The official magazine of the Owner and Pilots Association www.aopa.co.uk

FREE 2021 ! FLIGHTAOPA GUIDE INSIDE THIS ISSUE

Californian Charlotte Bailey recalls a memorable day flying over Clipper California’s Wine Country in a rare Piper PA-16 Clipper

BACK TO THE SKIES WARRIOR AT SIXTY ERIC THURSTON OBE As GA restrictions relax As Piper's PA-28 turns Remembering the founder we ask: “Are you ready 60 we ask Kev Arblaster AOPA member, who has to return to flying?” why it's “just his type” passed away aged 101

MAGAZINE 04.2021 FREE TO MEMBERS WWW.AOPA.CO.UK

03 CHAIRMAN'S MESSAGE SORRY TO

EDITOR 'DRONE' ON Steve Bridgewater [email protected] notice from the press at the weekend that Tom Cruise is to reprise his role as ‘Maverick’ in a sequel to Top Gun, the eagerly anticipated Top ART EDITOR I Gun: Maverick. Dan Payne When the original film was released, I was a keen glider pilot and had [email protected] just started training to enable me to convert my gliding qualifications to a PPL. This time around, I gather Mr Cruise will be flying an F/A-18E Super Hornet SUB EDITOR which costs $60m; and if he goes on to make it a trilogy, the next aircraft could be Charlotte Bailey the F-35C Lightning II costing in excess of $90m. The point I am coming to is that once upon a time, unmanned aerial vehicles/ PROOFREADING drones were thought to be the answer to these rising costs. Pilotless drones would Gabrielle Chambers be lighter and smaller, hence cheaper. I was also told that, taking into account all the costs of training the pilot, he was actually worth more than the aircraft. CONTRIBUTORS A recent report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies, a think Charlotte Bailey, Malcolm Bird, tank in Washington D.C., has concluded that it is not that simple to disconnect the David Chambers, George Done, man from the machine. The report goes on to evidence how, whilst the hardware John Walker, Nick Wilcock costs less, the drones are being used more to satisfy the growing – indeed ‘insatiable’ (their words) – demand for surveillance. This has also generated huge PUBLISHED BY amounts of intelligence that, in turn, requires more humans to analyse it. The AOPA UK conclusion: doing away with humans is hard. c/o 1 Jason Close, Orsett, Grays, I mention this because AOPA has recently become involved in a European Essex, RM16 3DY project that is developing the concept of operations for the U-Space Service. +44 (0)20 7834 5631 The EU has passed this into law with effect from 2023 and it already contains provision for manned . ADVERTISING The UK government is investing millions in drone development and many of you & SUBSCRIPTIONS will have noticed the growing number of NOTAMs reserving airspace for the AOPA UK R&D trials of these unmanned aircraft. Airspace Change Proposals (ACPs) for c/o 1 Jason Close, Orsett, Grays, the Temporary Restricted Airspace use airspace segregation but AOPA does not Essex, RM16 3DY support such measures. Rather, it is fully supportive of a safe, integrated approach to the matter. HEAD OF ADVERTISING It is expected that AOPA’s involvement in the European project will help inform David Impey our lobbying of the Department for Transport and CAA because given the +44 (0)7742 605338 government’s support and funding, blocking these applications is simply not an option. [Ed: see Martin Robinson’s article on Urban Air Mobility on p8 for more PRINTING information on this subject]. Ruddocks I hope we’re all looking forward to getting airborne again: working out exactly 56 Great Northern Terrace, what we need to do to get back currency and beat the ‘skill fade’ – both of which Lincoln LN5 8HL AOPA can help with. The website contains a handy tool to check what you need +44 (0)1522 529591 to do, with access to a remote briefing if it’s still unclear. If you need an examiner www.ruddocks.co.uk or instructor to fly with, you can also use the website to find one, and you don’t need to be a member to do so. Fly safely. • © British Light Aviation Centre Ltd AOPA is a member of the International Council of Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. IAOPA

Articles, photographs and news items from AOPA members and other readers are welcome. Please send to the Editor. Inclusion of material in AOPA Magazine cannot be guaranteed, however, and remains at the discretion of the Editor. Pauline Vahey Material for consideration for the June 2021 issue Chairman, AOPA UK should be received no later than 1 May 2021. [email protected]

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 04 INSIDE THIS MONTH CONTENTS APRIL 2021

07AOPA AFFAIRS Among other topics AOPA 17WORKING FOR YOU Fifty members joined CEO Martin Robinson reflects on the fact the March meeting of the Members Working that recreational flying is so much more Group for an enjoyable debate about a than merely flying for pleasure. diverse range of issues.

08URBAN AIR MOBILITY With autonomous 18NEWS The latest news from the GA world, air vehicles now no longer a science fiction including the threat to close fantasy, we will soon have to share the skies , Cirrus' limited edition SR and the with these unmanned aircraft. 2020 General Aircraft sales figures.

10MAINTENANCE Powering our way out 23FLIGHT DIRECTORY Your essential and of lockdown. Before pressing the starter comprehensive listing of all AOPA Corporate button, remember piston engines are highly Members, including flight schools, official prone to corrosion when not used regularly. bodies, trade services and more.

11AIRFIELDS UPDATE John Walker provides COVER35 STORY – CALIFORNIA DREAMING updates on under threat from Charlotte Bailey revisits a 2018 trip to developers, as well as a look at the future of Sonoma Skypark, California, where she took various MoD airfield sites. to the skies in a rare Piper Clipper.

12BACK TO FLYING AOPA Training and 40JUST MY TYPE After six decades in service Education Committee stalwart David the PA-28 still appeals to flying schools, Cockburn offers thoughts on how to make a hirers and owners. We ask Kev Arblaster safe return to the skies after lockdown. what makes the Piper Warrior ‘just his type’.

14REGULATION ROUND-UP An editorial 48REVIEWS We test Aircrew's Conspicuity round-up of some of the most recent Interface, review artwork of Halfpenny regulatory and legislative updates from the Green, and feature books by both an AOPA CAA, DfT, EASA, NATS and other groups. member and a talented 14-year-old.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 05

EDITOR'S COMMENT

AS I WRITE these words the I should probably emphasise nation has just paused for a (before my very Welsh wife minute’s silence, marking the first accuses me of discrimination) that anniversary of the initial Covid-19 the dates we refer to in this issue lockdown. Back then, few of us regarding the easing of lockdown could have imagined that in a restrictions refer to . The year’s time, more than 126,000 other devolved authorities were British citizens would have lost yet to issue similar information their lives during the pandemic. regarding GA when this edition of Likewise, it would have seemed the magazine went to print. inconceivable that the world – with Producing a magazine under Britain at the forefront – could not lockdown (and with constantly only develop a series of successful changing guidelines) has been vaccines but also roll them out on incredibly difficult, so I would like such an industrial scale. Yet on this to thank my team and all those first anniversary of the lockdown, who have all gone above and somewhere near 28 million UK beyond to ensure this issue hits residents have had their first shot your doormat on schedule. of a vaccine and it looks like we I’ve really enjoyed ‘meeting’ many might be approaching a stage of you by email since the last issue where life can return to some form and thank those who’ve taken their of ‘normal’ (if it wasn’t so difficult time to welcome me to the role to type with my fingers crossed I and introduce themselves. Moving can assure you they would’ve been forward, it is my hope to include firmly crossed as I wrote those more member-led features and words!). We have all sacrificed so news in the magazine, but I need much over the past year – be it your help to achieve this. Whether 35 socialising, attending the events you’d like to write for us or be and sports matches that we love, interviewed by one of our team, or the small things like hugging we would love to include ‘your’ grandchildren or elderly relatives. story. It might be a memorable On a personal level, I was unable flight, a news story about your club to hold my father’s hand when he or home base, a review of a new passed away in a care home last bit of ‘tech’ or even your views on a summer. Doubtless many of you subject you feel strongly about. 18 will have lost friends and family So let’s hear what you’ve got to to the virus and seen members say for yourselves … of our much-undervalued key workers on their knees with exhaustion. So, in a way, it seems churlish to bemoan the lack of flying over recent months. But of course flying means so much to us all – it’s either a way of life or Steve Bridgewater an escape from other pressures Editor, AOPA Magazine UK in our lives. To many of us it is a [email protected] hobby, to others it’s a career, but to all of us it’s a passion that runs deep in our veins. So the thought of returning to flying is a tantalising 40 prospect. In this issue, AOPA’s experts offer some advice on how best to prepare yourself and your aircraft for the post-lockdown return to flying. Further advice and guidance is available on our website and we wish you a happy and safe return to the skies.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot

07 AOPA AFFAIRS RECREATIONAL AVIATION IS SO MUCH MORE THAN FLYING FOR 'PLEASURE' S THESE words are written it "The government (which did not fit GA very well) and now has been nearly a year since there is another one on the horizon, CAP the UK went into its first intends for this country 1961. A Coronavirus ‘lockdown’ and After five years of trying to establish throughout that time AOPA has remained to become 'the best GNSS approaches for GA we are still ‘in the lobby’, advocating on behalf of some distance away from touchdown: in GA – particularly as we look at returning place in the world for cloud and with the probable imminent to flying activities. demise of EGNOS, we will have to fly The government, in an attempt to be '" the missed approach.

even-handed, banned all recreational Steve Bridgewater flying on the grounds of it being a ‘non- KEEP YOUR HEAD essential activity’. AOPA has worked On another issue I would like to tirelessly to explain that ‘recreation’ emphasise that there is never a need to is any activity that is undertaken be rude or abusive to somebody who for ‘pleasure’, whereas aerodromes, is just doing their job. Unacceptable maintenance providers, flying clubs language and behaviour – whether it and schools, as well as instructors, all is directed at a member of AOPA or form part of the ‘business’ that enables CAA staff – will not be tolerated; we private flying. must have zero tolerance on this issue. All lined up and nowhere to go. Hopefully Thankfully, this matter relates to a small MORE THAN RECREATION GA should have emerged from lockdown minority and whilst I can understand There is a huge similarity between by the time you read these words. people’s frustrations at times, it is always training private pilots and commercial possible to get your point of view pilots: for example, they both use simple GA ROADMAP over in an acceptable manner. Rudyard single-engined piston aircraft. In fact, The Government intends to release a Kipling’s poem If comes to mind: "If the major problem seems to be that both roadmap setting out its objectives for you can keep your head when all about the CAA and Department for Transport GA: I am sure you will have heard by you are losing theirs and blaming you … (DfT) clearly believe that the PPL is now that the aim is for this country to be you’ll be a Man my son". purely a recreational licence; but this is 'the best place in the world for General Finally, I wish you all a safe return to not necessarily the case. Aviation.' flying activities, but a sensible approach In my honest opinion, the DfT should This goal is to be supported through is needed as well as a recognition that have considered the business that policy statements comprising risk-based, ‘skill fade’ is an issue – albeit one that underpins GA and should only have proportionate regulations related to the can be remedied by contacting a flight restricted activities that take place after activity; however, the devil is always in instructor. the PPL had been issued. the detail. The CAA will need to make As the saying goes: “it is better to be This would have been a benefit to sure that the guidance material used down here wishing you were up there the flight training organisations, fuel internally also reflects that proportionate than up there wishing you were down suppliers, instructors and I am sure risk-based approach, otherwise there here.” Safe flying everybody. • many others. However, engaging will be gaps between the high-level at this level of discussion has been policy objectives and what the CAA is extremely difficult and frustrating. The able to deliver. rules have been blunt and the action An example of this is based on the taken has obviously been intended to original CAP 1122, which aimed to slow the spread of the virus. However, support GNSS approaches into GA I understand that there have been airfields. This was approved by the CAA different approaches towards other board, only to be altered after a change leisure activities – particularly those that in personnel – leading to a lack of Martin Robinson take place in open areas, which have support for CAP 1122. Soon afterwards CEO, AOPA UK therefore been permitted. we saw the introduction of CAP 1616 [email protected]

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 08 AOPA COMMUNITY

08 10 11 12 14 17

WORDS Martin Robinson IMAGES Various URBAN AIR MOBILITY IN THE GA WORLD : IS IT A THREAT OR ACTUALLY AN OPPORTUNITY? With autonomous air vehicles now no longer a science fiction fantasy, we will soon have to share the skies with these unmanned aircraft. However, far from being our foe, they may bring some unexpected opportunities

THERE HAS recently been a Airbus, Boeing and Bell, with could reinvigorate flying, rapid growth in companies some capable of carrying up "Drones will aim with GA needing to keep developing Urban Air to three passengers. to operate below pace and take advantage Mobility (UAM) vehicles to – These developments may of some of the new/future ultimately – fly passengers or have a profound impact 500 ft and in our technologies. However, they cargo. Often of ‘quadcopter’ on GA but could also offer have to be affordable; and design, these are now big opportunities for us. cities" given the projected size of being created by aircraft The innovation coming the ‘drone’ market, this could manufacturers such as from UAM developments well result in falling costs.

Joby According to Airbus: “By 2030, 60% of the world's population will be urban. This significant population growth is expected to create a need for mobility options as ground infrastructure becomes increasingly congested."

TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT New traffic management systems are already being developed and, combined with new operational concepts, these will enable drone flights – in time – to integrate with manned aviation. Initially, these UAMs will be piloted and will operate in much the same way as today’s helicopters. Meanwhile, Among the UAM creators in advanced stages of development is Joby Aviation. Its – so far smaller cargo-carrying unnamed – eVTOL has completed more than 1,000 test flights, and is expected to seat a pilot plus drones will aim to operate four passengers, while offering 150-mile range and 200 mph top speed. below 500 ft and in our cities.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 09

Well, that is the plan at least: Urban Air Port Ltd but the technology is still in development and needs to be tried and tested before it can be put into practice. I think we are at least ten to 15 years away from the rollout of autonomous systems, but could there be an earlier deployment which might be procedurally based? Our GA aerodromes could form part of the Vertiport Network and through proper government policy and investment in infrastructure (such as charging points and storage areas), these new businesses could be a new revenue source for airfields. With correct planning, aerodromes could serve the needs of both users. I Coventry’s Urban Air Port is a subsidiary of sustainable tech company SMALL (Six Miles Across think this offers an exciting Limited) in partnership with Hyundai, Coventry City Council and the UK government.

opportunity to inject new NASA life into developing the GA network. In my view, reports that could close while an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) hub is constructed in the city of Coventry [Ed: see News] represent a missed opportunity. As we look to the future, AOPA is engaging in evolutionary work which is all about the next generation.

INVESTMENT Millions of pounds, dollars and euros are being invested in new businesses that have entered this market and Governments around the globe look upon this as part of the ‘Fourth Industrial Revolution.’ NASA is using simulation facilities to test how eVTOL designs operate around and cities. They have instructed regulatory bodies to facilitate that the European drone who regulate airspace safety. development by ensuring sector is expected to directly "Integrating all Safely integrating all airspace rules are in place; employ more than 100,000 airspace users users will not be easy and it recently voted unanimously people within 20 years, with should not come as a surprise on regulation supporting the an economic boost of €10 will not be easy that Electronic Conspicuity introduction of U-Space. billion per year. (EC) is high on the agenda. The UK is keeping pace with I am sure you are aware of and Electronic As these plans take shape, we these developments through the number of Temporary will need to continue to make joint academic, industrial and Restricted Airspace Conspicuity (EC) the case for GA. Most of the government partnerships. applications being made to is high on the operations will be happening After being in the works support the Beyond Visual in the lower airspace, which, for a couple of years, the Line of Sight Operations CAA's agenda" currently has limited traffic U-Space regulatory package of drones. There is a huge management services – but I is scheduled to become law in challenge ahead for those who expect this to change in the 2023 and it has been reported set national policy and those years ahead. •

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 10 AOPA COMMUNITY Maintenance Matters and Airfields Update

WORDS George Done & Malcolm Bird IMAGES via Ian Sheppard POWERING OUR WAY OUT OF LOCKDOWN Before pressing the starter button, let’s think ... aero piston engines are typically highly prone to corrosion when not used regularly

IT’S BEEN a long winter the aircraft on-site, or make innards can be forwarded. The and a long lockdown, but "The release back suitable arrangements, in order maintainer will also be aware with spring in the air and to service will be to inspect and perform the of engine manufacturer Service the government relaxing the tasks necessary to enable a Instructions, which may be lockdown restrictions, many something for us flight back to their base. applicable, and could be the of us will be champing at the There, the annual – including case if the engine has been bit to take to the skies again. all to cheer about: any remedial work – and ARC recently overhauled. For owners of aircraft that renewal can then take place. Put the plugs back in, have been flown within the let's take care and, if all is well keep your past few months (for engine and look forward DOING IT YOURSELF fingers crossed for the engine health or maintenance check The second possibility is that springing rapidly into life on flights), the route back to enjoying the the owner is capable, under engaging the starter! to normality is relatively their maintainer’s oversight, of This is where the condition of straightforward. freedom of the doing engineering tasks that the battery becomes apparent. However, some aircraft may skies once again!" may include 50-hour checks. If circumstances are such that not have been able to be thus AOPA contacted three engine a prior trickle charge of the flown, possibly for a year or overhaulers who largely deal battery has been impossible, more now. In this case, the with the ubiquitous Lycoming and especially if – before situation is more problematic and Continental engines, as lockdown – the engine starts – especially if there had been well as a Rotax specialist, for were getting a bit feeble, be no time to inhibit the engine, or their recommendations on prepared to find the battery take precautions to minimise bringing an engine back to lacks the oomph required to the onset of corrosion. operational life following a get the engine going. In this Additionally, it is possible the long period of a year or more case, it will need to be charged aircraft may not have had its of zero operational use. or replaced. ARC renewal or annual check These tasks are roughly The comments above have completed. summarised as follows: concentrated on the engine, Two possibilities are • Remove and clean the and of course the airframe will apparent. The first is where the engine's spark plugs also need particularly careful owner – by prior agreement • If possible, use a borescope inspection, bearing in mind the – leaves everything to the to inspect the cylinder bores long period of inactivity. maintainer. In this case, the • If no signs of corrosion are Look out for animals and maintainer will have to visit apparent, spray WD 40 or insects that have decided

Chris Varley via Ian Sheppard similar into the cylinders that your aircraft provides a • Turn the engine over with nice home environment. Their the spark plugs removed, nests might not be obvious on magnetos OFF: first by hand first sight. Once the aircraft is and then on the starter for, finally deemed to be airworthy, say, 10 seconds – long enough one’s maintainer can arrange to get oil flowing within, but for a Temporary Permit to not so long as to overheat the Fly to allow a ferry flight to starter motor. their base, to complete the Clearly communication necessary work for the annual with one’s maintainer is key, check and issue of the ARC. especially if a borescope is The release back to service used, as the owner may not will certainly be something know what to look for. Simple for us all to cheer about: let’s borescope devices that attach take care and look forward to There is a possibility that the owner, under their maintainer’s to a smart phone are available enjoying the freedom of the oversight, is able to undertake engineering tasks themselves. online, so images of the skies once again! •

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 11

WORDS John Walker THE LATEST NEWS ON UK AIRFIELDS ABINGDON Earmarked aerodrome. Further public for development with 1,200 hearings due in April 2021. homes in Vale of White Horse District Council's HENLOW Earmarked 2031 Local Plan Part 2, for mixed use/specialist which was adopted in 2019. employment development Development restricted to in Central Beds Council the south of 08/26. draft 2035 Local Plan. Public hearings ending BOURN Earmarked for on December 18. Flying 3,500 homes in the 2031 currently suspended. Local Plan adopted by South Cambs District LINTON-ON-OUSE Council in September Closed on December 18, 2018. The application was 2020 and AIP entry was approved on February 19, withdrawn on February 25. 2021 subject to conditions. MANSTON On February BRAWDY Defence 15 the High Court Infrastructure Organisation quashed the aerodrome’s (DIO) has submitted the Development Consent barracks for mixed use Order. In 2020 Thanet development as part of District Council adopted Pembrokeshire Council's its 2031 Local Plan that 2033 Local Development safeguards the site's Plan 2. However, this was existing use. not included in the draft plan issued for public NORTH LUFFENHAM consultation in 2020. Rutland County Council's 2036 Local Plan includes COLERNE The aerodrome 2,215 homes on the site. was originally expected to Consultation that ended in be sold in 2018. There is November accepted the local interest in keeping the development. site for aviation use. SWANTON MORLEY COVENTRY Nominated No reference to its closure by the is made in the definitive Combined Authority for use Breckland Council 2036 as a Gigafactory [Ed: see Local Plan, adopted 2019. the News pages for more]. TERN HILL Consultation DISHFORTH Not included on Council’s in the 2035 Harrogate draft of the 2038 Local Borough Council Local Plan ended on February Plan that was adopted in 26. It includes a 750-home 2020 but expected to be mixed use development of considered in any review. the barracks site leaving the airfield intact. HALTON The DIO future vision document and WETHERSFIELD Bucks Council's definitive Future development 2033 Local Plan exclude considerations include a development of the prison and housing use. •

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 12 AOPA COMMUNITY Back to Flying

WORDS David Cockburn IMAGES Editor IT’S BEEN A LONG WINTER. ARE YOU READY TO RETURN TO THE SKIES? By the time this issue hits your doormat, the UK’s lockdown restriction on private flying should have been lifted*. AOPA Training and Education Committee stalwart, David Cockburn, offers some thoughts on how to make a safe return to the skies WE MUST all have fly solo or with members of "Human factors time, and as we all know too cheered when we read the our own ‘bubble’ (for most of well, flying skills deteriorate Department for Transport us, the people we live with). suggest that when not used. (DfT) communication on However, flights with others – March 2 about how the including instructors – will not the delay can NOT A NORMAL BREAK government’s ‘Roadmap for be possible until April 12* at For many of us, especially Easing Out of Lockdown’ the very earliest. encourage a those who fly from grass affects GA. Of course, after such a desire to get back airfields that are susceptible However, there are likely to prolonged period on the to waterlogging, winter be lots of misunderstandings ground it is natural that we in the air which periods of grounding will be about that message and pilots will want to take advantage a well-known inconvenience. are urged to check any news of these relaxations, but it is will try to subvert It might therefore be tempting with a reputable source such vital that we stay safe in the to treat this enforced Covid as the AOPA office. process. Some of us may have our common break as any other seasonal Apart from anything else, been fortunate enough to sense. " break from flying and assume as the DfT has confirmed, the retain our flying skills over the that our flying skills will projected dates are “indicative last year’s various restrictions. not have deteriorated any and subject to change”. As However, a good many pilots more than they did after it stands, if all goes well, will have been grounded or previous winters. We should from March 29 the British possibly without the ability to be used to reading up on government might allow us to even discuss flying for a long the manuals and planning carefully, taking it easy for the first few trips as well as avoiding challenging conditions and fully loaded take-offs. However, with the various lockdowns in 2020 I doubt whether any of us flew as much last year as usual, even if we were able to keep our ratings valid. We are unlikely to have built up the usual experience and skill level before the winter, which could well lead to us being at a much lower standard now than at the beginning of previous flying seasons. Human factors also suggest that the delay can encourage a desire to get back in the air which will try to subvert our common sense. This spring we will need to take even It’s time to reach for the skies again … but are you rusty or ready? more care than usual.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 13

FLY WITH AN INSTRUCTOR As a member of AOPA’s Training and Education TIPS FOR Committee, I strongly encourage you to consider PLANNING AOPA taking advantage of the YOUR services of an instructor for INSTRUCTOR at least your first flight after a RETURN long lay off. Of course, unless Read your handbooks: REFRESHER that instructor is within your 1 remind yourself of how ‘bubble’, this will mean waiting the systems work, what COURSES an extra 14 days before you speeds you plan to fly at return to the air. If you really different stages of flight, For revalidation of an FI certificate, the holder shall don’t want to miss out on a and how much runway fulfil two of the following three requirements: fortnight’s solo flying consider you are likely to use in carefully whether you really various situations. 1 At least 50 hours of flight instruction are fit to fly on your own, and during certificate validity as if in doubt, give an instructor Talk yourself through FI, TRI, CTI, IRI, MI or Examiner; a call. 2 a flight, from preflight 2 Attend a Flight Instructor Refresher The lockdown guidelines checks through engine Seminar within the validity of have allowed most instructors start, taxi, run-up, take- the certificate; and to keep themselves current off and climb, level off 3 Pass an Assessment of Competence and any flying with an into cruise, descent, instructor can always be joining procedure, circuit, within the 12 months preceding the beneficial to a pilot, regardless approach, go-around, expiry of the certificate. of experience. another circuit and For at least each alternate subsequent You might like to consider landing. Then do it again revalidation, an assessment of competence refreshing items such as stall and consider what might revision, and practice some go wrong at each stage must be undertaken. In the case of a forced landings. What;s more, and what to do about it. renewal you should, within 12 months the flight will quite probably before renewal, attend a Flight count as training towards your Sit in the cockpit. Instructor Refresher Course and pass rating revalidation. However, 3Without actually an assessment of competence. it’s very much up to each selecting any switches, individual pilot to assess their move your hands to the own needs. required places for that NEXT DATES I suggest you have a look flight, including your The next dates for the course are at the up-to-date ‘Returning response to the problems to Flying in the Wake of you considered. Practice COVID-19’ part of the GASCO the radio calls you make, July 6-7, 2021 website at gasco.org.uk. think about the replies November 23-24, 2021 The lack of contact and you expect and what you Approval has now been obtained from the CAA to run discussions with other pilots might have to say next. these courses using Zoom during the current pandemic. has probably reduced your It is therefore imperative that any candidate is up to level of theoretical knowledge, Once you are able to so why not have a look at the 4 go flying again, but speed on using Zoom prior to commencing the course. Returning to Flying quiz on only when conditions are Further information can be obtained from Course AOPA's website? all favourable, carry out Administrator, John Pett, on 07754 780335. Please book To close, I’m sure quite a a simple flight. Having the course online at www.aopa.co.uk few of us will have allowed levelled off, I suggest our individual ratings to lapse practicing a couple of as a result of the restrictions. circuits in the sky (keeping Renewing a rating will need a good lookout), including the services of an examiner, approaches and go- but it’s probably also a good arounds at a safe height. idea to carry out an initial Try to avoid returning to training flight to get back into the airfield when it’s busy, To register for a place on any of the practise before attempting a and practise a couple seminars please call the AOPA office on 020 7834 5631 or join online at GST or LPC. of go-arounds Always • WWW.AOPA.CO.UK. *Dates and data correct at be ready to go-around The courses start at 0930 and end time of going to print and for real if things aren’t at 1700 each day. relate to England. Other parts working out optimally. of the UK may vary.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 14 AOPA COMMUNITY Regulation Round-Up

WORDS Steve Bridgewater IMAGES Various REGULATION ROUND-UP An overview of some of the most recent regulatory and legislative updates from the CAA, DfT, EASA, NATS and other groups

SHORTLY BEFORE these understandably led to those ACOG’s commitment to be consulted on by ACOG words went to print in late airports looking to sponsor sustainability, and encourages in due course. However, the March the CAA announced an airspace change as part of them to work with airport ACP DfT, which is responsible that it had received the FASI programme to pause sponsors and NATS to assess for aviation-related policy, confirmation of funding their activities. To restart these how they can achieve airspace will not be able to provide from the Department for activities, sponsors will require emissions savings. detailed guidance that will Transport (DfT) to support short-term funding. This will RECOMMENDATION: cover all potential trade-off the airspace design change enable the administration of That ACOG work with decisions. The CAA says each initiatives that are a core a grant to help the airspace GA and unmanned aircraft decision should fully take element of its Airspace change sponsors involved system stakeholders to into account the individual Modernisation Strategy. in the masterplan progress explore the options for the circumstances and relevant The CAA initially responded their airspace design programme to ensure their policies at the time. to the Airspace Change changes.” The CAA has now needs and requirements are RECOMMENDATION: That Organising Group’s (ACOG) considered ACOG’s remaining collectively coordinated with ACOG ensures ACPs below 'Remobilising the Airspace recommendations as follows: ACP sponsors, potentially 7,000 ft progress coherently Change Programme' report last RECOMMENDATION: leveraging additional funding with plans to remobilise year and immediately accepted That ACOG and National support from UK Research operations and enhance network three of its recommendations. Air Traffic Services (NATS) and Innovation via the future performance via NATS En Route The DfT and CAA committed re-evaluate the programme flight challenge. Limited’s (NERL) engagement to consider the remaining deployment plan to ensure REPLY: The CAA agrees with the EUROCONTROL recommendations in further that the airport-led and that it is important that the Network Management Transition detail and one of these points network ACPs are aligned airspace modernisation Plan and Operational Excellence was financial support for and can be incorporated into masterplan process is used Programme. the future airspace strategy iteration 2 of the masterplan. as an opportunity to open up REPLY: The CAA agrees that implementation (FASI) REPLY: The CAA agrees airspace for all users, including alignment between airport initiatives as part of the CAA’s that it is fundamental for the general aviation and new types ACPs, and plans to remobilise Airspace Modernisation programme for both airport of aircraft such as drones. operations and enhance Strategy (AMS). The DfT will sponsor and network ACPs to RECOMMENDATION: That network performance, is now be providing funding to be aligned in order for them ACOG gathers stakeholder important. enable FASI airspace change to be incorporated in the next feedback in the form of a sponsors through a grant iteration of the masterplan. lessons-learned exercise TRAVELLING ABROAD? administered by the CAA. RECOMMENDATION: That to help inform any process Yes, travelling might seem like This will enable sponsors to ACOG examines options for improvements associated a pipedream at the moment, continue through stage 2 of external financial support for with the application of the CAP but the time will (hopefully) the Airspace Change Process delivering the programme 1616 guidance. come soon when we can (ACP) – known as CAP 1616 objectives and, if appropriate, REPLY: The CAA agrees think about flying across the – as part of the government’s the potential options for with this recommendation and Channel once again. The UK commitment to supporting accessing and managing funds. encourages stakeholders to Border Force has therefore the aviation sector and REPLY: The DfT has now engage with ACOG on this asked us to remind you of decarbonisation. announced a funding support lessons-learned exercise. the importance of completing According to the regulator: package for the FASI RECOMMENDATION: That the new ‘Declaration for “Despite the pandemic, programme that will support the CAA considers producing International Travel' form. airspace modernisation the airport airspace CAP 1616 detailed guidance on the remains a critical part of the process. treatment of trade-off decisions PIPER SPAR INSPECTIONS UK’s national infrastructure RECOMMENDATION: for airspace design when In January the FAA published development, and will provide That ACOG, the airport one objective (for example, an Airworthiness Directive a wide range of benefits, ACP sponsors and NATS sustainability) has more (AD) 2020:26-16, covering a including carbon savings, noise assess how best to achieve weighting than others (such as variety of single-engine Pipers benefits, increased resilience, the airspace emissions noise mitigation or capacity). that carry either a PA-28 time savings for passengers, savings contribution set out REPLY: The CAA agrees or PA-32 model number. An and better access for all users in the Sustainable Aviation that a number of trade-off incredible 5,440 airframes are of airspace. Decarbonisation Roadmap. decisions will potentially need affected in the USA alone. “The pandemic has REPLY: The CAA welcomes to be made, and these will The US AD was prompted

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 15

Steve Bridgewater US directive also requires calculation of ‘factored service hours’ (FSH), determined by the number of 100- hour inspections or annual inspections that have been accomplished on a main wing spar since new. Following the joint CAA/ EASA review of the FAA AD, it was determined that, since in Europe there is no legal distinction and documentation requirement between the accomplishment of 100- hour inspections and annual inspections, depending on the operation of the aeroplane, the FAA calculation method for FSH is inappropriate.

SERVICE CALCULATIONS The CAA/EASA PAD requires The new wing bolt Airworthiness Directive will affect 635 Piper PA-28s on the UK civil register. repetitive calculations of average annual utilisation by an NTSB investigation into panels for the visual inspection (AAU) and EASA FSH (EFSH). a fatal accident in which the with optional access methods. "If you're flying Owners of CAA or EASA wing separated from a Piper These include the use of overseas it's registered machines are PA-28R-201. The occurrence existing access panels, therefore required (within was deemed to have been installation of access panels, important that 30 days after the effective caused by “fatigue cracking in accessing the area during a date of the AD, and thereafter a visually inaccessible area of concurrent inspection, or using you complete the during each 100-hour or the lower main wing spar cap.” a borescope through existing annual inspection) to review Based on the outcome of holes or openings. new 'Declaration the aeroplane maintenance the factored Time in Service of International records for completeness and (TIS) hours, the AD requires CAA RULING determine whether a wing or a one-time eddy-current (EC) Here in Britain, 944 PA-28s are Travel' form" wing spar has been replaced inspection of the inner surface on the UK civil register and with a wing or wing spar that of the two lower outboard the AD applies to 635 of them. had more than zero hours TIS bolt holes on the lower main The CAA and EASA have at the time of installation. If it is wing spar cap for cracks decided to approach the AD determined that the wing spar and, depending on findings, slightly differently as the FAA has accumulated or exceeded replacement of the main wing uses a different way to factor 5,000 hours TIS – or the hours spar with a new main wing the hours flown and when TIS are unknown – owners spar, or a used main wing spar inspections are measured, should calculate the AAU. If that has passed (no cracks compared with the UK and this is 100 TIS/year or more, found) an EC inspection. Europe. before further flight the EFSH It initially required the The CAA and EASA have should be calculated using installation of inspection therefore worked with Piper the following formula: EFSH = panels close to the main wing to come up with an alternative [TIS – (100 x Years)] + (100 x spars to give technicians factored-hours calculation Years) / 15 access to that area when and issued a Proposed If, as a result of the searching for corrosion. Airworthiness Directive (PAD) calculation, the EFSH are Piper has revised its service on March 12. determined to be 5,000 information to add a minimum The FAA AD is applicable or more, owners need to thickness dimension for to aeroplanes that have accomplish an EC inspection the top inboard wing skin accumulated 5,000 hours TIS of the inner surface of the two and to include procedures or more (or have a main wing lower outboard bolt holes on for reapplying corrosion- spar replaced with a used the lower main wing spar cap preventive compound if example) and also applies for cracks within 100 hours removed during the inspection. to those airframes for which after accumulating 5,000 Also, the FAA replaced the maintenance records are EFSH, or within 100 hours after proposal to install access missing or incomplete. The the effective date of the AD,

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 16 AOPA COMMUNITY Regulation Round-Up and Members Working Group whichever occurs later. stakeholder organisations such. working together in a bid to If the maintenance records Companies interested in "Introductions ensure drones are registered are found to be incomplete, or recruiting candidates can to Electronic and to deter owners from the spar/aeroplane TIS or FH contact them directly through breaking the rules. Those rules are unknown, the EC inspection the platform, and also upload Conspicuity can be found in the Drone needs to be conducted within any job vacancies they wish Code on the CAA website. 100 hours of the AD being to promote. For individuals, and Unmanned In other CAA news, the issued. the ASRP provides a tailored regulator’s GA Comms Should the EC inspection portal through which Aerial Systems Manager, Alex Blomley, tells detect a crack that exceeds candidates can register their have been added AOPA UK that the RAF the acceptance criteria of the personal profile and CV intends to trial a new low-level Service Bulletin, the main wing and search for vacancies in to The Skyway frequency (122.280) this year. spar needs to be replaced aviation and across other Although the introduction date with a new or serviceable unit key sectors. Take a look at Code along with is yet to be confirmed it is before the next flight. www.aviationtalent.co.uk for thought that this scheme will Before the next flight after the more information and how to a description help build a better air picture EC inspection new wing bolts become involved. of 'Just Culture’ for all aviators. will also have to be installed, so it is a fair assumption that these SKYWAY CODE within GA" CLASS 2 MEDICALS will become difficult to obtain. As you would imagine, Alex also confirmed that AMEs Owners are also required to the combined fall out of in England will be able to report the inspection results coronavirus and Brexit has restart issuing and renewing to the CAA, FAA and Piper been keeping the CAA busy Class 2 medicals from March Aircraft within 30 days after in recent months but it still 29. Cellma (the new medical the EC inspection. Being a PAD, found time to publish the third IT system) is being introduced the CAA’s AD is currently out edition of its Skyway Code in to replace an obsolete system for comment, so the regulation February. Designed to provide (PIMS MARS) that has been won’t come out until after the GA pilots with quick and easy in service for the last 19 years. end of the consultation period access to key information According to Alex: “Downtime, on April 9. relevant to their flying, version data security and an inability to 3 brings the publication up to develop our existing system has SKILLS RETENTION date with changes to reflect forced a change upon us which In February AOPA signed up the UK’s departure from the has been in train for the last to the DfT’s Aviation Skills European Union, as well as the three and a half years.” Retention Platform (ASRP). latest regulatory requirements. Up until now, the CAA medical This has been created to Compared with earlier teams have been using systems support skills retention within versions, the new Skyway which have been in place since the UK aviation industry and Code includes updates to the late 1990s. The technology is designed to help talented all aeronautical information, is no longer supported, and individuals showcase their including radio frequencies maintaining it has become experience and expertise while and frequency monitoring problematic. The CAA is helping businesses find the codes. Radiotelephony therefore introducing Cellma skills they need. exchanges have also been to provide a secure method of ASRP provides direct updated to reflect latest CAP processing self-declarations support for both redeployment 413 documentation and a and medical certificates. and recruitment activities, section also includes guidance Before you attend your next

together with a framework on the use of moving-map CAA medical you must now log for wider skills retention and devices and avoiding airspace in to your CAA Customer development programmes infringements. Introductions Portal Account and complete across the aviation sector to Electronic Conspicuity and the medical application form. The vision for this initiative Unmanned Aerial Systems Information regarding charges is to support the retention of (UAS) have also been added can be found on the CAA people and skills as well as along with a description of website. Alex says: “The new providing a platform that aligns ‘Just Culture’ within GA. system will include an ability as a wider strategic solution On the subject of UAS, the for applicants to view their for the recovery of the aviation CAA, the Home Office and the own medical records and to industry and its development Police has begun Operation track progress of applications needs. Foreverwing to clamp down Brexit, use of moving-maps, and referrals.” It also features It is a not-for-profit on drone-related crimes. This Electronic Conspicuity, drones improved identity fraud programme supported by comes after 336 drone-related and a ‘Just Culture’ are just security – ensuring that the business associations, member incidents were recorded during some of the headline changes candidate that turns up for the companies, professional the last five months in the UK in the latest version of The medical is the person they say institutions, unions and other and sees the organisations Skyway Code. they are. •

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 17

WORDS David Chambers – AOPA UK Members Working Group Chair IMAGES Steve Bridgewater MEMBERS WORKING GROUP Fifty members joined the March meeting of the Members Working Group for an enjoyable debate about a diverse range of issues

THE LATEST meeting of the average PPL achieves in the Members Working their lifetime. Another is the Group – held on March 20 recency of courses/seminars, – was the best attended to with a view that those taken date with 50 participating many years previously might via Zoom. The switch be discarded to encourage to online meetings has more continuous and ongoing undoubtedly been a education. success, enabling those from around the country STREAMLINING (and even abroad) to join The other hot topic in. Many have encouraged considered what might be us to retain this mode of possible in a post-Brexit operation for future meetings regulatory environment. and investigate running a Whether or not you think The March meeting was once again held via Zoom, but the hybrid format mixing those leaving Europe (and next meeting may include an ‘in person’ element. on-site with others attending therefore EASA) is a good remotely. If you have idea, the deal is done and we [email protected] negotiate a settlement. expertise in the best practice should be looking at which It’s easy to complain • The medium to longer required, please get in touch. of the regulations could about the complexity term impact of drones for Our January meeting be streamlined, improved of the different types of airspace. AOPA recently had discussed the AOPA or completely discarded. licence (FCL, PPL, NPPL) won a bid for funding mentoring scheme and This requires vision of what or medicals (Class 1, 2, to participate in Project unanimously recommended we want – quite difficult LAPL, PMD) to determine CORUS, a research that it be closed down, when attempting to satisfy which types of aircraft you programme looking at how partly because Class Rating such a diverse membership might be allowed to fly UAVs and other airspace Instructors can now fulfil and industry – and what is (G-Reg, N-Reg, other Reg, users can co-exist. Airspace much of that role. This has realistically achievable; an Microlight, SMG, TMG, Modernisation in the UK been agreed by the Training area where AOPA can draw SSEA, < 2 tonnes, <5.7 remains a long term project. and Education Committee on considerable expertise tonnes). It’s much harder • Airfield planning and the scheme removed from and background knowledge. to come up with a simple developments, which John the AOPA website. Martin Robinson presented scheme that combines just Walker keeps a close eye on. a list for discussion which one licence, a few levels • AOPA’s move to new AOPA WINGS included aspects to simplify of medical and aircraft premises and investment of During this meeting we licencing (and encourage classifications. the surplus funds. revisited the AOPA Wings more of the administrative Other topics discussed in The next meeting is on scheme, launched in 2003 processes/documentation the meeting included AOPA June 26. Although I suspect but no longer as successful to move online); greater experts commenting on: many of us hope to be as it might be. A group of empowerment of DTOs (to • The CAA exemption making up for lost time volunteer members stepped include training for any PPL allowing those with non-Part and flying a lot by then, forward to compare it with rating such as the IR and FCL licences to fly Part 21 please consider joining us similar programmes, which all FIC); reduce unnecessary aircraft. on that morning and making now sit under the umbrella of maintenance paperwork • The consequences of a contribution. It’s hard to the CAA’s PROUD initiative, (e.g. recognising any our withdrawal from the say if we will also meet in and recommend how it might FAA STC by default); and EGNOS satellite system person, but I plan to enable be refined and promoted remove the requirement in June, which will reduce Zoom participation. If you more effectively. One for mandatory handling at LPV instrument approaches can’t make it, please do suggestion was to review the larger airports. No doubt to LNAV minima and continue to support AOPA’s relatively large number of this list will be refined and affect the take-up of these work – it’s only made hours required to be flown to revised over coming months, approaches by GA airfields. possible by our members achieve the highest Platinum and we would welcome AOPA continues to lobby although it benefits the award – many more than your suggestions: david. for government action to entire GA community. •

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot General Aviation news from around the world Steve Bridewater

COULD 'GOING GREEN' SPELL THE END FOR COVENTRY? After serving the community for 85 years could be turned into a factory to build electric vehicle batteries – is this the cost of 'Going Green'?

COVENTRY AIRPORT (CVT) operational by 2025. aircraft such as cargo drones – known as Baginton to many There has been an airfield "West Midlands and air taxis. The hub will be – is under threat following an at Baginton since 1936 Combined 60% smaller than a traditional application to use the site as and aircraft manufacturer heliport and emit net zero a Gigafactory to build electric Armstrong Whitworth built a Authority has carbon emissions. vehicle batteries. factory on the airport site soon Coventry is the 2021 UK Coventry City Council plans afterwards. Whitley bombers endorsed the plan City of Culture and is set to enter into a Joint Venture were among the types 'born' at to play a role in the 2022 partnership with Coventry Coventry. for the airfield" Commonwealth Games. Its Airport Ltd to develop the Meanwhile, the government university is also instrumental facility, which is at the heart of has pledged its backing for in the development of electric what remains of Britain’s motor an innovative electric vertical vehicles, and in December the industry. The West Midlands take-off and landing (eVTOL) city was named the best in Combined Authority has hub to be constructed close to ABOVE: Coventry Airport the country for electric cars. formally endorsed Coventry Coventry city centre. If it goes has been operational since However, it looks like that Airport as the preferred ahead, Urban Air Port Air-One the 1930s and has been a might come at the cost of a site for the 4.5 million sq ft will be the world’s first fully- haven for historic aircraft historic, valuable and much- Gigafactory, which could be operational hub for eVTOL as well as GA. loved airfield. •

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 19

SPIRIT OF INNOVATION POISED AOPA NEWS FOR HISTORIC MAIDEN FLIGHT HIGHLIGHTS The General Aviation ROLLS-ROYCE’S electric- Based on the Nemesis the company’s Accelerating Safety Benchmark Group powered Spirit of Innovation NXT air racer, G-NXTE is the Electrification of Flight (GASBG) was launched aircraft has begun taxi trials powered by a 500 hp electric (ACCEL) programme to set in February as a no- at Airport powertrain and the latest world speed records and cost group open to GA as the cutting-edge machine energy storage technology. enable a new generation of airports to share data approaches its maiden flight. It has been developed by urban air mobility concepts. and experiences with the

Rolls-Royce It is hoped the aircraft will aim of improving safety. exceed 300 mph, setting a Interested parties can new world speed record for contact Chairman, Harry electric flight. The ACCEL Harrad, on hharrad@ project is part of Rolls- londonoxfordairport.com Royce’s plans to inspire for further information. young people to consider careers in STEM (Science, The World Championship Technology, Engineering Air Race (WCAR) has and Mathematics). The agreed a partnership with engine manufacturer has also FAI and the World Air developed downloadable Sports Federation to stage Spirit of Innovation materials an international series of linked to primary school air race festivals starting The 350 hp Nemesis NXT won the 2009 Reno Gold race at curriculums; these can easily in 2022. Similar in format 407 mph. The basic design has been used by Rolls-Royce to be downloaded from the to the much-missed Red form the basis for its electric-powered Spirit of Aviation. company's website. • Bull Air Race, the FAI has granted UK-based WCAR exclusive staging rights on a range of piloted air races FLYING CAR CERTIFICATION flown on air-gate courses. Airport is MOVES UP A GEAR becoming increasingly GA-friendly. Although Steve Bridewater THE TERRAFUGIA handling is mandatory, Transition flying car has private aircraft up to 2 obtained a Special Light- tonnes MTOW can now Sport Aircraft (LSA) use the resident Glasgow airworthiness certificate Flight Centre (GFC) as from the FAA. their handling agent at The 100 hp Rotax zero cost. The SEP landing 912iS-powered “roadable fee is £39.95 and aircraft aircraft” has been parking £19.95 a day. designed to meet safety is available. Pilots standards from both the need to obtain PPR online. FAA and the US National Highway and Traffic Safety A survey of the world’s Administration (NHTSA). The Terrafugia Transition now has an airworthiness airline pilots revealed The company says it will certificate but is yet to be approved for road use. that only 43% were still now begin selling ‘flight doing the same job only’ versions to owners allow it to be stored in a in Europe last October. they had before the with a view to the airframe single-car garage. A 400 Elsewhere in Europe, pandemic. A poll of 2,600 being both sky and road statute mile range and 500 the Slovakian AeroMobil pilots found a further legal by mid-2022. lb useful load is claimed. flying car completed a 30% were unemployed, The Transition has an Meanwhile, Dutch-based series of flight tests as part 17% furloughed and the airborne cruise speed of PAL-V has begun the of its EASA certification others moved on to other 100 mph and can use either EASA certification process programme in March and careers. Many of those Mogas or 100LL aviation for its Liberty “roadable the company expects to still in work were also fuel. Standard features gyroplane.” The two-seater have the flying car on sale being paid less, with some include folding wings that was approved for road use sometime in 2023. • accepting a 58% pay cut.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 20 AOPA NEWS GA News that matters Bye Aerospace

George Bye’s eFlyer 2 is designed specifically for the flight training market and is projected to have a 3.5 hour duration. The company claims to have more than 700 purchase agreements in place.

WATT'S NEW IN THE ELECTRIC WORLD? Funding for green aviation projects, a plan to use 100 GA airfields as part of a sustainable aviation network, and maintenance courses for electric aircraft

IT SEEMS that most of the aircraft and longer journeys. will be to demonstrate Crucially, Pipistrel has also news in the GA world at the Additionally, ZeroAvia’s 19- single pilot operations with started running maintenance moment involves electric seat HyFlyer II (featured in the an autonomous co-pilot type-training courses for Part- propulsion and ‘watt’-ever last issue of AOPA UK) will providing access to more 66 licensed aircraft mechanics you’re looking for, ‘joule’ find receive £12.3m in government information than human on its electric powered it in these pages. (Sorry, that grant money.Elsewhere in the perception alone can provide. aircraft. The company hopes was ‘shocking’… but hopefully UK, a group of companies Meanwhile, the Pipistrel to run the five-day EASA- it will 'spark' some debate) and universities has launched Velis Electro – the world’s first approved course monthly. In February, the UK Project HEART (Hydrogen- certified electric aircraft – has Elsewhere, Colorado- government announced £84 Electric & Automated now been approved by the based Bye Aerospace is in million was being invested Regional Transportation) CAA for flights in the UK and the process of obtaining in three ‘green aviation’ as part of the Future Flight NEBOair will soon be offering FAA Part-23 certification for projects. These consist of Challenge. The aim of the flights in the Slovenian- its eFlyer 2 aircraft; French Blue Bear Systems Research’s HEART programme is to designed aircraft from Damyns company Aura Aero has InCEPTion programme to create the foundation for a Hall. Pipistrel also claims announced it is to develop an develop a fully-electric fully sustainable and scalable to be nearing the launch electric propulsion system for propulsion system for a small, commercial aviation network of a new hydrogen fuel- its two-seat aerobatic aircraft; short range aircraft and GKN that could connect the entire cell- and battery-powered and Embry-Riddle University’s Aerospace’s H2GEAR project. UK. It focuses on electrifying 19-seat hybrid that it hopes eSpirit electric aircraft has The latter will receive £27.2m and automating the Britten- will revolutionise commuter begun taxi trials. The eSpirit to develop an innovative liquid Norman Islander, and airliners. Pipistrel says the is based on the Diamond hydrogen propulsion system utilising up to 100 licensed aircraft could have a range of HK-36 and will be a testbed for regional air travel, which GA airfields around the UK. 1,000 miles on a tank of liquid for students to develop new could be scaled up for larger The project’s first milestone hydrogen. electric technologies. •

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 21

AOPA NEWS CIRRUS LAUNCHES HIGHLIGHTS LIMITED EDITION SR SERIES From May 20, 2021 the UK will revert to the TO MARK the delivery of Cirrus Aircraft previous rules on flight its 8,000th aircraft, Cirrus visibility and distance from Aircraft has introduced the cloud in Class D airspace 8000 Limited Edition SR (that existed up to March Series. Just eight will be 26, 2020). According to manufactured, featuring a the CAA: “This reflects ‘Volt’ green paint scheme, the wave of feeling seen and a series of gifts and in the submission to the exclusive events for the recent General Aviation owners. The first Cirrus Consultation on life after SR20 was delivered in 1999 leaving EASA.” The minima and since then the type, will apply to aircraft flying along with spin-off SR22 below 3,000 ft AMSL or and SR22T variants, has The 8000 Limited Edition SR is certainly distinctive. 1,000 ft above terrain held the top-selling single- (whichever is the higher) engine piston spot for 18 over 11 million flight hours been saved by the Cirrus and at an indicated years running. According to in more than 60 countries. CAPS emergency parachute airspeed of 140 kts or less. Cirrus, the fleet has logged At least 140 lives have also system.• The US Department of Transport is making nearly $2 billion in grants available to GA airports as PISTON SINGLES POWER part of the country’s Covid Relief Bill. Most of the THROUGH THE PANDEMIC funds will go toward costs related to making the DESPITE THE economic sales of business jets 2019. Cirrus was once again airfields ‘Covid Secure’ but uncertainty caused by and turboprops fell more the bestselling manufacturer, the scheme also includes the Covid Pandemic last significantly, leading a delivering 420 aircraft in money for rent relief to year, sales of piston- collective 10% decline in 2020. Piper sold 244 aircraft, airport concessions. powered aircraft fell by fixed-wing aircraft deliveries including 149 Archer IIIs; just 1% compared with during the period. Helicopter sold 241 Skyhawks; NetJets has signed an 2019, according to figures deliveries fell by more than and Austria's Diamond agreement with Aerion published by the General 16% and overall GA sales Aircraft delivered 239 aircraft that includes options for Aviation Manufacturers dropped to $22.8 billion, a including 143 DA40s and 62 20 Aerion AS2 supersonic Association. However, decrease from $27.8 billion in twin-engined DA42s. • business jets. Aerion has also announced plans to collaborate with aviation training NEW WINGS FOR THE provider FlightSafety International to develop NATIONAL FLYING LABORATORY a flight training academy for its supersonic civil and THE -BASED Aviation/BAe Jetstream 31. university has already commercial aircraft. College of Aeronautics As reported in the October achieved over two-thirds has been at the forefront 2020 issue of the magazine, of its ambitious £3 million The British Women of aviation and aerospace the time has come to replace fundraising target. With the Pilots’ Association has research and education since that airframe, and an aircraft aircraft scheduled to arrive launched its 2021 aviation 1946. It is the only university has now been selected. at Cranfield this spring, scholarships provided in Europe to have its own The chosen Saab 340B the campaign now shifts to by CATS Aviation, , pilots, air navigation is a larger aircraft than the raising the remaining funds Groundschool, Easy service provider and its Jetstream and will allow in order to complete the PPL, 624squadron.com own aircraft. That aircraft the university to fly more modifications to the aircraft. and Helicentre. Fifteen acts as the National Flying students as part of their To find out more about the scholarships are available Laboratory Centre (NFLC) engineering and aerospace NFLC and how you can help, this year with details at Flying Classroom and until courses. Following a two- visit www.cranfield.ac.uk/ www.bwpa.co.uk recently has been a Scottish year long campaign, the NFLCcampaign •

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 22 AOPA NEWS GA News that matters CAA PART 21 EXEMPTION UK National Pilots will be able to continue flying Part 21 SEP aeroplanes until June 2021, by which time it is intended that the regulations will have changed for good THE CAA has confirmed that June 2021. It is anticipated aircraft’ and include most Part 21 aeroplane needs to be pilots holding UK national that legislation introducing a popular type-certificated G-registered and that it can licences will be allowed to fly permanent change will come aircraft such as , only be flown within the UK Part 21 SEP aeroplanes and into place before that date. Diamonds and Pipers. or a UK dependency. Day and touring motorgliders (TMGs) Part 21 aircraft are what Conditions apply to the night VFR flying is permitted under an exemption until used to be known as ‘EASA exemption, meaning that the but cost-sharing, commercial

Steve Bridgewater operations and flight training are prohibited (unless with a flight instructor). The CAA emphasises that: “A licence holder must not exceed a maximum accumulative total of 12 flying hours as PIC permitted by this exemption. "The purpose of these flights must be to regain competence and familiarisation or to cover any specific differences associated with Part 21 SEP aeroplanes or TMGs.” “The first flight by a licence holder under this exemption must be a flight with a Flight or Class Rating Instructor of at least one hour’s duration if the licence holder has not flown since April 8, 2020.” We at AOPA will continue to Pilots holding UK national licences can now fly Part 21 SEP aeroplanes such as the Cessna monitor the situation and will 172 under an exemption until new legislation comes into place this summer. provide updates if required. •

ERIC THURSTON OBE, 1920-2021

IT IS WITH great sadness that we share Stapleford Flight Centre newly created CAA. news of the passing of Eric Thurston OBE on At the age of 65 Eric became Chief Flying January 24, at the grand age of 101. Instructor at Stapleford and held the post until Eric was a founding member of the British October 2000. Even then, he continued to Light Aviation Centre (the forerunner of instruct in the simulator for a number of years, AOPA) and his contributions to aviation were passing his skills to countless aviators. considerable. Eric was also a pioneer in air taxi and He became an aero engineer before the war charter work and his regular air ambulance and took part in D-Day during his National flights around Europe earned him the Order Service, receiving a mention in dispatches of St John for his “commitment to making life- from Field Marshal Montgomery for his saving flights whenever he was asked to”. contribution to military transport. This depiction of Eric was The famous students and passengers in Eric obtained his pilot’s licence in 1953 painted by Jane Thornhill his logbook included Prime Minister Harold and took over the engineering facility at in 2003 and hangs in Wilson and pop groups such as The Beatles Stapleford Airfield before going on to obtain Stapleford’s clubhouse. It and The Rolling Stones. his instructor and examiner ratings. In 1966 he shows him with the Piper Eric’s extensive contribution to aviation became a member of the Professional Pilots Seneca G-TEST in which he was recognised with an OBE and he was also Committee of the Ministry of Aviation and examined many a multi- awarded the Sword of Honour by the then subsequently the Advisory Committee to the engine and IR instructor. Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 ANDPULL KEEP OUT ME

FEATURE Flight Directory 21 AOPA 2021 UK FLIGHT DIRECTORY Your essential and comprehensive listing of all AOPA Corporate Members, including flight schools, official bodies, trade services and more 24 FEATURE Flight Directory

CORPORATE FLYING CLUB LIST

CHANNEL ISLANDS of a picturesque estate in to the public, so just walk beautiful countryside. If you in and see us. You can also are interested in learning to THE PILOT CENTRE LIMITED have something to eat in our fly this is the place. The club , conservatory with a view over JERSEY AERO CLUB has plenty of parking and Tilehouse Lane, the airfield. , a wonderful atmosphere, Uxbridge, UB9 5DF Types: L’Avenue de la Reine with its friendly and historic T: 01895 833838 1 x Beechcraft B76 Duchess Elizabeth II, St Peter, JE3 7BP clubhouse, a wide choice E: operations@thepilot 3 x T: 01534 743990 of aircraft and enthusiastic centre.co.uk 2 x Piper PA-28-161 E: [email protected] instructors. W: thepilotcentre.co.uk 1 x Piper PA-28R-201 W: jerseyaeroclub.com Types: A friendly flying club with an Types: 1 x Beechcraft B76 Duchess up-to-date fleet at reasonable 1 x Tecnam P2008 1 x prices. Courses: LAPL(A), 1 x Tecnam P2010 2 x Cessna 182 PPL(A), Night rating, IR(R), CAMBRIDGE AERO CLUB 1 x PA-18 Super Cub FI(A), Night Derestriction, Gate D, Cambridge Airport, ENGLAND 9 x Piper PA-28 Warrior FI(A) Applied Instrument Newmarket Road, 1 x Piper PA-28-180R Arrow Instruction, Tailwheel, Flying Cambridge, CB5 8RX 1 x PA-32R-301 Companions course, PPL T: 01223 373717 Ground School. Discount on E: enquiries@ AZURE FLYING CLUB BUCKINGHAMSHIRE full membership for AOPA cambridgeaeroclub.com Building 187, Rooms F03/04, members. W: cambridgeaeroclub.com , Wharley Types: Cambridge Aero Club is End, Cranfield, MK43 0JR BICKERTON'S AERODROMES LTD 9 x Cessna 152 a CAA registered ATO. All T: 01234 581580 Denham Aerodrome, 2 x aspects of training, safety E: [email protected] Tilehouse Lane, 1 x Cessna 182RG management systems, W: flyazure.com Uxbridge, UB9 5DF 1 x Citabria aircraft and instructors are Formerly the Britannia/ T: 01895 832161 5 x Piper PA-28 continually monitored and Thomson Airways Flying E: operations@thepilot audited. Our highly skilled Club. We have two bases centre.co.uk CAMBRIDGESHIRE team of instructors have an with a total of three aircraft; W: thepilotcentre.co.uk unrivalled level of experience Cranfield covers membership Flying has been taking in everything from Flight north of London and place at the site of Denham AEROLEASE LTD FLYING CLUB Experiences and PPL training Wellesbourne Mountford Aerodrome since the early Peterborough Business to advanced handling, caters for members in the 1900s. It has been operated Airfield/Conington, Holme, , IR(R) and the CBIR. Midlands. We have instructors by Bickerton's Aerodromes Peterborough, PE7 3PX Our new Pooleys, Bose and who can offer everything from Ltd since the 1930s and was T: 01487 834161 Garmin outlet is open. check-rides to training for licensed by the CAA in 1938. E: info@flying-club-conington. Types: PPL, IMC and night ratings. co.uk 3 x Cessna 172 SP Types: W: flying-club-conington.co.uk 1 x Extra EA200 2 x Piper PA-28 (Cranfield) We can offer you the full 1 x Piper PA-28 1 x Piper PA-28(Wellesbourne) LAPWING FLYING GROUP range of private pilot Denham Aerodrome, Tilehouse training, from PPL up to BERKSHIRE Lane, Uxbridge, UB9 5DF additional ratings including T: 01895 833880 multi-engine, IMC, radio CAMBRIDGE FLYING GROUP E: [email protected] navigation and more. There's , WEST LONDON AERO CLUB W: lapwingflyinggroup.co.uk a comprehensive fleet Newmarket Road, White Waltham Airfield, First formed in 1965, Lapwing of aircraft, 987 m of fully Cambridge, CB5 8RX Maidenhead, SL6 3NJ is a small group of very licensed hard runway and fuel T: 01223 264262 T: 01628 823272 friendly, informal, dedicated and maintenance available E: info@cambridgeflying E: [email protected] aviators who come from a on-site, we're sure you'll soon group.co.uk W: wlac.co.uk wide range of backgrounds. be able to see the advantages W: cambridgeflying White Waltham is home Experience levels range from of flying with us. This is a club group.co.uk of the West London Aero airline pilot to basic student, where you can talk flying, hire Types: Club (WLAC) and is one of but we all love flying. aircraft, take part in flying 2 x the oldest airfields in the Types: activities or bring your family 1 x Fuji FA 200 country, set on the edge 1 x Piper PA-28-151 for club events. We're open

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 25

CITY OF LONDON ESSEX

PERRANPORTH FLYING CLUB LTD NORTH WEALD FLIGHT UK FLYING CLUBS LTD Higher Trevellas, St Agnes, ANDREWSFIELD AVIATION LTD TRAINING LIMITED 86–90 Paul Street, London, TR5 0XS Andrewsfield, Stebbing, The Squadron, North Weald EC2A 4NE T: 01872 552266 Dunmow, CM6 3TH Airfield, CM16 6HR E: [email protected] E: perranporthflying T: 01371 856744 E: [email protected] W: eglk.co.uk [email protected] E: [email protected] W: northwealdflight UK Flying Clubs (Blackbushe W: perranporthflying W: andrewsfield.com training.co.uk Flying Group) was set up in club.co.uk As a licensed airfield, we are Based at the legendary ex-RAF 2014. The fleet of 22 aircraft We are a UK CAA DTO offering able to teach the disciplines airfield that is famous not only now includes Cessna 150s, a Part-FCL ICAO-compliant PPL, necessary for use at a busy as a base but Reims Cessna 172, a Cessna night- and IMC-rating training airport or private airfield as also as home to 111 Sqn's 182, PA-28 Archer III, a Piper and aircraft hire. We also offer well as for visiting smaller famous Black Arrows formation Arrow III, a multi-engined microlight training/hire. strips. We also have links with team of Hawker Hunters, Piper Seneca Turbo, Beech Types: Cambridge and Southend for North Weald Flight Training Duchess and Beech Baron. Ikarus C42 instrument training. We offer is a leading provider of flight We currently operate from Piper PA-28 Archer courses from trial lessons to training in the southeast of three UK bases (Blackbushe, P&M GT-450 flex-wing Flight Instructor ratings and England and has an enviable Bournemouth and CPL training, as well as the reputation for its airfield Nottingham), making us the CUMBRIA Advanced PPL, Formation facilities, aircraft fleet and largest non-equity aircraft Flying, Aerobatics and Short experienced instructional staff hire club in the UK and we Strip courses. Also on offer is that all go to help its many plan to continue growing for CARLISLE FLIGHT TRAINING & a FEAR 2 FLIGHT seminar. students realise their dream as long as there is demand. CARLISLE AERO CLUB Types: of flying an aircraft as a fully We intend to develop the Hangar 30, Carlisle Airport, 1 x Beechcraft B76 Duchess qualified pilot. group in a sensible manner CA6 4NW 6 x Cessna 152 Types: so that members can benefit T: 01228 573344 1 x Cessna 172 2 x Cessna 150 from flying a variety of Mob: 07834 559560 1 x Piper Cub 5 x Cessna 152 aircraft within one monthly E: info@carlisle-flight- 1 x Piper PA-28 Warrior 5 x Cessna 172 membership. That's what training.com 1 x Piper PA-28R Arrow 2 x Piper PA-28 makes us unique and popular W: carlisle-flight-training.com amongst our members. Types: AOPA members get 10% 1 x Piper PA-28 Archer off the monthly or annual 1 x Piper PA-28 Warrior ANGLIAN FLIGHT CENTRES SEAWING FLYING CLUB LTD. membership fee. 2 x Robin HR200-120B Earls Colne Airfield, Southend Airport, Colchester, CO6 2NS Southend-on-Sea, SS2 6YF CORNWALL DEVON T: 01787 223676 T: 01702 545420 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: anglianflightcentres.co.uk W: seawingfc.co.uk CORNWALL FLYING CLUB DEVON & SOMERSET Based on a licensed airfield, Seawing Flying Club has now Bodmin Airfield, Cardinham, FLIGHT TRAINING LTD open seven days a week with been operating from London Bodmin, PL30 4BU Dunkeswell Aerodrome, both tarmac and grass runways, Southend Airport for in excess T: 01208 821419 Honiton, EX14 4LG we have a large fleet of aircraft of 40 years. We are the only E: [email protected] T: 01404 891643 and offer NPPL, PPL, night, IR(R) members-owned flying club W: bodminairfield.com E: [email protected] and aerobatic training. We also at the airport which enables We are open for experience W: dsft.co.uk run Formation Flying, Advanced us to offer a fun, friendly flights, PPL and LAPL. Our Courses offered include PPL, PPL, Strip Flying, Taildragger and sociable environment in mission is to promote the LAPL, IR(R), Night, FIC, Touring and Infringement Awareness which we provide professional interests of GA throughout Motor Glider (TMG) Rating, Training. All these courses help and effective flight training. Devon and Cornwall, and to Tailwheel, AOPA Aerobatic and towards gaining your AOPA Seawing Flying Club also has a provide a safe, friendly and Radio Navigation, Farm Strip Wings Awards. Home of Anglian history of training pilots who stimulating environment for Flying. ATO Approved. Warbirds. have gone on to fly for the members and visitors alike. Types: Types: and various Pop in and see us; you’re 6 x Cessna 152 1 x Cessna 172 (EFIS) airlines worldwide. guaranteed a warm reception. 3 x Cessna 172 1 x North American T-6 Texan Types: Types: 1 x Citabria 1 x Robin Alpha A120 T 2 x Cessna 152 2 x Cessna 152 1 x Piper PA-28 Arrow 4 x Robin HR200 1 x Cessna 172R 1 x Cessna 172 1 x Piper PA-28 Warrior 1 x Slingsby T-67M-260 Firefly

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 26 FEATURE Flight Directory

from , , and training purposes. Based Bristol, Bath, Swindon and at Elstree aerodrome, we are STAPLEFORD FLIGHT CENTRE Worcester, Cotswold Aero superbly placed to serve the Stapleford Airfield, Club is one of the oldest EURO FLIGHT TRAINING LTD north and west London area. Romford, RM4 1SJ flying clubs in the UK. It has Fareham Innovation Centre, We now offer Flight Instructor T: 01708 688380 a professional yet relaxed Merlin House, 4 Meteor Way, Courses. E: [email protected] attitude for flying and learning Lee-on-Solent , PO13 9FU Types: W: flysfc.com to fly and offers training T: 07836 650357 1 x Cirrus SR20 Stapleford Flight Centre has for NPPL, LAPL, PPL and E: info@euroflight 3 x Piper PA-28 been training private and associated ratings. training.com 1 x Piper PA-28 Glass Cockpit commercial airline pilots for Types: W: euroflighttraining.com over 45 years. Many of our 1 x Piper PA-28R 200 We operate modern glass students have gone on to 2 x Robin DR400 cockpit aircraft and multi- enjoy a lifetime of ‘fun-in-the- 1 x Robin R2112 and single-engine FNPT2 sky’ and others have become simulators at Lee-on-the- ALOUETTE FLYING CLUB LTD flight instructors. Solent. We offer LAPL, PPL, Building C700, Churchill Way, Types: CPL, single- and multi-engine Biggin Hill Airport,TN16 3BN 15 x Cessna 152 LYNEHAM FLYING CLUB IR, MEP and SEP. Approved by E: [email protected] 1 x Cessna 172 The Control Tower, Cotswold UK and EASA. W: alouette.org.uk 2 x Diamond DA40D (Kemble) Airport, GL7 6BA Types: Alouette is first and foremost 1 x Diamond DA40D (Sim) E: enquiries@lyneham 1 x Cirrus SR20 a club run by the members, 3 x Diamond DA42 aviation.co.uk 1 x Diamond DA40 & Sim for the members. We have no 1 x Diamond DA42 (Sim) W: lynehamaviation.co.uk 1 x Diamond DA42 & Sim employees, but instead have a 8 x Piper PA-28 Offers PPL, NPPL, complex, 1 x Fuji FA200 dedicated committee, elected 3 x Piper PA-28R night, IR(R), ground by the members, who are examinations, aerobatics and responsible for the general formation flying. Restricted running of the club. This to military/government THE SPITFIRE FLYING CLUB reduces our overheads and THE TIGER CLUB (1990) LTD employees. Provides training Popham Airfield, Micheldever, allows us to keep the cost of Damyns Hall, Aveley Road, to regular and reserve service Winchester, SO21 3BD flying down, an all-important Upminster, RM14 2TN personnel (and dependants) T: 01256 397733 consideration in these days of T: 01708 524633 and MoD civilians. E: pophamairfield@ rising prices. Our flying rates E: [email protected] Types: btconnect.com are still among the cheapest W: tigerclub.co.uk 2 x Piper PA-28 Warrior II W: popham-airfield.co.uk in the southeast of England! Founded in 1957 with the aim 1 x Piper PA-28 Arrow Tie downs and overnight Types: of encouraging all aspects 1 x Scottish Aviation Bulldog camping available, low landing 2 x Cessna 172 of sport flying, it offers fees, fuel available 24/7. opportunities to fly vintage aircraft and learn aerobatics HERTFORDSHIRE and formation flying. STAVERTON FLYING SCHOOL T G AVIATION LTD Types: Hangar SE50, Gloucestershire Airport, Romney Marsh, 2 x de Havilland Tiger Moth (Staverton) Airport, FLYERS FLYING SCHOOL TN29 9QL 1 x Mudry CAP 10C Cheltenham, GL51 6SP Elstree Aerodrome, Hoggs T: 01843 823656 2 x Piper PA-18-90 Super Cub T: 01452 712388 Lane, Elstree, WD6 3AL E: [email protected] 4 x Rollason D31 Turbulent E: info@stavertonflying T: 0207 267 9049/07810 W: tg-aviation.com school.co.uk 597273 Family-run, friendly flying GLOUCESTERSHIRE W: stavertonflyingschool.co.uk E: info@flyersflying school now based at Lydd Training aspiring pilots to fly at school.co.uk Airport following the closure Staverton. If you’re interested W: flyersflyingschool.co.uk of Manston. We offer trial COTSWOLD AERO CLUB in learning to fly, extending We welcome anyone who flights, introductory courses, Aviation House SE2, your existing qualifications or would like to learn to fly and ‘get me down’ courses and , you just want to get back into gain a PPL Licence. In addition the PPL in our fleet of well- Cheltenham, GL51 6SP flying after a break then you’ve we support owners with our maintained aircraft. Packages T: 01452 713924 come to the right place. aircraft management package, and vouchers available. E: info@cotswoldaero Types: and hirers who just want to Types: club.com 3 x Cessna 152 enjoy the fruits of all their 1 x Boeing Stearman W: cotswoldaeroclub.com 4 x Cessna 172 labours having gained licences 2 x Cessna 152 Based in the heart of the and ratings. The school has 2 x PA-28-161 Cotswolds with easy access aircraft available for hiring 2 x PA-28R-201

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 27

LANCASHIRE instructors and staff are on hand to help you achieve THE POM FLYING CLUB LTD your dreams. We offer PPL BAE SYSTEMS FLYING CLUB LEICESTERSHIRE AERO CLUB The Terminal, Humberside and IMC training, aircraft hire, 14 St David's Rd North, Airport, Airport, Ulceby, DN39 6YH aerobatic training and more. St Annes, FY8 2BS Leicester, LE2 2FG T: 07985 753336 Types: T: 07885 421869 T: 0116 259 2360 07711 438999 1 x Cessna 172 (use of) E: secretary@baeflying E: [email protected] E: [email protected] 6 x Cessna 152 club.co.uk W: leicesterairport.com W: gbpom.co.uk W: baeflyingclub.co.uk Leicestershire Aero Club T: 07985 753336 Open to BAE employees only. offers training for a PPL We train for PPL/LAPL/IMC Types: as well as a range of flying and night ratings. 1 x Cessna 152 experiences and a whole Types: RAF BENSON FLYING CLUB LTD 1 x Cessna 172 lot more. The club operates 2 x PA-28-161 Warrior II RAF Benson, Wallingford, at and , OX10 6AA has been at the centre of E: [email protected] the Leicestershire flying W: rafbfc.co.uk SOUTHPORT & MERSEYSIDE community for more than a WICKENBY AERODROME LLP Exists to provide flying AERO CLUB century (since 1909). The Old Control Tower, training and low-cost flying to Room 2, M8 Shipwright House, Types: Wickenby Airfield, members of the armed forces. Queens Dock Commercial 2 x Cessna 152 Lincoln, LN3 5AX This includes the RAuxAF Centre, 67 Street, 1 x Cessna 152 Aerobat T: 01673 885000 and the Reserves, Volunteer Liverpool, L1 0BG 1 x Cessna 172 E: [email protected] Reserves, Cadets and former T: 07944 705852 1 x Piper PA-28-161 W: wickenbyairfield.com members of all three services. E: [email protected] 1 x Super Decathlon Clubhouse facilities. Jet A1 Members of overseas forces W: smac.org.uk Bowser. 24-hour self-service serving with the British in the The club is based at Liverpool fuel pump Avgas. Hangarage UK are also welcome. Courses Airport and has flying available. Flying school. offered include PPL, NPPL instructors who conduct PPL and IMC and we are ELCAS refresher training and training FENLAND FLYING SCHOOL NORFOLK registered for Enhanced for the IR(R) and night ratings. Fenland Airfield, Holbeach St Learning Credits. Types: Johns, Spalding, PE12 8RQ Types: 1 x Cessna 172 E: info@fenland-flying- OLD BUCKENHAM AERO CLUB 2 x Piper PA-28 school.co.uk Old Buckenham Airfield, Old 3 x Slingsby T67 Firefly W: fenland-flying- Buckenham, NR17 1PU school.co.uk E: [email protected] WESTAIR FLYING SCHOOL LTD T: 01406 540461 W: oldbuckaeroclub.co.uk ,FY4 2QS Fenland Flying School – based T: 01953 860806 TAKE FLIGHT AVIATION LTD T: 01253 342660 at Fenland Airfield – offers A different type of flying Enstone Airfield, OX7 4NS E: [email protected] friendly, relaxed and efficient school. Our instructors have a T: 01608 695896 W: westair.uk.com instruction, free of controlled wealth of experience and are E: admin@takeflight We have been operating in airspace and with outstanding ready to help you gain your aviation.co.uk Blackpool for over 70 years. pass rates. licence or extend your skills. W: takeflightaviation.co.uk Courses offered include Types: Types: Aircraft hire without limits. An CPL, PPL, LAPL, NPPL, FI (R), 1 x Cessna 172 1 x Cessna 172 exclusive private aviator's club IR(R), night and multi- and 1 x Robin DR360 1 x Extra 200 and training venue offering we also offer renewals at an 1 x Siai Marchetti 205R 1 x Piper PA-28 one-to-one instruction.Quality affordable price with quality aircraft hire to members instruction. We also provide NOTTINGHAMSHIRE without usual restrictions. maintenance at Blackpool PPL, LAPL, IMC, night, Safety and Barton. NORTH COATES FLYING CLUB Pilot and AOPA aerobatics. Types: Hangar 4, North Coates SHEFFIELD AERO CLUB Types: Boeing 737 (Sim) Airfield, Kenneth Campbell Netherthorpe Aerodrome, Cessna 152 Cessna 150H Road, Grimsby, DN36 5XU Worksop, S80 3JQ Cessna 172S Cessna 152 T: 01472 388850 or 01652 T: 01909 475233 Piper PA-28-160 Cessna 172S 618808 (out of hours) E: [email protected] Piper PA-28-180 Cessna F172P E: [email protected] W: flydays.co.uk/airfields/ Piper PA-46 Malibu Matrix Diamond DA40 & DA42 W: northcoatesflyingclub.co.uk sheffield-aero-club/ Piper PA-28 Warrior II The friendly, experienced

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 28 FEATURE Flight Directory

SOMERSET offering many services on-site instructors to attend to a including pilot training, aircraft student's particular needs. TAKE FLIGHT AVIATION LTD hire and maintenance as well Types: London , AIRBORNE SERVICES LTD as design/installation. 4 x Diamond DA20 , OX5 1RA Henstridge Airfield, The Marsh, Types: 1 x Diamond DA40 T: 01865 236424 Templecombe, BA8 0TN 1 x Bellanca Decathlon 1 x Piper PA-18 Super Cub E: admin@takefligh T: 01963 365728 4 x Cessna 152 1 x Piper PA-28 Warrior II taviation.co.uk E: [email protected] 1 x Cessna 152 Aerobat 1 x Slingsby T67M Firefly W: takeflightaviation.co.uk W: yakovlevs.com 1 x Cessna 172 Aircraft hire without limits. An Incorporating the Yakovlevs 1 x Piper PA-28 Archer exclusive private aviator's club six-ship formation team. In 1 x Piper PA-28 Warrior and training venue offering addition to the display team, REDHILL AVIATION one-to-one instruction. Quality we offer PPL, aerobatics and SURREY FLIGHT CENTRE aircraft hire to members formation training and supply Redhill Aerodrome, RH1 5JY without usual restrictions. PPL, aircraft parts, avionics, and GA T: 01737 822959 LAPL, IMC, night, Safety Pilot consultancy services. BLACKBUSHE AVIATION LTD E: [email protected] and AOPA aerobatics. Types: Blackbushe Airport, W: redhillaviation.co.uk Types: 5 x Yakovlev Yak-50 , GU17 9LB Redhill is one of the UK's 1 x Beech B76 Duchess 3 x Yakovlev Yak-52 T: 01273 877727 oldest purpose-built, licensed 3 x Cessna 152 E: info@blackbushe aerodromes. It has grass and 1 x Cessna 152 Tailwheel aviation.com tarmac runways, full ATC and 1 x Cessna 172S W: blackbusheaviation.com is open 0900–1700 during 1 x Piper PA-28 140 YEOVILTON FLYING CLUB A thriving flying school and winter and 0900–1900 during 1 x Piper PA-28 160 Kyte Green, Ditcheat, club with an exciting growth the summer (extensions 2 x Piper PA-32 Saratoga 6X Shepton Mallet, BA4 6RA plan. We have ATO status for available). 1 x Piper PA-46 Malibu Matrix* Tel : 01749 860461 PPL, CPL and FI courses and Types: 4 x Slingsby T67 Firefly E: [email protected] are approved to conduct IR 1 x Beech 76 Duchess *fractional ownership required W: flyyfc.com and multi-engine training. 5 x Cessna 152 Yeovilton Flying Club is a group Types: 1 x Cessna 152 Aerobat SHROPSHIRE comprising serving members 2 x Cessna 152 1 x Piper PA-28-181 Archer of HM forces and ex-service 1 x Cessna 152 Aerobat 1 x Piper PA-28R-200 Arrow personnel and other entitled 1 x CZAW PS28 Cruiser 1 x Piper PA-34-220T Seneca SHROPSHIRE AERO CLUB members either working at 1 x Piper PA-28 Archer Sleap Aerodrome, Harmer Hill, or closely involved with RNAS 1 x Piper PA-28 Warrior SUSSEX , SY4 3HE Yeovilton. It is an accredited 1 x Piper PA-34 Senaca 200 T: 01939 232882 training provider and provides 1 x Socata TB20 E: info@shropshireaero economical recreational flying. FLIGHT PERFORMANCE club.co.uk Types: TRAINING LTD W: shropshireaeroclub.co.uk 1 x Robin DR 400 Hangar 7, Brighton City With two large runways, 1 x Socata TB10 CUBAIR FLIGHT TRAINING LTD Airport, Shoreham, BN43 5FF open airspace, a friendly and 1 x Slingsby T67 Firefly The Old Squash Court, T: 01273 569111 relaxed bustling atmosphere, Redhill Aerodrome, RH1 5JY E: [email protected] Sleap Airfield is a superb STAFFORDSHIRE T: 01737 822124 W: fptuk.com destination for pilots and E: [email protected] The leading cause of fatalities students alike. There’s a W: cubair.co.uk in commercial aviation is bistro, museum and the UK's TATENHILL AVIATION LIMITED Cubair Flight Training is a Loss of Control In Flight. We cheapest Avgas, always. Club Tatenhill Airfield, long-established, not-for-profit specialise in Upset Prevention aircraft all have touchscreen Newborough Rd, Needwood, organisation with the aim of and Recovery Training (UPRT) Garmins, tidy interiors and Burton-on-Trent, DE13 9PD promoting leisure aviation. and take a holistic approach some of the best hourly prices. T: 01283 575283 We are a friendly flying school that incorporates theoretical Types: E: [email protected] specialising in flying training training. We also offer SEP 1 x Aviat Husky W: tatenhill.com for the PPL and associated renewals, aerobatic ratings, 4 x Cessna 152 Founded in 1987 with the ratings, including tailwheel PPL training and FI courses. 1 x Cessna 172 SP intention of serving aircraft training. As we are not driven Types: 2 x Piper PA-28 Archer owners/operators with an by the need for profit we are 1 x Piper PA-28 1 x Tecnam 2002 JF approved maintenance facility able to offer an individual 1 x Slingsby T67M Firefly at a competitive cost, we service to our students have built up a reputation with time to complete for quality and excellence, proper briefings and for our

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30 FEATURE Flight Directory

WARWICKSHIRE development and training will be of invaluable assistance in GOODWOOD FLYING SCHOOL helping you reach your goal. Goodwood Aerodrome, COVENTRY FLYING SCHOOL LTD We offer training at all levels BUSTARD FLYING CLUB Chichester, PO18 0PH Rowley Road, Baginton, from PPL to IR(R), night and MoD Boscombe Down, T: 01243 755066 Coventry, CV3 4FR radio licences, all on either Amesbury, SP4 0JF E: flyingschool@ T: 02476 301428 a full- or part-time basis. T: 07982 075922 goodwood.com E: [email protected] The school's location is ideal E: [email protected] W: goodwood.co.uk/flying/ W: covaero.com for flight training, and time W: bustardflyingclub.co.uk Based on the famous We offer a range of licence and money are saved by not The Bustard Flying Club exists Goodwood estate, close and rating types from the having to wait at the runway to stimulate air-mindedness to the motor racing circuit EASA PPL to the LAPL and because of commercial traffic. and to encourage a practical and horse racing course, the AOPA Flying Companions Types: interest in, and knowledge of, Goodwood Flying School has Course. Once you've got your 4 x Cessna 152 flying among the staff at MoD been operating for 40 years licence, you can add to it with 1 x Cessna 172 Boscombe Down and other and operates from one of the night or IMC/IR(R) ratings, 1 x Cessna 177RG Cardinal eligible personnel linked to UK's nicest grass aerodromes. which allow you to fly in some 1 x Frasca 101G Flight Sim the MoD and QinetiQ. The We offer high-class training in of our more-challenging 1 x Piper PA-28 Warrior club provides PPL training and a number of courses. British weather. 1 x Piper PA-28R Arrow has aircraft available for hire Types: Types: by members. 4 x Cessna 172SP (G1000) 2 x Piper PA-28 161 Warrior III WEST YORKSHIRE Types: 1 x Piper PA-18 Super Cub 1 x Robin DR400-140 1 x North American T-6 Texan 1 x Slingsby T-67M Firefly SHERBURN AERO CLUB LTD GRIDLINE ENGINEERING ON-TRACK AVIATION LTD Lennerton Lane, Sherburn-in- WORCESTERSHIRE 23 Cove Road, Rustington, Unit 2 , Lowes Lane Elmet, LS25 6JE Littlehampton, BN16 2QW Business Park, Walton Rd, T: 01977 682674 T: 07801 068013 Wellesbourne, CV35 9RB E: flightdesk@ AIR MIDWEST E: [email protected] T: 01789 842777 sherburnaeroclub.com Unit 3 West, Wolverhampton W: gridline.co.uk E: [email protected] W: sherburnaeroclub.com Business Airport, Bobbington, PPL and microlight DTO W: ontrackaviation.com As well as being a flying club, Stourbridge, DY7 5DY operating out of Goodwood We specialise in part- and full- Sherburn Aero Club has a T: 01384 221777 and Lee-on-Solent using time Instructor and Examiner long history of flight training. E: operations@airmid Cessna, Ikarus, Piper and courses on both land and Whether you are completely west.co.uk Robin types. seaplanes. In addition, we new to flying and want to W: airmidwest.co.uk can offer FAA conversions/ have a trial flying lesson or Based at Halfpenny Green/ renewals/BFRs. want to do your Private Pilot's Wolverhampton Business Types: Licence (PPL) or Commercial Airport, students receive the ULTIMATE HIGH ACADEMY 4 x Cessna 152 Pilot's Licence (CPL), or want highest standard of training Goodwood Aerodrome, 1 x Cessna 172 to renew some of your flight delivered in a relaxed, Chichester, PO18 0PH 1 x Cessna 172 Amphibian training skills or qualifications, friendly manner by our flight T: 01243 913916 1 x Diamond DA42 then Sherburn is the place instructors who will adjust E: [email protected] 1 x Piper Cub to come. Here at Sherburn their training styles to your W: ultimatehigh.co.uk 5 x Piper PA-28 Aero Club we are passionate own particular needs in a The Ultimate High Academy 1 x Robin 2160 about flight training and want professional and effective offers all AOPA aerobatic each and every person who manner. Already have a courses. Its extensive range chooses to train with us to licence? Why not increase of instructors are highly have the very best experience your skills and knowledge experienced ex-military SOUTH WARKS FLYING SCHOOL possible and to achieve base with some advanced pilots with hundreds of Loxley Lane, Wellesbourne their flight training goals. training, from the night rating, hours of flying in aerobatics Mountford, CV35 9EU Sherburn Aero Club also has to the Instrument Rating (R) experience. T: 01789 840094 a thriving social scene with to operating complex aircraft. Types: E: ops@south regular meetings in the well- These will enable you to rent 1 x Extra 300L warwickshireflyingschool.com appointed clubhouse. different aircraft and fly further 3 x Slingsby T67 Firefly W: southwarwickshire Types: afield in comfort. flyingschool.com 3 x Aero AT-3 Types: Whether your interest is 3 x Piper PA-28 Cadet 1 x Cessna 152 in being a private or an 3 x Piper PA-28 Warrior 1 x Grob 115 airline pilot, our personal 1 x Robin 2160 1 x Slingsby T67 Firefly

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 31

WALES GLAMORGAN OVERSEAS Through IAOPA, we have ANGLESEY direct representation at ICAO, AVIATION CLUB where aviation standards CAMBRIAN AERO TRAINING 31 Sung Wong Toi Road and recommended practices MONA FLYING CLUB Navigation Park, Abercynon, Kowloon, Hong Kong originate. In Britain, AOPA RAF Mona, Gwalchmai, CF45 4SN T: (852) 2713 5171 UK directly represents GA at Holyhead, LL65 4RS E: [email protected] E: [email protected] government and regulatory E: [email protected] W: cambrian-aero.co.uk W: aviationclub.hk levels. No other UK GA W: flymona.com T: 01443 801526 Types: organisation has the direct T: 01407 720581 Offering training Cessna 152 reach that AOPA UK does. Croeso i Clwb Hedfan/ opportunities from Cessna 172M, R, S By far the majority of our Welcome to Mona Flying Club! microlights, self launching Cessna 182P operating costs are met Mona Flying Club is located motor gliders and single- Robinson R22 by membership fees from halfway between Bangor engine aircraft to tailwheel, Robinson R44 individual members and and Holyhead on the Isle of instrument and seaplane businesses who see the Anglesey under the shadow ratings as well as helicopter benefit of our work. of the beautiful Snowdonia ground school. We offer AOPA UK There is no obligation or mountains. If you’re interested aviation theory courses and IS YOUR CLUB AN AOPA compulsion to join AOPA in learning to fly, this is one of CAA exams and specialise in CORPORATE MEMBER YET? UK, unlike some other the ideal places to do it. foreign licence conversion, AOPA is the world’s largest aviation organisations and We have always taken pride IR(R) training as well as and most influential GA associations, yet all of the GA in our relaxed, friendly converting from microlights membership association, community benefits from the atmosphere, and the high and gliders to NPPL, LAPL(A) with organisations in 72 successes resulting from our quality of our teaching. and EASA PPL(A). We also countries. Whilst each engaging with and influencing From trial lessons (vouchers train in and Portugal. national AOPA is an regulators, politicians, available) to UK or EASA PPL, Types: independent organisation, government departments night rating or IR, please get Evektor EV97 EuroStar they all belong to the and local authorities. To find in touch. Diolch. Ikarus C42 International Council of out more visit aopa.co.uk/ Types: Grob 109 Aircraft Owner and Pilot membership/corporate- 1 x Cessna 152 Piper PA-28 Organisations (IAOPA). membership

OTHER ORGANISATIONS AEROBILITY ADAMS AVIATION SUPPLY LTD statutory or community role. flying and aeroplanes, many of Terminal, Blackbushe Airport, Mercury House, Vulcan Way, We work with the police, us are pilots or experienced Camberley, GU17 9LQ Croydon, CR0 9UG fire service, ambulance aviation professionals. It is T: 0303 303 1230 T: 01689 842999 service, HM coastguard, local our understanding of the E: [email protected] E: [email protected] council authorities, national products we sell and the W: aerobility.com W: adamsaviation.com government departments and aviation world itself that sets Aerobility provides anyone Stocks and distributes widest other organisations such as us apart from the crowd and with any disability, whatever range of aircraft parts in resilience forums, Highways makes our customers want the impairment, with the Europe. Multilingual team of England, the Environment to come back to us time opportunity to learn to fly and aviation equipment experts Agency, the RNLI, Network Rail after time when they need participate in aviation-based and voluntary groups. the highest quality aviation activities. Flight training is AIR SEARCH products and services at a available at Blackbushe and Jasmine House, Jasmine AIRPLAN FLIGHT EQUIPMENT competitive price. Tatenhill Airfield, with support Grove, Anerley, SE20 8JY Unit 1A, Ringway Trading and advice available to all T: 0208 778 7531 Estate, Manchester, M22 5LH B17 PRESERVATION LTD aspiring disabled aviators W: airsearch.uk T: 0161 499 0023 PO Box 92, Bury St Edmunds, around the UK. A voluntary organisation made E: [email protected] Suffolk, IP28 8RR Types: up of pilots, observers and W: afeonline.com T: 01638 721304 Piper PA-28* ground crew who donate their "Europe's favourite online E: b-17preservation@ Piper PA-32 Cherokee Six time and aircraft free of charge. pilot shop." At AFE we never W:sallyb.org.uk Tecnam P2002-JF* Our primary function is to forget that we are only as Operator of Sally B – the *these aircraft have been provide 'eyes in the sky' free of good as the service we offer last airworthy Second World modified with hand controls charge to help the emergency to you, our customer. The War-era Boeing B-17G Flying but can also be flown by able- services and local authorities people at AFE are aviation Fortress bomber remaining bodied pilots. fullfill their humanitarian, junkies who know and love active in Europe.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 32 FEATURE Flight Directory

BLACKBUSHE AIRPORT E-PLANE Pooleys has been providing W: sywellaerodrome.co.uk Terminal Building, Camberley, 1 Sandson Grove, Tunbridge flying and navigation Owns and operates a historic Surrey, GU17 9LQ Wells, Kent, TN2 4RW equipment to the global airfied regarded as one of T: 01252 471300 T: 07802 902535 aviation industry for seven the best GA fields in the UK. W: blackbusheairport.co.uk E: [email protected] decades. Pilots in all Sywell provides facilities for Located on the borders of W: sandtoft-airfield.com flying disciplines benefit flight training, corporate Hampshire, Berkshire and Hangarage (Sandtoft), Avgas, from Pooleys’ expertise charter, maintenance and Surrey, Blackbushe is perfectly maintenance (Sandtoft and in supplying an extensive leisure flights. There is a hotel located for quick access to Fenland) including TBM, LAA, range of flight equipment with bar, restaurant and London as well as Thames avionics, complex repairs. to meet any specification, conference facilities. Valley and the south of including bespoke equipment Types: England. We have schools for FLYING FARMERS requirements. Pooleys now Aero AT-3 fixed-wing and helicopters on- ASSOCIATION provides a range of over 2,700 Cessna 172 site and if you are an aircraft Brooker Farm, New Church, products including aviation‘s Piper Chieftan owner or flying group, our Romney Marsh, TN29 0DT most recognisable brands. We landing fees are competitive E: [email protected] now supply training products TRUSTFLIGHT JERSEY LTD and the facilities are superb. W: ffa.org.uk to over 95% of UK flying 1st Floor, Forum 4, Grenville An association of over 400 schools. St, St Helier, Jersey, JE2 4UF BRITISH MEDICAL farmers who fly, along with T: 0330 229 0219 PILOTS ASSOCIATION people working in agricultural- ROYAL INSTITUTE OF E: [email protected] The Control Tower, businesses. Most members NAVIGATION W: trustflight.io City Airport Manchester, own or operate airstrips. 1 Kensington Gore, Maintenance is largely carried Manchester, M30 7SA London, SW7 2AT out using disconnected paper- T: 0208 7677 8081 HISTORIC AIRCRAFT T: 0207 591 3130 focussed processes which E: [email protected] ASSOCIATION W: rin.org.uk haven't changed in years. We W: bmpa.org.uk The White House, 23 Mill are building the tools and An organisation for doctors Road, Huntingdon, PE29 1YJ SKYANGELS AIR AMBULANCE services to unlock a new level and affiliated professionals T: 07792 659553 The Comet Building, Airport of efficiency and safety. From who are pilots or aviation E: [email protected] Way, , B92 0EA our inception, TrustFlight medical examiners. It aims W: haa-uk.aero T: 0844 318 0999 has been ingrained in the to promote safe practice Founded with the aim of E: airbase@ aviation industry. Originally in aviation and medicine furthering the safe flying of skyangelsairambulance.org.uk founded by two commercial by sharing knowledge in historic aircraft in the UK and W: skyangelsair pilots, we have now grown to these areas in a friendly and supporting the restoration/ ambulance.org.uk become a global organisation supportive environment. preservation of such aircraft. International non-profit air supporting a wide variety of ambulance foundation. airlines, airports, maintenance CAVOK LIMITED HISTORIC ENGLAND providers and regulators. 3 Latymer Close, Weybridge, The Engine House, Fire Fly Ave, SOUTHERN AIRCRAFT Core to TrustFlight is its Surrey, KT13 9ER Swindon, SN2 2EH CONSULTANCY extremely passionate team T: 01932 821905 T: 01793 414703 Office 3, Earsham Hall, of technical aviation and E: [email protected] E: damian.grady@english- Earsham, Bungay, Suffolk, software leaders, who enable W: qudiem.com heritage.org.uk NR35 2AN us to create the best-in-class CavOK's CloudBaseGA on- W: historicengland.org.uk T: 01986 892912 tools and services. line application supports Undertakes aerial E: [email protected] all operations including photography of archaeological W: southernaircraft.co.uk WINGLY Aircraft/Instructor scheduling, sites and historic buildings. Register your aircraft on 97 Rue Oberkampf, automatic flight log recording the FAA ‘N’ Register with 75011, and engineering logs, tech log MONTCLARE SHIPPING CO LTD complete confidence. We T: 07784 525646 and comprehensive invoicing. Elstree Aerodrome, have been operating a E: [email protected] Borehamwood, WD6 3AR friendly, competitively priced W: wingly.io CRANFIELD AVIATION T: 0208 9537480/9533502 professional service for more Wingly is the trusted aviation TRAINING SCHOOL (CATS) Aerodrome operator. than 20 years. community that connects 110 Butterfield, private pilots with passengers Luton, LU2 8DL POOLEYS FLIGHT EQUIPMENT LTD to share the magic of a flight. T: 01582 434222 Elstree Aerodrome, Hall Farm, Sywell Aerodrome, Thanks to flight sharing, both E: [email protected] Borehamwood, WD6 3AW Northants, NN6 0BN pilots and passengers can W: catsaviation.com T: 0208 207 3749 T: 01604 801620 share the costs and enjoy the Provider of aviation training E: [email protected] E: info@sywell perks of taking part in private and training materials. W: pooleys.com aerodrome.co.uk aviation activities.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 33

SOME SALIENT ADVICE FROM THE AOPA TEC The UK Airprox Board and the AOPA Training and Education Committee have issued some useful reminders for pilots to consider when returning to flight after the coronavirus restrictions are lifted

WE ALL hope that the spring weather the relevant unit to advise them of your SO MANY QUESTIONS ... allows us to return to the skies as location and intentions and to learn At risk of bombarding you with soon as the restrictions are lifted, what traffic is in the area. questions: Are your spare glasses with but it is worth remembering that it’s your headset? How about sanitiser not just fixed-wing and helicopter SOFT OR HARD? and face mask? Try using your headset pilots itching to get back into the air. With spring in the air the grass is with a mask. Is your chart/electronic Hang-glider, paraglider and glider growing quickly and looking lush. equipment up-to-date? Has the pilots will also be eager to ‘slip the However, there has been a lot of rain equipment in the club aircraft changed? surly bonds of earth’ and embrace any recently and the soil might not be as Do you know how to use it? favourable conditions. We all know to firm as it should be. Furthermore, the Airspace changes have occurred in avoid the gliding and parachuting sites lockdown restrictions have drastically the last year – are you familiar with that are marked on our charts but UKAB reduced the number of movements them? Have you checked (with the flying – on which AOPA has representation for at most airfields, so areas that would club if appropriate) that the aircraft’s the GA community – and AOPA TEC are normally be rutted by repeated use maintenance is still up to date and also urging pilots to avoid flying close may not seem so bad at the moment. valid? When did the aircraft last fly? How to hills, whenever possible. Hills and Just because they don’t ‘look’ boggy old is the fuel? Check the fuel drains cliffs are premium soaring locations for does not necessarily mean they are don’t contain 100% water. Do you hang-gliders and paragliders and will safe to use though. You may be one remember the smell? How about the also be a target for cross-country glider of the first to taxi across that area in a colour? Is it appropriate to your aircraft? pilots looking for lift. long time and it could be your aircraft (Remember many refuellers have been that gets bogged in. Conversely, some on furlough too and mistakes can be 'T' IN A CIRCLE? grass strips benefit from regular traffic made … AVTUR may have been put in When was the last time you studied the flattening out undulations and keeping when it should have been AVGAS or vice legend on your aeronautical map? Sure, the ground compressed. AOPA TEC is versa). Have a good look at the aircraft. we all get a new chart when it’s updated therefore suggesting you consider using You might see the possible bird’s nest and use it to plan our trips, but have GASIL safety factors for wet or long but what about mice? is there any you noticed any changes lately? What grass when calculating your aircraft’s evidence of them? about that circular symbol with the take-off performance. It would be wise letter ‘T’ in the middle? to have a mental ‘marker’ in the back KEEPING YOUR EYES OUT With the relatively recent rule change of your mind about when you would When pilots have not flown for a to allow training to take place at abort the take-off if the aeroplane while there is a tendency to keep your unlicensed airfields this new symbol isn’t accelerating as quickly as you eyes in the cockpit, so it is imperative is replacing some ATZ markings and remember it doing previously! that you maintain a good look-out. informs pilots that there is likely to be If you need to abort, do so in plenty of This is especially relevant in the early a lot of training aircraft in the vicinity time to account for any slipping in the post-lockdown days when it is likely of the field. It would make sense to call wet conditions. that the skies will be very busy with

Steve Bridgewater others taking the opportunity to fly after the hiatus. It is also worth considering that not all airfields will be opening immediately after the resrictions are lifted. Others have stated publicly that they will not be accepting visiting aircraft for the first couple of weeks, presumably to free up circuit slots for use by their based pilots to refresh their skills. With this in mind it is essential pilots thoroughly read NOTAMs and call ahead to confirm the status and operating hours of any Is that grass as firm as it seems? With such little use this winter it might be airfields you plan to visit. Fly safe. softer than you think. With thanks to George Capon

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot

COVER STORY California Dreaming 35 California Dreaming With the UK lockdown still lingering and ‘flying for fun’ still off the table (at least for a little while longer), Charlotte Bailey revisits a 2018 trip to Sonoma, California, WORDS Charlotte Bailey and takes to the sky in a Piper Clipper IMAGES Steve Bridgewater

OOKING FOR riding the surf on the a relaxing Californian coast or soaking L vacation filled up sunshine on the beach. ROAD TRIP with sun, sea or However, if chasing clouds Our journey began by road: sky? With its reputation appeals more than catching a journey of some 600 miles for glorious weather, waves, don’t be disappointed. which started on the infamous happy-go-lucky attitudes In late 2018, AOPA’s editor Las Vegas Strip, easing out and a relaxed outlook, and I took a trip to sample into busy traffic, the west California – the ‘Golden the sprawling vineyards of the coast set firmly in our sights. State’ – can certainly offer Sonoma Valley – best viewed In all honesty, it had been a all of the above, whether it’s from a few thousand feet up. whirlwind week.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 36 COVER STORY California Dreaming

Attending the International we visited, the weather couldn’t whose expertise in air-to-air Council of Air Shows (ICAS) have been clearer. "The Clipper pictures is justifiably sought- conference in Las Vegas, was beautifully after. His 'cameraship' of choice I’d been overwhelmed by WINE COUNTRY is his Piper Clipper, beautifully a multitude of neon lights Sonoma County’s main ‘claim painted in sky painted in sky-blue and cream, and late nights – somehow to fame’ is arguably its wine- modified with a clear canopy managing to maintain producing prowess. The most blue and cream in place of the cockpit roof so productivity despite the diverse wine-growing region and modified as to afford better visibility. distractions of a black-tie ball in the USA, and three times Tucked in his treasure trove (well, somebody had to do it); the size of neighbouring with a clear of a hangar, I also spotted not to mention the charming Napa County, Sonoma a set of skis and floats – conversation of the US Navy encompasses thirteen distinct canopy in place interchangeable footwear for , who much ‘areas’ (formally known as of the usual the travelling photographer’s amused me with their address ‘appellations’). Expanses of aircraft. Eric even has a set of “ma’am”. rolling hills – from the Sonoma cockpit roof " of multi-wheel landing gear Blinking in the daylight mountains to the Pacific shore designed by Art Whitaker. outside the casino’s eternal – boast almost 60,000 acres of Before the oversized, low- evening, and with a few days lush vineyards, tended by more was the permanent home of 61 pressure ‘tundra’ tyres came to spare before we were due than 425 wineries. light aircraft – almost exclusively along this was thought to be an back in Blighty, I decided to do Yet tempting though it was single-engined – and one answer for landing on rough, what any aviation enthusiast to sit and savour a bottle helicopter. unimproved terrain. would do: swap exhibition hall of Sonoma’s best-selling Sonoma Skypark is privately Amongst the extensive for hangar and indulge my Chardonnay beneath a brilliant owned by 50 members of the family of aircraft that Piper interest outside the confines blue sky, our immediate local community, a group whose has manufactured since of an indoor symposium. attention was elsewhere: the passion and pride is readily 1930, one production model (After all, I even had the right local airfield. conveyed through a number of in particular stands out as a outfit with me – one day of engaging and inspiring projects rarity. The Piper PA-16 Clipper the conference had stipulated SONOMA SKYPARK they participate in. Chartered is an unusual little aeroplane; a dress code of ‘Wear Your Although not as varied in 1992, members of Chapter following on from the success Flying Suit’, which was certainly as the region’s wine list, 1268 of the Experimental of the PA-15 Vagabond, it is a a surreal attire to wear whilst Sonoma nevertheless offers Aircraft Association (EAA) hold high-wing, fabric-covered, fixed- strolling through a casino.) a few options to get airborne. monthly meetings; over 60 gear taildragger with a control The plan involved an Sonoma County Airport is the participants also volunteer column instead of a yoke. impromptu rented Dodge largest, with 329 aircraft – their time and skills to youth Only 736 Clippers were ever Charger and a brief stop in including commercial carriers engagement projects such as built, and all of those in a single Oakland before calling in to such as United and American the Air Explorers and Young year: 1949. Legend has it that see some friends at Sonoma – based there. For the private Eagles. You can be sure of PanAm – whose seaplanes were Skypark, a small airfield in the pilot, Sonoma Valley Airport a warm welcome and an also designated the ‘Clipper’ heart of southeastern Sonoma is a privately-funded public- interesting conversation! – took umbrage at the name County, in the northern region use aerodrome boasting 121 and threatened to sue. As such, of the San Francisco Bay Area. light aircraft. However, on PRESTEN’S PIPER Piper’s updated version became Situated around 30 miles north the opposite side of the road Our host for the day was Eric the PA-20 Pacer instead. of San Francisco itself, Sonoma sits Sonoma Skypark, which Presten of Presten’s Aero Perhaps such relative rarity enjoys a Mediterranean opened in 1946 and was our Photography, who took us accounts for only two examples climate with hot summers and destination for the day. At the ‘under his wing’. Eric is a pilot, of the Clipper currently being on cool winters – and on the day time of our visit, the Skypark author and photographer the UK civil register.

Sonoma Raceway – a road course and drag strip located at California's Sonoma Skyport, seen during an overhead join Sears Point in the southern Sonoma Mountains after an enjoyable aerial tour of the surrounding vineyards

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 37 Roger Cain

$2,995 ‘new’ in 1949 – with blue trim as standard – the Clipper remains popular today.

Chasing our shadow down the river. Does life get any better?

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 38 COVER STORY California Dreaming

The Clipper cockpit is about as spartan as they come; no frills, no fuss

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 39

CROCS AWAY bought the airframe in 1972 Berwick. Or if you’re seeking An invitation from Eric to see "The Clipper's and has since restored it to a calmer way to see the skies, those rolling vineyards from avionics remain original airworthy condition; try an early morning ascent the air was readily accepted. it is a time machine of vintage from the airfield with Sonoma Allowing for a maximum take- noticeable by controls with a control column Ballooning Adventures. off weight of 748 kg, the Clipper resembling a broomstick. To is a four-seat aeroplane, their absence be invited to sit in the cockpit, DOWNTOWN SONOMA making it perfect for taking and the lack of running my fingers over With the flying finished, the city your editor along in the back. exactly one hundred years of of Sonoma itself – just a few In keeping with its authentic electrics meant history, brought a real sense of miles from the airfield – boasts origins, this Clipper’s avionics significance. Unfortunately, the a myriad options to experience remain noticeable by their it was started by Jenny’s wings were undergoing the region’s famous wine, absence. Likewise the lack of the 'arm-strong' maintenance, but I was be it in many of the eateries electrics meant it was started assured she’d be airworthy or dedicated wine-tasting by the 'arm-strong' method, method" again before long – surely a establishments. Most of these plus there was no intercom and sight to see. are centralised around ‘the only a handheld radio. Given Sadly, another long-term Plaza’, the historical location that this was the first time the our wheels barely a foot from resident of the airfield – the of the ‘Bear Flag Revolt’ and editor had experienced my the water – Eric explaining that Douglas Sleeper Transport the largest town square in hand at the helm, perhaps this were it not for the submerged – won’t be returning to the state. The numerous was fortuitous – any screams crocodiles easily mistaken for airworthiness anytime soon. shops include a charming were soon silenced by a logs, we’d be touching our tyres Resting in a quiet corner, the outlet entitled ‘Tiddle-E-Winks: cacophony of cockpit noise on the surface. curtains in the upper row Vintage 5 & Dime’, where I from the Lycoming 0-235. Yes, you read that right … of windows – behind which sampled my first authentic Rolling down the Skyport’s crocodiles in California. It is not bunk beds nestle – have American ‘candy’ – an entire more than ample 756 m an animal normally associated been closed for the last time. cherry dipped in chocolate. Runway 08, the Clipper’s with the State but an ever (Far more luxurious than the A vintage theatre, complete 480-mile range seemed growing population of feral Boeing 787 I’m due to board with original 1920s seating, superfluous. As the Sonoma ‘crocs’ are thought to have home the next day, I remind completes the idyll of small- Valley spread out below us, descended from escaped/ myself.) However, there are town charm. It was a shame ‘going somewhere’ seemed released pets. still plenty of other propellers to leave so soon, but a Dodge secondary to just being in that swinging into life, as a Howard Charger, the Pacific Coast unadulterated expanse of sky MEETING ‘JENNY’ DGA taxies past us (much to Highway US-1, San Francisco – especially after the glitz, glam Safely down on the ground, the delight of the editor – who and the Golden Gate Bridge and grime of Vegas. the warm welcome continued proceeded to give me chapter were beckoning. As I handed back control, our from the Skypark community. and verse about the virtues Perhaps in the midst of the maximum cruise speed of Every Saturday, a barbeque of Bennie Howard’s so-called pandemic, grounded though 102 kts was quite sufficient is organised in aid of the EAA “Damn Good Airplane”…). we are, there’s never been a to allow us to ‘intercept’ Young Eagles programme, Whether pilot or passenger, better time to look back fondly and shadow a bright yellow where owners and enthusiasts there are plenty of options to on flying adventures with a Fairchild Argus, Eric’s formation can share stories over a hot get airborne. If you hold an view to future plans – and flying having been honed by dog. We got chatting to one FAA PPL, aircraft are available Sonoma would certainly be years of photographic missions. of them; Frank Schelling, to rent; alternatively, rides worth a second visit. But in the Then came the real treat; who owns an original 1918 are available in a 1926 Curtiss meantime I’ll have to content breaking away, we dived down Curtiss JN-4 ‘Jenny’ that Eric Wright Travelair biplane myself with some more to follow the course of a river, is also checked out on. Frank with Bob ‘Captain California’ Californian dreaming. •

“Running my fingers over exactly one hundred years of Eric also has a set of Whittaker multi-wheeled landing gear history brought a real sense of significance” for the Clipper.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 40 JUST MY TYPE Piper PA-28

WORDS Steve Bridgewater IMAGES Various A TRUE WARRIOR More than 30,000 fixed gear PA-28s have been built and there must hardly be a pilot who doesn’t have the type in his/her logbook. So, after six decades in service, why does this aviation stalwart still appeal to flying schools, hirers and owners? We askKev Arblaster what makes the Piper Warrior ‘just his type’

N FEBRUARY most important and iconic and sedate four-seater are still flying today – are 2021, the world – light aircraft ever produced. remains among the most easily identified by their I had it not been in The first example of the numerous GA aircraft in constant chord wings, their lockdown – would Piper PA-28 Cherokee was Britain as well as the rest almost rectangular profile have marked the 60th delivered in February 1961 of the world. The earliest leading to the ‘Hershey Bar’ anniversary of one of the and today this safe, stable Cherokees – many of which nickname (a reference to the

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 41

similarly shaped American – is therefore a PA-28 Warrior was nine and mathematics Aerobility chocolate bar). However, in and, fittingly, it is flown by "I guess you age was eight.” 1974 that characteristic wing one of life’s warriors. could call it the His parents were told ‘the was changed to a tapered state’ would look after him profile and the Cherokee "CAPTAIN KEV" Ford Cortina of and that he ‘needn’t worry Warrior was born. Kevin Arblaster (Captain Kev about working.’ Yet Kev Actually, that’s not strictly to his friends) is approaching the skies" aspired to more and despite true as the first few examples 50 and has cerebral palsy, the naysayers, he attended to roll off the production line which was caused by a lack students with a disability.” technical college and later were referred to as PA-28 of oxygen at birth; a critical I’ve been privileged to university, specialising in Cherokee Challengers. two minutes that changed know Kev for a few years software development. However, this appellation was the course of his life. “One now and he is always very Fast-forward 30 years and quickly dropped in favour of moment my life was going philosophical about the along with the rest of us, Kev Warrior (to stay consistent in one direction, and in challenges that life has is suffering from ground-fever with the rest of Piper’s the next it was going in a thrown at him. “In those and itching to get back in Native American-inspired totally different direction,” days schools didn’t train the air. You see, since 2018, nomenclature) and soon the he explains. disabled people for a he has been a fully qualified Cherokee part of the name “From the age of three career; they prepared private pilot and flies G-BSYY would also be dropped. and a half, I went to a you for a day centre,” with the East Staffordshire G-BSYY – the subject of this special school and at 16 he says. “When I was Flying Club at Tatenhill Airfield issue’s ‘Just My Type’ segment I went to a college for 16, my reading age near Burton-on-Trent in

From wheelchair to cockpit: G-BSYY and her brethren at Aerobility have been providing a new outlook on life for disabled people for the last 25 years.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 42 JUST MY TYPE Piper PA-28

Staffordshire. Typically, being with the infectious smile that and via it I have also made a club member is not enough he has become famous for. "This safe, stable many lifelong friendships from for Kev, so he also serves as “I’ve also been involved with and sedate four- across the aviation fraternity, the club’s vice chairman. the Aerobility charity for the including GA, commercial and last 14 years, it’s a wonderful seater remains military aviators.” AEROBILITY organisation that enables Like so many of us, Kev’s Kev has been writing software people with a disability to among the most passion for aviation began at since he was eleven but after experience flight. It has also numerous GA an early age and his next door leaving university he found supported my flying career.” neighbour would regularly take it almost impossible to find Aerobility was founded aircraft in Britain" him to Elmdon Airport in the employment in the IT industry. in 1993 to offer disabled 1970s to watch the airliners. cerebral palsy can affect people, without exception, grasp, decide to continue their In 1998, Kev saw an advert people in different ways and in the opportunity to fly an training – many all the way to for the Flying Scholarships Kev’s case it causes problems aeroplane. Today it has its securing a PPL. The charity also for the Disabled charity and with his coordination headquarters at Blackbushe provides subsidised flying days was invited for a trial lesson (fastening buttons etc), and maintains a fleet of four for other disability charities at Enstone. “Whereas most mobility and speech. aircraft that operate from the and at-cost flight training to people have their trial lesson Therefore, when he Merseyside area, Tatenhill and disabled people. in a Cessna 152 or a PA-28 answered a call in response at Blackbushe itself. Incredibly, Kev is now an ambassador I was fortunate that my first to a job application, the nearly 1,000 disabled or for the charity, promoting flight was in a TB-20 Trinidad,” line would go dead as the terminally ill people take to the both it and all opportunities he recalls. “The instructor interviewer put the phone skies per year thanks to the for disabled pilots, and giving was impressed that I could down upon hearing his voice. charity. inspirational talks about flying maintain level flight so well He did eventually find an For some, that first flight and disability. and put it down to my use of enlightened employer and is enough to change their “We see people from all kinds computer flight simulators.” spent 15 happy and successful outlook on disability forever: of backgrounds and the crucial Kev wasn’t selected for a years working in his chosen “If I can fly an aeroplane, what thing is that it opens up all scholarship, but the aviation field. “I left in 2011 and since else can I do?”. Others, like manner of opportunities, not bug had bitten. “A few months then I have mostly been Kev, realising that the fantasy just in aviation. Aerobility has later I started my flying training lurking on airfields,” he says of flight is truly within their supported my flying since 2007 at Derby Airport and eventually Via Kev Arblaster Aerobility Via Kev Arblaster 1: Perfectly aligned on the centreline, Kev returns to base after a solo sortie in Aerobility's Piper PA-28 Warrior G-BSYY. 2: In 2018 Aerobility honoured Kev with the Aviator of the Year Sword, which was presented to him by all nine . 3: The Aerobility Warriors are fitted with the Turner hand control system to allow a lower-limb disability pilot to control the rudder mechanism and work towards obtaining a licence. It is certified for use in most PA-28 variants via an STC.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 43 Via Kev Arblaster 'Captain Kev' lands G-BSYY at Tatenhill at the end of another sortie.

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 44 JUST MY TYPE Piper PA-28

Sixty years since the first delivery, the PA-28 remains the cornerstone of the world’s GA scene. Via Kev Arblaster

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 45

FROM RAG (WINGS) TO RICHES – THE AIRCRAFT THAT KEPT THE PIPER NAME ALIVE

IN THE immediate post-war years, Piper using very few complex curves in the Aircraft found itself in dire financial aluminium panels the airframe used straits. It had assumed that aviators less than half the number of parts and returning from the war would be rivets as the contemporary Comanche. happy flying around in the same J-3 Using a single access door both reduced Cub variants that had been in service costs and improved the integrity of before the conflict. This was far from the airframe, while simple manually- the truth but with virtually no funds to operated flaps saved weight and cost. develop a replacement, the resulting The prototype PA-28 aloft on an The aircraft also had an all-flying PA-15 Vagabond used much of the early test flight. stabilator to save weight, and beaded same tooling and components as the skins on the tail and control surfaces Cub – including the tail surfaces, landing aircraft. Inspired by the success of the provided stiffness without internal gear and most of the wing parts. The PA-24 Comanche, Weick created a low- stiffeners. The tricycle landing gear Vagabond evolved into the PA-20 Pacer winged design, but with fixed tricycle helped ground handling and used three and the tricycle-geared PA-22 Tri-Pacer landing gear in place of the Comanche’s identically sized wheels to reduce costs but by the mid 1950s it became obvious retractable undercarriage. It was to have and help with soft field performance. that these antiquated fabric-covered a roomy 42in-wide cabin – 7in wider The PA-28 received its FAA type (‘rag wing’) machines needed to be than the Pacer. certificate in October 1960 and the first replaced with something more modern. The prototype of the new PA-28 customer received their new aircraft Cessna had already introduced its (N9135R) first took to the skies on on February 10, 1961.Since then, more metal-fuselaged Model 120 two-seater January 10, 1960 and fulfilled the brief: it than 30,000 have been produced in to the market and the all-metal four-seat was simple to build, simple to maintain, a multitude of variants and the type Model 170A was selling fast. and simple to fly. It also incorporated a remains in production today. It is, Piper recruited Fred Weick to develop number of innovative features including without doubt, the aircraft that saved a brand-new, all-metal, easy to fly an extremely simple construction. By Piper from bankruptcy.

moved to Tatenhill where I designed Turner hand control The aircraft was designed for have flown ever since.” "Aviation is a great system to allow a lower-limb flight training and is therefore Throughout his career he leveller - it's a disability pilot to control built to take the rigours of had saved money and paid for the rudder mechanism. The ham-fisted students and the occasional flying lesson place where we all development of the system belligerent instructors. A but in 2018 he decided it was was financed by Aerobility to disabled aviator can sit, lean time to get his licence. “I’ve stand shoulder to EASA standards and is certified or even stand on the aircraft always been headstrong,” he for use in most PA-28 variants and the low wing means readily admits, “and if I want shoulder regardless via an STC. Crucially, the many wheelchair users are to do something, I will do of background, system is unique in that it can able to ‘bum shuffle’ their way it. At college, I was the first be left installed on the aircraft; onto the wing and into the disabled person to go onto a ability or disability" the handle can be removed pilot’s seat. Perhaps its only mainstream course, and I was so as not to interfere with the disadvantage is the single told I would never drive yet I operation of the aircraft by door, which Kev says can make passed my test first time. So able-bodied pilots. accessing the left-hand seat a why not learn to fly?”. had been delivered. By now Aerobility has a fleet little tricky for some pilots. “I decided to get my licence the Cherokee nomenclature of aircraft at its disposal “For me, it’s the cockpit early in the year and with the had long since been dropped including the Tecnam P2002JF. layout that makes the Warrior help of Aerobility, I had it in my and the new Warrior II had This composite machine so perfect for me,” he explains. hand by September. Well, I’d ten more horsepower than its incorporates modifications “From the flap lever to the been flying for 20 years with an predecessor. This, combined for disabled fliers including throttle quadrant, the controls instructor, I just had to join the with improved aerodynamics strengthened, weightbearing just fit my disability. For dots and put it together!” and the use of wheel spats, wings (making access easier) someone like me with cerebral Although he has flown increased the cruise speed by and additional hand holds. The palsy, the fuel selector can be numerous types it is the around 10 kts. canopy has also been altered a struggle, but with practice humble Warrior that Kev Yankee Yankee is powered by to open extra wide and, of I’ve managed to come up with returns to. a Lycoming O-320-D3G engine course, it benefits from the my own way of changing tanks G-BSYY is a Warrior II, built which turns a Sensenich innovative hand controls. every 30 minutes.” at Piper’s Vero Beach factory 74DM6-0-60 propeller. She Conversely, the PA-28 Kev admits that “when they in Florida in 1986. This variant is owned by Aerobility and – Warriors (including G-BSSY) were designing the aircraft replaced the original Warrior in although it is not needed by don’t need any modifications in the 1950s I don’t think 1977 after 1,898 of the former Kev – is fitted with a specially other than the hand controls. they would have imagined

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 46 JUST MY TYPE Piper PA-28

that a pilot with my condition parts are readily available. You been the exact opposite and would ever be flying it solo; "ATC tends to could call the PA-28 the Ford Tatenhill Aviation has given me but unbeknown to them, the reply to my call Cortina of the skies.” free range of the airfield for designers did a good job in “Weather permitting I’ll the past 20 years. Of course making a user-friendly cockpit”. with 'Go Away always favour a cross-country there have been instances Even though Kev doesn’t to circuit bashing,” he says. where people don’t know me need the hand control system, Kev, we're shut'... “I’m a regular visitor to and are alarmed. his disability means he finds I think it must be Wolverhampton/Halfpenny “But when you think about certain fine movements (such Green, Kemble and Turweston. it, it’s quite surreal that I as changing frequencies) my accent!" The latter tends to reply to can go flying on my own. It’s fiddly. “Again, it’s no fault of my inbound call with ‘Go away such a buzz knowing you’re the manufacturers,” he admits, fitting. What if it causes a short Kev, we’re shut’ … I think it the captain, you’re legally “and the workaround is to plan circuit? OK, it probably won’t, must be my accent! responsible for the aeroplane properly and practice. In my but as I’m a software developer “Turweston has long been a and you can go anywhere.” case I try to pre-set the radio and not an electrician, I always supporter of Aerobility and I As we mark the sixtieth frequencies I need before I get an engineer involved if I normally meet up with friends anniversary of this iconic fly and you can now connect see anything I’m unsure about. there who have flown up from aircraft it is reassuring that planning tools like SkyDemon If the oil is below six quarts I’ll Blackbushe. Wherever I fly Fred Weick’s design is still to certain comms equipment.” top it up and if I’m leaving the it normally involves food of changing lives. circuit, I like to have full tanks some kind and to be impartial, “Aviation is a great leveller GOING PLACES (weight permitting).” I will say all three airfields have and is one of the few places Kev prides himself on being Since gaining his licence Kev good facilities in that regard.” where we all stand shoulder self-sufficient and a lot of that has grown in confidence and Having led a life where to shoulder regardless comes down to prior planning. really enjoys taking friends and society has pre-judged his of background, ability or “I like to think of all the ‘what family flying, often landing away abilities and decided what he disability,” concludes Kev. ifs’, and that starts before I’ve for a slice of cake. “With the can and can’t do, how does “I have been in hotel bars even driven to the airfield. power set at 75% and correctly Kev find life in the aviation with fast jet pilots at 3am During the walkaround I give trimmed, she normally cruises world? “It is the one place more than once; they all like the aircraft a very thorough at about 103kts burning 9 gal/ in which I can honestly say I playing ‘last man standing’,” check and on a couple of hr. She's a very serviceable have never felt discriminated”, he says, with a laugh and that occasions I’ve found a loose aircraft and the engineers say he concludes. “In fact, it has trademark smile. • Aerobility Aerobility Via Kev Arblaster 1: “When you think about it, it’s quite surreal that I can go flying on my own. It’s such a buzz knowing you’re the captain, you’re legally responsible for the aeroplane and you can go anywhere.” 2: The Warrior is a sturdy aeroplane that is ideal for flight training and regular use by a private owner. 3: G-BSYY at rest at Blackbushe between flights.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 47

Aerobility has spent the last 25 years removing barriers, making it possible for people to participate in a variety of aviation-related activities regardless of their disability. In 2018 Aerobility created a formation display team made up of people with disabilities – the first of its kind in the UK. Here, G-BSYY flies as part of that Bader’s Bus Company team. Steve Bridgewater

Subvariants

From the basic Cherokee of 1961 the design evolved into a mindboggling range of variants. These are summarised as follows:

VARIANT SEATS ENGINE MAUW YEAR

PA-28-150 Cherokee 4 150 hp O-320-A2B/E2A 2,150 lb (975 kg). 1961 PA-28-160 Cherokee 4 150 hp O-320-B2B/D2A 2,200 lb (998 kg) 1961 PA-28-180 Cherokee 4 180 hp O-360-A3A/ A4A 2,400 lb (1,089 kg) 1962 PA-28-235 Cherokee Pathfinder 4 235 hp O-540-B2B5/B1B5/B4B5 2,900 lb (1,315 kg) 1963 PA-28S-160 Cherokee (seaplane) 4 160 hp O-320-D2A 2,140 lb (971 kg) 1963 PA-28S-180 Cherokee (seaplane) 4 180 hp O-360-A3A/A4A 2,222 lb (1,008 kg) 1963 PA-28-140 Cherokee Cruiser 2 150 hp O-320-E2A/E3D 1,950 lb (885 kg) 1964 PA-28-140 Cherokee Cruiser 4 150 hp O-320-E2A/E3D 1,950 lb (885 kg) 1965 PA-28R-180 Arrow (RG) 4 180 hp IO-360-B1E 2,500 lb (1,134 kg) 1967 PA-28R-200 Arrow (RG) 4 200 hp IO-360-C1C 2,600 lb (1,179 kg) 1969 PA-28R-200 Arrow II (RG) 4 200 hp IO-360-C1C/ C1C6 2,650 lb (1,202 kg) 1971 PA-28-180 Archer 4 180 hp O-360-A4A/A4M 2,450 lb (1,111 kg) 1972 PA-28-235 Cherokee Pathfinder II 4 235 hp O-540-B4B5 3,000 lb (1,361 kg) 1972 PA-28-151 Cherokee Warrior 4 150 hp O-320-E3D 2,325 lb (1,055 kg) 1974 PA-28-181 Archer II 4 180 hp O-360/A4A 2,550 lb (1,157 kg) 1975 PA-28R-201 Arrow III (RG) 4 200 hp IO-360-C1C6 2,750 lb (1,247 kg) 1976 PA-28R-201T Turbo Arrow III (RG) 4 200 hp TSIO-360-F/360-FB 2,900 lb (1,315 kg) 1976 PA-28-161 Warrior II 4 160 hp O-320-D3G/D2A 2,325 lb (1,055 kg) 1977 PA-28RT-201 Arrow IV (RG) 4 200 hp IO-360-C1C6 2,750 lb (1,247 kg) 1978 PA-28RT-201T Turbo Arrow IV (RG) 4 200 hp TSIO-360-FB 2,900 lb (1,315 kg) 1978 PA-28-201T Turbo Dakota 4 200 hp TSIO-360-FB 2,900 lb (1,315 kg) 1978 PA-28-236 Dakota 4 235 hp O-540-J3A5D 3,000 lb (1,361 kg) 1978 PA-28-161 Warrior II 4 160 hp O-320-D3G/D2A 1,440 lb (1,107 kg) 1982 PA-28-161 Cadet 2 160 hp O-320-D2A/D3G 2,325 lb (1,055 kg) 1988 PA-28-161 Warrior III 4 160 hp O-320-D3G 2,440 lb (1,107 kg) 1994 PA-28-181 Archer III 4 180 hp O-360-A4M 2,550 lb (1,157 kg) 1994 PA-28 Archer DX 4 155 hp CD-155 (diesel) 2,550 lb (1,157 kg) 2014 PA-28 Pilot 100 and Pilot i100 2 180 hp Prime IO-370-D3A 2,550 lb (1,157 kg) 2020

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot 48 TECH AND BOOKS Latest products and books

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AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 49 FLYING HIGH IN THE SUNLIT SILENCE AVIATION ART BY JACK BERRY This charming book by an autistic boy has captured the hearts of the nation and is raising much-needed funds for THE three worthwhile military charities AIRBORNE GHOST Author Jack Berry/Sara Berry drivers David Coulthard Sailors, Airmen and Author Martin Leusby From Mention the War Ltd and Lando Norris, and Red Families Association’s From Self Published Bull racing car designer Forces Additional Needs WE REALISE this book has Adrian Newey, have also and Disability Forum, So what did you do in little relevance to GA, but contributed to the book. the International Bomber lockdown? AOPA member stick with us… Jack’s fascination with Command Centre and Martin Leusby spent his Fourteen-year-old Jack aviation was cemented by Lincolnshire's Lancaster time writing a 19,000 Berry is severely autistic trips to airshows. “He has Association. word ‘novella’. but, inspired by centenarian always drawn and will do it This really is a charming Martin has owned a Sir Tom Moore’s charity either to calm himself down book, produced by a very Cessna for 34 years and work, has set about this or as a way of saying ‘thank talented young man and his amassed more than 3,000 delightful project to raise you’ to someone,” explains obviously (and justifiably) hours while landing at money for military charities. Sara Berry. “The RAF and very proud mother. Flying more than 400 different He and his mother Sara have the services have opened High in the Sunlit Silence airfields. He won the appeared on national TV their arms and accepted wouldn’t look amiss on any AOPA Award for Individual – including BBC Breakfast Jack for who he is. He wants aviator’s bookshelf – but Merit in 1987 and was – promoting the book and to know everything about more to the point it would awarded a very early set highlighting issues affecting their aircraft and wants to make a perfect gift for the of AOPA Platinum Wings. autistic youngsters. In show his appreciation to all children, grandchildren and He has now used this doing so he has gained an the pilots.” future pilots in your life. • extensive knowledge enormous following and Flying High in the Sunlit base to create a crime has already sold more than Silence raises valuable Where Amazon drama focused on the 4,000 copies of the book. funds for the Soldiers, Price £11.99 GA scene in the UK and Jack, who is also Europe. The Airborne selectively non-verbal, Ghost is entertainingly began drawing aeroplanes written in a very enjoyable during lockdown and has style; setting the story used art as an emotional in the immediate outlet during the pandemic. post-Covid era makes While the drawings have a it both contemporary sense of childhood naivety, and relevant. Some of Jack’s eye for detail and the characters may be perception of perspective is familiar to many readers, quite incredible. which helps add an air A number of high profile of authenticity. I really aviation ‘names’ have enjoyed this book; it is come on board with the easy to read, amusing in project to write captions places and provided an for Jack’s artwork. These opportunity to vicariously include members of the Red ‘fly’ during lockdown. Arrows and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight, as well Where martinleusby@ as military and test pilots outlook.com alongside famous authors, Price £5 (to recoup printing including Rowland White. cost) + P&P (£1.50 in UK) Formula 1 motor racing

April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot *Contents subject to change

NextComing up in the June edition Issue of AOPA UK Magazine*

JUST MY TYPE Richie Piper has shares in many aeroplanes but among his favourite is his lovely Luscombe 8 Silvaire. Charlotte Bailey asks the Honourable Company of Air Pilots Warden what makes this classic taildragger “just his type”.

GA ROADMAP The Department for Transport is in the process of issuing what it refers to as its GA Roadmap, containing its vision for General Aviation. The DfT states: “We want the UK to be seen as the best place in the world for aviation and this starts at the grassroots General Aviation.” We look at what this plan will mean for recreational flying in the UK.

ARE YOU PROPERLY INSURED? Insurance is like a parachute: if you don’t have it the first time you need it, there is no second chance. In the first part of a new series we ask a broker why premiums are rising. GOOD SAFETY IS NO ACCIDENT We speak to Harry Harrad and Ben Spiers, founders of the new General Aviation Safety Benchmark Group (GASBG). This is a no-cost group open to GA airfields and is aimed at harmonising the industry’s approach to airport safety by enabling open discussion and information sharing about occurrences. Topics include damage to aircraft, wildlife strikes and hazard management, significant FOD events, runway and incursions and excursions, near misses on the apron, airspace and drone infringements, airproxes, laser strikes and ATC failures.

A CATALOGUE OF ERRORS ‘Good judgment comes from experience; experience comes from bad judgment’ – or so goes to the old adage. Using the power of hindsight, an anonymous pilot wants you to learn from their bad judgement in the hope that you don’t make the same mistakes.

AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot April 2021 All you need to get the most out of your flying. To advertise contact Charlotte at [email protected] CLASSIFIED ADS

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April 2021 AOPA Aircraft Owner and Pilot