The Big Dipper Route
A new paperback book by Danny Bereza
Out now!

Reviews

The Big Dipper Route
Reviewed by John Scott

From a Retired Airline Pilots of Canada (RAPCAN) publication

How many of you have flown the North. Not the North Atlantic, but the True North Strong and Free? RAPCAN member Danny Bereza has accomplished what many say they are going to do. He has done the Pierre Burton thing and that is realizing that “… there is a book in every one of us!”

Capt Bereza has provided the reader with a great insight into the challenges of operating in the North and the exactness that is demanded by the sometimes ‘seat of the pants’ flying that is necessary to accomplish the task of providing air service to the Inuit communities and DEW Line sites. He uses a very descriptive style of writing inculcated with humour and reality.

His writing skill is emulated in his ability to put you in the cockpit, hands on the controls and the sweat running down your back as you imagine the task of laying down a DC 3 on a sand bar only 2000’ long. It takes carrier landing without any arresting gear to a totally new level.

It is a very personal story but engaging in that he aptly describes the ‘northern characters’. Those guys who would never be seen, nor want to be seen for that matter, in any glossy black uniform strutting through the main terminals of our major airports. But, they are the true fabric of the North and for many reasons are our true aviation heritage. There are a number of stories that rival even Ace McCool in ribaldry and humour especially the efforts of two pilots who …. But that would be too telling. The book is complimented by some excellent illustrations by Roy Mercer who captures the essence of each chapter.

This book is a ‘high recommend’ for all members. If your siblings are trying to find their way in the aviation community struggling to make ends meet in some ‘God-for-saken’ outpost – buy it for them for their birthday or Christmas. It is well worth the read.

Order your copy

"Nothern Aviation has always been gripping - particularly prior to "GPS" and the like - this one spells it out beautifully and with flair"
Ray Berube, retired C46/DC4 pilot, Northern Operations

"...It reminded me of Ernie Gann's stories." (Fate is the Hunter, Island in the Sky).
Captain John Meyers, United Airlines (Retired)

Illustrations for the book by Roy Mercer

So what do you do if you're flying through fog over an icy ocean, the nearest land is 200 miles away and your fuel gauges are hovering near zero?

At this site you can find out more about the book, learn about the author, read an extract, see photos and a map of where the events of the story take place, as well as order your copy!