Alaskans and Kiwis are separated by the span of the globe, and yet there's much in common, including a love for aviation and clubs of bastards.
Say what?
Alaskans might remember the Corrupt Bastards Club, which included lawmakers who got caught up in an FBI sting. New Zealand's bastards, according to Bush Pilot readers down under, are healthy bush pilots.
The Marlborough Aero Club of Blenheim, N.Z., tells us that the recent champions of a down-under Short Take-off and Landing competition are none other than the Healthy Bastards.
Turns out New Zealand pilots want to hear from a few of Alaska aviators. From the Marlborough Aero Club:
Dear Bush Pilot,
Thought you might be interested to see what we do here in New Zealand and if there is any way to learn from you guys and perhaps link in if one of your bush pilots happens to be heading our way it would be great to meet them.
No word yet on why Kiwi pilots are bastards, but at least they're the healthy sort.
If any Alaskan pilots do connect with the Kiwis, let us know! Send us your stories from the Alaska skies, bush plane cockpits or even the Kiwi competitions.
Email stories and story ideas to bushpilot(at)alaskadispatch.com