Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
In November, winter was delayed, allowing for enjoyable flying days. A group celebrated a new GPS approach with 15 planes, enjoying pie afterward. Members are urged to vote on a club name change by January 8, with dues increasing to $30. Elections for club positions are approaching, and thanks are extended to Troy Branch for his RV10 project update.
Bernie Kespie's letter advocates for the Calgary Recreational Pilots Association to embrace a direction that prioritizes attracting pilots of all experience levels. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a grassroots focus on safety and enjoyment in flying, while suggesting a need for clarity in club leadership to guide membership growth effectively.
The club is considering a name change to attract new members and better represent its diverse offerings beyond ultralights. Discussions around this topic have sparked interest among members, while upcoming elections for vice president and secretary will occur in December. Additionally, exciting presentations and successful flight events have engaged the membership.
Many countries, including Canada, aim to adopt the US Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) standards, which differ slightly from Canadian Advanced Ultralight (AULA) regulations. The LSA's weight limit is higher, and their standards are more costly. The author advocates for updating AULA standards to allow more flexibility in maintenance and repairs.
The 2007 John C. Webster Memorial Trophy Competition honors amateur pilots but excludes ultralight and homebuilt aircraft, restricting eligibility. The author questions the competition's validity, arguing that many skilled amateur pilots cannot compete due to these restrictions. They suggest it should be renamed to more accurately reflect its focus on commercial student pilots.
A Fine Bunch Thank goodness Novembuurrr is over! We set a record one night. I am not sure that I buy into this global warming thing when I am shivering in my car on the way home. The bright spot I have found is that my new woodstove design gets the garage up to 25°C. …
Flying ultralights is typically straightforward, but the experience changes when pilots attempt to land at Calgary International Airport for Aviation Days. Club members received special permission and a briefing to manage ATC protocols. After initial anxieties, pilots successfully navigated the process, with one pilot expressing relief and triumph upon arrival.
The latest Transport Canada stats on registered aircraft in Canada show interesting ratios. As of March 1, 1990, the registered aircraft count is: Commercial 5,790, Government 300, Private 16,810, Amateur-built 1,713, and Ultra-light 3,224, totaling 281 less than the total stated. Ultralights represent a significant 15% of the total. In Canada, this high level of interest in Ultralights is positive, reflected in media and public attitudes. Ultralight Flying enthusiasts must promote a positive image of the sport. With anticipated new regulations and abundant kits, Ultralights may reach 20% next year.
The author discusses the distinct responsibilities of ultralight pilots compared to commercial airline transport pilots. While the latter adhere to strict rules and delegate tasks, ultralight pilots bear full responsibility for maintenance, flight planning, and safety. The impending regulation changes may alter their freedom and level of responsibility, prompting a call for balanced regulations.
In this month's patter, Ernie Smith from Transport Canada suggests a safer circuit entry procedure. The A.I.P. manual provides details on parachute safety devices for ultralights, covering ballistic cannisters, rocket deployed devices, and spring-loaded cannisters. Each has advantages and disadvantages, emphasizing the need for careful selection and maintenance to ensure safety.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 