Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
As fall arrives, flying enthusiasts seek to maximize airtime before winter. Recent flights to the Vulcan airbase highlight the importance of flexibility and using weather resources effectively. The upcoming meeting features Colonel H.C. “Skip” Armstrong, a seasoned Air Force veteran with notable leadership experience. Participants are encouraged to stay safe and bring friends.
Over the past year, the author enjoyed various mountain flying adventures, culminating in an impromptu trip to Ram Falls with fellow pilots. They tackled challenges like an elevated airstrip with crosswinds but successfully landed. After exploring the park, they returned to Carstairs, reflecting on a memorable flying day. Next meeting is September 9th.
After much planning and delays, a family flew their RV-10 from Canada to Las Vegas, finally enjoying a warm vacation. They faced weather challenges but successfully navigated to various destinations, including the Grand Canyon. The trip included a private wedding and enjoyable family time, highlighting the efficiency and performance of their aircraft.
On August 29, 2009, I finally accepted Pat's invitation to fly. The day was beautiful, and the camaraderie among pilots was refreshing. After a smooth flight to Linden and a delightful breakfast, we continued to Ram Falls, highlighted by picturesque views and a perfect landing. Despite initial fears during approach, it ended as a glorious day.
The annual raffle held successively rewarded winners, including Stu Simpson who selected an oil painting, Graham Millington who won $250, and Ken Beanlands who received a multi-tool. Additionally, discussions on COPA updates occurred. A flight to Red Deer was hampered by fog, leading to a special VFR experience for the passengers.
Winter approaches as the author shares recent flight experiences, including a successful landing in Nanton and a visit to Lacombe with fellow pilots. They highlight upcoming December elections for club positions, a presentation on aerobatics by Kevin Hopkins, and an update on an RV-10 construction project at the November meeting.
On September 14, a pilot experienced a near-fatal incident during water landings at Sylvan Lake. After successfully landing twice, the plane unexpectedly flipped upside down upon touchdown. The pilot utilized safety skills to escape and was rescued. Subsequent inspections revealed potential construction flaws in the aircraft's fiberglass hull, prompting an ongoing investigation.
The content discusses critical techniques for soft field landings and takeoffs, emphasizing proper stick control to avoid hard landings or poor climbs. It advises against locking brakes on soft surfaces to prevent hydroplaning and highlights the need for continuous power adjustments in gusty conditions. Aborting takeoffs should occur if liftoff speed isn't reached by mid-strip.
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.
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.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 