Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The author describes a flight in a Bishcaddy L164 aircraft that experienced uncontrollable vibrations during descent. After landing safely, they discovered significant damage to the wings, indicating a need for reconstruction. Despite the incident, no one was harmed, and the author remains optimistic about the airplane's repair, highlighting its prior reliability.
The writer, Stu Simpson, shares his passion for ultralight airplanes, highlighting their affordability and the joy of flying. He reflects on his experiences with different ultralights, from adventurous trips to building his own plane. He particularly loves his current plane, the Green Giant, for its capabilities and the sense of adventure it provides.
Stu Simpson, the flight lead, encountered unexpected challenges during a flight with his fellow pilots. After enduring a sudden, powerful wind and navigating through a rogue cold front, they ultimately landed safely. Despite the ordeal, Stu maintains it wasn't his fault. He reflects on the experience with a sense of pride and camaraderie.
The author recounts a nostalgic adventure with friends, flying to an airshow in their small planes. They feel like barnstormers from the 30s, enjoying VIP treatment, and participating in the airshow. Despite initial skepticism, they impress the crowd and enjoy the experience, feeling treated like royalty. The adventure concludes with them enjoying the airshow from the shade of their planes.
The Calgary Ultralight Flying Club is a strong advocate for group flying, citing the sense of camaraderie, challenge, and learning as reasons to take to the skies with other pilots. They emphasize the importance of meticulous planning, proper equipment, and effective communication for successful group flights. Sharing their experience, they suggest routes and airport selection, and stress the need for leadership and adherence to procedures. The club also highlights the promotional aspect of group flights, as they attract attention and interest in recreational aviation. Ultimately, they view group flights as unforgettable experiences that foster a special bond among participants, providing valuable flying experience and cherished memories.
In 1938, Grant McConachie, a pioneer in Canadian aviation, expanded United Air Transport's operations to northern Canada and Alaska. To serve these new routes, he acquired the Barkley-Grow T8P-1 airplane, known for its versatility and ruggedness. McConachie's resourcefulness allowed him to obtain these planes at a remarkably low cost, and he rebranded UAT as Yukon Southern Air Transport to better represent the company's operations. The Barkley-Grow, with its unique features and outstanding performance, played a vital role in establishing modern air travel in the rugged northern territories. Yukon Southern also contributed to the development of the Alaska Highway, underscoring the significant impact of McConachie and his aircraft.
The author describes a magical evening of flying in perfect harmony with a fellow pilot. Gliding over a landscape caught between summer and autumn, they captivate onlookers and revel in the pure joy of flight. Exploring valleys, skimming treetops, and encountering wildlife, they experience the ultimate freedom and exhilaration. As the sun sets, they reluctantly return home, reflecting on the enchanting journey and the rare privilege of their experience. The extraordinary flight leaves them with a lasting sense of gratitude and anticipation for future adventures in the boundless skies.
A group of pilots from the Calgary Ultralight Flying Club, known as the Dragonflies, embarks on a memorable journey to the Red Deer International Airshow via ultralights. They encounter challenges such as navigating through thunderstorms and low clouds, and even come across Ukrainian Air Force MiG-29s on the way. Despite facing adversities, they successfully perform at the airshow and manage to overcome treacherous weather conditions on their way back home. The adventure leaves them with unforgettable memories of danger, camaraderie, and triumph, highlighting the spirit of aviation exploration and the enduring bond of the Dragonflies.
Butch Foster has had a remarkable flying career spanning over half a century, during which he flew a wide variety of aircraft. From his early days in Chilliwack, B.C., to flying for the U.S. Navy and participating in airshows, he has accumulated a wealth of experiences, including fire bombing and teaching aviation. Even as he reflects on his past, he remains actively involved in flying and aircraft construction, with plans to build a wooden replica of a Spitfire in the future.
The perfect flying conditions on a beautiful day led a trio of ultralight pilots on a scenic adventure. They captured stunning aerial images, engaged in formation flying, and visited a gliding club. Their journey included laughter, picturesque views, and impressive aerial maneuvers, creating an absolute joy of a flight.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 