CAVU Dreams (2006-06)

In May, promising weather accompanied successful events like the Sundre Mother’s Day fly-in, featuring nearly 200 aircraft. Despite poor weather thereafter, training progressed with almost complete night rating hours. The author reflects on a vintage Hawker Hurricane, once played on as a child, now set to appear at Oshkosh, rekindling family aviation ties.

And Merl Makes Five

Stu Simpson recalls his encounter with a Macair Merlin in 1992 and his eventual ownership of it fourteen years later. Following the loss of his Green Giant in a crash, Simpson acquired the Merlin and began extensive modifications, including an engine change and wing tank installation. Despite initial challenges with the aircraft's ailerons and oil pressure, Simpson resolves these issues and successfully test flies the plane. He expresses his satisfaction with the aircraft’s STOL performance, speed, and roomy cockpit, expressing his hope that it will be his final aircraft. Simpson acknowledges the help and support of the CUFC members throughout the project.

CAVU Dreams (2006-05)

The author reflects on recent flying experiences, including training for a commercial license. They express concerns about uncontrolled airport procedures, particularly at Linden, where right and left-hand circuit flying occurs. Emphasizing AIM guidelines, they note potential safety issues from conflicting traffic due to differing circuit preferences among pilots, stressing the importance of adherence to regulations.

We’re Going Where?

The narrative recounts a flying adventure involving Troy and a trip to Regina in an RV-9 airplane. Troy's meticulous planning and dedication are highlighted, as well as the challenges of flying through fog. Their efficient journey concluded with a successful landing, showcasing the aircraft’s good performance and fuel economy, leaving a memorable experience.

Rose’s First Flight

On February 19, 2006, I took my co-worker Alan's wife, Rose, on her first airplane ride for her birthday. After thorough briefings and checking weather conditions, we flew over stunning landscapes, including Calgary and Drumheller. Despite some turbulence, Rose enjoyed the experience, expressing newfound confidence about flying. It was a memorable tour.

Kicking Tires and Twanging Wires – Safety Corner

The content emphasizes the importance of thorough preflighting for aircraft, and highlights the significance of patience and attention to detail. It also underlines the need for proper maintenance and pilot readiness. The careful preflighting process ensures airworthiness, maintenance adherence, pilot preparedness, and flight plan review. Rushing through it can lead to oversights and risks.

Safety vs Precautionary Landings – Safety Corner

The content discusses forced landings and precautionary landings for pilots. It emphasizes the importance of memorizing emergency procedures and the need for repeated practice. It also highlights the significance of planning and preparation for landing at unfamiliar airstrips. The author stresses the value of familiarity with various landing situations to ensure safe flying.

Flying the Renegade

The author shared their experience flying the Renegade Spirit, from overcoming overheating issues to mastering taxiing, takeoff, and landing. They noted the airplane's sensitivity to controls, visibility challenges, and the joy of flying it. Ready for cross-country flights, they express excitement and satisfaction with their Renegade experience.