Witnessing Nature’s Wonders from the Skies of Alaska

In the summer of 1990, I found myself soaring the Alaskan skies with Temsco Airlines, a journey that seemed more like a dream than a job. Stationed in Ketchikan, Alaska, I often had the privilege of keeping a plane in Metlakatla. One early morning, a mission beckoned—a trip to deliver a crucial document to a secluded logging camp on the Southend of Prince of Wales Island.

The day dawned with the promise of beauty. At 6:00 am sharp, my copilot and I climbed into the DeHavilland Beaver, N64393. He was learning the ropes of flying in this unique region, and the conditions couldn’t have been more perfect. The sun crept over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the calm waters. It was clear—this was going to be a magnificent summer day.

We arrived at the small camp nestled in a cove and swiftly delivered the document. As we departed, the Pacific Ocean stretched wide behind us, a vast expanse of blue. Climbing to about 1,000 feet, we approached another cove. As we drew nearer, an odd sight greeted us—the water appeared to be boiling.

Curiosity piqued, we circled over the cove and descended for a closer look. It was then that we realized we were witnessing a Super Pod of Killer Whales. These magnificent creatures were simply playing, adults and young ones alike, frolicking in the tranquil waters. It was an awe-inspiring spectacle.

My copilot and I shared a moment of silent amazement, our eyes wide with wonder. We hovered above the pod for a while, soaking in the extraordinary sight. Eventually, we resumed our journey back to home base, our hearts full from witnessing such a breathtaking scene.

Returning to Ketchikan, the memory of that summer morning stayed with us. It was one of those rare moments where the wonders of nature revealed themselves in full splendor, a moment that we would cherish forever.