Zimmerly Airlines, Idaho on a tight timetable
In 1945, Zimmerly Airlines connected Idaho towns with Boeing 247-D aircraft and a very practical regional-airline logic: depart early, keep the stops, return before the end of the day.
The Pocatello, Burley, Twin Falls, Boise, Lewiston, Coeur d'Alene and return route is an excellent line flight, but also a fine reading of Idaho's terrain, rivers and valleys.
A regional airline before the Empire Air Lines era.
Respect a dense full-day timetable.
The Boeing fits the line; a single engine lets you enjoy the scenery.
Short stages, terrain, Snake River and symmetrical return.
Understanding the flight
The plan can be flown in two ways: as a commercial day in a Boeing 247-D, or as a slow Idaho exploration in a light aircraft.
The Boise to Lewiston branch is the most expressive, especially if you follow Snake River and the valleys rather than a featureless direct line.
Before departure
- Choose your mode from the start: strict timetable or scenic tour.
- Prepare safe altitudes, because Idaho is not flat country.
- Keep stops short if you fly the airline role.
- On the return, compare your actual time with the original planning.
Suggested route
Southern Idaho
Pocatello, Burley, Twin Falls and Boise create the morning launch.
KPIH → KBYI → KTWF → KBOI
Boise, Lewiston and Coeur d'Alene
The climb toward Lewiston and Coeur d'Alene gives the route its terrain and wide-open feel.
KBOI → KLWS → KCOE
Timetable return
Lewiston, Boise, Twin Falls, Burley and Pocatello close the airline day.
KCOE → KLWS → KBOI → KTWF → KBYI → KPIH
Experience tips
If you fly slowly, keep the valleys in sight: they give the article its character.
If you fly the Boeing 247-D, play the light pressure of the timetable without turning the page into a race.
Copyright Michel Lagneau 2014