Up in the Sky, I’m flying! Montri Yoosomboon In a vast field, a young man was busy assembling parts of his vehicle. The sounds of the propeller rumbled in the skies and he ran in the grassland with an engine and propeller attached to his back. The engine worked with the early morning winds and carried him off in the air. Montri Yoosomboon, also known as Nong, worked in Rigging and Special Effects in movie production of Gear Head Company and was responsible for creating the special camera techniques. He was obsessed with any sports in the skies! “I love outdoor sports; especially ones that make me fly! It was about ten years ago when paramotors first came to Thailand. I was only able to look because most of the equipment was imported and costly. It was one day when I was filming in Panasnikom and I overheard someone mentioning that there was a mechanic who manufactured affordable paramotors. I immediately contacted that person.” “Since then, I would leave the house early every weekend mornings to practice flying. The weather at dawn and dusk were perfect for flying because of the winds and clear visibility.” Nong dragged out a two-seater vehicle called the paraplane from a small plane garage in Bhan Bung fields. In a matter of minutes, Nong taught me the basics and foundation of flying. Not only does the plane have to be ready, but the pilot and passenger must be prepared as well – both physically and psychologically. They have to be fully alert and observant in order to be safe and enjoy the experience. “I went for a flying trip to Ayuddhaya once, experiencing the rural ambiance of the Ancient City. Nowadays, provinces such as Chiang Mai, Lampang and Phuket offer scenic routes for flying. I would contact the flying clubs in whichever province I would travel in order to obtain all the necessary information, as well as join their flying trips.” Flying is not only his hobby but it has also become an integral part of his job and social work as well. “I try to equip all my vehicles with cameras. For instance, I was able to take shots of a moving speedboat in Samet for an advertisement. It worked out well because the director wanted fast movement footage and the client didn’t have any budget to hire a helicopter. I am also a member of Thailand’s Aviation Conservation Foundation, and also belong to its club of rescuing people in the air. I am considering taking courses in rescue missions in natural catastrophes. With these skills, I would be able to assist in searching and helping people in areas not accessible by helicopters.” “Because of this sport, I have learned to become very detail-oriented. Before flying each time, I must thoroughly check the weather conditions, my plane and my readiness in flying. I have become well-versed in flying, directions, GPS, flight plans and radio communication. Once I take off, I must focus on my flying and be prepared at all times for any type of emergency.” “For those interested, there are many clubs and courses offered in Bangkok. It’s more affordable now because Thailand manufactures their own vehicles and does not depend on importing parts.” The sun is at the horizon ready to set and this young man is still enjoying the sun’s last rays of the day. “Someday I will fly” is certainly a dream within his reach.