Fun Flying

Despite nearing December's end, the flying weather has been favorable. The author has flown five times since late October, practicing crosswind takeoffs and landings. They enjoyed smooth air while flying to Coronation for lunch and visiting a friend's airstrip. The author hopes to continue flying through the winter months.

My First Solo

The author's journey from Yugoslavia to becoming a pilot in Canada spans decades. Despite limited resources in their home country, they pursued aviation through model building, skydiving, and Air Force training. Finally, after years of dedication, they soloed their handmade V-max in 2017, cherishing every moment and investment in their passion for flying.

Bob and Rob’s Great Adventure

The author shares an adventure flying from Innisfail to Milk River with Rob after their trip to Vancouver Island was canceled due to forest fires. They navigated challenges in securing fuel, encountered friendly locals, and enjoyed a memorable overnight experience camping under the stars. The flight totaled around 190 miles with plans for more explorations in the future.

Overnight Camping Airplane style

After a year of planning, a group of pilots successfully flew to a campsite under the wing of their planes for an overnight adventure. Despite previous challenges, including a failed attempt due to engine issues, they enjoyed a weekend of camaraderie, cooking, and storytelling while camping in the scenic Alberta wilderness, agreeing to make it an annual event.

Mr. Aldrich, a PA 15, & me

In the late '70s, a pilot narrates his experience flying a PA 15 from a farmer’s field in Saskatchewan to Springbank, aided by a check pilot. After overcoming challenges like locating the plane, handling an uncooperative passenger, and navigating difficult weather conditions, he ultimately returns safely. The tale reflects perseverance and humor amidst chaos.

Little refinements

The author shares their journey of improving their ultralight airplane, striving for a hundred mph. Initially using a two-blade propeller, they faced performance issues, leading them to switch to a three-blade configuration that provided smoother operation, achieving speeds of 105-110 mph. They plan further refinements while preparing for an upcoming trip.

Fat Dumb and Happy

During a routine flight, the pilot experienced a smoke issue due to a broken muffler. After safely landing, he sought tools for repairs and received help from a local resident. A quick visit to a welding shop ensured the issue was resolved in time for both pilots to meet their commitments, highlighting community support.

Pilot Tip: Go Straight or Turn Back?

The content discusses the critical decision pilots face during engine failure on takeoff, emphasizing that attempting to return to the airport often leads to fatal stalls or spins. It advocates for mental preparation through pre-takeoff briefings, assessing landing options, and knowing safe altitudes, ultimately discouraging dangerous turns back to the airport.