Earlier this month I participated once again at the Great Alaska Aviation Gathering in Anchorage, and visited with area Zenith builders and flyers. The day after the show I went flying with Bill Wilcox in his STOL CH 801 that he built 15 years ago.

Following are five videos from a great day of flying. In the first video I talk with Bill about flying in Alaska and about his Zenith STOL:  Bill explained how his 801 meets his needs for flying in Alaska. 

These additional videos are mainly unedited footage, taking off and landing on Alaskan beaches, enjoying the spectacular scenery:  During this video we are flying along the western shores of Cook Inlet in south-central Alaska.  The lodge that you see is called Silver Salmon Creek Lodge and is known for 30 to 40 Brown Bear viewing a day when the Salmon are running.

We are taking off from Kalgin Island just off the coast of Cook Inlet.  On this island there are no predators to worry about when you're hiking on the beach looking for treasures like Japaneses glass floats.

You will notice several cabins along the beach.  These cabins are used during the summer for salmon fishing by the locals. 

When you're flying in Alaska it is very important to have a second plane for safety, and to share your stories with a friend.  Notice the small book in the window.  It is a book with all of the Alaska Tide times.  Very important if you are landing on beaches in Alaska.

The best part of my job is visiting with customers and going flying in their Zenith Aircraft that they have built.  If you have a chance to go to Alaska, the best way to view it is from the air in a Zenith Aircraft.