CAVU Dreams (2006-04)

The Cessna 150 project is complete after a year of upgrades, including avionics, a new engine, and a conversion to key-start. The installation went smoothly, with improved performance and no leaks observed post-swap. However, the plane unexpectedly gained 35 lbs, complicating future flight training arrangements within legal weight limits.

From The Cockpit (2006-04)

Spring brings optimism for flying after a challenging March. Upcoming fly-ins are anticipated, alongside part-time work at Blue Yonder on multiple kits. The author reflects on Northern bush pilots' adventurous stories from Shirlee Matheson's book, illustrating their resilience and camaraderie. Overall, a spirited appreciation for aviation and its history prevails.

Rose’s First Flight

On February 19, 2006, I took my co-worker Alan's wife, Rose, on her first airplane ride for her birthday. After thorough briefings and checking weather conditions, we flew over stunning landscapes, including Calgary and Drumheller. Despite some turbulence, Rose enjoyed the experience, expressing newfound confidence about flying. It was a memorable tour.

CAVU Dreams (2006-03)

In a busy month, the author managed home renovations and aircraft upgrades, including work on a Cessna 150. After successfully retrieving a salvaged plane in Florida with his father, they encountered delays and icy conditions. The trip proved worthwhile, yielding a core engine and quality parts for future projects, costing $4,000 less than anticipated.

From The Cockpit (2006-03)

This winter has brought mild temperatures and minimal snow. The recent annual dinner and auction was a success, thanks to Dave Procyshen. Appreciation was expressed for contributors and reports on various topics. Upcoming meetings promise engaging discussions, including insights from search and rescue missions. A former plane owner transitioned, and exciting new projects await.

CAVU Dreams (2009-03)

February brought mixed weather but ended positively with a lunch gathering in Lacombe that featured multiple aircraft enthusiasts. The author recently introduced a fellow student to light flying, excelled in class, and continued working on their Buttercup project, focusing on rib construction for wings. Upcoming aviation events are in the pipeline.

Kicking Tires and Twanging Wires – Safety Corner

The content emphasizes the importance of thorough preflighting for aircraft, and highlights the significance of patience and attention to detail. It also underlines the need for proper maintenance and pilot readiness. The careful preflighting process ensures airworthiness, maintenance adherence, pilot preparedness, and flight plan review. Rushing through it can lead to oversights and risks.

Prop Up Your Plane

The article discusses the importance of choosing the right propeller for different aircraft engines, specifically focusing on the Rotax engine. It highlights the impact of using the wrong propeller, the significance of RPM in achieving maximum thrust, and the preference for fewer blades for efficiency. It also touches on the potential of adjustable pitch propellers for improved fuel economy and the factors to consider when selecting a propeller. The writer emphasizes the role of compromises in determining the most suitable propeller for specific aircraft models and encourages investment for enhanced performance.