NEW CONSTITUTION RA-AUS FLYING INTO THE FUTURE - JABIRU RESTRICTIONS LATEST - Australian Sport Pilot Magazine
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RECREATIONAL AVIATION AUSTRALIA / AUGUST 2015 VOL 48 [8]
NEW CONSTITUTION
RA-AUS FLYING INTO THE FUTURE
RRP $8.80 inc GST
JABIRU RESTRICTIONS LATEST LOOKING FOR NUMBER ONE CAGIT GETS A NEW HOME
REGULARS FEATURE STORIES
5 President’s column 21 Jabiru restrictions continue
6 Calendar of events B RI A N B I G G
9 Letters to the Editor 22 Enough is enough
66 Happy Landings RO D ST IF F
26 A new Foxbat
COLUMNISTS B RI A N B I G G
33 Editor’s Choice 36 The search for number 1
B RI A N B I G G B RI A N B I G G
39 Pilot Talk 44 Flying the Colby
T HE O P S T E A M RO B KNI G H T
42 Design Notes
DAV E DA NIEL FLY-INS
47 Professor Avius 15 Sunny days for Sunraysia
49 Learn to fly B RI A N MID D L E TO N
Cover: LSA Skycatcher over A N T H O N Y S IB A RY 18 Best Old Station ever
tiger country. Photo RNAC 51 Home Builder RO D NE Y S PR AT T
DAV E ED M U ND S
EXTRAS
ON THE COVER NEWS 52 Viewpoint
New Constitution
12 12 New constitution RO D RO B ER T S O N
12 Vale Keith Jarvis 58 Members’ market
“ RA-Aus sets up for the
12 Airworthiness notice 64 Where is CAGIT?
future with a draft new
12 Treasurer retires 65 Off the shelf
constitution”
13 First into Part 141 54 Notice of AGM
13 Sport Pilot is alive and well 54 Board elections
䈀愀猀椀挀 吀爀愀椀渀攀爀 55 Candidate statements
伀渀氀礀 ␀㈀㈀Ⰰ㔀 READER STORIES D O N R A M S AY
䄀唀䐀 ⠀攀砀挀氀⸀ 䜀匀吀⤀ 25 The 11th hour 55 B A RRY B RO O KE S
RI C ‘ T HE FIREM A N ’ AT TA RD WRENFO RD
28 For an uplifting retirement 56 T ERE S A AV IL A
JAC K TAY LO R 57 B A RRY WIND L E
30 What dreams are made of 57 JIM M C D OWA L L
DAV ID M AC K AY
41 Spot me save me
RO H A N WHI T T IN GTO N
Sport Pilot Magazine is an official
publication of Recreational Aviation
Australia Inc. and is published twelve
times a year by Stampils Publishing.
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EDITOR
25
Brian Bigg
漀爀 昀愀挀琀漀爀礀 䄀猀猀攀洀戀氀攀搀 editor@sportpilot.net.au
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enquires to admin@raa.asn.au. 26
3 / S PORT PI LOT
P RESI DENT’S REP ORT
HEAD OFFICE RA-AUS BOARD ELECTED
PO Box 1265 Fyshwick STATE REPRESENTATIVES
ACT 2609 Australia
TASMANIA
Organisational change
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RA-Aus members get Sport Pilot free of charge online at www.raa. Fyshwick ACT 2609 Eugene Reid
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I
6 MONTHS 12 MONTHS 24 MONTHS www.raa.asn.au
CATEGORY nsw2@raa.asn.au n the past few years we’ve come a long way. We’ve begun a process The second big pillar of change will be around our legal structure. For
(6 ISSUES) (12 ISSUES) (24 ISSUES)
ENQUIRIES of change which is helping us move away from a small club mentality all intents and purposes such a change will not be visible to members.
Memberships: Michael Monck (President) and into the responsible organisation we ought to be. Having said It will, though, mean our administrative burden will be greatly reduced.
Member (flying) $50 $90 $160
members@raa.asn.au 0419 244 794 that, there’s more which needs to be done. Currently we are an association incorporated under A.C.T law. This
Members Market: nsw3@raa.asn.au Major changes are needed in several important areas: means we report our activities to authorities in the A.C.T. We have to let
Member (non-flying) $50 $90 $160
membersmarket@raa.asn.au • Our board; them know of any changes to our board or public officers, lodge our finan-
NORTHERN TERRITORY
ARBN 070 931 645 • Our legal structure; cials, notice of changes to the constitution and so forth. It also means
Non-member Mark Christie
$60 $110 $220 ABN 40 070 931 645 • Our constitution. legally we are not permitted to operate across borders and do business in
(Magazine Sub only) 0412 345 111
We began the conversation about these topics some time back. Writ- other states or territories.
nt@raa.asn.au
NATIONAL FINANCE AND ten submissions were called for in the March edition of Sport Pilot and, To get around this last hurdle we are, what is known as, a registrable
Prices include GST. SOUTH AUSTRALIA during the many conversations I have with members, these three topics Australian body. This permits us to carry on a business outside of our in-
Email RA-Aus headquarters at admin@raa.asn.au.
ADMINISTRATION MANAGER
Maxine Milera Ed Herring are recurring themes. corporated jurisdiction. It sounds complex, and it is, but it can be distilled
admin@raa.asn.au 0408 787 018 Our board currently consists of 13 members spread across the coun- simply. For example, we are not recognised under NSW law so we can’t
sa1@raa.asn.au try. This may have made sense in the days when the tyranny of distance charge a fee to someone in NSW or otherwise carry on business there. To
CEO governed how we communicated, but it’s becoming somewhat irrelevant get around this, we register with another body which does recognise us
Michael Linke NORTH QUEENSLAND in this day and age. I regularly talk to members from all corners of the and makes it legal. This highlights the complication. It means that to be
ceo@raa.asn.au Ross Millard country and receive at least two emails every day from every state. And compliant, as well as reporting to the A.C.T, we also have to report to ASIC.
NATIONAL OPERATIONS 0422 119 051 members from all over the country frequently contact our professional So our reporting requirement is double what it should be. What’s worse,
RECRE ATIONAL
AVIATION AUSTR
ALIA / AUGUS
T 2015 VOL 48 [8]
MANAGER nqld@raa.asn.au staff directly to deal with day-to-day matters. There is no longer any need the reporting requirements are not compatible between jurisdictions, so
Jill Bailey for a large geographically based board. Australia is a smaller place than it’s not just a matter of sending the same information to two places. We
SOUTH QUEENSLAND it used to be. spend a lot of time and effort preparing and massaging information to
ops@raa.asn.au Trevor Bange
0400 280 087 And this isn’t just my view. Reducing the size of the board has been suit the different regulators.
0429 378 370 suggested time and time again to me by members from all over Australia. It has been suggested, and I agree, that we should change to a com-
ASSISTANT OPERATIONS sqld1@raa.asn.au There are many benefits to a reduced board size, but let’s focus on the pany limited by guarantee. This would give members the same level of
MANAGER obvious one – cost. If we had a board half the size of the current one, protection as before, but would eliminate the need to report to two regula-
Mike Smith
Neil Schaefer we could hold twice the number of face-to-face meetings using half the tors. Our costs would be lower and our structure simpler.
iPad
ops@raa.asn.au 0418 735 785
sqld@raa.asn.au discussion time on each occasion and still get the same amount of work All of these changes would require us to adopt a new constitution.
0428 282 870 done, all at the same cost. We need a more modern constitution anyway, one which recognises we
NATIONAL TECHNICAL Tony King (Secretary) We do, however, need to keep two things in mind. We need to maintain are a much larger organisation with much more responsibility than back
T IO N
N E W C O NS T IT U
RECREATIONAL AVIATION AUSTRALIA / AUGUST 2015 VOL 48 [8]
MANAGER 0400 226 275 a diversity of opinions, experience and knowledge on the board. Without when our current constitution was drafted. We need a constitution which
Darren Barnfield sqld2@raa.asn.au this, the board won’t do its job properly. recognises the world has also changed around us and is still moving. And,
THE FUTURE
RA-AUS FLYING INTO while we are at it, we also need to remove a bunch of inconsistencies in
techmgr@raa.asn.au And we cannot afford to lose touch with members simply because
VICTORIA they aren’t located near a board member. A few ideas have been put for- our current constitution.
RRP $8.80 inc GST
0417 942 977
Rod Birrell ward to try and prevent this, one of which includes a system of ‘member Earlier this year the board called for recommendations about a new
LOOKING FOR NUM
BER ONE CAGIT GETS A NEW
HOME ASSISTANT TECHNICAL (03) 9744 1305 advocates’. These geographically scattered ‘advocates’, while not being constitution. We have heard your views and been hard at work turning
MANAGER
ONS LATEST
JABIRU RESTRICTI
vic1@raa.asn.au board members themselves, would provide a simple channel of commu- them all into a draft proposal. As I type this, the board is reading through
Jared Smith nication to the board. They would provide a formal way of making sure the draft. It will soon be made available for you to discuss and provide
jared.smith@raa.asn.au Jim Tatlock (Treasurer)
0403 228 986 the board hears the views of members directly, no matter where they live. feedback on, before we put it to a vote in early 2016.
0418 125 393
NEW CONSTITUTI ON vic@raa.asn.au Naturally, you can always speak to a board member directly using Our goal is to set RA-Aus up to be a stable organisation for years to
RA-AUS FLYING INTO THE FUTURE NATIONAL SAFETY, RISK AND email and phone etc and our managers in the office can be contacted come, with good governance and sound management in place, while
COMPLIANCE MANAGER WESTERN AUSTRALIA the same way. keeping member’s interests at the centre of everything we do.
Ed Smith
RRP $8.80 inc GST
Katie Jenkins
JABIRU RESTRICTIONS LATEST LOOKING FOR NUMBER ONE CAGIT GETS A NEW HOME
safety@raa.asn.au 0409 962 050
0418 445 652 wa1@raa.asn.au
FIND YOUR NEAREST FLIGHT SCHOOL OR CLUB
www.raa.asn.au/schools
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reserved by Stampils Publishing. Unless expressly stated otherwise, you are not permitted to copy, or republish anything you find in the magazine without the copyright
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undertake all responsibility for assessing the accuracy of the content and rely on it at your own risk. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of people named in
this magazine. Recreational Aviation Australia Inc and Stampils Publishing reserve the right to decline any article, letter or comment deemed unacceptable for whatever
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and RA-Aus. NOTE: All aircraft featured in the magazine are registered and legally permitted to fly. However, photographs of them may be altered without notice for
editorial purposes.
4 / SPORT PILOT 5 / S PORT PI LOT
CA LEN D AR OF EVEN TS
A. 16 AUGUST D. 29-30 AUGUST E. 4-6 SEPTEMBER
AUSFLY
GRAFTON WINGS AND WHEELS COFFS HARBOUR CENTENARY OF RAIL
Australia’s recreational and sport aviators
At South Grafton airstrip. Vintage, classics, Owners of vintage, veteran, classic and return to Narromine for another big
G
sports, touring cars, motorcycles, caravans, preserved vehicles are invited to the first weekend. Workshops, seminars, air
boats, go-karts, race cars, engines. Food and Coffs Harbour Motorfest. This event will C displays, entertainment and more. For
drink available. Free entry, free parking. For become part of an annual event known I
F more information ausfly.com.au.
more information, www.graftonaeroclub.com. as “Smoke on the Water Festival”. A
The centenary will bring four forms of D
E
transport together in one place at the
H F. 12 SEPTEMBER
B. 22-23 AUGUST same time. The event will feature a steam
train, historic ships and boats, vintage B WINGS OVER WARWICK
BIG BOYS TOYS EXPO aircraft, helicopter flights to South Solitary
Lighthouse, model train display adjacent Queensland Recreational Aircraft Assn
Exhibition Park in Canberra. The first of to station. Food stalls and markets at the incorporating Warwick Aero Club (www.qraa.
its kind on the east coast. The two-day Jetty foreshore. For more information, info) invites pilots and enthusiasts to Warwick
interactive expo will create the ultimate centenarymotorfest@gmail.com. Aerodrome (YWCK). The strip is 1,600m
playground for Canberra and the region’s all bitumen with no landing fees (www.
big boys to see, touch, experience and buy warwickaerodrome.com). Includes model
all the toys, tools, gizmos, gadgets, sports plane display. Food and drink available. For
and hobbies they’ve always dreamed of. more information, Graham Hawthorne 0427
10-5pm daily. $15 entry. Kids under 15yrs 377 603, Kelvin Hutchinson 0407 733 836
– gold coin. For more information www. or Phil Goyne 0417 761 584.
bigboystoyscanberra.com.au.
G. 10 OCTOBER
RA-AUS 2015 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The meeting will begin at 2.00pm at
the Brothers Club, 130 Takalvan Street,
Bundaberg. At 3.00pm, following the AGM,
members can take part in open discussions
with the board and CEO. At 4.00pm
discussions will be held about the draft
constitution.
H. 5-6 MARCH 2016
AEROFEST
Busselton Aero Club in WA. Big family
day with everything aviation, skydiving,
food and drink. Saturday evening BBQ.
Busselton Regional Airport is the gateway
C. 29-30 AUGUST to the Margaret River wine region. For more
information, Ken Manton 0429 967 172 or
GATHERING OF EAGLES ken.manton@bigpond.com.
Watts Bridge Memorial Airfield Inc. invites
all aviation enthusiasts to be part of
the annual fly-in. The theme this year is I. 13 MARCH 2016
‘Remembering Gallipoli’. Overnight camping CLIFTON FLY-IN
on the field encouraged. Expect to see a
huge variety of aircraft types as well as This has become an iconic event in the region
vintage cars, military vehicles and WW1 and is the premier attraction for all types
and WW2 military re-enactors. On-field of aviation in southern Queensland. See
catering, three course dinner Saturday various types, shapes, sizes and models of
evening (booking essential) and breakfast recreational, ultralight and homebuilt aircraft.
Sunday morning. Coffee and cold drinks Come late pm Saturday for BBQ and drinks.
available all day. 100LL Avgas available. Fly or drive in, see ERSA. On-field camping,
Admission for pilots and aircrew free with bring your swag. Advise for catering. For more
no landing fees. For more information, information Trevor Bange 0429 378 370, (07)
www.wattsbridge.com.au. 4695 8541 or trevorbange@bigpond.com.
6 / SPORT PILOT
L ETTERS TO THE EDI TOR
TECNAM
AUSTRALIA OLD DOG, NEW TRICKS
Perhaps an analogy may help to explain. A
few decades ago the world was introduced
place and ‘always’ may not be as long as we
would like. Government has always been
As you would be aware at times my to a computer which could play chess at the a numbers game, and choosing between
contributions to Sport Pilot have always been highest levels. It was a great gimmick and the 5,000 enthusiasts flying antique aircraft and
straight from the shoulder, not all good. world watched with great amusement as the a powerful commercial sector which carries
best players were pitted against the machine. passengers and operates robotic aircraft for
RELENTLESS INNOVATION
I would like to say, and I think on many
The best humans discovered they could beat profit, may not be the difficult choice we would
members’ behalf, that the magazine is in good
the machines, but it was often a close thing. hope it to be.
hands. This has not always been the case.
Fast forward to today, and you find that very You need not take my word for it. Go online
This digital copy is great, after I found my affordable and very small chess computers and read about Andrew Ng of Stanford Uni.
way around it. It helped my stress situation are better players than pretty much anybody And boggle at an autopilot which automatically
dramatically. Why? I had lost my coffee table on the planet. Note that last sentence - we are learns from the best human aerobatic pilots,
magazine which, among others, was always not talking about some hulking experimental distils their knowledge and then flies a
first to be picked up. So in reality I was afraid computer in a basement and connected to a helicopter through a spectacular aerobatic
at my age I had lost another pleasure. I used to very large 3 phase power cord and large geek routine. Or perhaps you might like the swarm of
wait for the postie to drop it off. army maintaining it. And we are not talking multicopters which carry a net between them
I was going to share a printed copy with a about some esoteric competition; it is a cheap which they can use to catch and throw a ball.
friend - $45 each. That’s not on now and I have little box against everybody on the planet. And And finally, how about the multicopters which
already downloaded a copy to him. Just have it’s winning. each balance a pole and then throw it back
to put some short cuts in for him. I am sure he And so it is with Otto. Not only can he fly and forth by zooming upwards and flipping the
will be happy. better than anybody, except perhaps a very pole?
In the past I always put pen to paper about select bunch of test and competition pilots,
ASTORE P92 EAGLET G5 P92 ECHO CLASSIC things I didn’t agree with or where I felt we but it is easy to give him the cumulative yearly
And that is our future (as in, now). Exciting,
isn’t it?
should be going. flying experience of all the other Ottos around STEVE ANDELE
So I ask all members to give it a go and help the world. Imagine 100,000 hours of flying
the association cut costs and time. experience on a USB drive.
Can we have more technical articles please? But it’s not all bad. You’ll still be able to fly MATURE AGE READER
There are still many technical issues to be manually and Otto will have a heap of features I am a retired light plane builder and pilot.
dealt with internally and externally. to help you enjoy your flying. He will be always I like to keep up my interest in aviation by
be in contact with the ground, GPS and other subscribing to Sport Pilot and running a free
Thanks for a great magazine.
aircraft, so you’ll never get lost or run into U3A course ‘Desk Top Flying For Seniors’.
KEITH BAKER prohibited airspace, and you’ll always know
Like many in your Letters Page I dislike reading
where other aircraft are located which makes
P92 TAIL DRAGGER P2008 P2010 papers or magazines on computer for many of
THE FUTURE OF NOW
them much harder to run in to. And - this is
the reasons mentioned and will always buy a
good - if other aircraft are getting hammered
hard copy, as would most of your mature age
Welcome to the future. It’s been around the by weather, you’ll be advised of their G force
members who comprise the majority.
corner for so long now it was easy to believe it readings and you’ll be able to plot a better
would ever arrive. But here it is and it will have course. Plus, if you find yourself in zero I think you should print a breakdown of the
some interesting features for those who enjoy visibility, Otto will be able to fly you out again. magazine income and expenditure to justify
the sport of aviation. the cost increase or have a rethink as to
Yes, alright, there is also a free set of steak
whether it needs to be so glossy.
Starting with the simplest changes - you will, knives. Unmanned aircraft are on the rise and
by now, have noticed that a surprising number sport aviation will finally be able to make some KEITH MANWARING
of aircraft components, and in fact entire real progress. It goes like this - robot aircraft FROM THE ED / Have a read of the letters in
aircraft, are made from space age composite don’t have a pilot and so it’s not a tragedy if the July edition, Keith, where a full breakdown
P92 SEASKY P2002 JR / SIERRA RG SNAP materials. The space age was a long time one falls from the sky- expensive maybe, but of the costs was outlined.
ago, but development has continued apace not tragic. It then follows that designers can
and it is now difficult or impossible to match free themselves from convention and explore
the performance of composites with any of clever new solutions, free from the threat of SAVE THE POWERHOUSE
those stuffy old fashioned materials like that grieving relatives and not so grieving insurance The NSW Government has decided they
funny aluminum stuff our American friends are companies. want to move the Powerhouse Museum from
always talking about. Probably goes well with Antique aircraft engines? Bin them. Bizarre Sydney’s Darling Harbour to Parramatta as a
titanium and beryllium, ho ho! control cables which wind their way 17 times way of accessing the land the Museum sits on
Lovers of fine electronics will have noticed that around every aircraft? Just say sayonara. to sell for unit development on the site.
big flat screen TVs have been sneaking into our Aluminium structures that are hand crafted I have a personal interest in this because my
cockpits - so much so it is easy to think that from 1,447,314 individual pieces? Let us not dad’s aircraft (Catalina), which was used to fly
bigger and brighter flat panels will be the future speak of them again. There will be howls of the Australia – South America route in 1951, is
P2006T P2006T MMA/MRI P2012 TRAVELLER or even the state of the art in aviation. They will outrage to be sure, but the robots are out hanging in the museum and with the proposed
be there, to be sure, but only as a small player. there flying, flying, flying and it will be difficult move I believe (I don’t know for sure) that there
UNRIVALLED SUPPORT
No, I’m afraid that the future (as in now) has to argue with, engines which run for countless may not be enough space to rehang it and it
very little to do with shinier control panels and hours and rack up lots of nines in reliability or will be mothballed.
watching the latest blockbuster at 4,000ft. nearly indestructible wings which are extruded I have no evidence of this yet, but with the
The future is indeed heading towards much in one piece. proposed new museum being smaller there is
more computerisation and our personal slice And what’s it all got to do with us? There will a good chance this could happen. Aviation is
of this paradise will take the form of Otto the always be a place for the traditional stick already an aspect of history which is not often
Fly with us. P: 07 5564 1801 M: 0416 083 800 E: tecnam@bigpond.com www.tecnam.com.au autopilot. and rudder pilot, but it may not be a very big well represented in large museums (except
9 / S PORT PI LOT
L E T T ERS TO TH E ED ITOR L ETTERS TO THE EDI TOR
aviation ones) and the powerhouse collection FROM THE CEO / Peter, you can still enjoy the live with an antiquated computer system
is fantastic, from ultralights to the Catalina. magazine and the future sustainability of the designed for times which have now passed. U.S SYSTEM
I think the museum should stay where it organisation by subscribing. Plus magazines The modern world demands more. Hence the Congratulations to Dick Smith for publicising
is, accessible to all of Sydney and to the will be in flying schools and aero clubs for all planned large investment. Its thinking long the difficulties with CASA and Airservices
millions of tourists who visit Sydney as well. to enjoy. term that will save our beloved organisation. (Weekend Australian July 11). These
If you would like to keep the Powerhouse Fellow pilots, we need to grow up, act organisations have escaped public scrutiny for
Museum where it is could you please sign
the petition (https://www.facebook.com/ A DILEMMA responsibly and get over the loss of the
paper version of Sport Pilot (yes you can still
far too long and changes must be made.
I am a former US Commercial pilot and have
savethepowerhouse)and send on to anyone First up, please let it be known that I perceive
have one, but at a cost). I have had many used (and benefited from) the American
you think might be interested. you and your staff are doing an excellent job
discussions with the CEO about the pressures system of having people on the ground using
restoring the creditability of RA-Aus. Thank you.
GAI TAYLOR on the organisation. The major one is Unicom to talk to aircraft, even where there
Having today received (and read) the June financial. Staff has been pruned to the barest are jet operations, as at Ballina. The ground
edition of Sport Pilot I now am faced with a operators simply use a handheld radio and
JOB WELL DONE dilemma – to subscribe to Sport Pilot or seek
operational capacity. There is no operational
fat left. We all need to remember the simple can be anyone from the refueller to the local
Just wanted to pass on my appreciation to the an alternative. My position is that of a self- flying service personnel, airline ground staff or
business rule….If your outgoings exceed your
producers and contributors of our magazine. funded retiree facing spiralling government firemen.
income, then your upkeep will become your
It is one of the very few mags I look forward to and utility costs, compounded by diminishing
downfall. It’s that simple. We have been Of course they don’t ‘control’ aircraft. Unicom
reading cover to cover. The format, content, returns from the investments on which I rely
spending more than we received. RA-Aus was is for advising on traffic, weather, runway
even the ads pull me in. for living expenses. Extra outgoing dollars
living beyond its financial means for too long conditions or obstructions. In fact, even a
do count! I do, however, enjoy and seek to
Even though I am a low hour pilot, I glean a lot and needed to stop the haemorrhage. control tower doesn’t really control aircraft
continue the enjoyment of flying my home-built
of very good information and apply that info as movements. Ultimate control rests with the
aircraft as a recreational pursuit. Don’t get me wrong. I love receiving the
practically as I can. pilot. If a pilot was crazy enough to attempt to
I choose to live in country South Australia and, magazine but it is such a large cost ($400,000 land a Cessna at Sydney Airport during rush
I have also noted the wide range of Letters to despite being only 11km from our nearest per year) it can only be supported by either an hour, all the control tower could do would be to
the Editor which are allowed to go to print. This town, my only available internet connection is increase in subscriptions or reduced facility. call in an F-18.
is a credit to the openness/transparency of our by NBN satellite. Downloads are ridiculously Something has to give.
organisation. To everyone at RA-Aus, keep up In a place like Ballina, to which I fly often, pilots
expensive and hopelessly slow when Instead of complaining all the time about the
the good work. talk to each other maintain separation in good
compared to capital city based broadband loss, why not embrace the great work now weather. When the weather is bad, only the
DAVID ABELA services. Magazine downloads just don’t work being done by our organisation and its diligent airlines and instrument equipped GA aircraft
within these limitations. I tried to keep up with staff. To me, the ongoing whining is a waste of are flying and they should be under radar they must have taken so much time to write
the CASA Flight Safety magazine when that
PEER TO PEER LEARNING went online, but gave up in frustration.
emotion. Just give thanks for the progress we
have made over the past year or so and look
separation down to 700ft as in the US. their words of wisdom. COMIC GENIUS
Particularly in bad weather there is a strong My computer is a laptop with a 15.7in screen, I thought you might be interested in this
I love my magazine. I leave it on the coffee My question - Should I choose not to subscribe forward to things to come. case for radios in the fire trucks to advise not the smallest on the market and quite cartoon for the magazine. My son drew it to
table and read it gradually through the month to a paper copy of Sport Pilot, can I be assured
It will never be perfect but it will enable us to about ground conditions. Hopefully, CASA and adequate for other functions, but you will have make a placemat at school 30 years ago. With
waiting for the next edition. all relevant new information essential for me
move forward in the modern digital world we the Air Traffic Controllers Union will allow this to do something about the font size if you want the caption: “Who else but Pilot Officer Prune,
I love reading about the 56 other owners to continue flying safely and within changing
find ourselves living in. to happen. to achieve general acceptance. RAF 1943”.
who have planes for sale. So many different regulations will be conveyed to me either by
email or letter? I am on the RA-Aus email list. Now back to my 8mm movies! NORM SANDERS DAVID HOUSTON IAN HARVEY
types of flying machines with lots of differing
personalities. JOHN BIRRELL IAN MCDONALD FROM THE ED / David, you don’t mention if
Pity I will not be able to see their offerings for FROM THE CEO / John, RA-Aus is continually SIZE DOES COUNT your machine is an Apple or Windows, but if
it is the latter, just hold down the control key
sale anymore in the magazine.
That’s 56 owners not getting the advertising
improving how we communicate with
members. You will be well informed, but with WELL FOUNDED AND FRUGAL It was a joy to get my electronic copy so soon
this month.
while scrolling your mouse and the text gets
all our members, individual responsibility must One omission from later editions of the larger or smaller. For a Mac press Command
coverage they paid for. But then a great disappointment to see the tiny
also play a part. magazine has been the regular column on +Option+F5 and select options in the Zoom
I love to read all the commercial advertising. font size and nowhere I could see to magnify it section. I have asked the designer for a darker
accidents and incidents. As a very low hour
There’s 51 in the latest magazine. Full colour to a readable size. shade of blue for the responses. Hopefully it’s
pilot and a wannabe high hour pilot, I have
expensive glossy advertisements. I like to read
about their technology and their competitor’s
BACK TO THE FUTURE found these to be very enlightening. In a I eventually got out an old magnifying glass easier to read this time.
I can recall a time when we had milk delivered perfect world accidents shouldn’t happen, but (86mm diameter) and was just able to read
technology. Pity I will not be able to see their the letters in black. Those in blue were quite
offerings collectively in one place anymore. by the milkman and his horse and cart. The
baker (the bread maker) would deliver by the
the column was a great source of information.
beyond me. PORTABLE HANGAR
I love reading articles about the adventurous A comment on the digital version of the I was interested to see Norm Sanders’ picture
same means. There was just one bread (white) I managed to read most of the report on the
at heart and their flying adventures. I learn all magazine – unwieldy! I note it will be formatted of a Cobram Cobra (Sport Pilot June 2015). It
in either ½ or full loaf. You cut it yourself. Jabiru saga, but the RA-Aus staff comments
sorts of tips and information that can keep me differently in future, but that will be for iPads. reminded me of the following picture recently
I can remember making phone calls where in the Letters section will have to wait until my
safe, warm and dry in difficult circumstances. I have a laptop. I have purchased the paper taken at Ballarat airfield.
we needed to call the operator, place the call paper copy arrives, as I had to give up because
It’s the type of idle chat which used to happen version but why weren’t memberships just I was getting a headache - such a pity because BRUCE ATKINSON
in the hangar but sadly now does not. and be asked every three minutes “are you increased to accommodate that, with an opt
extending”? The list goes on. Pen and ink - out for those who didn’t want it? Good revenue
What a pity the peer-to-peer learning through gone. There were once men and women who
the magazine is being abandoned. operated the lifts in department stores - gone.
raiser maybe? We should all aspire to having WRITE IN: EDITOR@SPORTPILOT.NET.AU
RA-Aus being well founded but frugal.
There’s another 100 non-financial reasons for LP records and CD’s - gone. The state of the organisation is reflected in the Letters to the Editor columns. The more letters – the healthier the organisation.
publishing the magazine, but the important PETER MATTHEWS So don’t just sit there – get involved. Your contributions are always welcome, even if no one else agrees with your opinion.
Why do I refer to these old fashioned ideas?
one follows. I have already paid for the Because we have to move on and realise that FROM THE ED / Pilot Notes is available on the The Editor makes every effort to run all letters, even if the queue gets long at certain times of the year.
magazine in my subscription, so I think you times change and our organisation needs to website, with more detail than the magazine (By the way – the Editor reserves the right to edit Letters to the Editor to shorten them to fit the space available, to improve the
should keep up your part of the contract and be adept at changing to meet them. That’s life! cold hope to provide. There are also plans to clarity of the letter or to prevent libel. The opinions and views expressed in the Letters to the Editor are those of the individual
provide it. That’s what the board and the management introduce more stories about accidents and writer and neither RA-Aus or Sport Pilot magazine endorses or supports the views expressed within them).
PETER DAVIES team are doing right now on our behalf. They incidents very soon.
10 / SPORT PILOT 11 / S PORT PI LOT
IN TH E N EW S I N THE NEWS
NEW CONSTITUTION
A
FTER several years of discussions The draft will be made available shortly via AGM notice in the Calendar of Events section
and negotiations, RA-Aus is finalising this link: www.raa.asn.au/about/constitution. this edition).
the draft of a new constitution, one Members have also been invited to dis- Members unable to attend the forum are
which the board and management believe cuss the draft at a forum to be held at the invited to provide written submissions re-
will be better suited to the organisation and end of the next AGM. The forum will start at garding the draft to the office of the CEO by
which will serve RA-Aus and its members approximately 4.00pm on Saturday October email - ceo@raa.asn.au - or by mail to the RA-
more effectively in the years ahead. 10 at the Brothers Club in Bundaberg (See Aus Canberra office.
AIRWORTHINESS
NOTICE
FITTING OF PANNIERS TO
WEIGHT SHIFT AIRCRAFT
(AN10072015WS)
BY DARREN BARNFIELD
N AT ION AL T EC HNI CAL
M AN AG E R
DURING a recent investigation, it was
identified that the aircraft, an LSA Air-
borne 912 XT, had been fitted with Mark Skidmore (left),
Director, CASA, presents
three external panniers. These had not CWF CFI Chris Stott with the
been approved by the manufacturer. Flight Training Certificate
Members are reminded equipment
must not be fitted to LSA Aircraft which
FIRST INTO PART 141
still need manufacturer approval. For
Type Certified aircraft, approval may
be granted by an appropriate issuing
authority. CENTRAL West Flying School has become CEO, Chris Stott, says he took the initiative airspace endorsement. CWF Head of Op-
If external storage devices are al- the first to comply with CASA’s new Part 141 to ensure his school could take advantage of erations under the new regulation is Martin
ready fitted, the owners/operators of legislation. opportunities arising from CASA’s new Rec- Wookey. The school has a total of five RA-Aus
LSA aircraft are to contact the manu-
facturer and seek approval. For Type
Certified aircraft approval may be
VALE KEITH JARVIS The six year old school, based in Bathurst,
was recently recognised in a ceremony offici-
ated by CASA head, Mark Skidmore.
reational Pilots Licence.
CWF can also take students through to
a full Private Pilot’s Licence with controlled
instructors and three GA instructors and op-
erates four RA-Aus and two GA aircraft.
granted by an appropriate issuing au- ONE of Australia’s ultralight pioneers, a much loved and respected member of
thority. If approval is not provided, the Keith Jarvis, has died. the organisation.
devices are to be removed immedi- Keith, who flew Liberators in World Keith passed on May 11, aged 91.
War 2, was a prolific home builder and He will be sorely missed. We have truly delivered the We also acknowledge
ALIVE AND WELL
ately. For more information refer to the
one of nature’s gentlemen. He was also best of both worlds to mem- some members are not
manufacturer.
bers. happy with the changes
RECREATIONAL AVIATION
AUSTRALIA / JULY 2015
Sport Pilot remains the and we remain committed
VOL 47 [7]
SPECIAL
BY MIC HAEL LINKE C EO voice of Recreational Avia-
SUBCRIPTION
OFFER INSIDE
to ensuring we communi-
TREASURER RETIRES
EVERYONE at RA-Aus is excited about the tion Australia and is the best cate and work with eve-
new look Sport Pilot and the support the new magazine in the sport aviation ryone to deliver a quality
magazine is receiving. In just over a month sector. Following a competi- magazine in your preferred
RA-Aus Treasurer and Victorian Board member, faces have joined the Board and you suitable to guide a busi- more than 1,300 members have already sub- tive review process, RA-Aus format. Our pricing model
Jim Tatlock has announced he will not stand they bring with them a new skill ness. Believe me when I say recently renewed its contract is competitive and we are
scribed to the printed copy. BR UM BY
for re-election when his term ends in October. set. I felt it was time to get out it has been tried and failed. with Stampils and Editor, offering extra value (paid
Due to the popularity of subscriptions, we EVOLUTION TO A T
In a letter to RA-Aus members, Jim said the of the way and let the Board pro- “So for me it’s back to spend- Brian Bigg, for the produc- subscribers will get the free
have extended our exclusive member’s only
goals he had set himself were complete. gress with some new blood. ing time with the family, study- tion of Sport Pilot for the next RA-Aus calendar again this
“When I first joined the board I was dis- “We are in good hands at the ing Psychology at university, offer of six free issues when you subscribe for
12 months, including both Christmas) and further print RRP $8.80 inc GST
turbed at how it functioned,” said Jim. “In moment and, with development working full-time and develop- 12 or 24 months. For members, to subscribe printed and digital versions. JABIRU RESTRICTIONS LATEST
only inserts are planned for
MICROLIGHT TAKE-OFF TECHNIQUE
NEW RECORD FOR GYFTS SCHOLARS
simply log into your account on the website
HIPS
meetings there were personal attacks, mis- occurring on a new constitution ing a drone business. I might RA-Aus is very happy with the 2016.
guided decision making processes and a and a skilled CEO, the sky is the even find some time to fly a and follow the prompts. Non-members can content, design and pricing offered by Brian Access for members to the digital copy is
lack of governance knowledge. For an or- limit for our organisation. To me plane and enjoy reading Sport download a form or call the office. which allows us to continue delivering the being offered in both hi-res and low-res ver-
ganisation of nearly ten thousand members, the most important short term Pilot. Thanks to all who have The digital copy is also attracting signifi- highest quality publication to members and sions, which makes it easier to download or
it was apparent RA-Aus had grown so quickly improvements which still need supported me over the years. cant attention. Within 24 hours of going live aviation enthusiasts alike. We have been view online and our advertisers are enjoying
its systems and processes had not kept up. to be implemented are a reduced Board I thoroughly enjoyed my time on the Board, for the first time on the ISSUU site, almost overwhelmed with support for the new look a whole new audience through the release of
“I can now say we are in a much better posi- size and skills based appointment. Being helping guide our great organisation and I 3,000 people read the magazine. Today, that magazine, as well as the revised delivery the magazine onto the ISSUU platform.
tion than we were three years ago. Many new the most popular person does not make look forward to what the future brings.” number is well over 6,000. model. Sport Pilot is alive and well.
12 / SPORT PILOT 13 / S PORT PI LOT
FL Y-I NS
Jabiru powered
P51 Mustang
Sunny days for Sunraysia
BY BRIAN MIDDLE TON
S
UNRAYSIA Sport Aircraft had a suc- Unfortunately some interstate pilots report- Jabiru six powered P51 Mustang, built, owned
cessful Queen’s Birthday weekend ed they were unable to attend due to their local and flown by Peter Hupfield.
fly-in. weather conditions and one pilot reported he The fly-in was open to the public as a way
There was excellent weather in the local had to cancel because of mechanical / electri- to promote recreational / sport aviation in our
area and 35 aircraft came and went over the cal problems. area and it seemed we were popular, although
course of the weekend. Dinner at the Went- Our home base at Wentworth is now the it was difficult to estimate the numbers be-
worth club rooms was attended by about 60 permanent home of two WW2 Replica fighter cause people came and went throughout the
guests. Sunday morning breakfast lured 35 of aircraft. One is John Waters’ Isuzu powered day. We ran guided tours of parked aircraft for
the visitors back for more. Spitfire co-built with John Raven. The other is a the public on request.
15 / S PORT PI LOT
FLY -IN S
MAXIMISING YOUR
RA-AUS MEMBERSHIP?
You have access to many benefits Go to www.raa.asn.au
from aircraft insurance or call 1800 335 014
arranged by Willis to take advantage of
Agreed value in the event of total loss these benefits and
Total loss of aircraft if disappearance in excess obtain a quote
of 15 days
Third party and passenger liability top-up cover
Premises liability extension
Proudly partnered with
Up to $5,000 for ancillary equipment
Recreational Aviation Australia
Emergency expenses following accident
The good weather or forced landing
drew about 35 aircraft
Airfreighting of replacement parts following claim
In addition to the aircraft on display, the works and drainage upgrades worth more than fortunate to have such a progressive and sup-
fly-in was attended by the owners of about 20 $600,000 have been recently completed. The portive council behind our aviation activities.
vintage motorcycles from the local club, as well council has budgeted for the sealing of the run- Coming up, Sunraysia will host a visit from the
as a number of vintage cars. ways in the next financial year. combined Piper Short-wing Group and the Aus- Disclaimer: While all reasonable skill and care has been taken in preparation of this document it should not be construed or relied upon as a substitute for specific
advice on your insurance needs. No warranty or liability is accepted by Willis Australia Limited (ABN 90 000 321 237 / AFSL No. 240600), its shareholders, directors,
At our Saturday evening dinner, Wentworth The other development in the past 12 ter antique aircraft group. An anticipated 60 to employees, other affiliated companies for any statement, error or omission.
Shire CEO, Peter Kozlowski was guest speaker. months has been the establishment of a credit 70 aircraft will be involved in this visit. They will
He gave an interesting talk on the shire’s plans card facility fitted to the Avgas bowser, acces- be great for both our club and our town’s ac-
for the airport, where extensive runway /earth- sible to all transient pilots. We are extremely commodation suppliers and traders. W0551AU_RA-Aus_Half-Page-Advertisement_AugSepOct15_Final.indd 1 29/06/2015 1:08:36 PM
The Recreational
Flying Co Pty Ltd
Young Pilot Scholarship
2015
The Recreational Flying Company of Gympie,
Queensland is offering a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity for a
young Australian to gain a ‘FLYING START’ in life!
Applications are now open for our ‘PILOT SCHOLARSHIP 2015’.
The successful applicant will be offered a free flying training course
for their ‘RECREATIONAL PILOT CERTIFICATE’ valued at over $5000!
No previous experience necessary! Applications are open to both
male and female candidates aged 15 to 25 years. Applications close
on August 30th 2015. The winners will be announced in the last week
of September 2015. An application fee of $220 (incl.GST) applies and
this includes a fun 30min assessment flight with an Instructor.
What to do?
STEP 1: Go to our web site www.recreationalflyingco.com.
Download and complete application form.
STEP 2: Email fly@recreationalflyingco.com or phone 0403
865474 to book your assessment.
STEP 3: Reach for the SKY!
For more info call
0403 865 474 or 0407 086 152
John Waters’ Isuzu
email: fly@recreationalflyingco.com
powered Spitfire
16 / SPORT PILOT
FLY -IN S FL Y-I NS
A very neat Nynja.
One of many
which turned up
The heritage tractor pulling events drew a large crowd.
Greg Upton driving his heritage John Deere gave it everything
Jabiru with tent ready for the weekend
Best Old Station ever!
BY RODNE Y SPR AT T
I
T was a common observation made by age events with visitors treated to a display of insights, and Bruce Honeywill, Editor of Truckin’
many of the visitors who attended the trucks, machinery and the ever popular tractor Life Magazine.
2015 Old Station fly-In and heritage show pulling competition. On Saturday, Matt in his Extra 300l, Paul
– ‘This was the best show ever”. Who could For many years, the event has also raised Bennet in his 400hp Wolf Pitts and TBM Grum-
disagree? money for aviation related good causes. This man Avenger, Kim Rolph-Smith in his Trojan,
After the devastation caused when a cy- year the Capricorn Service received $25,000, Cameron Rolph-Smith (Yak52) and others treat-
clone passed over The Old Station, few visitors bringing the total donations received by the ed the big crowd to an amazing air display. Kim’s
were aware of the enormous effort required to Capricorn Helicopter Rescue Service to more bombing runs provided a spectacular finale.
restore the venue to the condition needed to al- than $250,000. Saturday evening entertainment included
low the organisers to run the show. The weekend weather was almost perfect a timber cutting competition, fireworks display
The Creed family once again provided the and pilots came from everywhere. Large num- and music provided by Clyde Cameron Band.
venue at Raglan in Queensland and the event bers of aircraft arrived soon after first light and The Sunday air show again enthralled the
was put together with the assistance of the continued throughout the weekend. crowd. All in all, the comments were correct – it
members of the Old Station Flying Club Inc, Friday night dinner guests were treated to was the best show ever.
Boyne Island Lions club and other volunteers. a discussion format interview conducted by Planning for next year’s show has already be-
The show at Old Station has grown over Jacquie Mackay (ABC Radio) with Matt Hall, gun. It will be held on the fourth weekend in
the years from just a fly-in to include herit- who once again entertained everyone with his May. Put it in your diaries.
The aircraft marshals had a busy couple of days
18 / SPORT PILOT 19 / S PORT PI LOTFEATURE STORY
Jabiru restrictions continue
BY BRIAN BIGG
A
S foreshadowed last month, CASA’s operational limits on Certificate holder.
Jabiru-powered aircraft remain in force. “This change will reduce an administrative burden inherent in the
There had been some hope the limitations might be eased current arrangements, without diminishing the precautionary safety
when the directive expired at the end of June, however aside from one benefits provided by the continuing operational limitations. For the time
small administrative change, the limitations will remain in force until being, the other terms and conditions of the direction will remain the
further notice. same,” says CASA.
CASA introduced what it called precautionary operational limitations “It is hoped an approach to addressing the engine-related problems
on some Jabiru aircraft in December, until the causes of power related which gave rise to the direction will soon be settled and, as a result of
problems involving Jabiru made engines could be identified and rectified. the remedial processes identified, further, and perhaps complete, re-
CASA says efforts involving Jabiru, RA-Aus and the SAAA have been lief from the limitations imposed by the direction can be granted. Until
ongoing and productive and it hopes an effective response to the prob- then, CASA, Jabiru and other stakeholders will continue to work together
lems will soon be identified. However… collaboratively and cooperatively to achieve that outcome, in the inter-
“In the meantime, with particular regard to the safety of passengers est of safety.”
and others who may have little (and in some cases no) knowledge of, Other changes being explored by CASA include:
or effective control over, the risks to which they may be exposed, CASA Owners and operators may soon be able to apply for an exemption if
will be re-issuing the operational directions as from July 1, pending the they can prove to CASA their aircraft has successfully completed tests
identification and implementation of effective remedial actions.” and analysis by the manufacturer in accordance with the ASTM stand-
CASA did make one change to its directive. From July 1, the require- ards, relating to the introduction of specified modifications.
ment that a pilot-in-command of a Jabiru-powered aircraft may only A redefinition of a forced landing area may also be made to provide
permit a passenger to be carried if a statement has been signed by further clarity.
the passenger not more than 28 days before a flight, will be amend- The current direction containing the operational limitations is set out
ed to permit statements to be signed not more than three calendar in the legal instrument, which can be accessed at http://www.comlaw.
months before the flight. This applies even if the passenger is a Pilot gov.au/Details/F2014L01806.
21 / S PORT PI LOTF EATU RE STORY
Series 2 - LSA
MASSERATI
Relaxed High Speed
ABARTH
Sports Cruiser
sic
Another Italian Classic
TEXAN
Enough is enough
BY ROD STIFF
JA B IRU M AN AG IN G DIREC TOR
S
EVEN months of limitations on Jabiru powered aircraft has tion of the limitations.
had a devastating effect on the company and its associates Jabiru recognises education on operational and maintenance issues is
throughout the world. very important and has directed significantly more resources to workshops
The viability of Jabiru Aircraft has been severely threatened and may each month focusing on maintenance and operation. Assistance by CASA
not be recoverable if the limitations are continued. The damage inflicted and RA-Aus would be appreciated in this area, as well as in recovering more
by the CASA publicity of the limitations and the ‘Acknowledgement and Ac- evidence from incidences to allow complete investigation.
ceptance of Risk -Potential Engine Malfunction during Flight Time’ waiver Jabiru calls for all restrictions to Jabiru powered aircraft be lifted for
will be near impossible to be reversed. Publicity of any incident involving aircraft which have complied with all the service bulletins and letters, op-
a Jabiru aircraft since has referenced the CASA imposed limitations and erate the aircraft in accordance with the manuals, have performed the
reinforced the message. maintenance in accordance with the manuals and use trained techni-
The harm being done is immeasurable and we call for it to be cians and where the aircraft do not have unapproved modifications. Only
brought to an end now. Over the past seven months Jabiru has given for those owners and operators of Jabiru powered aircraft who do not
CASA an insight into the depth of engineering knowledge and research wish to comply with the requirements, do we support the limitations re-
and development which goes on behind the scenes on a day-to-day maining in place until compliance occurs with all service bulletins, letters,
basis at Jabiru. manuals and conditions of operation. We object to the present form of
We have also provided all the engineering documents used for the last waiver because we regard it as blatantly misleading.
certifications of modifications through the CASA authorised person Alan For Jabiru powered aircraft in the Experimental categories of RA-
Kerr; engine reports for ASTM compliance; reports for engines achieving Aus and SAAA, those organisations are able to assess the risk of owner
1,000 hours and numerous tear down reports of engines from reported modifications and apply limitations if required. Jabiru may be able to
WE’RE
SERIOUSLY!
incidents. assist if technical information is required. Jabiru Aircraft acknowledges
BACK
Jabiru has complied with the standards of certification approved by CASA’s primary safety related obligations, however the overwhelming
CASA, continues to monitor airworthiness issues for Jabiru aircraft and body of evidence shows Jabiru aircraft to be one of the safest aircraft
engines and issue the appropriate service notifications. Already this year in this category on the Australian register. Student pilots, passengers
there has been a significant decrease in Jabiru engine incidents. It would and people on the ground are at no greater risk of injury from a Jabiru
appear the incident rate is now equal to or less than the Rotax incidents, than any other aircraft. It could be argued from the statistics that, in
by which we were judged last year and which were given as the justifica- fact, there is less chance of risk to these people in a Jabiru aircraft.
22 / SPORT PILOTREADER STORY
Pioneer 200 Hawk - 300 Hawk - 300 Kite - 400
‘Fast, comfortable and economical,
‘a delight to fly with nippy performance
and stylish Italian lines”
Australian Flying, May - June 2013
The 11th hour
it looks great - and actually flies as BY RIC ‘THE FIREMAN’ AT TARD
nicely as it looks’
Pilot, November 2011
A
FTER Ric Exley of Heck Field took me for my first flight in his Air- a smooth revving 4-stroke sound like a child alternating the speed settings
borne Outback 912 trike, I was hooked and focused on taking on a blender.
up the sport of microlight flying. Downwind turn, line up the corner of the control bar with the runway…all
Flying so far has been both exciting and challenging, there’s so much to good. Time to relax I thought.
learn and think about. However, I experienced a breakthrough recently I felt Nope, acronym time again.
compelled to write about. It happened in my 11th hour of training. F.A.W.N.T.S. Fuel (twist your neck around and use x-ray vision to see the
I’m currently a student of Caboolture Microlights, endeavouring to earn fuel level in the opaque tank. Yeah right. Say the word ‘good’, pretending
my RA-Aus Pilot Certificate to fly a flex-wing trike. With each hour of train- you saw it and fantasising that the instructor thinks you did because he’s
ing, preceded by a briefing on a white board, the incremental development no doubt rolling his eyes); Aircraft (have a good look around – “Nothing
has been accompanied by the discomfort normally associated with learn- seen, nothing heard”. ”Oh really? What about the three broadcasts just
ing anything new. Although very exciting, each lesson has meant having transmitted?” Gulp! ”Umm I didn’t, umm” “Never mind, it’s all clear…pro-
to learn and cultivate a new skill while maintaining the skills taught in the ceed”. “Thanks…sorry.”); Wind direction & strength (Where is that damn
prior lessons. For those not familiar with trikes, the aircraft type has a delta- windsock?); Nose wheel straight (The nose wheel is off centre because I
shaped wing, beneath which is a 2-seat open cockpit and a rear mounted keep trying to turn the plane in the air by turning the nose wheel); Throt-
engine. The plane manoeuvres by weight-shift inputs applied by the pilot tle off, trim set (Oops, the hand throttle, not the foot throttle...blender-revs
working a horizontal control bar. Sounds simple enough, but let me tell you again); Security - helmet and harness secure.
what was going on in my head leading up to my 11th hour. Far out! I was already at the end of the downwind leg! Then the in-
After the pre-flight checks, my instructor bravely positioned himself in structor added, “Don’t forget the base-turn radio call” (Say what?). “Ca-
Alpine the rear seat before I set myself on boolture traffic, trike 4235 turning base runway 30 full stop, Caboolture…
Aircraft Sales
the seat in front. Then it was time over.” “Sorry”. Then more
www.alpineaircraft.com.au for the first acronym.
I.M.S.A.F.E – Any Injury or ill-
Acronym Man
work. Look left, centre, right,
attitude, power off, shallow
Michael Pendergast Jim Rodgers Bob Keen
0418 521 534
michael@alpineaircraft.com.au
0457 054 123
jimrodgers01@gmail.com
Western Australia
0429 639 770
smokeysmail@bigpond.com
Northern NSW, Qld, NT
ness? (Not yet); Any Medication? bank.
Any Stress? (Hell yes); Any Alcohol “Where’s your aiming
consumed in the last 8 hours? point?” “I’m aiming at the
(No, but I could use a shot right earth! If I can get there, I’ll be
now); Any Fatigue? (Imminent by happy”. “You mean safely?”
Aeroprakt A22LS Foxbat
the time I’ve taxied out); Have (Whatever – just please get
you had enough to Eat, drink… me to where I can end the
www.foxbat.com.au
and have you emptied? (Not yet
– stand by!).
stress of trying to remember
a thousand things at once)
I was already perspiring Ok, pull on some speed -
at this point. “Clear prop!”… get ready to flare & round out
(Oops revs too high, now too smoothly (Too much. Balloon.
low, back the choke off, revs to Bar back. Too much. Ease
2,000rpm, check oil pressure, forward. Too late. Keep it fly-
why is the plane moving?...oh ing, keep it flying, stop trying
yeah, brake!) “Sorry.” to land…the plane will land
Ok, time to taxi to the ap- itself!).
propriate runway. (Oh no…what Touch down. If the nose
number was it again?) wheel wasn’t straight by now I’d
“Caboolture traffic, trike 4235 taxiing to the runway over there know about it.
that I forgot the name of, Caboolture”. Stop short for pre-take off checks As I taxied back to the hangar, the voice in my head told me, “Obviously
and another acronym. you’re not a pilot …you just haven’t got it.” Not true – I have got it, I will get it.
C.H.I.F.T.W.A.P. (Really? That’s the best they can come up with?) it It was during my 11th hour of training when I broke the stress barrier
stands for Controls – full & free movement; Harness & helmet secure; In- and everything seemed to fall into place by itself. It was as though a psy-
struments set & working – Ignition checked; Fuel tap & cap on and suf- chological night-shift crew had visited my brain as I slept and arranged all
ficient; Throttle working & Trim set for take-off; Tips & Tabs secure; Wind the lessons and briefings into organised files. And as if by magic, during
direction and Strength, All clear for take-off, Power – full power available. my 12th hour I was able to draw on the information I needed as though I’d
Ok, task completed. been doing it for years…my mental, cognitive and fine-motor skills flew in
“Caboolture traffic, trike 4235 entering and lining up runway three zero, formation and a first smile emerged behind the visor of my helmet.
circuits, Caboolture….Over.” (Over? There’s no ‘Over’. You’re not in a fire Up until that point, when friends asked if I enjoyed flying, I’d respond
Incredible view out truck now, Bozo!). “Sorry”. with, “I don’t even notice I am flying…all I do is think!” Now, however, I could
Stall high 20’s kts - cruise high 90’s kts Full power, rotate and best climb. I really enjoyed this part…for 10 sec- answer with a resounding ‘Yes’.
Safe stable & predictable handling onds. Then it was all work. Keep it straight until the end of the runway, My aim in telling you this is to encourage student pilots who might be
thermals, crosswinds, watch the height, look left, centre, right, turn shallow going through the information overload phase of their learning. You may
Breathtaking short field performance bank, level off, attitude first (not mine –the aircraft) then power down to find your own 11th hour in the first five hours or in 20 hours…it’s different
Biggest cabin and best load carrier in class cruise. for everyone.
Register RA-Aus or VH- It took me ages before my foot found that sweet spot and maintained I once asked my other instructor, Mark Gentry, the following question,
What more do you need? Search for Aeroprakt A22 cruise speed…it drove me crazy. I even stopped using the cruise control in “How am I going…am I ahead or behind?” He responded, “What do you
my car to help me get used to feeling the throttle again. Up in the air I made mean? There is no ahead or behind.”
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