Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
The Airberta Air Rally's second day is smooth and eventful, covering multiple destinations in Alberta. From Coronation to Lacombe, the journey spans 460 miles and 8 airports, showcasing the province's aviation culture. The diverse experiences and encounters promise an exciting adventure for the participants, with anticipation for the upcoming leg of the rally.
Transport Canada’s proposed regulation changes (NPA 2024-001) threaten Ultralight pilots, restricting which aircraft they may fly based solely on registration classifications. This vague proposal has drawn criticism for its lack of clarity and stakeholder involvement, raising concerns about its necessity and potential negative impact on pilots, aircraft builders, and aviation freedom.
In January, a pilot experienced a dramatic 56C temperature swing affecting runway conditions. After a flight, he landed amid a light crosswind, leading to a tail swing and a slide into a snowbank due to muddy, soft runway conditions. Luckily, there was no damage, only a dirty plane that required extensive cleaning.
A pilot and his wife embark on a trip from Kirkby's to Memphis. Hindered by smoke, they strategize for safe flying, finally outrunning the smoke near Des Moines. They experience exceptional FBO treatment in Bismarck and Des Moines, with an unexpected delay and frustrations due to the US flight service contractor. The journey continues next month.
The first Airberta Air Rally took place with clear weather and light winds. The pilot made multiple stops, including Rocky Mountain House and Red Deer Forestry strip. They met fellow rally participants and visited non-rally airports for historical significance. The day ended at Bassano Airport, where they were warmly welcomed. The group plans to continue the rally the next day.
The website http://www.metar-taf.com provides quick and accurate aviation weather, offering more locations than Nav Canada’s websites. The map allows users to select aviation weather with color-coded symbols for different conditions. The site includes weather radar, distance measuring tool, and detailed weather info for specific airports. It also offers intuitive graphical displays of forecast weather and access to NOTAMS. Even though it lacks graphical maps depicting fronts and systems, the site is praised for its simplicity and accessibility. An app is available for a price, but the web version works effectively, especially with an ad blocker. Overall, it’s a valuable resource for aviation weather.
The narrator described a flight in November ferrying a Zenair CH250 to Nelson, BC, encountering weather challenges. After failed attempts, a successful flight was made on Nov. 24. The narrator landed in Creston to refuel and appreciated the airport facilities. The flight ended with an eventful landing in Nelson. It was a memorable experience.
The President's Message mentioned the completion of cylinder installation, with successful break-in flights on November 13, 19, and 28, totaling 6.7 hours. The break-in procedure involved flying at low altitude to maintain high manifold pressure. The flights were enjoyable, with no noticeable oil consumption, and the ADS-B Performance Report was passed successfully.
The journey back home faced challenges due to weather, leading the crew to redirect multiple times. After fueling and weather-related diversions, they successfully navigated obstacles and made critical decisions, finally reaching their destination safely. The trip highlighted the importance of preparedness, navigation tools, and the joy of aviation adventure.
Mike Busch's article in AOPA Pilot Magazine discusses the reliability of differential compression tests during annual inspections. He highlights inconsistencies in test results, suggesting caution before making decisions based solely on them. Personal experiences with a Cessna 195 illustrate these variations, emphasizing the need for context and further investigation in maintenance practices.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 