Dartmoor Gliding News-Wednesday 25th August 2021

With the prospect of a reasonable days soaring, it was no surprise to find an early group of private owners already rigging when I arrived at the airfield. Having completed rigging we set about getting the airfield and aircraft ready to fly. With an easterly wind we set up the west end launch point.

K13’s at the launch point.

Our latest IFP, Hugh Gascoyne, was kept busy with our visitors today. First to arrive was Chris Wood from Plymouth.

Chris receiving his certificate from Hugh.

The next visitor was Peter Cresswell.

Peter ready for his flight.

The final visitor was  David Barnatt who had done a lot of power flying in various guises. Today he would sample his first experience of flight without an engine.

David and Hugh all set.

All three visitors left having experienced a soaring flight of at least 30minutes. A total of nearly 2hours for Hugh’s logbook. Well done Hugh.

Trainees Simon Vallance and Mohammed Khouribich both gained some valuable lessons. One of Simon’s flights resulted in a demonstration of a low out of position circuit. Mohammed first flew with me and later with Mike Jardine improving on control coordination and getting to grips with the trimmer.

Having thought they had bought the first two seater Libelle (or fighting to get in) Andy & Martin decided to take turns in the Libelle. Martin Broadway (Libelle JEU) achieved 1hour 12minutes. Andy Davey (Libelle JEU) 1hour 23minutes.

Who told you this was a two-seater?

Our other solo fliers all had various degrees of success. Steve Fletcher (Open Cirrus CGY) 2hours 13minutes. Richard Roberts (Discus HLS) 2 hour 1 minute. Richard achieved a 100km circumnavigation of Dartmoor during his flight.

Richard’s view of River Exe and South Coast

After an earlier check flight John Alan was allowed to fly the K8. With no other takers for this aircraft John was told to stay high and try to achieve his 1 hour flight for his bronze C. He returned after 2hour 14minutes. Not only getting his one hour flight, but snatching flight of the day away from Steve Fletcher. Well done John.

John’s view towards Plymouth Sound.

A good day flying and achievements made, Everybody left with smiles on their faces. Thank you to all at the airfield today for their help in achieving 32 launches.

Peter Howarth