Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The author achieved a Private Pilot’s License in 1980 but found aircraft ownership financially challenging. Discovering kit planes reignited their passion for flying. After moving to Calgary, they enjoyed flying a Macair Merlin, which provided an economical experience. While recently acquiring a Piper Cherokee 180 offered advantages, the Merlin remains their favorite.
On July 4, 2015, Rob Jaap and I flew from Innisfail to Forestburg, where we met Sven Bernard, a Swiss ex-paratrooper working to develop the airfield. We explored the site and witnessed Rob mastering wing control. Encountering smoke on the return, we reported visibility issues but landed safely back at Innisfail.
The journey from Clearwater to Key West featured breathtaking coastal views and encounters with the Everglades. After enjoying Key West, the family navigated back, facing storms. They briefly stopped in Crystal River, where they kayaked and saw manatees. The flight home included challenging conditions, with humorous family moments during landing in Omaha.
Ken provides an update on his recovery progress after an injury, highlighting his regained mobility and newfound freedom to drive. He details a big purge in preparation for building a new RC model kitplane and reflects on investigating two mysteries related to a recent crash. He expresses gratitude for a lifetime club membership.
After 32 years as a pilot, the author has decided to stop flying following an accident that damaged their knee. Health concerns, including diabetes complications, and a desire to focus on family and other interests played crucial roles in this decision. They plan to engage in sailing, dog rescue, and hobbies while simplifying life.
On February 1st, during a flight to Red Deer Lake, the narrator experienced a catastrophic aviation accident after colliding with another plane. Despite crashing, the narrator survived with injuries, including a dislocated knee and broken ribs, and received prompt medical assistance. The aircraft, built over 26 years, was irreparably damaged.
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.
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.
With summer ending, the author reflects on limited flying hours and returns to teaching at SAIT with an increased course load. They discuss their teaching roles, changes in the AME program, and mention a friend's tragic death in a plane crash. Plans for future flying adventures and a tribute to the friend are noted.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 