Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
Weather is crucial for pilots, influencing flying safety. Access to up-to-date information via the Internet and mobile technology enhances this safety. An array of free or low-cost resources, including websites and apps, provides valuable weather data. Pilots should familiarize themselves with these tools to improve weather navigation and enhance safety in flight.
The writer recounts their desire to fly to Ram River Falls using the Buzzard aircraft equipped with a Rotax 582 engine, focusing on the challenges of high elevation flying. After completing maintenance and planning the trip with a pilot friend, they successfully navigated to the destination and enjoyed a smooth return flight.
The planned trip to Disneyland faced multiple setbacks due to the children's illnesses and inclement weather. After overcoming various challenges during travel, including fever and rough flying conditions, the family ultimately missed Disneyland again. The experience taught the importance of prioritizing health and flexibility in planning. Future trips will be scheduled only when everyone is well.
On a calm Saturday morning, the author enjoyed a flying adventure in Alberta, exploring the landscape from 4500 ft. They tracked the Rosebud River and photographed the historic Blériot Ferry. After landing for a break in Linden, they faced strong winds but continued their journey, logging 3.5 hours of flight time.
In February, unusually warm weather allowed for fantastic flying conditions. Pilots, including the author, took advantage of the weekend to explore, with one flight leading to a lake landing at Red Deer Lake. After repairing a navigation light and enjoying lunch, the author successfully navigated the landing despite initial challenges, returning home thrilled.
The author recounts a summer vacation in Calgary, initially planned for Terrace, BC, but ultimately spent at a lake cabin. Highlights include attending a fly-in breakfast, dealing with a malfunctioning airplane starter, and various local flights. Despite challenging weather, the week culminated in 10.2 flying hours and preparations for an upcoming Oshkosh event.
This year’s CRUFC Air Adventure Tour will visit Wendover, Utah, a historical site significant for its role in World War II. Participants can choose between two proposed flight routes, both offering opportunities to explore scenic locations. The tour departs on June 13th, with accommodations potentially lower for larger groups.
As May begins, a busy summer of flying events is anticipated, encouraging attendance to support hosts. An experiment from Myth Busters tested if an ultralight could take off on a moving conveyor belt, promising intriguing results. Lastly, gratitude is expressed to event organizers and an invitation is extended for the May meeting featuring a guest speaker.
The club is considering a name change to attract new members and better represent its diverse offerings beyond ultralights. Discussions around this topic have sparked interest among members, while upcoming elections for vice president and secretary will occur in December. Additionally, exciting presentations and successful flight events have engaged the membership.
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.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 