Dartmoor Gliding News-Wednesday 16th September 2020

 I drove to the airfield under a clear blue sky only to arrive in a thick fog. The early arrivals started to rig their gliders to hopefully make use of the optimistic RASP forecast. As other members arrived we started to set the airfield up to fly from the east end and waited for the expected clearance. When the sky started to bet brighter we towed the aircraft to the east end. First launch finally was made at about 12:30.

First to fly was John Smith and myself. After two good circuits and a cable break practice, John had a big smile on his face, saying it was his best flying since returning to fly after lockdown. Keep it up John and you won’t need me in the back seat for much longer.

John Smith waiting to fly.

John later spent some time down at the winch trying to add another string to his bow.

Next into the front seat was Peter Mountford. He continued progress with general flying and handling the upper part of the launch. He had four flights which included an unplanned demonstration of an ultra low level launch failure caused by a problem at the winch.

Peter pleased with his flying.

Meanwhile the solo pilots Andy Davey, Roger Green & Steve Lewis (Zugvogel) were trying to find some lift, but only managing extended circuits in reduced sink on the small ridge on the north side of the airfield. Phil Hardwick only managed a circuit in the Astir.

Some of the assembled aircraft.

Malcolm had three flights in the SF27. The third was a flight of 28 minutes in week lift. The only other significant flight was Steve Fletcher in his Open Cirrus who also took advantage of  the short period of soarable conditions for a flight of 44 minutes.

Malcolm ready to launch.

We also welcomed Richard’s dad Terry to the airfield. Richard was hoping to take Terry soaring, but only managed a couple of circuits.

At about 4 O’clock the wind had swung around to the east, so it was time to swap ends ready for the evening visitor to fly with Mike Jardine. After re-setting the airfield I flew with Peter Mountford for one flight and Barry Green flew in the SF27 waiting for our visitor flight.

Our visitor Steven Wilcock arrived and was briefed by Mike ready for his flights.

Steven and Mike talking before flying..

Steven and Mike returning.

Steven left very happy after his flights, thanking all who helped. Thank you to all at the airfield today achieving 24 flights after a slightly later start.

Peter Howarth