bilbosmeggins

Hi Richard Thanks for the info. If £70 seems to be the going rate then I've no qualms with that whatsoever. And, at the risk of being thick, could you explain the 28 day rule to me please as I've not encountered it before. Cheers

Was Donnison flying at Llangollen today? He practically lived there at one stage

When you say "show insurance" do you mean proof of the BHPA rating (and it's associated 3rd party insurance)? If so then that sounds like a plan. As does mixing it with the cows/sheep and other assorted oddities at Powick

Cheers Carl, much appreciated. Is the Powick site common land or a negotiated site? Must be a great site to fly as there is some cracking scenery out that way. Will look forward to hearing more

Hi all Managed to get signed off at Airways a week or so back, have all the gear and am ready for the off. Only problem is off from where? I'm currently based in Kidderminster. Any ideas anyone? There is a farmer to whom I have spoken before who has potentially got a field (he's a micro-lighter), but nothing is set in stone as yet. Any advice appreciated. More than happy to chip in towards a field or two. Cheers, Andy

Thanks all for your input. Maybe this weekend I can get out and allay my fears . And yes, I do have previous free-flight experience. Just the throb of an engine and the unfamiliarity of a reflex profile that I am coming to terms with.

Lovely video. Something very "Return of the Jedi" about it

Hi Simon Probably won't be back at Airways 'til I'm ready for my Pilot's rating. A while away I fear. But thanks for the heads up. Any advice on the getting the trimmers back in? Don't want to find myself in a position where I'm stuck on "Bat out of hell setting" with the landing field looming

Hi all Just managed to complete my PPG conversion course. The final flight involved me flying "Out of circuit", which basically involved me following the A515 for about 6 miles as far as the A50, and then back to the landing field at Airways. Whilst on my flight Rick, the instructor, followed me on his identical setup (Speedster and a V5). And I was amazed at how much faster he was than me as he was using the full speed range, trimmers and speed bar. Anyhow, when I returned my shoulders were absolutely killing me as I had been holding the brakes for the duration of the flight (the air was as rough as arse-holes). I really wanted to whack the trimmers out and fly hands-off for a while. Now, to the point of the post..... The time is fast approaching when I am going to want to try and use the reflex option. But, as I am a little nervous of powered flying at the moment, I could do with a few pointers and reassurances. I am going to wait until a silky-smooth day with plenty of height before I embark. Now, when I release the trimmers are they suddenly gonna whack out with the wing loading, or can I exhibit some degree of control? Also, releasing one side at a time..... Is this going to upset the wing much? And finally, the bit that fills me with the most trepidation, when I want to think about landing how manageable is it to haul the trimmers back to "slow trim"? Watching Rick in the sky really opened my eyes to just how sporty my Speedster is. And my shoulders need a rest..............

Hi Pete Good read. Shall hope to emulate you tomorrow at Airways (weather permitting). Minus the landing on me arse bit . I did that last time I was there and cost myself £160 for a new cage quarter I shall continue to monitor your blog with much interest

Given that you live near Malvern it is almost obligatory that you paraglide as well as PPG. Do you really want to neglect one of the best easterly sites in the country?

Hey, it's your forum. Fill yer boots

Maybe I should have shot it down for a positive ID

Was in Dawlish, Devon, yesterday (Bank Holiday Monday) watching some really naff bands at the Party in the Park when some lucky sod flew overhead around 5pm(ish). I looked up in envy as the conditions looked quite smooth. So who was the fortunate bugger?

No worries. Give us a shout when you know what's what. My sis isn't that big, so won't appreciate being dragged across the field by a large/XL. Medium would be about right for her. Can you also find out which nova it is please (some are easier to ground handle than others) as I don't want her to lose heart. Cheers, Andy