Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
To become an airline pilot, obtaining a Group 1 IFR rating in Canada is essential, requiring 40 hours of instrument training, including 20 hours in a multi-engine plane. IFR flying entails detailed flight planning and reliance on instruments rather than visual cues, with GPS now being the primary navigation method.
Simulators serve multiple purposes for pilots, providing safe and efficient means to experiment with new equipment and techniques, saving time on pre-flight procedures, allowing practice of trip details, and simulating emergency situations. While desktop simulator time may not be logged, it significantly improves and maintains pilot skills.
A stabilized approach is essential for safe landings, as it ensures consistent airspeed, configuration, and glidepath during final approach, ideally from 500 feet above the runway. An unstabilized approach, characterized by changes in these variables, increases the risk of accidents. If unstable, pilots should prefer to go around rather than attempt a landing.
Staying hydrated during long flights is crucial to avoid dehydration, which causes irritability and poor decision-making. It's recommended to drink water and eat energy foods about 40 minutes before landing. Maintaining regular hydration and stretching during the flight helps improve focus and overall well-being while flying at high altitudes.
The author shares experiences flying their RV10, highlighting summer trips and the decision to pursue a night rating. They detail the challenges and thrills of night flying, including instrument reliance and overcoming weather issues. The process of acquiring skills is ongoing, with future IFR training planned despite family time constraints, enhancing safety as a priority.
Significant changes to Springbank airport and its airspace took effect on February 16, 2006. The airport remains Class D, with new GPS IFR approach and altered Class C airspace extensions. Training areas were moved west to accommodate the changes, which are beneficial for local pilots. A brochure with details is available online.
The content discusses forced landings and precautionary landings for pilots. It emphasizes the importance of memorizing emergency procedures and the need for repeated practice. It also highlights the significance of planning and preparation for landing at unfamiliar airstrips. The author stresses the value of familiarity with various landing situations to ensure safe flying.
The author reflects on the unique flying styles of pilots, influenced by attitudes, approaches, and physical coordination. They highlight the impact of early training, the significance of attitudes towards safety, and the need to adapt styles to different conditions for enhanced safety. Ultimately, the focus remains on safety and responsible decision-making in aviation.
In this article, the author shares the wisdom of pilots in handling forced landings, particularly due to engine failures. They emphasize the importance of preparedness, selecting landing sites, and planning the approach. The steps outlined include maintaining speed, choosing a field, planning the approach, cause check, restart attempt, and concentrating on the landing.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 