ZU-DVE (and ZS-WUO) (and ZEE) Flight Log

[gertcoetzee]

Planned a trip over Paarl, but covered in cloud, so did a trip around Simonsberg, no turbulence. Then back to Wintervogel where Zerk and his student (didn't get his name) landed - and then for a trip to Blouberg and back.

Now 33.3 hours, hope to do some more tomorrow.

[gertcoetzee]

Got some skidmarks when flying from Kasteelberg towards Gouda when I hit some turbulence. My rudimentary knowledge of windflow tells me that the westerly wind was forced up as it approached the mountains to the east. I could have avoided it if I was higher - got calmer at 4000 feet but by then I was well away from mountains. Any ideas?

Added 3 hours today. Not bad.

[gertcoetzee]

In that panoramic shot, Tafelberg is of course behind that mountain, which is Paardeberg.

[Morph]

We got klapped at Kasteelberg on the Klipdrift Flyin. This time the wind was NE and we were approaching from the SW. As we crossed the ridge of the mountain we picked up 1000fpm lift and turbulance for about 1 to 2 minutes. In your case the wind was from the other direction, so you should have picked up the lift on the westerly side of the mountain. BTW if the wind is really blowing, remmember to stay away from the downwind side. This is where you will pick up sink and rotors. If approaching from the downwind side approach at a 45 degree angle to the ridge. This will allow you to turn away and down if you pick up sudden turbulance.

check this out for more information on flying around mountains
http://www.mountainflying.com/

[DarkHelmet]

Gert you are REALLY making me VERY jealous here!

[gertcoetzee]

Did a mere 20 minutes today. Not really in the mood for a windy afternoon, so called it a (short) day.

[gertcoetzee]

[Morph]

Hey Gert,

We missed each other yesterday at Morningstar. I came in as you and Peter were preparing to leave and you took off before we got a chance to chat.

[Junkie]

Gert - dont forget to visit us at Goedverwacht - it's what youve got marked at "SpesBona" near Grootfontein & Fisantekraal

Nice going so far, we had a really nice trip up to Eendekuil this weekend and looking forward to the Vredendal trip

Dont forget to do thorough check out on your new motor, g/box, prop bolts, wing, etc if you havn't done so already

[gertcoetzee]

[zoofly]

4499ft exactly No big deal gert, our runway elevation is 5150 ft :D

[gertcoetzee]

Exactly, since the TMA starts at 4500 This is the highest I can get above Wintervogel (TMA "B") , which is at 350ASL. To get higher I have to go to the TMA "E" or beyond. The FAR45 which is to the north of "B" (starting in the gap north of B and east of E) allows me to fly up to 1500AGL or 1500ALT (depending on which map you have) before I need to contact Langebaan ATC.Anyone knows what is the correct version?

[Junkie]

If you want to get higher, then go for the Tulbach Gap (to Ceres) or over the mtns at Baileys peak upto 8500 - but avoid FAP38 and watch out for the BIG BOYS enroute CTI. thats the usual route we take to Tankwa

You can also get up to 7500 in the Franschoek Valley (SRA E)- stunning place

Enjoy

[gertcoetzee]

Sunday before last I was on my way to this GAP past Riebeeck Kasteel when some turbulance hit me at approx 2000 ft - I suppose coming from the GAP - what do you experienced guys do? Get higher, lower, or 180 turn? Will try again soon (but it seems as if weather this weekend is going to be unfavourable).

[Morph]

Follow the thread on "Tips on flying in Turbulance" Lots of good advise here

http://microlighters.co.za/viewtopic.php?t=461