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Originally posted by blkcwbyhat
we need to make a few assumptions first.If it's truly an FBI plane,then why? FBI would have the lead on home grown terrorists,so what could they find from an aerial observation? Air samples for sure.
If I recall,weren't they going to release some harmless gas in the subways of NY to test dispersion patterns? Maybe they are tracing that gas.
They do.Don't remember where I read it but there are mobile ground units that patrol the major cities that monitor for radioactive material on a regular basis.A low flying Cessna isn't needed for THAT.But they do certainly seem to be looking for SOMETHING.
Originally posted by scrog77
If this plane is checking for radiation, why can that not be done from the ground ?
*Makes sense.Didn't realize we use aircraft.Yet if they did detect anything the vans will then be directed to front door.
Originally posted by Zaphod58
reply to post by TDawg61
They routinely use helicopters and fixed wing aircraft to monitor for radiation. A van only allows for samples near the road they are on, and in a small area. Flying an aircraft overhead allows for a much bigger sampling area, much faster.
Originally posted by Zaphod58
reply to post by nerdyclutzyblonde
Not always. There have been a number of aircraft and systems developed for customers that didn't want to be named. For new aircraft they announce that they are developing it for "an unnamed customer". For systems, they wouldn't even have to say anything, as some systems are classified.
*I'm getting that feeling as well.And the WHAT they are looking for is making me nervous!
Originally posted by drphilxr
reply to post by Zaphod58
i know where raytheon is - and and engineer or 2 there- and it isn't that farfetched
but rather implausible. Hanscom AFB is closer and western MA would make more
sense to test weapons systems or even elint type systems.
this is a search for something.
Originally posted by Zaphod58
reply to post by Mamatus
They're staying low because it keeps them under Class B airspace. The further out you go from the airport, the higher Class B goes. At Quincy (without charts), 200 feet is probably below the lower reaches of the airspace.
Regardless, as long as the pilots meet the Class B requirements, and they have ATC clearance, they can operate there with no problems, as long as their transponder works, and they answer any and all ATC instructions that are given. If there's a VFR corridor in the area, they won't even need that much, as they won't technically enter Class B airspace.