TEMAC TICKLER - Summer Flying and Safety

[Michael]

Hello to all fellow TEMAC members! We're right in the middle of summer, and there's been lots of flying at the field. I've seen micro models, foamies, trainers, jets, giant planes, multi-motor planes, and lots of nice scale models. The training sessions have been going well, thanks to the enthusiastic leadership of Frank, our Chief Flight Instructor, and all the volunteer instructors and ground crew that help out. Also, thanks to my colleagues on the executive board who help maintain and support the club. I especially want to thank everyone for their continued efforts at flying safely and following the rules.

The purpose of this communication is to remind everyone of some of the basic safety protocols and rules, and to suggest improved communication for not-so-ordinary activity.

First, it is of utmost importance that all members refrain from flying over the public roadway, at the north end of the field. I suggest, that when flying in a counter-clockwise pattern (south wind), start your north turn earlier, to make sure you don't fly over the road.

Of course, calling out your intentions (walking onto the flying area, hand-launching taxiing, taking off, landing, loop over the runway, low pass, etc.) is always a necessity. All flying must be to the east of our flight-line (not behind or over the pits); and all landings must be on the runway or the grass east of the runway. There is no taxiing behind the flight stations.

Pilots that want to launch their planes with a bungee or pull-start (high-start) system, should simply (and politely) confirm this with present members before setting up and launching. The same applies to helicopter pilots.

Some leeway is accorded when a pilot is the only one flying, and it is safe to land a bit closer (but never behind the flight stations), or if there is no one to call out to. Mistakes can and do happen, and are forgiven, but carelessness, and dangerous or irresponsible behaviour cannot be tolerated. Please, always consider safety and the well-being of all members when at the field.

There's still lots of summer ahead of us. Come out and fly!

Michael Rogozinsky
President, TEMAC