Back and forth to Vancouver

Looks like most of my exploration these last months of work includes flying back and forth to Vancouver.  I am headed back to the coast this evening.  I fly on Pacific Coastal Airlines, in a Beechcraft 1900.  I have my favourite seat which puts me in a position where I can see the altimeter (so I know we really are above the rocks!).  Also, when I look out the window I can see that the front gear is down as it is reflected in the spinner of the propellor.  Control issues?  Who me???

I like the smaller aircraft because I can see what is happening.  I would rather know than not know.  However, I have had a few instances of anxiety as a result of seeing the cockpit.  When the captain takes out the big binder, the operating manual and various papers and spends a long time looking at them, obviously discussing with the second officer, it makes me a little nervous.  Or when an annunciator light comes one.  Or when the captain keeps looking out the window toward the engine.

I have had the aircraft I came in on "grounded" due to a mechanical issue, but have never had a real in-flight concern.  Not yet anyway. 

I don't like flying at night very much; I like to be able to see the ground or if I can't, at least how thick the clouds are.  And the worst bumping around the sky I have experienced has been on night flights.  And wouldn't you know it, I am flying out tonight and back Friday night.  Twice in a week.  Oh well, a chance to practice my relaxation breathing!