Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The importance of time in aviation cannot be overstated. It dictates landing, measures a pilot's experience, and influences aircraft maintenance. For the author, time is a precious gift, best enjoyed slowly. Flying at 80 mph allows for appreciation of the scenery and the aircraft's nuances, making every moment aloft truly valuable.
In the event of a partial power loss during flight, immediate actions include reverting recent changes and following a mental engine failure checklist. Maintain altitude and glide speed while assessing landing options, plan for an emergency landing, and ensure situational awareness. Practice power-off landings to enhance preparedness.
The emergence of a Piper Navajo landing in Calgary highlights the necessity for pilots to regularly practice forced landing procedures due to the unpredictability of engine failures. Essential steps include executing initial actions, conducting cause checks, and approaching for landing. Consistent training can enhance preparedness and safety in emergencies.
The author shares their journey of improving their ultralight airplane, striving for a hundred mph. Initially using a two-blade propeller, they faced performance issues, leading them to switch to a three-blade configuration that provided smoother operation, achieving speeds of 105-110 mph. They plan further refinements while preparing for an upcoming trip.
Since joining CRUFC in 1994, the author has built two planes: a Minimax and an RV9. While the Minimax excelled in quick takeoffs and simplicity, the RV9 offers better cruising performance and advanced instrumentation. The transition revealed stark differences in handling, performance metrics, and flight procedures, ultimately favoring the more capable RV9.
Stu Simpson shifted from slow to fast flying, opting for a Cavalier airplane after facing persistent headwinds. The upgrade allows for faster travel, beating strong winds, expanding flying range, and keeping pace with fellow flyers. Though missing some features, such as the ability to land anywhere, the low costs and impressive performance of the Cavalier have left Stu satisfied.
On Saturday, Mike Sweere and Glenn Bishell flew to Red Deer, joined by Stu Simpson. The author, monitoring fog, opted to turn back after seeing fog surrounding Red Deer. After landing, he rode with Brian Byl, who encountered turbulence. They stayed ahead of the fog, enjoying a great day of flying.
The article reflects on the author's journey into aviation, inspired by various flights with different aircraft, particularly the open-air experience of ultralights. It discusses the transition from slower planes to a faster Avid Speedwing, questioning society's obsession with speed while cherishing the calmness of leisurely flights. A new series about personal flying stories is introduced.
As May begins, a busy summer of flying events is anticipated, encouraging attendance to support hosts. An experiment from Myth Busters tested if an ultralight could take off on a moving conveyor belt, promising intriguing results. Lastly, gratitude is expressed to event organizers and an invitation is extended for the May meeting featuring a guest speaker.
The content discusses critical techniques for soft field landings and takeoffs, emphasizing proper stick control to avoid hard landings or poor climbs. It advises against locking brakes on soft surfaces to prevent hydroplaning and highlights the need for continuous power adjustments in gusty conditions. Aborting takeoffs should occur if liftoff speed isn't reached by mid-strip.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 