Flying Report Sun 29 Dec 24
The fog of the last three days had lifted and so had spirits. After an 11 week pause whilst we worked with RAF Shawbury to update the safety case to ensure that we could continue to fly through the various phases of the Airfield Operating Surfaces (AOS) project, it was with huge relief that we recommenced flying today, our last flying day of 2024.
So what can we use in the current phase of works? We have the 2,000 foot stub of Shawbury’s r’way 18/36 and acres of grass, in reality plenty to work with and little different from a normal flying day but, taking into account the works going on around us on most hard surfaces.
The day saw a good turnout from members who, following a ground recce by instructors and the duty team, were briefed (quizzed!) on the changes to our procedures that ensure that we fly can safely. In particular, the decision point was briefed as the 1,000ft marker board – if not airborne by that point the launch was to be abandoned.
As proof of concept the first three launches were with tug WG, then with WG towing Astir R66 and finally with R22. Even with little or no wind aircraft were quickly airborne and long before the decision point. On return, another briefing followed on the recommended areas of High Key and Low Key.
Taking out both tugs, K21 (R22) and Astir R66, after our long pause the aim of the day was to get everyone current.
Mission accomplished!
Meanwhile Colin had his hands full flying as right seat ballast in KE (heavy) for a trio of pilots.
Both cloud base and viz varied throughout the day…..
…….but towards the end of the day Colin, flying ballast in KE, took some great pics of the sun setting over Shrewsbury.
A perfect end to the day and good to get out on the airfield after the long pause. We now have confidence that our revised procedures are both practical and safe.
Dates for your diary:
The club is hosting a visit by Shawbury Air Scouts 1930 – 2130 on Fri 17 Jan 25. Our younger members are asked to help out if the can and let us know if you can attend via the club website.