Tag: Airports

Me & The Beeve – The First Year

On By Stu Simpson

Stu Simpson reflects on his first year as an aircraft owner of "The Beeve", a modified Spectrum single-seat RX-45 Beaver with a Rotax 447 engine. He shares the challenges and triumphs of restoring and flying his plane, from testing its power on takeoff to navigating tricky landings. Despite limitations in speed, The Beeve has taken Stu on memorable adventures to various airports and scenic spots, enduring turbulence with remarkable resilience. With over 65 flight hours in a year, Stu contemplates future trips and cherishes each new adventure with The Beeve, recognizing the unique bond they share in their aviation journeys.

Maps

On By Stu Simpson

In aviation, pilots use various maps (or charts) for navigation. The best map depends on factors like destination, speed, and onboard navigation tools. Three common charts in Calgary are the 1/500,000 VFR Navigation Chart (VNC), the 1/250,000 VFR Terminal Area Chart (VTA), and Alberta Aviation Council's map. The VNC is recommended for its comprehensive detail and suitability for long-distance flights.

September Southbound: Part 3

On By Stu Simpson

The 10-day journey from Minneapolis to Regina covered 3025 NM, 17 airports, and two provinces, and ten states. The trip was marked by challenges including a new flight plan system and adverse weather, but also memorable sights such as spotting a B-52 bomber. The narrator lauds his copilot, wife Tina, for her invaluable support and companionship.

A List of Memories

On By Stu SimpsonLeave a comment

The author reflects on their flying career, noting they've landed at 263 airports across Canada and the US. Creating a list sparked nostalgic memories of each location, revealing treasured past experiences. The journey highlighted not just the number of airports, but the significance of the memories tied to each flight and place.

Flying around the patch

On By crfcyycLeave a comment

Norm shares his recent flying experiences, detailing a trip from Carstairs to Flagstaff Regional. He enjoyed lunch at the Wooden Spoon with Jim after visiting nearby towns. Despite facing challenging winds on the return flight, smooth air made for an exhilarating experience. Norm praises the exceptional winter flying weather this December.

Free On-Line Flight Planning, Part 3

On By Stu SimpsonLeave a comment

Fltplan.com offers digitized Canadian maps and Flight Supplement data but lacks crucial route planning features. Users can access VFR charts and airport information but often find missing turf-runway airports. In contrast, 100ll.ca provides a user-friendly way to find airport details, distances, and fuel prices, complementing Fltplan.com for efficient flight planning.