While searching the ProPilot database for Zurich registered 757's, I discovered on sitting in Padova, Italy. Researching this airport revealed some startling information.
Euroholidays operates out of Padova with both class 4 and 5 aircraft (Fokker 100 and MD-83). With LIPU's 3,700 ft asphalt runway, it is very *unlikely* the F-100 and impossible for the MD-83 to takeoff on such a short strip. Even completely empty, the MD-83 will still require a minimum of 4,200 feet of runway (that's carrying only 30 mins of fuel) to get airborne.
I am by no means criticizing EHM's operations and schedule planning however, I do feel this information was overlooked in this specific case. Even the Embraer Brasilia would not be able to take a load more than 16 passengers and no baggage/cargo to operate from this short runway.
I definitely admire the pilot that was able to bring a 757 (probably loaded since Euroholidays is charter-like and usually flies with full loads), down safely.
In an effort to maintain a level of realism, I flew the 757 out with no passengers, cargo and 30 minutes of fuel. I don't know what is around the real airport but, once airborne, I skimmed the surface until I built enough speed to climb. I'm sure trees, houses, fences among other things would have been in the way in the real-world.
I did fly a Propilot flight out of Venice to Lisbon in an effort to move the plane out of Padova in the ProPilot system. This seemed to be the only logical thing to do.
Comments? Questions? Jokes?
Bonsoir
