Alaska Flightseeing

Jim Okonek
	"You're not going to appreciate what Alaska is unless you get into the air. It is truly amazing fly out and see no roads." Who he is: Talkeetna resident since 1976. Aviation pioneer, retired flightseeing pilot, former owner of K2 Aviation. Age: 72 Don't miss: Get into the air on a flightseeing tour. Flying west from the Parks Highway, you won't see a road until St. Petersburg, Russia.

Why did you come to Alaska?

I was in the Air Force, flying helicopters and air-rescue service. We were sent to Alaska because of the '64 earthquake. For safety precautions the Air Force chose to increase their numbers, so I came up again, first temporarily, and then that August I moved here.

Why did you move to Talkeetna?

Because of the country and the good schools. My daughter was in high school and I was teaching in Anchorage—I didn't want her in that school system.

What's your favorite thing about living in Alaska?

It's an exciting place to be. Alaska is home to many young people, and with the growing economy, there are many opportunities. The outdoors here is a plus.

What is there about living in Talkeetna that's unlike any other place in Alaska?

Aviation has always been a big part of my life and of Talkeetna's. We have about ten air taxis in town. The tourism and flight services here are a key industry. Also, the location is one of the better spots of Alaska. We have mild winters without the dampness like the coast and not freezing like the Interior. We are nicely connected to the outside world by air and road.

What's your favorite book on Alaska?

That keeps changing. One that was very exciting was the Exploration of Denali by Cook. I know this country and just can't imagine how he could have done what he did.

What's your favorite season?

The fall, around August, when the changes of colors begin and where we still have warm sun and long days. I used to hunt, and I realized what I enjoyed most of about hunting was just being out. So now when I go out I leave the gun at home.

What do you do in winter?

Tourists often ask that. I would tell them we chop wood. Actually, it seems like we are catching our breath. Most of us here are employed seasonally. It's a short, very hectic season so you spend a good deal of your winter catching your breath. Usually enjoying the indoors and reading a good book. Winters are an enjoyable time, but you sure do look forward to spring and summer.

How would you spend your perfect weekend in Talkeetna?

Well, when I was in the flightseeing business a good weekend was when there was good weather and a lot of people. I enjoyed the business aspect of it, but mostly the contact of the people—ten percent of our business was climbers. I really like sharing Alaska and the Denali area with the visitors. It's funny, now that I am retired I still find myself at the hanger.

What's your favorite local hidden treasure?

I guess just the ever-changing view of Denali. From here and a few choice spots. I guess the mountain is the greatest hidden treasure.

Where's your favorite place to have breakfast in Talkeetna?

Oh, the Talkeetna Road House up on Main Street. Though the food is good, what's really great is the family atmosphere—you sit at a big table with who knows who. I have sat down with groups of tourists who would stop talking and clam up. It's always fun to jar them back into reality. Ask them, "What were you just talking about?"

What's one experience or attraction you think visitors should not miss in Talkeetna?

Flightseeing around the mountain. I think that would be the highlight of their trip. The weather doesn't have to be absolutely clear—it's not necessary to see all of Denali for an enjoyable trip. The pilots here know what they are doing, and they want to satisfy their clients. The landing at the glacier is a bonus and I recommend it. Here and Mt Cook in New Zealand are the only places you can do that, so you shouldn't pass it up.

What's one thing about Alaska you think visitors may not know that you would like to share with them?

They are not going to appreciate what Alaska is unless they get into the air. It is truly amazing to get into the air and fly out and see no roads. If you fly west, after the Parks Highway you can go for as long as you want and not see a road until St. Petersburg, Russia.