Weather crew members who have flown combat missions say that their feelings before both missions say that their feelings before both missions were similar. There is a blend of excitement and apprehension. Adding to the tension is the knowledge that no two hurricanes are alike. Some are gentle while others are like raging bulls. Preparations for flying into a hurricane must be thorough.
All crew members are highly trained specialists.
Loose objects are tied down or stowed away, and crew members wear seat belts and safety harnesses. Once the aircraft's radar picks up the storm, the crew determines the easiest way to get inside. In a well developed storm, this can be a difficult challenge. Winds at flight level often exceed 100 miles and hour, and the wall cloud surrounding the center can be several miles thick. Rain often comes in torrents, and updrafts and downdrafts are usually strong and frequent.