His to fly

In Short

His to Fly is a thrilling short story by Richard Howells Watkins that captures the dangers and exhilaration of early aviation. Set in the 1920s, the narrative follows Jerry Tabor, a young wing walker and mechanic, and his partner, Beak Becket, a seasoned but temperamental pilot. Their biplane, already showing its age, is pushed to its limits during a cross-country flight from New Jersey to Massachusetts. When they encounter a thick fog and run low on fuel, the situation becomes dire. The story explores themes of courage, partnership, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity.

The Story

Jerry Tabor and Beak Becket, partners in a barnstorming venture, set out on a flight from New Jersey to Pittsfield, Massachusetts. Their biplane, though old, is well-maintained by Jerry, who also serves as the wing walker and mechanic. Beak, a veteran pilot with a reputation for daring, is in a foul mood due to a gambling loss, and his temper flares as they prepare for the journey. Despite the tension, Jerry remains focused on the task at hand, ensuring the plane is ready for the long flight.

As they take off, Beak's reckless flying style contrasts with Jerry's methodical approach. Beak's arrogance and impatience create a tense atmosphere, but Jerry, determined to prove himself, remains calm. The flight progresses smoothly until they encounter a thick fog, which obscures their view of the ground. Beak's decision to press on despite the danger adds to the growing tension between the two.

When the fuel runs low, Beak suggests Jerry jump with the parachute, but Jerry refuses, determined to stick with the plane. In a moment of desperation, Jerry offers Beak the parachute and his savings in exchange for the plane, a gamble that Beak accepts. Beak jumps, leaving Jerry to navigate the treacherous descent alone.

Jerry, relying on his instincts and a makeshift pendulum, manages to keep the plane in a glide, hoping to find a safe landing spot. The fog thickens, and the plane strikes a fence, crashing and flipping over. Jerry, though injured, survives and begins to assess the damage. He realizes that the plane, though badly damaged, can be repaired, and he feels a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing he has proven himself as a pilot.

How It Unfolds

The Preparation: Jerry and Beak prepare their biplane for the flight, with Jerry meticulously checking the rigging and Beak displaying his usual impatience and arrogance.

The Takeoff: Beak's reckless flying style is on full display as he takes off, performing a dangerous zoom and dive that leaves Jerry gripping the sides of the cockpit.

The Flight: As they head north, Jerry checks their course and fuel, while Beak's mood remains volatile. The crosswind and fog add to the challenges of the journey.

The Fog: Encountering a thick fog, Beak decides to press on, despite Jerry's concerns. The situation becomes increasingly dangerous as visibility drops to zero.

The Fuel Crisis: With fuel running low, Beak suggests Jerry jump with the parachute, but Jerry refuses, determined to stay with the plane.

The Gamble: Jerry offers Beak the parachute and his savings in exchange for the plane, a risky gamble that Beak accepts. Beak jumps, leaving Jerry alone.

The Descent: Jerry relies on his instincts and a makeshift pendulum to keep the plane in a glide, hoping to find a safe landing spot. The fog thickens, and the plane strikes a fence, crashing and flipping over.

The Aftermath: Jerry, though injured, survives and begins to assess the damage. He realizes the plane can be repaired and feels a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing he has proven himself as a pilot.

The People

Jerry Tabor: A young, determined wing walker and mechanic who dreams of becoming a pilot. Jerry is methodical, resourceful, and brave, willing to take risks to achieve his goals. He values partnership and loyalty but is also capable of standing up for himself.

Beak Becket: A seasoned but temperamental pilot with a reputation for daring. Beak is arrogant, impulsive, and often reckless, but his skill as a pilot is undeniable. His gambling habit and volatile temper create tension with Jerry.

In Its Own Voice

"You get some of the strain off those lift wires, and do it in a hurry, too," Beak said petulantly. "Don't you know yet that lift wires should be slack when she rests on the ground?"

This quote highlights Beak's impatience and arrogance, setting the tone for their contentious relationship.

"I’m not going to jump," said Jerry. "D’you want the ’chute?"

Jerry's refusal to jump and his offer to trade the parachute for the plane demonstrate his determination and courage, as well as his growing confidence as a pilot.

What It's Really About

His to Fly explores themes of courage, partnership, and the human spirit's resilience in the face of adversity. The story delves into the challenges of early aviation, where pilots like Jerry and Beak pushed the limits of their machines and themselves. It also examines the dynamics of partnership, particularly when one partner is more experienced and dominant, and the other is determined to prove their worth.

The story raises questions about risk-taking, loyalty, and the pursuit of dreams. Jerry's willingness to gamble everything on a hunch reflects his desire to break free from Beak's shadow and establish himself as a pilot in his own right. The fog and fuel crisis symbolize the unknown dangers and uncertainties that pilots faced, requiring them to rely on their instincts and skills to survive.

Why Read It Today

His to Fly is a captivating read for fans of aviation history and adventure stories. Its portrayal of early barnstorming and the challenges of flying in the 1920s offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era. The story's fast-paced action and suspense keep readers on the edge of their seats, while its exploration of human resilience and determination adds depth and emotional impact.

Readers who enjoy tales of courage and perseverance will find much to admire in Jerry's character. His journey from a wing walker to a pilot is inspiring, and his willingness to take risks to achieve his dreams is relatable. The story's themes of partnership and loyalty also resonate, as Jerry and Beak's relationship evolves from contentious to mutually respectful.

While the story reflects the attitudes and technologies of its time, its core themes remain relevant. The challenges Jerry faces—overcoming fear, proving himself, and making difficult choices—are universal and timeless. The story's brevity makes it an ideal choice for readers looking for a quick but satisfying read.

His to Fly is a thrilling and inspiring story that celebrates the human spirit's ability to rise above adversity. Its vivid portrayal of early aviation and its memorable characters make it a standout in the genre, leaving readers with a sense of awe and admiration for the pioneers of flight.