Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
In aviation, pilots use various maps (or charts) for navigation. The best map depends on factors like destination, speed, and onboard navigation tools. Three common charts in Calgary are the 1/500,000 VFR Navigation Chart (VNC), the 1/250,000 VFR Terminal Area Chart (VTA), and Alberta Aviation Council's map. The VNC is recommended for its comprehensive detail and suitability for long-distance flights.
The trip to Oklahoma to pick up Bob Kirkby’s Starduster biplane highlighted the use of technology in aviation. The author relied on modern GPS devices and apps for navigation, significantly minimizing the use of traditional maps. Despite flying in older aircraft models, the integration of technology facilitated efficient flight planning and communication.
Fltplan.com offers digitized Canadian maps and Flight Supplement data but lacks crucial route planning features. Users can access VFR charts and airport information but often find missing turf-runway airports. In contrast, 100ll.ca provides a user-friendly way to find airport details, distances, and fuel prices, complementing Fltplan.com for efficient flight planning.
The author shares their enthusiasm for integrating technology into flying, emphasizing how various online resources enhance flight planning. They highlight tools like Google Earth, Google Maps, SkyVector, FltPlan, and 100LL, which offer unique features for planning while remaining accessible and free. The author plans to provide tips on these resources in future posts.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 