Flight day. We decided to train to Sydney to develop our shoulders and test out our mutual abilities hauling luggage on and off trains.
The Newcastle/Central coast line turned out to be not only scenic but also great for fortune telling. Post struggling onto the train shouldering just under 74kg between the two of us we planted ourselves on a double facing chair with one bike against the window with Bob and the second bike sitting behind our chair. Cityrail with luggage was going fine.
When past Woy Woy it was pretty hard to hide the fact that we were heading somewhere when a Ferrai cap wearing dude slid into the double chair opposite us. Between swigs on his stubbie and post checking that we were flying overseas he proceeded to delve into stories of the oncoming storm and the recent Qantas difficulties. Not good oncoming flight chatter. However it was all passed on in good humor including the identification that if Qantas had gone with Ferrari engines instead of Rolls Royce their issues would never have happened.
When it came out that we would be flying to Delhi, our Ferrai forecaster identified that he was part Singalese and had traveled to the Indian sub continent before. His dream was to return to Sri Lanka where relatives has offered the opportunity to stay. He was turning 35 and not getting any younger. He had just about raised enough cash to make it happen. However his singalese father had passed away and he had a bit of a rap sheet so he was not sure that he would be welcomed with open arms. Pre getting off at Hornsby best wishes were shared.
We travelled on and made the airport on time if not comfortably. Checking was a breeze and even the hours floating around the airport drifted away smoothly. However every now again thunder would seep through at the preface of hearing. We slowly made our way closer to the Gate with the massive wall LCDs in Duty free flickering every now and again. Not good. Not good at all. Maybe Ferrai guy had been right. Sitting outside the gate and watching the earths electric show light up the night sky did not inspire confidence.
Then the words that should not have surprised us. EK 413 had been cancelled. Bummer. Bigger bummer, we would have to uncheck the 60kg of gear and lug it back somewhere. Where?
Emirates and the Airport staff were great. Not only were rooms at the Crown Plaza Cogee arranged but also a coach transfer. An alternate flight was also on the cards for the following day.