Checking in at TF (Theodore Francis) Green International Airport or better know as Providence (PVD), I am asked my weight. 200 pounds. Okay, what's a few pounds among friends. The friendly gate agent also weighs my backpack.

I guess weight becomes critical when you are flying on a 9 passenger Cessna 402 airplane. Boarding according to weight, we all end up with window seats in a surprisingly comfortable cabin. Flown by a single pilot, one lucky passenger gets to sit up front with the pilot. Nevertheless, I can tell most of us are excited by the unique experience ahead.

A quick safety briefing by our pilot, Captain Kim and we sit back to watch her do her piloting thing. I am impressed. As Captain Kim takes a few attempts to get the propeller driven engine started, I am taken back to romantic and glory days of flying minus the engine smoke and oil leaks.

It takes just a few minutes of taxiing around with a window open before Captain Kim has us airborne for Martha's Vineyard a 25 minute flight from Providence. Initially the ride is a little bumpy as Captain Kim moves levers and pushes buttons. Feeling confident we are in good hands, cameras click away as we enjoy the scenery below us.

About 20 minutes into the flight we begin a gradual descent from about 3000 feet. A beautiful day gives us a nice view of Martha's Vineyard and more photo opportunities. A ferry can be seen below heading for the island. With a gentle thump the Cape Air Cessna 402 returns us to Mother Earth.

Deplaning, the passengers seated at the rear of the aircraft leave first. My backpack is retrieved from a compartment behind the left engine and placed with others from the nose section of the airplane. We are given more photo opportunities before being escorted along the tarmac to an exit gate.

Welcome to Martha's Vineyard!

For photos:
http://dmbflyingcoach.blogspot.com/2010/08/kudos-to-cape-air-from-pvd-to-martha.html