Flight to Jalalabad FEB 08

Kabul is over one above sea level. So flying just about anywhere from Kabul means you go down in elevation and up in temperature. In Feb 08, I flew on UH-60 Blackhawks to Jalalabad which is where the traditional Afghan royal winter quarters is located. Indeed, it was about 25 degrees in Kabul and about 65 degrees in J-Bad




This picture was taken over KMTC which is the Afghan armies (ANA) training area. If you look in the middle of the picture, you can see a line of men who are no doubt ANA soldiers at the firing range. You can also click on the picture for a closer look.
This is the Kabul River flowing through the mountains towards J-Bad. The helicopter followed the river gorge through the mountains which are about 15,000-18,000 feet high.

Click on the photo and you will see the Afghan village built into the side of the mountain. Notice the terraces for growing their food. Also notice the lack of snow as we flew to lower elevations.

The two photos above are the city of Jalalabad, which is located in a green zone. Green zones are areas located next to water and stand in contrast to the arid surroundings in most of the country.