Page 22 - TNT Dec 2017

At that time, no radar was available in San Juan and ATC had a slot system running. Paul recalled many general aviation airplanes having trouble getting in and being asked to hold. Any delays or holdings would have pushed the Citation’s range, but fortunately, with their connection to ATC, Paul and Miguel were ushered in despite the heavy traffic.
As he taxied in, Paul processed the damage. The terminal was battered, piles of debris lay strewn, hangars had collapsed and trees were blown everywhere. Remarkably, he pulled up to an unscathed Jet Aviation FBO.
“It was very chaotic. The airport was crammed with airplanes and all kinds of people – federal agents, rangers, civilians, military,” said Weismann. “Supplies were lying everywhere. It was evident a lot of aide was coming in and a large number of people were trying to leave at the same time.”
After the supplies were unloaded, Paul and Miguel worked to figure out who they were going to take back to Florida. Cell service on the island was down and they had been unable to reach the people they had planned to transport. They ultimately ended up taking a mother and her young child, a frail older lady and U.S. Army sergeant back to Ft. Lauderdale.
Over the next couple of days Paul would fly two more missions, a second one to Puerto Rico and one to Dominica. He was challenged with more heavy traffic, poor weather conditions and lack of fueling stops.
“These were not flights just anyone could wake up and do. You really need to know the procedures, be comfortable
flying IFR and dealing with international charts,” said Weismann. “Thankfully, I had previously flown a number of flights in the area. I never felt in danger, it was just a lot of physical work and always a sense of urgency.”
Upon returning to Connecticut, there was little time for rest. Paul received a flurry of media attention and surplus of folks wanting to also help and donate items. He avidly worked to use that support and round up the money to fund a cargo Gulfstream flight back to Puerto Rico.
“It feels really good to combine my true passion of flying with helping other people,” said Weismann. “Once I started flying missions f•or PALS, I found it very addicting and rewarding. Truly an amazing organization.”
Owners and pilots who are interested in learning about future disaster missions or interested in flying for PALS can register at PALSf light.org. T&T
Jacobs is a private pilot and general aviation enthusiast. In 2012, she earned her business degree in marketing from Oklahoma State University. Since then, she has specialized in aviation-specific marketing, working first for Piper Aircraft, and then as an aviation marketing specialist at Sullivan Higdon & Sink. Jacobs is now serving as the director of communications at the consulting firm Groom Aviation. You can contact Rebecca at rebecca@groomaviation.com
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20 • TWIN & TURBINE
December 2017