Best of Aviation

New Jersey gets its share of insults based on the experiences of people who see nothing but the clogged northeastern area, but there are quite beautiful, lightly populated areas too, like this view of the southern part of the state.

A summer day in New Jersey with a line of thunderstorms approaching from the west.

This is a perfect summer day. Flight above the clouds usually gives a smooth ride.

Level at 6000 feet, you can see the edge of some towering cumulus. While this particular cloud is harmless, it can be a bit bumpy inside, so we try to steer clear of them if possible.

This is what a mature thunderstorm with tops to about 20000 feet looks like from 6000 feet. We avoid weather like this at all costs. We managed to land at our destination before this particular cell came through around 45 minutes later.

This is one of the most beautiful airport settings I've found in my travels -- Mifflin Co. Airport in Reedsville, PA.

Many airports in central PA are nestled in valleys, which makes for great pictures, but it can present a challenge when the winds kick up and create turbulence. This day was perfectly calm, though.

Okay, I admit it. I saw this sky somewhere over Baltimore one summer day and thought "that would make a good wallpaper!". So have at it!

While a part of me enjoys listening to the calming drone of the engine, music definitely makes time fly -- even while doing a measily 130 MPH.