Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The newsletter begins with a call for club president candidates, highlighting support for potential volunteers. It discusses personal resolutions, construction progress on a project, and the need for a structured building plan. The author reflects on flying challenges and a possible summer trip, wishing everyone a successful and safe new year.
The trip from Vegas to Calgary on Wednesday involved windy conditions and some challenges, including snowy weather and turbulence. The journey included stops at Idaho Falls and Cut Bank, with some unexpected twists such as a closed restaurant for lunch. Despite the bumps and headwinds, the flight covered over 2500 nm and offered a unique perspective of the scenery. The kids proved to be excellent flyers, showing resilience even in the face of turbulence. Overall, it was an enjoyable and memorable experience, showcasing the joy of flying at lower altitudes.
The year has swiftly passed, marked by club activities such as fly-ins and COPA for Kids. We revamped our website and enjoyed engaging speakers. As I celebrate 10 years in the club, I urge members to renew and nominate new leaders. Looking forward to upcoming events despite the cold.
The author shares frustrations about troubleshooting radio issues while flying, recalling the importance of focusing on flying the plane first. After the radio's repair, they mention an upcoming COPA for Kids event on May 29 in Vulcan, seeking volunteers to help share the joy of flying with children.
This summer, the author visited Europe with his family, primarily to see friends in Norway. They attended the Duxford Air Museum and the spectacular Flying Legends Air Show, featuring numerous WWII aircraft. The experience was remarkable, filled with fascinating displays and impressive aerial performances, making it an unforgettable highlight of their trip.
The trip to Oshkosh was memorable, involving flying over diverse landscapes and valuable experiences in a group of eight. Despite weather-related changes, the event showcased the best in aviation. A first ramp check highlighted organizational importance, while club updates included equipment donations and a new website administrator. Upcoming events promise more engagement.
The author recounts the experience of acquiring a new airplane and the challenges faced during the import inspection process. Initial hopes of a straightforward inspection turned into unforeseen issues such as repairs and missing documentation, leading to increased costs and delays. Ultimately, the airplane was ready, providing joy and valuable lessons learned.
The author shares their experience purchasing an aircraft sight unseen and the preparations for its importation into Canada. Despite challenges, including passport issues and securing insurance, support from contacts like Gary and Bob ensures success. Eventually, they retrieve the airplane, confirming its condition and enjoying the excitement of the journey home.
On September 14, I received the Empennage kit for the RV-10 and began assembling its components. With detailed instructions, I worked on the vertical stabilizer and started riveting with my daughter Emma’s help. After finishing the vertical stabilizer, I moved on to the rudder, enjoying the building process immensely.
Fall has arrived, bringing cooler weather and shorter days. During recent demo flights, I observed two pilots: a complete rookie and someone with flight simulator experience. The rookie was eager to learn, while the more experienced pilot was frustrated by challenges. This experience highlighted the importance of being open to learning for true joy in flying.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 