For everyone, though, it is a labor of love. The rewards, however, are well worth the discomforts and inconveniences. At this time, too, any routine aircraft maintenance begins. No one on the crew is exempt from participating in the daily work which encompasses everything from collecting admission fees, running the PX, wiping oil, and turning wrenches. After the planes are put to bed the crew adjourns to the hotel, grabs a quick dinner, finishes any required paperwork, and hits the sack, starting all over again the next day.
Regular maintenance is done at tour stops.
The aircraft change locations nearly every other day, making organization a necessity. Everything has its stowage place in the plane and each plane carries certain materials. Loading, unloading, and setup can be accomplished in just a matter of minutes and signage is simple and kept to a minimum. Personnel also have their assigned tasks and, after only a day or two, any newcomers easily slip into the routine. Local volunteers at each stop are also lifesavers, many times taking over simple duties and giving the regular crew members a much-needed breather.