Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
Member Stu has organized another Trivia Challenge featuring aviation-related questions. This second part covers topics such as airspace classifications, navigation instruments, and specific terminology used in Canadian aviation. It aims to test knowledge and provide fun, with questions ranging from the meaning of radar to identifying different cloud types and aircraft specifications.
The author reflects on their aviation journey, highlighting the extensive knowledge gained, particularly about various aircraft engines and maintenance. Through hands-on experiences, mentorship, and a passion for aviation, they developed valuable skills in mechanics, woodworking, and flying techniques. This learning adventure fostered confidence, independence, and a deep appreciation for community support.
The RV6 panel is costly, making alternatives attractive for budget-conscious builders. Companies like Garmin, Dynon, and GRT offer reliable glass cockpit solutions, but newer contenders like 360 Avionics provide affordable entry-level displays. Exploring various options is essential, as entry-level glass displays can be comparably priced to steam gauges while offering enhanced functionality.
The author enjoys living near the mountains, engaging in activities like skiing, hiking, and biking. Piloting an airplane offers a unique perspective of the Rockies, especially during summer and fall flying. The author shares experiences from trips with friends and emphasizes the enriching rewards of mountain flying, which enhances skills and confidence.
In 2024, a group of friends planned a flight to Alaska, navigating challenging weather conditions during their journey. They faced turbulence, rain showers, and visibility issues but successfully reached various destinations like Whitehorse and Soldotna. The trip included glacier tours, fishing, and concluded with a safe return home after encountering diverse flying experiences.
The new year brings fresh flying adventures and a resolution to fly more during winter, regarded as a great season for flying due to cold, dry air. Various monthly fly-ins and upcoming events offer opportunities to socialize and enjoy winter flying experiences, featuring breakfasts and attractions across different locations.
In 1991, the author chose a Rotax 582 engine for their Kitfox aircraft due to its lower cost. A memorable flight included taking their father on his first airplane ride. After building a second Kitfox and flying in formation with his son on his 80th birthday, the author embarked on a project to convert a Yamaha Phazer engine, encountering challenges but ultimately achieving success after 18 months.
In July 2012, the narrator and Geoff faced challenging weather while returning home to Cranbrook after a trip. Despite questionable conditions, they decided to investigate further into the Elk Valley but encountered poor visibility and turned back safely. They later reflected on their choices and invited discussion on safety in flying.
If you want to go with a glass IFR panel then you need to plan for full redundancy. If you're doing that then why not throw in an autopilot and all the bells and whistles. As a starting point I was able to go flying with Troy Branch in his RV10 which he recently upgraded to Garmin avionics and instruments. I have to say it is hands down the nicest panel I've ever seen. It has three 10" landscape displays, a 3" backup EFIS, two Garmin GPS's, full autopilot and extras. We did a quick flight to Lethbridge to shoot an IFR approach and the capabilities of this plane are amazing.
In September 2018, Doug Eaglesham, Geoff Pritchard and I set off to basically just ramble about the sky for several days. We had no solid plan, we were just going flying and we’d see where we ended up.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 