Promoting the safe enjoyment of aviation for pilots, aircraft builders and enthusiasts.
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.
A SmokieFest was organized at Red Deer Forestry on April 30, but weather conditions forced pilots to divert to Sundre. Despite the change, ten planes gathered for the barbeque, including Bob, who was the only pilot to reach the original destination. The event turned out successful, fostering camaraderie among club members.
On Saturday, Mike Sweere and Glenn Bishell flew to Red Deer, joined by Stu Simpson. The author, monitoring fog, opted to turn back after seeing fog surrounding Red Deer. After landing, he rode with Brian Byl, who encountered turbulence. They stayed ahead of the fog, enjoying a great day of flying.
The Chestermere/Kirkby fly-in occurred despite the author's plane being unfinished. Breakfast was enjoyable, and participants received Canada Flight Supplement books. The author moved the Buzzard to their hangar, started working on a KitFox project, and prepared for further assembly. A recent burger meeting was successful, raising funds for the Freedom to Fly Fund.
The author expresses frustration over being grounded while preparing their aircraft, the Buzzard, for flight after extensive restoration. Although satisfied with progress, they acknowledge challenges with the finish due to space limitations. They look forward to flying soon and invite community members to a summer kickoff barbeque event, promoting social engagement.
The annual raffle held successively rewarded winners, including Stu Simpson who selected an oil painting, Graham Millington who won $250, and Ken Beanlands who received a multi-tool. Additionally, discussions on COPA updates occurred. A flight to Red Deer was hampered by fog, leading to a special VFR experience for the passengers.
Calgary Recreational Flying Club YYC 