DC-9 Steam Gauges: After flying EFIS for over three years solid (except for my general aviation flying), I stepped into the 1960’s-era DC-9 cockpit! It was challenging, but enjoyable. I hand flew the plane as often as possible, mainly because I found it simpler than using the ancient autopilot! This picture was taken somewhere over the central U.S. soon after I finished DC-9 training (summer 2001). We are cruising at 35,000’ and .78 Mach (not bad for an airplane that’s older than many of its pilots). Yes, I know I’m 50’ off my altitude…give me a break, I’m hand flying a 100,000-pound plane at 7 miles up AND taking a picture!
