Why We Fly — UIM Aviation

A group of sixty-six were headed out to a village in the mountains where they had done many medical clinics. This time they decided to travel by boat, truck, and foot instead of using the plane to reach their destination. After they arrived in Tepic, they drove the hour to the dam where they would catch several boats to take them as far as they could before they would have to walk the rest of the way. Rainy season had just started after nine long months of no rain. This meant that the lake was very low, and it would require a much farther walk than normal. Three hours later, they were finally able to find two willing boat captains who would take them . . . if they paid double. They left at 7p.m. Little did they know what lay ahead.

Since the lake was so low, they often ran aground and had to step out of the boat to push it ahead farther before they returned to the boat. Much to their dismay, all along the way the boat captain pointed out crocodiles and jaguars. Lightening was chasing them, but, thankfully, it never actually rained on them. Five hours later, they reach as far as they could go by boat. By this time, it was well past dark. Two trucks eventually showed up on the beach to take them the rest of the way to the village. Several people loaded up in one truck and took off. The driver of the other truck was drunk, and everyone refused to get into the vehicle. The only option was to sleep on the beach until morning. No one slept a wink that night as all their senses were heighten with every little sound, fully expecting a crocodile to come and drag them into the lake.

Hiking through the shallow water and mud

The crew eventually made it to the village and treated almost 200 people at the medical clinic. They even had a kids’ program with crafts, games, and puppets. The group distributed shoes to the kids and prayed with whoever wanted to pray. They were a tremendous blessing to the people there as they met medical and dental needs.

After that terrible night, it did not take them too long to decide that they all wanted to be flown out. They all had a renewed appreciation for the airplane after this experience. Flying to these remote villages is more than just a convenience. Traveling by ground can be extremely hazardous as they are exposed to rough conditions, wild animals, dangerous people along the way, and even threats to their life. Flying not only saves valuable time, but also, is the much safer route to take.

Operating our aircraft is not cheap, either. Fuel prices, maintenance costs, insurance, etc. all add up. Would you consider donating to one of our several projects? We need YOU to reach the lost people of Mexico. Together we can make a difference! Would you consider becoming a monthly donor?

Written by Kim Farmer, Mexico field pilot's wife and Media Manager