Glenn-

You are correct about turbines. In my younger days, I thought that real men flew only tailwheels and recips. After spending a few years in jets, I thought they were the greatest thing ever. Kinda like the difference between my old '67 Corvette and the C6.

During 36 years at United, I never shut down an engine and never declared an emergency; except for couple of passenger illnesses.

The good days in the airlines are gone, at least for our lifetime. I had forced retirement at age 60 in 2005. A friend was right on the edge of age 60 retirement when they were planing to extend the age to 65, he was very worried they might make him fly to 65.

I loved the flying and the people but intensely disliked what the industry had become.

The people who work "behind the scenes" deserve far more credit than they get, for making flying so safe today. Thanks for your service, and tell all your buddies that you know one retired pilot who's grateful for all the help he received.

Jim