West Coast Air Transport, saving time on the Pacific coast
The 1928 West Coast Air Transport brochure sold a very modern promise: saved time was money. Portland to Seattle in 1 hour 15 minutes, Portland to San Francisco in 6 hours, heated trimotor aircraft presented as safe.
This plan follows the American west coast from California to Washington State. Fly it as a commercial demonstration: reliable, comfortable, regular and scenic.
A pioneer route along the American west coast.
Turn aircraft into a credible business tool.
Safety, comfort and regularity before pure speed.
Coast, valleys, forests and major urban references.
Understanding the flight
The period text is as psychological as technical: three engines, comfortable seats, heating, toilets, experienced pilots and no aerobatics. Everything is designed to reassure a still-hesitant public.
In the simulator, the page becomes a beautiful coastal and inland line between San Francisco, Oregon, Portland, Tacoma and Seattle.
Before departure
- Use a slow and stable trimotor to remain in the 1928 spirit.
- Prepare Pacific coast weather, with possible clouds but enough visibility.
- Keep the flight comfortable: gentle climbs, wide turns and anticipated descents.
- Emphasize the business side: schedules, clean stops, no brutal flying.
Suggested route
Northern California
San Francisco then Medford launch the route north toward more forested scenery.
KSFO → KMFR
Oregon
Eugene and Portland provide the commercial heart of the line.
KMFR → KEUG → KPDX
Washington
Chehalis, Tacoma and Seattle close the route in the Puget Sound region.
KPDX → KCLS → KTCM → KBFI
Experience tips
Do not fly too high: this page is best enjoyed through valleys, coast and cities.
Comfort is part of the story. Smooth handling makes the article much more coherent.
Copyright Michel Lagneau 2011