L AKE RIDGE
PROP WASH
A MILE OF HIGHWAY WILL TAKE YOU A MILE,
A MILE OF RUNWAY WILL TAKE YOU ANYWHERE

October 2023

Chapter 879 Membership dues are due on, or before, December 31,2023. See Carl Jensen to pay your 2024 dues.

Discover the Skies:

The Joys of Earning a Private Pilot License in the U.S.

Most of us are pilots. However, we all know someone who is aspiring to become a pilot. They may or may not ask us about the process of becoming a pilot. As a pilot ambassador and a member of EAA Chapter 879, it is our priviledge to encourage those interested in flying to become pilots. The following information may help you help others.

For many, the idea of piloting an aircraft remains a distant dream. However, nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Lake Ridge Aero Park (8NC8) serves as a beacon for aviation enthusiasts looking to bring this dream to life. Acquiring a private pilot license in the United States is not just about attaining a piece of paper—it's about experiencing the unparalleled joy and freedom of the vast skies.

**Why Get a Private Pilot License?**

1. **Unparalleled Freedom**: There's nothing quite like soaring through the sky, charting your own course. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a scenic sunset flight, being at the helm of an aircraft is the epitome of freedom.
2. **Unique Perspective**: Flying provides a vantage point that few get to see, transforming landscapes into breathtaking tapestries of color and pattern.
3. **Personal Achievement**: The journey to obtain a pilot's license is rigorous but immensely rewarding. Completing it is a testament to one's dedication, skill, and passion.
4. **Enhanced Travel Flexibility**: No longer reliant on commercial airline schedules, pilots have the flexibility to fly on their own terms.
5. **Community Connection**: The aviation community, especially at local airports like Lake Ridge Aero Park, is tight-knit. Earning a license offers entry into this supportive and passionate group.

**Meeting the FAA's Requirements**

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) ensures that potential pilots are well-prepared to take to the skies. Some of their requirements include:

- **Age**: You must be at least 17 years old.
- **Language Proficiency**: Must be able to read, write, speak, and understand English.
- **Medical Fitness**: Obtain at least a third-class medical certificate from an FAA-authorized aviation medical examiner.
-
**Flight Training**: Completion of the requisite flight training and logging the necessary hours with an FAA-certified instructor.
- **Pass the FAA Written Examination**: After training, applicants must pass a written knowledge test.

**Flying without Buying: Affordable Ways to Soar**

Owning an aircraft is a significant investment. Thankfully, there are several avenues for pilots to fly without having to purchase an airplane:

1. **Flight Schools**: Institutions like the one at Lake Ridge Aero Park offer aircraft rentals to their students, allowing for practice and leisure flights.
2. **Aircraft Rentals**: Many local airports and flight schools have aircraft available for rent by the hour.
3. **Flight Clubs**: Joining a flight club can grant access to shared aircraft at reduced rates.
4. **Partnerships**: Teaming up with like-minded individuals to co-own an airplane can significantly reduce costs and responsibilities.
5. **Leasing**: Some individuals and businesses lease their aircraft, providing another option for pilots to fly without full ownership.

Becoming a pilot may present some challenges, but the benefits are invaluable. The joy of soaring through the air, the breathtaking scenery, and the companionship of fellow aviation enthusiasts are just a few of the perks that come with obtaining a private pilot license. Thanks to organizations like EAA Chapter 879 and locations like Lake Ridge Aero Park, there's no better moment than now to embark on this thrilling adventure.

Ref: OpenAI. (2023). ChatGPT (September 25 Version) [LLM]. https://chat.openai.com

POP QUIZ

 According to 91.151 what are the fuel requirements for a VFR night flight?

a) To your intended landing point plus 45 minutes

b) To your intended landing point plus 60 minutes

c) To your intended landing point plus 30 minutes

NOTAM - RDU Congested Airspace and recommended VFR procedures

Thanks Rick G for making us aware of the following NOTAM that is germane to 8NC8:

Effective 10/02/2023

GENERAL: Areas of frequent conflict have been identified within the confines of Raleigh approach control airspace beyond the boundaries of Class C Airspace. It is recommended that VFR pilots avoid known areas of congestion when not in direct communication with Air Traffic Control (ATC). VFR pilots are encouraged to contact Raleigh approach control to receive radar flight following services and traffic advisories when operating within 20 nautical miles of Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) Continued..

 RDU Congested Airspace and recommended VFR procedure

LAKE RIDGE EAA CLASSIFIEDS

Buy/Sell/Trade/Lend/Giveaway | Send your items/service announcement to classifieds@eaa879.com

FOR SALE - VANS RV 6 - $75,000 – TT 1140, slider, IO-360A1A - 449 SMOH, Hartzell HC-C2YR-1BFP (no AD)/F7497(BA) 15 SOH, polished spinner, Slick mags, EI 4CHT/4EGT monitor.  Icom A210, Icom A200, Narco AT-155, ADSB, Garmin 496, PS1000 ICS, Navaid AP-1.  Pass brakes, electric flaps, Kroger shade, Andair Fuel Selector, upgraded tail fork/wheel, etc.  Various extras/spares/manuals/cover, etc.  Well maintained by A & P owner.  Randy Difani  919-418-8387 t6pilot@cfl.rr.com Cary, NC 2751

CONTRIBUTE TO THIS NEWSLETTER

No one can make every meeting. That is one of the reasons why our chapter newsletter is essential. It also provides an opportunity to engage members and non-members about stories we find entertaining or informative. It is said, "Pictures are worth a thousand words". Share the story behind that great picture on your phone or in your photo gallery.

S end your announcements and/or, story & picture(s) to newseditor@eaa879.org for inclusion in an upcoming Chapter 879 newsletter.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

• October 28, - Henderson-Oxford Airport (KHNZ). Young Eagles Rally (Sponsored by EAA Chapter 1114, Apex, NC ** rescheduled from Nov 4**) More info...

• October 28th - 8^th Annual Military History Show, Henderson-Oxford Airport (KHNZ), 10:am to 4pm, More info...

POP QUIZ Answer

The best answer is a - No person may begin a flight in an airplane under VFR conditions unless (considering wind and forecast weather conditions) there is enough fuel to fly to the first point of intended landing and, assuming normal cruising speed—

(1) During the day, to fly after that for at least 30 minutes; or

(2) At night, to fly after that for at least 45 minutes.

Ref: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2012-title14-vol2/pdf/CFR-2012-title14-vol2-sec91-151.pdf

ABOUT EAA CHAPTER 879

EAA Chapter 879 organizes regular monthly meetings, breakfast and lunch events, and other aviation-related activities as opportunities arise. Chapter 879 also provides support and resources to local pilots, offering workshops and training programs to enhance their skills and knowledge. Finally, the chapter provides a platform for anyone interested in aviation, including non-pilots, to connect with a vibrant aviation community, in and around Durham, NC.