Advertisement

#OurYYC Apprentice: Jordan Witzel takes on tarmac duties at Calgary International Airport

Click to play video: '#OURYYC Apprentice: Jordan on the tarmac'
#OURYYC Apprentice: Jordan on the tarmac
WATCH: Jordan Witzel heads to the Calgary International Airport to take on tarmac duties with WestJet staff as part of #OurYYC Apprentice – May 27, 2016

Global Calgary Meteorologist Jordan Witzel is heading out in the community to experience some of the many careers that make up our dynamic city.

Through the #OurYYC Apprentice series, Witzel will try his hand at different jobs for one day to see just how challenging they can be.

There isn’t much that will match the intimidation factor of staring face to face with a 747 commercial airliner as it moves toward you. That’s just one task in the average day of WestJet‘s tarmac crews. I joined up with these teams to see what it takes to guide planes and their passengers into the terminal at Calgary International Airport.

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

The crew chief typically preps the team with a quick rundown of what is coming in on each plane prior to its arrival. Once the plane is guided into place, the crew is quick to move into action.

Story continues below advertisement

The space under each plane is tight. My large frame was crammed into place to help unload luggage and get it to the appropriate terminal or connecting flight.

Crew members say they’ve seen everything from lions to human remains come through on flights.

Every flight is different and the demands of efficiency are high. If you love the outdoors, this job is for you… until the harsh winter wind begins to blow across the tarmac.

Sponsored content

AdChoices