Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
July is filled with exciting aviation events like Fly-In Breakfasts and Airshows. A recent trip to deliver plans showcased camaraderie among club members. The installation of an Artex ME406 ELT in the Christavia was completed successfully. There won’t be club meetings in July and August, resuming on September 11th.
The author recently began working at Klarenbach Aviation, a small aircraft maintenance company, and has enjoyed diverse tasks on various aircraft. They stress the importance of thorough inspections and share tips for performing annual checks, emphasizing a comfortable work environment and proper technique to prevent mistakes and ensure safety during maintenance.
This month has been a significant milestone, marking my completion of AME school after transitioning from a job at Encana. Despite the tough job market, I secured a position at Klarenbach Aviation. I also enjoyed flights and family projects, culminating in a successful Mother's Day Fly-in Breakfast with record attendance.
March experienced challenging flying conditions due to adverse weather, but upcoming summer days look promising. Key aviation events, such as the Rust Remover meeting and Western AME Symposium, took place, featuring a presentation on Springbank's new Class C airspace. Innovations like the new Eagle EMS fuel system were showcased, offering significant advantages.
After months of anticipation, the author has acquired a Sukhoi 29, enhancing their aerobatic flying ambitions. Previously flying Cessna 172, Citabria, and Super Decathlon, the Sukhoi, a two-seat evolution of the Su-26, offers superior performance and maneuverability. Insights on Sukhoi’s history, design features, and construction signify its prestige in aerobatics.
In November, winter was delayed, allowing for enjoyable flying days. A group celebrated a new GPS approach with 15 planes, enjoying pie afterward. Members are urged to vote on a club name change by January 8, with dues increasing to $30. Elections for club positions are approaching, and thanks are extended to Troy Branch for his RV10 project update.
The author is building an RV-10 aircraft, prioritizing speed, fuel capacity, and family travel. This quick-build project began in 2007, featuring a glass panel with autopilot and ample storage. Progress includes completing the empennage, wings, and engine installation. The project nears completion, with final tasks pending before the first flight.
After two years and 349.8 hours, my Avid aircraft project is nearly complete, awaiting inspection. I share my challenges, from acquiring parts, which were often difficult, to constructing components in my unheated garage. While Aircraft Spruce's service was disappointing, I ultimately succeeded in assembly and engine installation. Performance figures will follow post-flight.
The content discusses critical techniques for soft field landings and takeoffs, emphasizing proper stick control to avoid hard landings or poor climbs. It advises against locking brakes on soft surfaces to prevent hydroplaning and highlights the need for continuous power adjustments in gusty conditions. Aborting takeoffs should occur if liftoff speed isn't reached by mid-strip.
In January 2008, a meeting at SAIT’s Art Smith Aerospace Center showcased Canada's aircraft maintenance training, led by instructors Brian Goddard and Rod Deneve. The author visited friends, flew to Cooking Lake, and admired Gil's new Murphy Elite. The flight and sight-seeing over Edmonton were memorable, despite some noise issues in the aircraft.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 