believe I never even wondered about where the word "Mayday" came from. The answer just flew to me when I read a book about aviation last night. Surprisingly, this word came from a French word! So many things come from French! A captain in Europe was assigned to think of a clear and simple word for emergency. Since he flew between England and France the most, he wanted to use a French vocabulary. Venez m'aider means "come and help me". So he took the second half- m'aider, which sounds like Mayday in english!
Can't believe I never even wondered about where the word "Mayday" came from. The answer just flew to me when I read a book about aviation last night. Surprisingly, this word came from a French word! So many things come from French! A captain in Europe was assigned to think of a clear and simple word for emergency. Since he flew between England and France the most, he wanted to use a French vocabulary. Venez m'aider means "come and help me". So he took the second half- m'aider, which sounds like Mayday in english!
August 13, 2014:
OK. So, I just found out the funniest thing. This photo has a story behind it!!! So as you can see, there is a A380 behind me, the vertical stabilizer or just the tail is already painted with the Skymark Airlines Livery. Of course back then, I didn't know what airline that was but I found out eventually. This airline ordered 6 A380s, being the first in Japan to order any Airbus A380. Of the 6, 2 are produced already and partially painted, ready to be delivered. But, the airline is struggling financially, and the cost of the A380s are higher than there stock value! They have no more money and therefore would like to cancel all the orders. So the 2 painted A380s are basically abandoned right now- like the one behind me in the photo :(. Right now, nobody really knows what's going to happen because the articles also stated that Skymark thinks the cancel fee is too high and Airbus wants it to merge with a bigger airline if it wants to cancel, so the airline is stuck in between really big decisions right now. Let's see what happens later on ;) good luck to everyone involved!
OK. So, I just found out the funniest thing. This photo has a story behind it!!! So as you can see, there is a A380 behind me, the vertical stabilizer or just the tail is already painted with the Skymark Airlines Livery. Of course back then, I didn't know what airline that was but I found out eventually. This airline ordered 6 A380s, being the first in Japan to order any Airbus A380. Of the 6, 2 are produced already and partially painted, ready to be delivered. But, the airline is struggling financially, and the cost of the A380s are higher than there stock value! They have no more money and therefore would like to cancel all the orders. So the 2 painted A380s are basically abandoned right now- like the one behind me in the photo :(. Right now, nobody really knows what's going to happen because the articles also stated that Skymark thinks the cancel fee is too high and Airbus wants it to merge with a bigger airline if it wants to cancel, so the airline is stuck in between really big decisions right now. Let's see what happens later on ;) good luck to everyone involved!
August 8th, 2014:I just completed Youth Cadet Program Year one today! I’m very pleased with my performance. I think I did well on both the written exam and the flying in the simulator. I had a lot of fun this year. I remember not being able to land a plane properly at first and getting confused over all the abbreviations! I still need to improve my unstable ILS landings! I’m so proud of the fact that I know I learned so much I don’t even know where to start! I finally know the basics of flying. I’m a step closer to my dream- fly a real plane! Thanks to Flight Experience and all my instructors! Hope to see you soon!
< All content in this screenshot belongs to Airbus.
July 28, 2014:
I saw a post on Airbus's page on Facebook and it says: A350 IS VISITING HONG KONG HAHAHAHA. Anyways, I was soooo excited that A350 is visiting Hong Kong for the first time!!! It must be a great experience to see it even though I did see it at Airbus, Toulouse! YES!
July 30th, two days from original post: I went to the airport today just to find the A350, but I missed it! It either came too early or departed too late since I was there at its proper takeoff time! I'm so jealous of those who posted their pictures of the A350 in Hong Kong on Facebook and other sites at the same time I feel so happy for them! I would be so glad if I were one of them :). Now I'll have to wait until it goes into service later on :(.-- That's a long time.
July 31st: Three days from the original post: Well, I guess it's my spirit of never giving up that pushed me to go to the airport once again to look for the A350. I arrived at Hong Kong airport plane viewing location on the roof and it's called Skydeck. It's outdoors and it really wasn't easy to be staying under the sun during the hottest part of a day but that was what I did. I arrived at 12 o'clock noon. The plane was supposed to land at 1pm. I geared myself and got binoculars and camera ready. Planes after planes passed. Time flew, and it was already 3pm all of a sudden, and yet I still hadn't seen my dream plane. I had to go home for violin by then. I was so disappointed once again. I could only say goodbye in silence as it was returning to Toulouse that night. It was truly devastating. I actually met another guy who was waiting for it too, he had those huge and long camera lens. He arrived an hour before us and was still there, waiting, when we left. I wish him best of the luck here! He's so lucky to be able to stay for the whole day and chase after that dream! I guess this can just serve as a plane spotting experience! Below are some photos taken during this trip!
July 28, 2014:
I saw a post on Airbus's page on Facebook and it says: A350 IS VISITING HONG KONG HAHAHAHA. Anyways, I was soooo excited that A350 is visiting Hong Kong for the first time!!! It must be a great experience to see it even though I did see it at Airbus, Toulouse! YES!
July 30th, two days from original post: I went to the airport today just to find the A350, but I missed it! It either came too early or departed too late since I was there at its proper takeoff time! I'm so jealous of those who posted their pictures of the A350 in Hong Kong on Facebook and other sites at the same time I feel so happy for them! I would be so glad if I were one of them :). Now I'll have to wait until it goes into service later on :(.-- That's a long time.
July 31st: Three days from the original post: Well, I guess it's my spirit of never giving up that pushed me to go to the airport once again to look for the A350. I arrived at Hong Kong airport plane viewing location on the roof and it's called Skydeck. It's outdoors and it really wasn't easy to be staying under the sun during the hottest part of a day but that was what I did. I arrived at 12 o'clock noon. The plane was supposed to land at 1pm. I geared myself and got binoculars and camera ready. Planes after planes passed. Time flew, and it was already 3pm all of a sudden, and yet I still hadn't seen my dream plane. I had to go home for violin by then. I was so disappointed once again. I could only say goodbye in silence as it was returning to Toulouse that night. It was truly devastating. I actually met another guy who was waiting for it too, he had those huge and long camera lens. He arrived an hour before us and was still there, waiting, when we left. I wish him best of the luck here! He's so lucky to be able to stay for the whole day and chase after that dream! I guess this can just serve as a plane spotting experience! Below are some photos taken during this trip!
<The photos on the left belongs to me, top is A340, bottom is A330
July 23rd, 2014: (a day after visiting Airbus)
Funny story here: So I'd always thought that A340 is much bigger than A330 and can go further- that is true but not entirely. I didn't even know they don't produce A340s anymore. I bet many thought the same as well. Well, apparently, after Airbus's introduction, A330-300 and A340-300 shared the same fuselage. Yep, wouldn't have guessed that :P. They just have different amount of engines. Before, the A340 was made because people didn't trust twin engine planes and they thought having 4 engines would be much safer. The A340 also had advantages: Longer distance, can carry more weight... The technology now proves that the need for 4 engines is no longer necessary as twin engine aircrafts are very safe and efficient as well, at the same standard as the four engine planes. A330 can take the job of the A340 well.
July 23rd, 2014: (a day after visiting Airbus)
Funny story here: So I'd always thought that A340 is much bigger than A330 and can go further- that is true but not entirely. I didn't even know they don't produce A340s anymore. I bet many thought the same as well. Well, apparently, after Airbus's introduction, A330-300 and A340-300 shared the same fuselage. Yep, wouldn't have guessed that :P. They just have different amount of engines. Before, the A340 was made because people didn't trust twin engine planes and they thought having 4 engines would be much safer. The A340 also had advantages: Longer distance, can carry more weight... The technology now proves that the need for 4 engines is no longer necessary as twin engine aircrafts are very safe and efficient as well, at the same standard as the four engine planes. A330 can take the job of the A340 well.
< Photo belongs to: www.qsl.net/pj7b/airport.html
July 20th, 2014:
This was from quite a while ago but here it is: Today, my instructor asked me which airport I would like to go to and listed a few: New York, Seattle, Boston, Caribbean, Hawaii... And I knew Caribbean would be a beautiful airport. “So, we will go to Saint Martin!”said the instructor. And there, I was like OMG isn’t that my dream to go to Princess Juliana Airport! There, the runway is right next to the beach on one side and facing a mountain on the other. I would love to go there to watch planes take off and land right above me some day, but caribbean is so far away from Hong Kong!
July 20th, 2014:
This was from quite a while ago but here it is: Today, my instructor asked me which airport I would like to go to and listed a few: New York, Seattle, Boston, Caribbean, Hawaii... And I knew Caribbean would be a beautiful airport. “So, we will go to Saint Martin!”said the instructor. And there, I was like OMG isn’t that my dream to go to Princess Juliana Airport! There, the runway is right next to the beach on one side and facing a mountain on the other. I would love to go there to watch planes take off and land right above me some day, but caribbean is so far away from Hong Kong!