Aviation References - B

Cathay Pacific Boeing 777-300(ER) arriving at Toronto Lester B. Pearson International Airport (YYZ) from Hong Kong Chek Lap Kok International Airport (HKG) during a beautiful Sunday sunset 2019 (with a waxing sturgeon moon framed). Interestingly, the waxing moon in this image would become the Sturgeon moon (and the second full moon of summer), so named by the north-eastern Native American Algonquin tribes since it permitted easy fishing for large fish (Sturgeon) in the lakes. The moon is also referred to as the Green Corn Moon as, during this time of year, corn ears have appeared but are not yet ripe. Other festivities occurring around this full moon include the Hindu Raksha Bandhan celebration of the bond between sisters and brothers as well as the Nikini Poya Holiday in Sri Lanka (a holiday for every full moon, by the way), commemorating the first Buddhist council somewhere around 400 BCE, about 2400 years ago. This full moon occurs during the ghost month in the Chinese calendar as well, where the fifteenth day of the month (corresponding with the Sturgeon full Moon) is called "Ghost Day", when deceased ancestors arise to visit the living. Plus, the full moon also marks the Chinese Hungry Ghost Festival. Perhaps this 777 was transporting passengers visiting family in Toronto to celebrate these various festivals from China and the surrounding region. With a beautiful sunset and plane, what a delight to elevate the experience with such a unique summer moon. Enjoy!