SIM's Cessna 182 Leaves for Niger

It's always exciting to see airplanes leave MMS. Not because we don't like them, but because they are going to fulfill the missions for which we've prepared them! For many months, MMS worked on a diesel Cessna 182 for SIM, preparing it for service in Niger. I'd forgotten how much work I had done on this airplane until Jim asked me to sign the paperwork. I had the privilege of helping with the installation of wing extensions, new shoulder harnesses, and some structural reinforcements, as well as some smaller tasks.

Watching this airplane fly away gave me a real sense of satisfaction, and reminded me why I am here at MMS Aviation. It's an honor to be able to serve mission organizations like SIM, and to prepare these machines to help carry the Gospel of Jesus Christ around the world. Because, in the end, it's not just about working with airplanes. It's about the people that these airplanes serve . I can't wait to be on the "front lines" as a missionary pilot! But for now, I count it a true privilege to help send people and planes around the world from right here in Coshocton, Ohio!

Helicopter!

For several months, two men from Mercy Air (Matthias Reuter and Michael Aebi) have been diligently at work preparing a Eurocopter AS350 B2 for service in South Africa and Mozambique. In fact, the helicopter is desperately needed in Mozambique right now. Last week, the guys finished up their work, and it is shipping out to South Africa in the next few days.

Below are a couple videos of the helicopter. The first one is from the initial test flight. The second video was taken Friday evening, when Matthias and Mike graciously offered us helicopter rides on behalf of Mercy Air. It was a cherished opportunity to see this great tool at work, and to have some fun in the process!