Plane Pull contest unfolds tonight

After weeks of recruiting members, teams signed up to face the challenge of pulling a plane will finally get the chance to showcase teamwork and strength as the event kicks off tonight at the Francisco C. Ada-Saipan International Airport.

The event, dubbed as the Plane Pull competition, is hosted by the American Red Cross, Continental Airlines, and Commonwealth Ports Authority Employees Association, with the intent to raise funds for the NMI Red Cross Chapter.

The contest begins at tonight at 8pm at the airport’s Aircraft Parking Spot #1, with check in beginning at 7pm. It is expected to last until midnight.

The challenge features the task of hauling a 145,000-lb Boeing 737, made available by Continental Airlines, for a distance of 12 feet. The plane is measured at 129 feet long, 41 feet high, and 112 feet wide.

Teams of no more than 20 members will pull on a rope attached to a tow bar connected to the front wheels of the aircraft. The team captain of each team will signal that start of the pull, with officials starting the stopwatch as soon as there is tension on the rope. Time on the stopwatch will cease the second the team pulls the aircraft across the 12-foot mark.

The times of each team would be recorded, and the team posting the fastest time will be crowned as champion, receiving the first place trophy, certificates and bragging rights. Trophies and certificates will also be presented to the second and third place finishers.

Before suiting up for the task, though, each member is required to submit a signed waiver of liability form and must present a form of ID for entry to the airport tarmac area. Each participant is also required to closed-toe footwear, such as athletic shoes, and gloves for protection while pulling the aircraft.

Each team is also required to submit a competition entry fee of $750 payable to the American Red Cross.

“This unique event, originally launched in 2001 during the 25th anniversary of the Saipan International Airport, is a great opportunity to support the Red Cross while promoting team building excellence for your staff and management,” a statement from Red Cross read. “The NMI Chapter works closely with CPA and all involved in the transportation industry during disasters. The American Red Cross is part of the U.S. government Federal Aviation Disaster Response Plan and plays a critical role in providing assistance to victims and their families after an aviation or ship accident.”