As a small private jet approached the runway, we were celebrating the
success of the week. Then, in a moment, everything changed. The plane was hit
by a wind shear and dropped straight down to the runway, the wheels hitting out
of balance. All conversation stopped and our eyes widened as we realized we
were in danger. The pilot, without hesitation, pushed the throttle and launched
the plane back into the air. In a split second we went from celebration to
sober reflection. We all realized that could have been it! We sat quietly as
the plane circled the airfield, and a few minutes later we landed safely.
We all applauded and now began to relax and breathe. As we got off the plane,
we thanked the captain for keeping us safe. I said to him, “That was a close
call. You responded so quickly to the crisis. When did you make the decision to
put the plane back into the air?”
His reply amazed me: “Fifteen years ago.”
He went on to explain how as a young pilot in training, he decided in
advance what decision he would make for every possible air problem. “The choice
was made long before the crisis,” he said.
