Dear Member,
Congratulations to everyone that enabled the fantastic return to flying. The past month has been so productive, that 2 aircraft of the fleet have already required 50 hour services! The Tecnam and 3rd C-152 will be returned to flying over the next 2 weeks.
Please read the following important updates:
Drones in the ATZ
You will have seen the Hot Poop regarding illegal drone activity which followed Deacon’s Airprox last weekend. Please remember and follow these actions should you see a drone in the Halton ATZ:
1. Fly the aircraft.
2. When safe, report the position on Halton Radio with reference to ground features (for example “over the centre of Aston Clinton at approximately 800 feet”).
3. Avoid further overflying of the sighted position.
Halton Ops will alert the RAF Police who will dispatch a vehicle to spot the drone. If sighted, they will call Thames Valley Police, who will deploy a patrol to identify the operator. If you spot a drone outside the ATZ (above 400′) report details of the sighting to HAC staff after landing. Unless we act upon illegal drone activity, it will continue.
Aircraft Engine Oil
With immediate effect, C-152s and the PA-28 will use Aero Shell 15W50 multi-grade oil. This has significant benefits for engines over previous single-grade oil, particularly during start-up. Adi has asked me to remind you to use the complete bottle when topping up. Only top-up when the level is:
C-152 – 4.5 Quarts (thus topping up to 5.5)
PA-28 – 5.0 Quarts (thus topping up to 6.0)
Do not overfill the oil sump, severe engine damage may result. Do not leave part-used bottles of oil. Be meticulous in pouring the oil to avoid spillage.
ALL STUDENTS – CAA E-Exams
All CAA exams are now completed on-line at the HAC. Before taking any exam, you must first set-up an account – do not leave this until the day of your exam! Instructions are here: CAA Registration Guide
The sign-up Link is here: https://portal.caa.co.uk/
All JRPSS Scholars are to be registered before starting training.
Looking Forward
As Covid restrictions ease, we will be looking at what is Covid-safe to take place during the summer and beyond. It will understandably but a low-key year, but we will aim to maximise the opportunities. Details will be promulgated over the coming weeks.
Stay Safe and Fly Safe.
Mark
M T MANWARING
Gp Capt
HAC Chairman