How would you feel if you have never flown or even seen an airplane in your life and is given an opportunity to fly. Excited, anxious or both?
Well, for the first time three people from the 12 Gewogs of Sarpang actually got the opportunity to fly in the Drukair, coinciding with the inaugural of the Gelephu Airport yesterday.
The selection criteria- people who have never seen or flown in an airplane. Among them was Tshewang Rinzin, 74, of Gakidling Gewog. Two trips were organised and he was in the second trip.
Dil Maya, 80, from Purano Busti in Gelephu was flying in the first trip. As the people flying in the first trip headed towards the Drukair, Dil Maya and few others prostrated in front of the aircraft.
People on the ground waved to those in the aircraft as it took off. Watching enviously among the crowd was 26 years old Tshewang from Tsholingkhar in Tsirang.
He was on his way to the hospital and heard about the inaugural ceremony and came to take a glance of the aircraft. Meanwhile, a mesmerised Tshewang Rinzin watches the plane take off.
Dil Maya, who has just landed from the first flight and probably the last of her lifetime, said she enjoyed the entire flight. She had carried some flower petals in the aircraft to offer her prayers and said she would now preserve it along with the boarding pass.
Gub Dani Subba, 68 from Luckytar in Gelephu said the ride was comfortable compared to a car ride. He said this with a smile on his face.
As the flight landed, a very satisfied looking Tshewang Rinzin emerged out of the aircraft. It was not only historical inaugural but was also historical for many people, who have never had an experience of flying in an airplane was given this rare opportunity.
