Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
Since joining CRUFC in 1994, the author has built two planes: a Minimax and an RV9. While the Minimax excelled in quick takeoffs and simplicity, the RV9 offers better cruising performance and advanced instrumentation. The transition revealed stark differences in handling, performance metrics, and flight procedures, ultimately favoring the more capable RV9.
The author describes their daily commute in Calgary, detailing their fascination with watching airplanes approach YYC airport. Recently, the addition of runway 35R increased air traffic, allowing the author to fly their new airplane, the Merlin. They share insights on cross-border flying regulations and encourage involvement in their aviation club's upcoming election.
Bob Kirkby shares his journey as an aircraft owner, detailing the progression from a Mirage to a Cherokee 235 and ultimately to a PA12. He highlights the importance of matching aircraft to specific missions, discusses maintenance costs, and emphasizes the value of hands-on upkeep to preserve aircraft worth. Both ownership and enjoyment are central themes.
The author achieved a Private Pilot’s License in 1980 but found aircraft ownership financially challenging. Discovering kit planes reignited their passion for flying. After moving to Calgary, they enjoyed flying a Macair Merlin, which provided an economical experience. While recently acquiring a Piper Cherokee 180 offered advantages, the Merlin remains their favorite.
The author reflects on the inefficiency of Transport Canada (TC) initially, but later praises their improved responsiveness and organization after personal experiences. Through persistence, the author successfully navigates regulatory hurdles and eventually establishes an ultralight training school, fulfilling a community need for more instructors and pilots. A dream transformed into reality.
On July 4, 2015, Rob Jaap and I flew from Innisfail to Forestburg, where we met Sven Bernard, a Swiss ex-paratrooper working to develop the airfield. We explored the site and witnessed Rob mastering wing control. Encountering smoke on the return, we reported visibility issues but landed safely back at Innisfail.
April was a remarkable month for flying, with 18 hours logged, despite missing the Sun n Fun 2015 due to work. Concerns about declining club membership and the need for more ultralight instructors were discussed. The low salaries of junior pilots remain troubling, highlighting issues within aviation that need addressing.
In mid-February, the author retrieved a newly overhauled O-320 engine for their Cavalier airplane. With help from Gerry MacDonald, the engine was successfully installed despite some challenges, including the need for new mounting bolts. After a test run and adjustments, the flight was successful, revealing improved performance and smoother operation.
After 32 years as a pilot, the author has decided to stop flying following an accident that damaged their knee. Health concerns, including diabetes complications, and a desire to focus on family and other interests played crucial roles in this decision. They plan to engage in sailing, dog rescue, and hobbies while simplifying life.
The CRUFC is facing a significant decline in membership, down from 64 to 42 members due to insufficient new members and departing ones. A major contributing issue is the lack of ultralight instructors, which hampers training for prospective pilots. Addressing this shortage is essential to reversing membership trends and supporting flying enthusiasts.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 