Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The flying club has evolved from informal basement meetings to seeking a permanent community home after 25 years. Members envision a comfortable facility with amenities for socializing, meetings, and recreational flying. The goal is to create a welcoming space that fosters camaraderie, connection, and shared passion for aviation, while avoiding financial burdens.
The February meeting reflected on past experiences, particularly working at a fiberglass boat factory. The author shared amusing memories, highlighting the ease of modern techniques for repairs and construction. Additionally, details about the upcoming Poker Run on May 30th were shared, inviting participants to enjoy food and camaraderie while collecting cards.
The author recounts a fall vacation in Eastern Europe, especially in Krakow, Poland. They describe flights on Dash 8 aircraft, highlighting the impressive speed and performance of the Dash 8 400 series. The focus then shifts to the Polish Aviation Museum, showcasing over 200 aircraft, including Poland's historic PZL P11.c fighter, symbolizing the nation's resilience during WWII.
In January 2008, a meeting at SAIT’s Art Smith Aerospace Center showcased Canada's aircraft maintenance training, led by instructors Brian Goddard and Rod Deneve. The author visited friends, flew to Cooking Lake, and admired Gil's new Murphy Elite. The flight and sight-seeing over Edmonton were memorable, despite some noise issues in the aircraft.
The post reflects on the anticipation of spring, with an emphasis on flying as the author builds wood stoves as an excuse to be outdoors. Upcoming events include a rust remover session and the Spring Poker Run. The author shares a thrilling experience flying with a friend and appreciates recent talks and insights on aviation safety.
A planned trip to Vancouver Island was executed successfully despite challenging weather conditions. The journey involved careful flight planning, refueling in Merritt, and assessing weather along the route. Highlights included breathtaking scenery and interactions with fellow pilots. Ultimately, they returned safely to Calgary after a rewarding three-day adventure.
The author reflects on a successful first term at SAIT, enjoyed a Christmas break, and completed maintenance on their aircraft, Christavia. They attended a potluck barbecue with fellow pilots and installed a Monroy ATD-300 traffic monitor for enhanced safety. The unit effectively detects nearby aircraft, providing valuable collision warnings.
The post announces plans for the upcoming year, thanking participants from a December meeting survey. Key findings include Clark Seaborn as a memorable speaker and interests in building projects and aviation topics. The next meeting at the SAIT hangar will include a tour, raffle prizes, and elections. Membership renewals are encouraged.
The author shares their experience purchasing an aircraft sight unseen and the preparations for its importation into Canada. Despite challenges, including passport issues and securing insurance, support from contacts like Gary and Bob ensures success. Eventually, they retrieve the airplane, confirming its condition and enjoying the excitement of the journey home.
Winter has arrived with temperatures dropping below -20°C. Despite the cold, impressive aviation activities occurred, especially at Linden airstrip, where local groups organized flights and a Young Eagles day. Plans are underway to upgrade the airstrip, including burying power lines and relocating it, with community support and funding.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 