Flying in Canada

For some ForeFlight work I spent a bit of time in Canada recently. We had the privilege to get some flying in, in a gorgeous C182 with a G1000. This was a tour of the capital area, complete with an overflight of downtown before landing (not something we'll ever do over the U.S. capital).

We even caught a few glimpses of a concert below, with an impressive light show, and a video presentation that was shone on the Parliament central building.

The flight was at sunset, and was one of those perfect flights - light winds, cool temps, perfect sky. I haven't had a flight like that since I used to live in Williamsburg and flew with my buddy John.

It was a pretty interesting experience. The primary differences that popped out to me were:
  • Instead of talking to the traffic in the area of the airport (CYND, Gatineau) we talked to "radio" (FSS) and told them our intentions. They gave us a heads up on other traffic and advisories on when to enter the runway. My understanding is that they have no real authority, but you tend operate as if they do.
  • There were french speaking pilots in the pattern, so Radio was translating back-and-forth to keep everyone on the same page. That would drive me nuts. :)
  • They have a TFR over the Parliament buildings, but it is something like 1000' high.







Comments

Lara Kaufmann said…
I am on the planning committee for the Southeast Aviation Show to be held in Greenville, SC on Oct. 29th. I am trying to get in touch with Jason Miller. Could you have him email me at LaraLKaufmann@gmail.com the aviation show will have a few novice enthusiasts demoing the app and we would like you to be here with a booth, demos, etc.
August 23, 2011 at 11:08 AM
Private Pilot Insider said…
I bet that was a very beautiful flight. That is what I love about flying VFR. To me it's still about the view.
Tommy Eldridge
www.PrivatePilotInsider.com
September 4, 2011 at 9:19 PM
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