Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The post expresses holiday greetings and reflects on personal desires for Christmas, particularly the wish for more time to work on aviation projects. It shares updates on various aircraft projects and highlights winter flying precautions, including pre-heating engines, checking tire pressure, dressing appropriately, and carrying survival kits. A safe Christmas is wished for all.
During Christmas, Calgary's snowy landscape poses challenges for pilots, who adapt to winter flying conditions. As temperatures drop, there’s hope for warmer weather to practice flying. A humorous anecdote highlights the difference in recognition between a retired pilot and a minister in heaven, illustrating how results matter. Merry Christmas and safe flying wishes are shared.
This month, aviation activities included flights and a fly-in golf day with friends. Progress on the Buttercup is slow, with thoughts about a future aerobatic build. A new Bearhawk LSA model, noted for its light weight and fuel efficiency, has piqued interest. The author continues working on the Buttercup while considering future projects.
The author reflects on a challenging flying month, hindered by snow and muddy conditions. While others have flown, they focus on building their aircraft project and attending a fabric covering course. They also contemplate the low percentage of female pilots, suggesting that more than just lack of exposure may contribute to this trend.
In 1910, Raymonde de Laroche became the first woman to earn a pilot license, followed by Bessica Medlar Raiche and Mary Eileen Vollick in the US and Canada, respectively. Despite increased interest, women still represent only 6% of pilots today, largely due to myths and lack of exposure. Encouragement and support from communities are essential to change this statistic.
The Drayton Valley Flying Club has been actively engaging the community through events like the Santa Claus parade and a successful open house that attracted 27 aircraft. They've established flight training with a freelance instructor and have 22 students enrolled. Future plans include infrastructure improvements and local events, enhancing aviation interest.
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 author reflects on past writings and the permanence of online content. They share insights from personal flying experiences, emphasizing the importance of preparation for engine failures, such as maintaining airspeed and altitude awareness. The narrative concludes with the enjoyment of recent flights and anticipation of upcoming club activities.
Blatchford Field, one of Canada's oldest aerodromes, will cease operations at the end of the month, marking a significant loss in history. A final flight event on October 12 will allow pilots to commemorate the site, with free admission by donation to the Alberta Aviation Museum. Participants can enjoy coffee and possible breakfast, alongside historical displays.
In July, the author and their father embarked on a 5100 km road trip to Oshkosh for an aviation event, enjoying camping at Camp Schroller. They encountered friendly neighbors and fascinating aircraft, while exploring new aviation products. The trip culminated in a presentation about the author's father's aviation history, attended by club members.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 