Flying Report Sat 31 Aug 24
The last Saturday flying of the year as we switch to a Sunday schedule over Winter. It was also the last day of meteorological summer and, with a full flying list, the weather gods were kind to us with light winds and a cloud base of c4,000ft, although viz was not good.
We welcomed Ellen, an AsCat from North of Hadrian’s Wall who popped in enroute to teach the Army how to fly. Ellen stayed all day having first taken a site check with Colin. Afterwards Colin said, and having consulted with the launch point Jury, that Ellen was OK for the day but would need a bit more work if she wanted to transfer from Jockland to RSGC🤣🤣
It was evident from the first launch at 1000 that it was already thermic although with an inversion sitting over the area the permanent haze emphasised the need to make sure that your navaid was tuned in!
We were joined by four of our MEF bursary students and one who has Go-Solo funding. The aim was to get them into the air so that each could experience and make the most of the fantastic conditions. During the day Jamie, Peter and Harry all took a trip in TMG KE at some stage, a great way to reinforce learning.
All took a number of flights during the day in one of the ASK21s, of which one at least was a descent soaring trip.
The single seat jockeys brought out 243, EEO and R66 all of which were kept busy. Mike and Geoff both took a trip in 243 and, for once, without any need to fire up the iron thermal in their Ventus 2CT
Colin took his first trip in weeks in EEO and, dusting off the cobwebs, stayed aloft for over 2 hours. Top job Colin.
For those who ventured Ternhill way there was, apart from a nicely mown lawn, nothing going on – will gliding ever return?
Andy, Rob and John occupied R66 and, in the process taking a look at the industrial estate in Wem, home of Skylaunch winches.😍
Finally, Nigel enjoyed a trip of nearly an hour with Ellen in ASK21 (R35) to complete the day, a super day to make the most of with over 18 hours of flying time at an average of 46 mins per flight. Many thanks to Ellen for stepping in to assist and good luck with the Army.
Club News:
Andy has a new plaything – 360 degree camera!
