From the Cockpit (2010-11)

As November brings cold weather and preparations for flying, reflections on Remembrance Day deepen, acknowledging sacrifices made by many. The significant advancements in aviation from WWII to today illustrate the benefits gained despite historical conflicts. Aviators maintain a special bond with their predecessors, cherishing freedom and safety as they take to the skies.

The Import Inspection

The author recounts the experience of acquiring a new airplane and the challenges faced during the import inspection process. Initial hopes of a straightforward inspection turned into unforeseen issues such as repairs and missing documentation, leading to increased costs and delays. Ultimately, the airplane was ready, providing joy and valuable lessons learned.

The Gift of Time

Time is integral to aviation, influencing landings and measuring flight experience. Pilots value the journey and the sights seen at slower speeds, cherishing moments in the air. Understanding time’s significance helps retain memories of flights and connections with other aviators, emphasizing its value as a precious gift rather than a competition.

From The Cockpit (2006-06)

Another month passed with successful events like the Poker Run and Mother's Day Fly-In despite challenging weather. Preparations for a trip to eastern Canada are underway, emphasizing safety and planning. The author shares insights on flight training, the importance of maintenance, and the lessons learned from experienced aviators. Excitement for upcoming adventures persists.

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.

Safety Corner – What’s Your Style?

The author reflects on the unique flying styles of pilots, influenced by attitudes, approaches, and physical coordination. They highlight the impact of early training, the significance of attitudes towards safety, and the need to adapt styles to different conditions for enhanced safety. Ultimately, the focus remains on safety and responsible decision-making in aviation.

Safety Corner – Lost in Space?

It's easy to navigate an airplane! That's what some people think after all, you're up high where you can see everything so much better, so there shouldn't be any excuse for getting lost! In fact, when it comes down to it, the opposite is true. It's easy to get lost while flying, or at least disoriented. If it hasn't happened to YOU yet, it will. Just go over some unfamiliar terrain without adequate preparation and watch your anxiety level grow as your fuel level shrinks.