Coincidence

The first thing you have to realize is that these things happen to me. I don't plan on them, I don't go looking for them. But odd little coincidences, strange inter-connected events, like you'd find in the Twilight Zone, just somehow manage to find me. And these twists of fate often make my life very interesting. Oh, I almost forgot. They usually happen in three's.

Sunshine state of mind

The trip to Florida in mid-March covered diverse Air & Space venues, from the Kennedy Space Center to the Florida Air Museum. The journey circled central and southern Florida, encompassing attractions like the Space coast, Key West, and St. Petersburg. Notably, the trip showcased classic aircraft and the historic Space Shuttle Atlantis. Overall, a fantastic and educational vacation.

How did I end up owning a Cessna 172?

In the late 80s, Wayne Winters offered ultralight training with a Merlin aircraft. Ultralights weigh up to 1300 lbs and are costly. In the USA, they require no license, but in Canada, an Ultralight Pilot Permit is necessary. The narrator bought a Cessna 172 without any permits or experience and later obtained a Private Pilot License. They eventually sold the aircraft and assembled a Rans S-12, finding it more enjoyable. The reemergence of Cessna production led to a substantial increase in used aircraft prices.

Prop Up Your Plane

The article discusses the importance of choosing the right propeller for different aircraft engines, specifically focusing on the Rotax engine. It highlights the impact of using the wrong propeller, the significance of RPM in achieving maximum thrust, and the preference for fewer blades for efficiency. It also touches on the potential of adjustable pitch propellers for improved fuel economy and the factors to consider when selecting a propeller. The writer emphasizes the role of compromises in determining the most suitable propeller for specific aircraft models and encourages investment for enhanced performance.

Ballistic Parachutes I – Fly Paper

The author expresses congratulations to President Paul Hemingson and discusses the vital importance of ballistic parachutes as safety equipment for ultralight aircraft. Despite initial strong convictions, the author observes a declining trend in installations due to lack of recent incidents. The need for chutes is highlighted in the event of in-flight emergencies like control failure or mid-air collision.

Forced Landing – Safety Corner

In this article, the author shares the wisdom of pilots in handling forced landings, particularly due to engine failures. They emphasize the importance of preparedness, selecting landing sites, and planning the approach. The steps outlined include maintaining speed, choosing a field, planning the approach, cause check, restart attempt, and concentrating on the landing.