Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
January was a challenging month for flying, prompting upgrades to an aircraft named Chrissy. Key enhancements included larger tires, adjustments to landing gear height, relocating instruments for better visibility, and adding a second radio and audio panel for improved communication. The installation is nearing completion, with a follow-up report promised.
The new president expresses gratitude for the role and emphasizes a collaborative approach to enhance club membership and activities. A revamped website is introduced, aiming to attract new members and showcase the club's enthusiasm for flying. The president aspires to create a television ultralight program and appreciates outgoing executives for their contributions.
The author eagerly anticipates winter's arrival, enjoying rare snowfall in Calgary. After preparing their skis and battling heavy snow drifts, they successfully launch their aircraft, relishing the thrills of snowy flying. They practice landings on their makeshift runway, celebrating the unique experience skiing provides. The day concludes with enthusiasm for future snowy adventures.
The year ended with a memorable flying experience over the Kananaskis Valley during a visit from the author's parents. After a clear Boxing Day, the author and friends enjoyed a smooth flight, overcoming oil temperature regulation challenges with a new adjustable air intake for the engine. The joyful day concluded with successful flight procedures and exploration.
In this column, the author wishes everyone a Happy New Year while reflecting on the joys of flying and the hard work of those maintaining airstrips. They remind readers to renew memberships and inform about changes to Calgary/Springbank flight frequencies effective February 11, 2010. The annual banquet is upcoming in February.
This summer, our family traveled extensively in our RV10, culminating in a significant trip to Canada's Maritimes. Despite challenging weather, we visited friends and family, enjoying scenic flights. We encountered storms but successfully navigated, ultimately reuniting with relatives and sharing joyful moments before facing the return journey amid unpredictable weather conditions.
Last week featured harsh weather, limiting flying opportunities except for one successful trip. Work included servicing two Diamond DA-42 Twin Stars and an Aztec for avionics upgrades, where a new method using solder sleeves for shielded wire installation improved efficiency and appearance, replacing more time-consuming traditional techniques.
As the year ends, the author reflects on enjoyable flying experiences, including a recent trip to the Vulcan RCAF airfield. They express gratitude for their presidency and the camaraderie with fellow aviators. Membership renewals and raffle ticket sales are ongoing, featuring appealing prizes. Upcoming speakers promise engaging discussions.
On October 10th, the Calgary Recreational and Ultralight Flying Club hosted COPA For Kids Day, allowing 47 young participants to become Junior Aviators. Despite cold weather, the event featured five flights per child using seven aircraft, thanks to over 16 volunteers. Both kids and parents expressed great enjoyment and appreciation for the experience.
The author shares their passion for flying, sparked by a Facebook post about a ride in a Super Petrel. They have flown various aircraft and aim to fly 50 different types by age 50. This reflects a lifelong enthusiasm for aviation and a desire to explore new flying experiences.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 