Delayed Takeoff

I was still sleepy when I boarded the 635am plane bound for Manila. I must have slept for a few minutes when the plane positioned itself on the runway. Then it began to gain speed for the takeoff. But after a few seconds, the pilot stepped on the brakes causing a little commotion on the startled passengers. He announced that we have to return to the tarmac for a quick maintenance check up. That calmness of his voice was quite a relief.

I really didn’t know what I felt at that time. In my frequent travels, this is the first time I encountered such. No, it wasn’t fear. I just could not explain it. I immediately sent a text message to my wife informing her of our situation.

When the plane crew allowed us to go to the pre-departure area, as our scheduled departure was changed to 830am, I immediately left my seat. The first thing that came to my mind was to fill my empty stomach. I bought a bunwich and a cup of coffee. Good thing I met badminton acquaintance at the pre-departure area. The little chat about badminton and the plane’s mechanical problem seemed to have eased me a little bit. I returned to the plane upon hearing the final call.

When the plane safely landed at the Manila domestic airport, I whispered a short prayer thanking the Lord for the safe travel.