MOODY AIR FORCE BASE — Upside down the ground looks completely different in an AT-6 Texan aircraft.

Although I was only in that position for a split second — thank the Lord — my mind jumped to all the possibilities of my being in that position. For example:

This isn’t right. My feet need to point down, not up.

And, wow, the ground is close.

And, I hope I don’t need to remember how to operate the parachute.

The only other time I saw the ground from that view is from a rollercoaster. But that is a far comparison to this ride.

The four men from the Aeroshell Aerobatic Team flew me, along with other members of the media, around Valdosta Friday.

The AT-6 Texan was originally designed as the basic trainer for the U.S. Army Air Corps. About 15,495 Texans were built between 1938-45, according to the National Museum of the United States Air Force Web site.

During our 20 minute flight, the pilots thrilled us with a loop, a barrel roll, formation flying and a break away.

Lead pilot Alan Henley said we would experience about three G’s, which is what some roller coasters can hit at points in the ride.

While I couldn’t stop smiling, my lips felt like plaster on my face because of the force of gravity.

Once we were upright, I looked at Joanna Moore of 95.7 The Mix WQPW. It was her first time ever in an airplane. She flew with Steve Gustafson, left wing pilot, otherwise known as Suicide.

Unlike her friend Monica Buchanan, WCTV Channel 6, who was riding with Gene McNeely, who flies slot, Moore seemed to be handling the ride with ease and excitement. Buchanan, however, had pulled out her Ziplock bag just in case.

Henley’s twin brother, Mark flies right wing. Several times I was apprehensive because I could see the passenger, Andres Villegas, Langdale Industries, Inc., a little too well.

But Henley was in control. All I had to do was relax and scream whenever we went upside down.

The Aeroshell team will be performing at the Moody Air Force Base Air Fest this weekend. Admission is free.