Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
In the summer of 2016, flying experiences varied from enjoyable local excursions to notable long-distance flights, including a significant trip to Oshkosh. The author upgraded the airplane prop, enhancing speed but slightly diminishing climb. Bad weather affected plans, yet multiple flights were shared with friends, creating memorable moments before autumn's restrictions.
In August 2015, I began building my Carbon Cub EX2 kit, encountering part shortages and quality issues. Despite the challenges, including paint contamination and scheduling setbacks, I invested 1000 hours over 10.5 months. After successful test flights in varied conditions, I found the aircraft enjoyable and a great addition to my flying repertoire.
Pilots in the club agree that aviation is best enjoyed together. Despite personal health challenges, the author cherished flying hours beside a yellow savage cub and enjoyed a scenic flight in a Cessna 195 to Red Deer with friends. They relished lunch at the Circuit Café after arriving with multiple planes.
Since joining CRUFC in 1994, the author has built two planes: a Minimax and an RV9. While the Minimax excelled in quick takeoffs and simplicity, the RV9 offers better cruising performance and advanced instrumentation. The transition revealed stark differences in handling, performance metrics, and flight procedures, ultimately favoring the more capable RV9.
On December 17, 2014, the SuperSTOL made its maiden flight after thorough preparation. The pilot conducted several short hops, confirmed its controllability, and completed multiple circuits. The aircraft's performance, especially in slow flight, was remarkable, with take-offs in three seconds and manageable touch downs at low speeds. The pilot plans to accumulate more flying hours for further exploration.
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.
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 shares a captivating account from Kitplanes about Robert Barber's extensive flight with his homebuilt Sonex from Texas to Alaska. Inspired by this journey, the author proposes a group flying adventure north for club members, emphasizing thorough planning on routes, aircraft specifications, and cooperative piloting to enhance the experience and support fundraising efforts.
Stu Simpson shifted from slow to fast flying, opting for a Cavalier airplane after facing persistent headwinds. The upgrade allows for faster travel, beating strong winds, expanding flying range, and keeping pace with fellow flyers. Though missing some features, such as the ability to land anywhere, the low costs and impressive performance of the Cavalier have left Stu satisfied.
The author recounts a day of flying to the North 40 fly-in, accompanied by granddaughters who enjoy horseback riding. Despite not riding in years, the author participates in a trail ride. The return flight was completed safely before predicted high winds developed, concluding with enjoyable camaraderie among fellow pilots.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 