Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The author shares their enthusiasm for integrating technology into flying, emphasizing how various online resources enhance flight planning. They highlight tools like Google Earth, Google Maps, SkyVector, FltPlan, and 100LL, which offer unique features for planning while remaining accessible and free. The author plans to provide tips on these resources in future posts.
The author reflects on the inefficiency of Transport Canada (TC) initially, but later praises their improved responsiveness and organization after personal experiences. Through persistence, the author successfully navigates regulatory hurdles and eventually establishes an ultralight training school, fulfilling a community need for more instructors and pilots. A dream transformed into reality.
On July 4, 2015, Rob Jaap and I flew from Innisfail to Forestburg, where we met Sven Bernard, a Swiss ex-paratrooper working to develop the airfield. We explored the site and witnessed Rob mastering wing control. Encountering smoke on the return, we reported visibility issues but landed safely back at Innisfail.
The journey from Clearwater to Key West featured breathtaking coastal views and encounters with the Everglades. After enjoying Key West, the family navigated back, facing storms. They briefly stopped in Crystal River, where they kayaked and saw manatees. The flight home included challenging conditions, with humorous family moments during landing in Omaha.
April was a remarkable month for flying, with 18 hours logged, despite missing the Sun n Fun 2015 due to work. Concerns about declining club membership and the need for more ultralight instructors were discussed. The low salaries of junior pilots remain troubling, highlighting issues within aviation that need addressing.
Ken provides an update on his recovery progress after an injury, highlighting his regained mobility and newfound freedom to drive. He details a big purge in preparation for building a new RC model kitplane and reflects on investigating two mysteries related to a recent crash. He expresses gratitude for a lifetime club membership.
Ken Beanlands has decided to stop flying, building aircraft, and serving as editor for CRUFC Skywriter following a serious mid-air collision that injured his leg and left his airplane damaged. Known for his humor and dedication, Ken will be honored with a lifetime membership and a certificate of appreciation for his contributions to the club.
In mid-February, the author retrieved a newly overhauled O-320 engine for their Cavalier airplane. With help from Gerry MacDonald, the engine was successfully installed despite some challenges, including the need for new mounting bolts. After a test run and adjustments, the flight was successful, revealing improved performance and smoother operation.
After 32 years as a pilot, the author has decided to stop flying following an accident that damaged their knee. Health concerns, including diabetes complications, and a desire to focus on family and other interests played crucial roles in this decision. They plan to engage in sailing, dog rescue, and hobbies while simplifying life.
The CRUFC is facing a significant decline in membership, down from 64 to 42 members due to insufficient new members and departing ones. A major contributing issue is the lack of ultralight instructors, which hampers training for prospective pilots. Addressing this shortage is essential to reversing membership trends and supporting flying enthusiasts.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 