Originally Posted by Yoda2

Some additional tips if your are doing that type of flying in AK for the first time... Even if it is a SE VFR 135 deal; You should probably be up to speed on ADF work/approaches. I think there are still some up there and they might test on that, they did to me years ago. You will be tested on some instrument stuff as part of the training/checkride, even for a VFR deal. Also be aware that many approaches are going to be much steeper than you are probably used to in the lower 48. They are also low energy as you will frequently be operating from much shorter strips than you are probably used to. (You will also be operating from surfaces you are not used to as well. Keep the yoke back and as low power as possible if on gravel; they will show you the tricks/procedures) There is not much dragging it in up there. That is also a sure sign of a city pilot. You will need to pay great attention to airspeed and glidepath control. The obstacles are many and are not some line in a book or flight manual; they are real. Many times you will fly the airplane very near its limits. If you have never done this sort of flying it is hard to explain the precision and judgement that must be exercised. This is some of the most precision flying you will ever do. If you don't believe it, you will. You better be able to put that airplane on a dime and make change. Another important item is the PAX. They are not the usual passengers. They know more about that airplane and flying than you think they do. You might be taking some natives for a doctors appointment (or you might be taking a doctor to the natives) or to the grocery store; but they know if you are not doing your job right or are doing something stupid or not normal, Etc. More than one pilot has lost their job in AK after a native/regular flyer said something. They like their pilots very much, will respect you and are very nice people; however they do expect to feel and be as safe as possible. It is also important to show up for work sober. Good luck and be safe. You will have some memorable experiences.

PS, Being single engine, you will not often be doing a Wt/Bal; but learn/know your airplane and its standard loading arrangements and don't let some ramper or anyone overload you or get you out of CG. This is vital as it doesn't just have to do with flying in general, it plays a huge part in runway performance. Also learn to read the water. Lakes come in great for this (in the summer of course...) You can look at a lake for a split second and tell what the wind is doing. This is not just a skill for seaplane pilots... Looking over charts and such beforehand is a good idea but also be ready to remember many new names, landmarks and reporting points. Also keep your head out of the cockpit as much as possible and also turn around once in a while and check on your PAX. Anchorage is some of the busiest airspace in the world during the summer, not kidding...