CAVU Dreams (2007-09)

The summer weather has hindered flying plans, with August proving disappointing. School has resumed after 18 years, leading to challenges with orientation, but support from instructors boosts morale. The course involves practical hands-on training and safety measures, while tool purchases assist in meeting requirements. A busy month limits article production, but future updates are anticipated.

How Tight is Right?

Aircraft bolts are crucial for design, construction, and maintenance. Only use certified AN/NAS/MS bolts for reliability. Proper tightening is vital; too loose risks failure, while over-tightening can weaken components. Safety locking methods are essential to prevent loosening. For comprehensive guidance, refer to AC 43.13-1B/2A and the "Motorbooks International" handbook.

Cross-Country in a PA-12

Last year, I purchased a 1947 Piper PA-12 and flew it home from Columbus, Ohio to Canada. The journey involved meticulous pre-flight planning, several stops across the U.S., and navigating various weather conditions. Despite challenges, I successfully completed the 1,760-mile trip in 19.2 hours with great satisfaction.

Internet Weather

Glen Clarke presented a photo of poor weather at Kirkby Field, sourced from a webcam operated by the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) nearby. AMA and similar agencies provide access to numerous highway cameras displaying weather conditions. Utilize these resources for real-time weather insights when traveling along major highways.

CAVU Dreams (2007-04)

March in Alberta was unusually cold and snowy, but the author managed to log some flight training hours, including a turbulent experience landing at Springbank. After 12 years in IT, they decided to pursue their long-held dream of becoming an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer, applying to SAIT for a two-year program.