Flying Day Sat 25 Jul 26
Having set up to fly it was all too evident that the wind was picking up in strength with MORTY indicating gusts of 15knts and with a cross wind. Setting up on r’way 22 we launched our ASK21 (R22) with Ian and Andrew but on return our intrepid tug pilot shut down.
The grown-ups then met to decide whether, given the large number of members wishing to fly, we could mitigate the cross-wind by launching off the grass. Colin elected to fly the tug and Geoff M our single seat Astir (R66). A sporty take off and climb through strong turbulence was enough to scrub the day.
It was especially frustrating for JP who was looking forward to two IFP flights with our two new MEF gliding bursary students Max and Ajay. Max and JP were waiting to launch in our other ASK21 (R35) when we scrubbed.
Our two airborne crews were able to take advantage of some weak wave conditions…….
……..each staying aloft for around an hour and at one stage sharing the airspace overhead Shawbury.
It is always a huge disappointment given the large numbers who had turned up to fly, some travelling a long distance to be with us, but with little training value to be gained that’s gliding! As we put the aircraft to bed MORTY was showing gusts to 30knts!
Club News
Sun 2 Aug 26. We will run a Glider Experience Afternoon for members of 605 Sqn RAuxRAF. 605 Sqn provides a cadre of RAuxAF Logistics and RAF Police personnel trained, equipped and prepared to support the RAF both at home and overseas. 14 local RAF Res personnel from 605Sqn will be joining us to get a taste of flying. Any club volunteers able to help get them into the air would be appreciated.
Fri 21 Aug 26. RAF Shawbury Families Day. No flying displays but as part of the RAF Shawbury family we will place an aircraft on static display for selfies and photo opportunities. Volunteers please to set up and man the stand during the day please log on.