Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The post announces plans for the upcoming year, thanking participants from a December meeting survey. Key findings include Clark Seaborn as a memorable speaker and interests in building projects and aviation topics. The next meeting at the SAIT hangar will include a tour, raffle prizes, and elections. Membership renewals are encouraged.
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.
October was a month of contrasting experiences in aviation, featuring beautiful weather and exciting events like the Airbus A380's inaugural flight. However, the month also had a tragic side, with several light aircraft accidents, sparking media frenzy. Despite this, personal flying adventures and community events continued to thrive among aviation enthusiasts.
Many countries, including Canada, aim to adopt the US Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) standards, which differ slightly from Canadian Advanced Ultralight (AULA) regulations. The LSA's weight limit is higher, and their standards are more costly. The author advocates for updating AULA standards to allow more flexibility in maintenance and repairs.
October is approaching rapidly, prompting a call for contributions from club members about their summer flying experiences. The author reflects on a busy September, balancing cabin work with aviation activities, including attending a Fly-In breakfast. They've been experimenting with their airplane's airspeed indicator and pushing flying techniques.
As summer ends with kids back in school, the writer reflects on memorable flying experiences, including visits to aviation museums and a flight adventure to Tofino. They also found joy in instructing, emphasizing the importance of rudder control for smooth landings. Excitement builds for upcoming meetings and future adventures.
The Nelson fly-in breakfast trip involved a logistical challenge due to uncertain weather conditions. After evaluating the forecast, the author and Ken Beanlands decided to proceed. They flew successfully through turbulent conditions, enjoyed the breakfast, and returned home smoothly, marking a memorable mountain flying experience for Ken's 40th birthday.
The author recounts a busy month of family relocations, flight modifications, and adventures. Key highlights include overhauling a propeller, acquiring a Stinson fuselage, and a trip to Arlington, where they conversed about Aeronca Sedans, leading to a newfound enthusiasm for restoring the aircraft. Future plans involve participating in an air adventure tour.
Last year, I purchased a 1947 Piper PA-12 and flew it home from Columbus, Ohio to Canada. The journey involved meticulous pre-flight planning, several stops across the U.S., and navigating various weather conditions. Despite challenges, I successfully completed the 1,760-mile trip in 19.2 hours with great satisfaction.
Stu Simpson has been flying his 1991 Macair Merlin, "Merl," for a year since his beloved Green Giant was destroyed in a plane crash. He compares the two planes' designs and performance, highlighting Merl's advantages like better visibility, comfort, cargo space, and improved landing options. Despite its challenges, Merl is a rewarding and capable aircraft that has allowed Stu to explore new flying experiences.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 