When the call went out for pilots to deliver two aircraft to South East Region, Group 22 staff stepped. Group 22 Commander Major Brian Pokuta and Major Joe Long, along with Captain Rod Rakic were selected for the mission. In two days of flying the three pilots flew from Illinois Wing Headquarters to Columbus Indiana to pick up two GA8 aircraft. The GA8 were on loan to NESA and were to be returned to Falcon Field Georgia and Marco Island Florida. The three aircraft were flow first to Georgia were the first aircraft was dropped off. En route the three kept in communication using the CAP Radio. This allowed all three aircraft to share the G1000 NEXRAD information to avoid hazardous weather. The next leg to Florida used the same technique, and it was a good thing. Storms over Tampa forced the two remaining aircraft to divert to Ocala Florida where the pilots remained overnight. The next day started off with smoke in the cockpit of the 182 G1000. Major Pokuta returned to Ocala while Captain Rakic and Major Long circled overhead and landed behind Pokuta. The three loaded up and pushed on to Marco Island dodging rain showers over Naples, FL. In two day the three flew over a thousand miles and successfully delivered the GA8s. The electrical problem will be fixed soon and the 182 will be back in Illinois shortly. Congrats to all on a job well done.
