My visit to the ATC tower

Today was most certainly one of the most inspirational days in my life. Without a doubt.


I arrived to the airport and was greeted by a Ryanair 737-800 staring me in the face. I realised what a powerful beast it is when the engines were fired up and an ominous atmosphere was almost created. I instantly thought 'I will fly a plane like that someday'.


Off I trodded up the stairs and met the Air Traffic Controller on duty. It wasn't long before the next plane arrived, another Ryanair 737-800.

As the Ryanairs continued to filter in, the much anticipated Aer Lingus a320 bolted down the runway. It was the sight I was looking forward to all day, two shades of green and a stripe of blue, along with the Irish EI registration beside the stabilizer. 

As the two Irish carriers left, bmibaby made an appearance in its 737-300. A little smaller than the previous aircraft, but nonetheless a UK registered aircraft was a pleasant view.

Along bobbed more Ryanairs, and then a FlyBe Bombardier Dash-8 Q400. 


Then, out of the blue, a womans voice emerged through the speaker. "Baby 3901", she exclaimed. I was elated. Before today, I had never heard a woman pilot live. She had a thick English accent, and was flying this bmibaby 737-300 from Manchester. I was so inspired, and my eyes lit up like torches.

Needless to say, this was one hell of a day. I seen everything I wanted to see and learned everything and anything I could about airplanes and airports. 


Thanks to all of the staff at Ireland West Airport Knock for such a brilliant day. I am looking forward to visiting again. Keep up the good work!