Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
Transport Canada’s proposed regulation changes (NPA 2024-001) threaten Ultralight pilots, restricting which aircraft they may fly based solely on registration classifications. This vague proposal has drawn criticism for its lack of clarity and stakeholder involvement, raising concerns about its necessity and potential negative impact on pilots, aircraft builders, and aviation freedom.
The discussion emphasizes the value of both spin and stall training for pilots, as these skills can enhance confidence and recovery capabilities in emergency situations. Even infrequent training sessions can significantly aid pilots, enabling them to respond effectively to unexpected spins and preventing accidents through proper control inputs.
The author reflects on flying their Rihn DR-107 and the challenges faced due to unexpected performance issues during aerobatics and landings. A buildup of insects on the wings contributed to these problems, highlighting the importance of keeping the aircraft clean. After cleaning the wings, the plane performed as expected, restoring confidence.
Bob Kirkby discusses the challenges pilots face during engine failures after takeoff. Simulation training reveals that many pilots struggle to return to the runway, especially from low altitudes like 800 feet AGL. The lessons emphasize the importance of maintaining wings level and landing straight ahead instead of attempting a return.
Pilots commonly err in crosswind landings by mismanaging airspeed, often flying too fast, which increases exposure to wind near the ground. They also neglect to maintain aileron control after touchdown, risking instability. To improve, pilots should practice in diverse conditions with a knowledgeable instructor, rather than only flying on calm days.
Transport Canada emphasizes zero tolerance for cannabis use among aviation personnel, disqualifying them from obtaining medical certificates. The TCCA warns of both immediate and lasting impairments. Following legalization, Air Canada and WestJet have instituted strict bans on cannabis use for their employees, even outside of working hours or at company events.
Tom Turner offers advice for achieving smoother landings, emphasizing that a successful landing stems from a good approach. Key elements include maintaining correct speed, proper configuration, and glide-path. Pilots should focus on the runway's far end, adjust control inputs accordingly, and hold back pressure during landing to ensure accuracy and smoothness.
Today, I attended the cactus desert fly-in at Casa Grande with friends, exploring backcountry flying and camping essentials. We admired vintage planes, enjoyed formation flying by young pilots, and flew to a desert landing spot. After a scenic day in the air, we celebrated with milkshakes, marking another successful flying adventure.
Inbound pilots should avoid making the call "any traffic please advise" on the CTAF, as it is not a recognized phrase and can block vital communications. This call may flood the frequency with responses, reducing safety instead of improving it. Instead, monitoring the CTAF for proper announcements is advised for situational awareness.
The text outlines regulations prohibiting pilots from understanding Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) unless authorized. If pilots perceive knowledge of CARs, they must inform the Administrator within three days. The Administrator will then revise the CARs to prevent further understanding and may mandate remedial instruction until confusion is achieved.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 