Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
During Christmas, Calgary's snowy landscape poses challenges for pilots, who adapt to winter flying conditions. As temperatures drop, there’s hope for warmer weather to practice flying. A humorous anecdote highlights the difference in recognition between a retired pilot and a minister in heaven, illustrating how results matter. Merry Christmas and safe flying wishes are shared.
The writer recounts their desire to fly to Ram River Falls using the Buzzard aircraft equipped with a Rotax 582 engine, focusing on the challenges of high elevation flying. After completing maintenance and planning the trip with a pilot friend, they successfully navigated to the destination and enjoyed a smooth return flight.
This month, aviation activities included flights and a fly-in golf day with friends. Progress on the Buttercup is slow, with thoughts about a future aerobatic build. A new Bearhawk LSA model, noted for its light weight and fuel efficiency, has piqued interest. The author continues working on the Buttercup while considering future projects.
The 2014 COPA for Kids event, intended to give 50 children a flying experience, was unfortunately canceled due to poor weather conditions. Despite dedicated planning by volunteers, attempts to postpone to the next day also failed. The disappointment felt by kids and parents highlighted the impact of weather on aviation events, yet hopes for future flying opportunities remain.
With summer ending, the author reflects on limited flying hours and returns to teaching at SAIT with an increased course load. They discuss their teaching roles, changes in the AME program, and mention a friend's tragic death in a plane crash. Plans for future flying adventures and a tribute to the friend are noted.
The author recounts their initial unfamiliarity with gyroplanes and researching them after an employee's suggestion to use autonomous air vehicles for laser scanning. They express concerns about safety before discovering ArrowCopter's AC20, which emphasizes safety with its unique design. A firsthand experience in an AC20 flight proves enlightening and alters their perception of gyroplanes.
Oshkosh 2014 was a remarkable aviation event featuring over 10,000 airplanes, including the One Week Wonder project, where volunteers built a complete aircraft. The unveiling of Sonex's new Turbo engine showcased technological advancements, while the Ultralights barn highlighted innovative designs. The experience was unforgettable, celebrating the spirit of flight and aviation progress.
The author, a pilot with modest experiences, shares memorable moments while flying, particularly his role in a program helping children. He recounts giving a flight lesson to Olivia, a cancer survivor, who had recently overcome significant challenges. The experience was transformative for both Olivia and the author, reinforcing the joy of flying.
The author shares a captivating account from Kitplanes about Robert Barber's extensive flight with his homebuilt Sonex from Texas to Alaska. Inspired by this journey, the author proposes a group flying adventure north for club members, emphasizing thorough planning on routes, aircraft specifications, and cooperative piloting to enhance the experience and support fundraising efforts.
The author recounts a near aircraft accident while practicing crosswind landings. A series of situational challenges, including wind conditions and visibility, tested their decision-making. By recognizing the unfolding risk chain, the pilot maintained control, ultimately avoiding disaster. This experience reinforced the importance of awareness and preparation in aviation.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 