JARRON SMITH

Rarefied Air

Worlds Seen, Worlds Captured

A curated journal of journeys and images through the discerning eye of Jarron.

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Author: Jarron

  • The Goodyear Blimp

    The Goodyear Blimp

    It is rare to look up and see the Goodyear Blimp flying directly over your house. The sight puts into perspective how unique airship aviation really is. These aircraft are scarce. There are roughly 25 active blimps in the world, and Goodyear operates just three of them in the United States. Technically, the modern fleet consists of semi-rigid Zeppelin NTs rather than traditional blimps. They utilize an internal framework that allows for much higher maneuverability than the old gas-filled models. Watching it cruise at 1,000 feet offers a fascinating look at engineering. It is impressive to see an aircraft of that magnitude move with such precision.

    N3A flying over my house


    Technical Specifications

    • Model: Zeppelin NT (New Technology)
    • Length: 246.4 feet (75 meters)
    • Top Speed: 73 mph (117 km/h)
    • Cruising Altitude: 1,000 to 3,000 feet
    • Lifting Gas: Helium (inert and non-flammable)
    • Propulsion: Three 200-horsepower vectored engines that allow for vertical takeoff and landing
    • Capacity: 2 pilots and up to 14 passengers
    • Current US Fleet: Wingfoot One, Wingfoot Two, and Wingfoot Three
  • Experiencing the St. Regis New York

    Experiencing the St. Regis New York

    There are few places that represent true luxury like the St. Regis New York. Located in Manhattan, it reflects the city’s rich history and vibrant sophistication.

    From the moment I entered, I found myself in a space that felt cozy yet impressive. The marble floors, chandeliers, and design reflect a classic New York style. It is a modern take on old-world luxury.

    One of the key features of the St. Regis experience is its personal butler service. Attentive yet discreet, it added a touch of elegance that made the stay both comfortable and memorable. From managing details smoothly to ensuring the room was perfectly set up, the service enhanced the overall experience.

    The in-room touches were impressive. Fresh coffee from a Bodum French press each morning and an excellent selection of teas started the day well. The crisp Frette sheets provided comfortable indulgence, while the marble bathrooms displayed timeless beauty.

    Even the elevators reflect the hotel’s commitment to its heritage. With their wood finishes and elegant details, they capture New York sophistication. I appreciate that this style has been carefully preserved, enhancing the feeling of stepping into a timeless part of the city’s history.

    In my opinion, the standout feature is the St. Regis’s ability to preserve its brand heritage. The property respects its history while providing modern luxury. The combination is smooth, and the experience is like entering a well-kept tradition that has lasted for generations.

    For me, the St. Regis is more than just a hotel; it’s a place where tradition and elegance meet, making the city feel like it belongs to the property. It reminded me why New York is the best city in the world. Look at the photos below to see for yourself!

    Disclaimer: This post reflects my personal impressions and experiences during my stay. It is not sponsored, affiliated with, or endorsed by the St. Regis New York or Marriott International.

  • Private Event at Scottsdale Airpark: Cirrus Vision Jet & SR Series G7+

    Private Event at Scottsdale Airpark: Cirrus Vision Jet & SR Series G7+

    Cirrus hosted a private, invitation-only showcase at Scottsdale Airpark on September 18, 2025, featuring the Vision Jet and SR Series G7+. During this exclusive event, guests were treated to an immersive experience where they could not only view these aircraft up close but also engage with Cirrus team members who shared insights into the cutting-edge technology and craftsmanship behind each model.

    Attendees experienced firsthand the innovation and refinement that define Cirrus’ unique approach to aviation, which prioritizes safety, comfort, style, and superior performance. The showcase included detailed demonstrations of advanced features, showcasing features that, in my view, reflect Cirrus’ focus on enhancing the flying experience.

    Special thanks to Cirrus for the invitation and for organizing such a thoughtful gathering. It was inspiring to see members of the aviation community come together, united by a shared passion for engineering, design, safety, and flight.

    As an added highlight, a storm was brewing off in the distance that evening. The lightning was nothing short of remarkable, and it created a dramatic backdrop for an unforgettable showcase. I hope you enjoy these photographs from the event.

    Disclaimer: My wife and I attended this private event as invited guests, and the reflections shared here are solely our personal impressions. Photographs have been carefully edited to remove identifying details, including individuals and aircraft registration numbers, in order to respect privacy. All trademarks, brand names, and corporate identifiers are the property of their respective owners and are used solely in a descriptive manner. This post is a personal, non-commercial, editorial account of our experience. No partnership, sponsorship, authorization, or endorsement—express or implied—exists or should be inferred.

  • Seamless Manhattan Arrivals

    Seamless Manhattan Arrivals

    Time is of the essence, especially when traveling in and out of one of the busiest metropolitan areas in the world. Blade Helicopter makes things easy, offering a seamless and luxurious travel solution for those who value their time. Whether you are arriving at LaGuardia, John F. Kennedy International Airport, or Newark, Blade has you covered with reliable services tailored to your needs. What can take over an hour to get into the city takes mere minutes with Blade Helicopter, allowing you to avoid the frustrating traffic that often plagues ground transportation. Once my airplane landed, a Blade flight concierge promptly reached out to me, informing me that my private driver was waiting to escort me to the exclusive fixed-based operation, a testament to their dedication to providing a top-tier experience. There is truly no better way to get in and out of New York City. In addition to airport transfers, they also offer transportation to special events, such as the highly anticipated U.S. Open, seamlessly whisking you away to the Hamptons and beyond. It’s genuinely an extraordinary experience that never gets old, combining efficiency with a touch of luxury that is hard to find elsewhere. Check out some cool photos from the experience to witness the exceptional service and stunning aerial views yourself.

    A professional driver escorting me to the FBO. Water and a comfortable ride is provided.
    A Blade Robinson Bell 206 helicopter awaiting my arrival.
    Flying over the Hudson en route to West 30th Street Heliport.
  • The Highest Hotel Room in New York City and North America

    The Highest Hotel Room in New York City and North America

    1717 Broadway in New York City. Home to a dual branded Marriott hotel comprising of Courtyard and Residence Inn. An incredible find. At this location, you can be in the highest hotel room in New York City. It’s also the highest in North America!

    My wife and I were graciously upgraded to the tallest hotel room floor. Floor 68. As the elevator climbs the towering 750-foot-tall building, you can feel the pressure changes. Your ears start popping. There is a sense of altitude that is obvious. You can literally feel it in the air. It’s the same feeling as going to the top floors of tall buildings. Examples are the One World Trade Center.

    We spent five incredible nights on top of New York City. From the hustle and bustle of the city below, to seeing cruise ships go in and out of the Hudson. It’s something that truly felt exclusive, rare, and memorable. In a sense, it felt like being in a private suite with one of the best views of New York City.

    It is an interesting prospective seeing air traffic like helicopters and seaplanes fly below your altitude from a building. Such an incredible experience and is definitely a gem.

    Enjoy these photos from that experience below.

    We are in the clouds!
    The view from the 68th floor.
    Savoring the view and a nice red wine. Now that’s fun!
  • Catching a SpaceX Launch from the Arizona Desert

    Catching a SpaceX Launch from the Arizona Desert

    Space is a mysterious and vast area, off-limits to humans until we learned to defy gravity. Watching a rocket launch into space while enjoying street tacos is an unforgettable experience! I’ve traveled to Florida many times for this but seeing it unexpectedly in Arizona was incredible. I managed to capture some neat photos of it blasting into orbit.

    A SpaceX Falcon rocket thunders into the sky from Vandenberg Space Force Base, California. Piercing through the Pacific horizon in a breathtaking display of power and precision.

  • Solar Impulse in Arizona: Witnessing History in Flight

    Solar Impulse in Arizona: Witnessing History in Flight

    I was fortunate to see both Solar Impulse 1 and Solar Impulse 2 when they visited Arizona. The first time, in Phoenix, I saw Solar Impulse 1. A plane that looked delicate but had wings wider than a jumbo jet, powered only by the sun.

    A few years later, in Goodyear, I was invited to a private event showcasing Solar Impulse 2. It was the advanced version meant to fly around the world. Being so close felt like watching the future of flying getting ready to take off.

    Both experiences were unforgettable reminders that innovation is not just about going fast or high. It’s about imagining new possibilities. The team worked diligently with the FAA to make the mission possible. I think the vision and collaboration is amazing.

    Here are some photos of those experiences. I hope you enjoy!

    Disclaimer:
    These reflections are my personal impressions. I am not affiliated with or endorsed by Solar Impulse or its partners. All photographs are my own and shared here for informational and editorial purposes only.

    Solar Impulse 2 Front.
    The power behind the vision. Engines on the Si2.
    Full view of Solar Impulse 2 at Goodyear at a private event in 2016.
    The tail of Solar Impulse 2.
    Jarron Smith in front of an informational board for the Solar Impulse vision at a private event at Goodyear, AZ in 2016.
    Solar Impulse 1 on display at a private event at Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix, AZ in 2013.
    Jarron Smith in front of Solar Impulse 1 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport in 2013.

  • A Life Shaped by Flight

    A Life Shaped by Flight

    I took my first flight before kindergarten. I still remember it vividly. The roar of the engines, lining up on the runway, and my dad jokingly asked if I could run that fast. I said yes, of course, but the second we lifted off, I realized we were in a different world. Looking out the window, everything below shrank, and it felt like magic.

    What I also remember is the sadness when the flight was over. While most people get excited about arriving somewhere new, I didn’t want it to end. Looking back, it’s a funny lesson in life. You really do have to learn to enjoy the journey. It’s not just about the destination.

    That feeling has stayed with me. Over the years, I’ve experienced flying a variety of aircraft. I have flown a Cessna 172, Cirrus SR22T, and Lancair Evolution. My love for flying also led me into helicopters, including the Robinson R44 and the classic Bell 206. Each one has its own personality. They all bring back that same sense of wonder I felt as a kid.

    For me, aviation isn’t just about getting somewhere. It’s about freedom, perspective, and that incredible feeling of defying gravity.

    Jarron Smith sitting in a cockpit of a Boeing 737-700 in 2015.