This is the second post with an image from my trip to Alaska. The first post was "Alaskan Gold" showing the CargoLux Boeing 747-8F taking off from the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport (ANC). Anchorage is also a gold mine for float planes and seaplanes having the largest number per capita in the world at the Lake Hood Seaplane Base. This de Havilland DHC-2 has just broken free of the water after being "on the step," the specific stage in the takeoff process where the plane's floats are partially lifted out of the water. Essentially, the floatplane is "on the step" because the hull or floats are no longer fully in the water but are just above it, reducing water resistance and allowing the plane to gain speed more efficiently. Being "on the step" is a crucial moment before the plane fully lifts off into the air. It allows the plane to accelerate more quickly and transition smoothly from waterborne to airborne flight. It was a beautiful sight. This image is titled, "Stepping Off". Thanks for reading and don't forget to check out my next Alaska image.
