Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
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.
From mid-May to August, significant work was done on a 1953 Cessna 170B following a concerning engine inspection. After evaluating options, it was decided to replace the original engine with a Lycoming O-360, enhancing performance. Despite increased weight and some initial issues, the owners are pleased with the outcome and eager to fly again.
Oshkosh 2014 was a remarkable aviation event featuring over 10,000 airplanes, including the One Week Wonder project, where volunteers built a complete aircraft. The unveiling of Sonex's new Turbo engine showcased technological advancements, while the Ultralights barn highlighted innovative designs. The experience was unforgettable, celebrating the spirit of flight and aviation progress.
The SuperSTOL project is progressing well with the timely arrival of the Rotax 914 Turbo engine. The fuselage is painted, and wiring for the panel, which presented several challenges, is underway. Despite complications with avionics and components, the author is pleased with the progress after nine months and encourages others to start building.
As spring approaches, the author faces aircraft maintenance challenges, including a costly carburetor rebuild. Despite having an AME license, unexpected expenses arise during inspections. Considering future aircraft for aerobatics, the author explores options, weighing the benefits of light biplanes and potential rebuilds, while acknowledging regulatory hurdles for aerobatic approvals.
The author expresses frustration with the prolonged winter in Alberta, contrasting it to previous challenging weather experiences in Newfoundland. He reminisces about a 1992 flight from Newfoundland to Oshkosh with memories of weather delays, customs complications, and learning during the journey, ultimately finding joy in the current sunny weather.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 