Good Afternoon Members!

Spring flying weather is upon us and we hope that you are getting out and making the most of it!

BCGA Fly-Out & BBQ Report
Last weekend we hosted our first event as an Association. The original plan was to fly to Vargas Island, however due to the sheer number of aircraft and instability in the weather the destination was changed the morning of the event to Gillies Bay on Texada Island. Despite the short notice we were thrilled that 40 aircraft flew in to take part in the festivities. Members flew in from all over the south coast and from as far away as Williams Lake and Grand Forks. It was great to see everyone having such a great time meting old friends and making new ones. It was especially impressive to see the level of proficiency and professionalism demonstrated by the members as dozens of aircraft converged on the uncontrolled aerodrome, some for the first time. A special thank you to Charlie Groves and the fine gentlemen what call Gillies Bay home for coming out and assisting with parking aircraft and making everyone feel at home.

After the flyout almost 50 members gathered at a hangar at Pitt Meadows airport for a BBQ and party. We are thrilled that so many of you made it out.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW PHOTOS OF THE EVENT

Membership
We are proud to tell you that you are part of an organization that is home to over 360 members. The members of this association have already become a sort of family and we hope to build on the momentum and camaraderie that the BCGA has created amongst the aviation community in British Columbia.

BCGA Store
The BCGA store has become very popular! We have already had to re-order multiple items to replenish stock. Thank you to those of you that have placed orders for your patience. It is taking some time to get more stock in but we are shipping items as fast as we can get them in. The store is a great way to support BCGA activities and projects. Getting your BCGA gear is also a great way to break the ice at the airport when you spot a fellow member sporting their BCGA gear.

Upcoming Events
There are several upcoming events that you should be aware of. Here is a brief list. For more information consult the BCGA Calendar.

April 1-3 : Northern Rockies Lodge Ice Strip Fly-In (Muncho Lake, BC)
April 2    : Aerobatic Club of BC Redbull Air Race Pub Night (Sharkey's, Ladner, BC)
April 2    : Nanaimo Flying Club Fly-In Brunch
April 9    : Scotch & Chocolate Gala Fundraiser (Canadian Museum of Flight, Langley, BC)
April 10  : Boundary Bay Flying Club Breakfast (Delta Airpark, BC)
April 17  : Aero Club of BC Fuel Sale (Pitt Meadows, BC)
April 22 - 23: Vernon Rust Remover Weekend (Vernon, BC)

If you know of any events that need to be added to the calendar please let us know!

Until next time, fly safe and have fun!

Yours Loyally,
BCGA Leadership

Good Morning All!


FINAL DESTINATION: GILLIES BAY (CYGB) 10:00am
With an optional side fly-out to Vargas. 


Explanation:
We have been watching the weather and it looks like Vargas would have been doable. It also looks like the weather is going to come in very quickly this afternoon. While we wanted to go to Vargas this decision was made due to the sheer number of aircraft attending. We felt that if the weather came in, it would take too long to get 30+ aircraft off the ground leading to rushed judgement and decisions. 

This fly-out started as being about the destination. With the RSVPs we have received it has become more about the people than the destination.

Side Fly-Out
For those of you determined to go to Vargas you can still do so if you wish. A small side group might head to Vargas from YGB. 

Conclusion
Again, sorry that Vargas wasnt the final choice. We are confident that by going to Gillies Bay we can include more people with less stressing over weather etc..

Arriving into Gillies Bay
CFS: Texada / Gillies Bay CYGB(326'asl)
Frequency: 122.7
Runway: 14/32 (1.3% Upslope on Runway 32
Join Overhead at 1300' and join downwind on the west side for landing.

More Info: Call 604-312-9900 

See you all there
--------------------------
info@bcaviation.ca
www.bcaviation.ca

​This is the second update for the event. The first update from last night is attached below, if you RSVPd today please read both and the top one has the most current information.

Good Evening Everyone! (Update 2)

The weather forecast appears to be improving. As of right now it is calling for sunny skies in the Lower Mainland and Clouds in and around Tofino & Vargas with rain moving in late in the afternoon (hopefully after we leave). We are optimistic that the flyout tomorrow will be a go. 

At this time it appears that we will have close to 30 aircraft joining us with 60 people. Please be vigilant and keep your eyes out, ears open and lights on! 

I made some phone calls today. Victoria Terminal ATC, Nanaimo Radio, and the Local float plane operators have been briefed on what we are up to and to expect higher than normal traffic in and en route to the area. 

Important Frequencies in the Tofino Area are:
Nanaimo Radio : 123.25 (Mandatory in the Tofino Airport Zone)
Tofino Harbour / Vargas Island: 122.15

Please make your "circuit" entry calls on 122.15. The downwind will be on the West side of the beach. Cross overhead at 1000' and join downwind for the landing direction. (Brandon Campbell will try and get there early to light a fire and/or put up a windsock to assist you in choosing a landing direction)

People what need a ride from Tofino to Vargas and Back

The people what have rsvp's for a ride are:
- Martin Grypma +1
- Harold Ishebabi +1
- Ton Du Crocq +2

For those that need a ride please ensure that you are at YAZ by 10am. Your rides should be there to get you between 1000-1030.

A few pilots have volunteered to do a shuttle run to make sure that you get to Vargas. These pilots will most likely drop off their passengers and load at Vargas and come back for those in Tofino. 

The pilots that have offered to take people from YAZ are:
- Ryan Van Haren (2pax)
- Rick Church (2pax)
- Charlie Grover (1pax)
- Brandon Campbell (2-3pax)
- Erissa Yong (1 pax maybe)

After the flyout we will return to the home airports and the BBQ will start around 630. See below for details on the BBQ. (If someone could bring a cooler and a few bags of Ice I would appreciate it)

Any questions please text or call me at 604-312-9900 (Ryan)
 

The final update and go/no go will be sent out by 0705 am tomorrow. 
--------------------------------------------

Good Morning Everyone! (Update 1)


This email is going out to everyone that has RSVP'd to the Fly-Out and/or the Hangar BBQ on Saturday.

At this time we have 48 people RSVPd for the Fly-Out and 47 for the Hangar BBQ. There are a total of 23 aircraft that plan on landing on Vargas Island and 4 aircraft that will go as far as Tofino. 

Fly Out
We are monitoring the weather. So far it is looking like Saturday will be nice in the Lower Mainland but there is a chance of showers for the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Our first choice is to fly to Vargas Island but if weather does not allow for this our backup destinations in order of preference are:

1. Gillies Bay 
2. Pemberton
3. Merritt

We will send another email on Friday evening to those that RSVPd with an update and the final call will be made around 0630 on Saturday morning.

The Fly-Out Plan
Originally we said that we would all meet in Tofino. Due to the large number of aircraft attending we feel that it is unnecessary to cause chaos at Tofino airport only to all leave at the same time and fly to Vargas (11nm from Tofino).

The plan is that everyone will fly directly to Vargas Island and meet there around 10:00-10:30. 

REVIEW THE RECOMMENDED ARRIVAL PROCEDURE INTO VARGAS

Those of you that have indicated that you only want to go as far as Tofino and catch a ride to Vargas (6 people in 4 aircraft) should arrive in Tofino by 10:00am. 

Ryan and Rick will stop and pick up a few passengers and drop them off at Vargas then return for the rest of you. We will only be accommodating shuttles to Vargas for those that have already indicated that they need a ride via RSVP before 0000lcl March 25th. (If any other people can stop in YAZ and pick up 1 or 2 others please let us know. There are 6 people to move)

We will hopefully be able to light a fire at Vargas or any of the other destinations. If you wish to put a snack on the fire (Marshmallows, wieners etc.... please bring your own. 

We will depart around 1330 and return to the Lower Mainland.

The Hangar Party / BBQ Plan (Rain or Shine)
Once your aircraft is safely tucked in you are invited to join us for a Hangar Party / BBQ at the Pitt Meadows Airport (Hangar 45, Apron 5 / 18300 Ford Road Pitt Meadows).

If you are from out of town and plan on spending the night at the hangar you will be able to park your aircraft in front of the hangar (there are no tie downs). 

The BCGA will be providing some non-alcoholic beverages as well as hamburgers and hot dogs. Please feel free to bring something to share if you wish (not mandatory). Also, please bring any alcoholic beverages that you plan on drinking.

At the BBQ we will enjoy each others company, camaraderie, music and food. We will also be celebrating the BC General Aviation Association's inaugural event as well as our new status as COPA Flight 194. 

Things To Bring to the Party

1. Yourselves.
2. An exaggerated story or two.
3. You own booze.
4. A camping chair
5. Something to share (Optional)
6. A few $$ for the BCGA fundraising box or for a BCGA T-Shirt or Hat (Optional)
    ( T-Shirts - $20   / Hats - $30)
7. If you plan on spending the night bring a ground mat, sleeping bag and a towel

We are really looking forward to seeing you all. If you have any questions do not hesitate to email info@bcaviation.ca

Next update expected Friday Evening. 

​Good Morning Everyone!


This email is going out to everyone that has RSVP'd to the Fly-Out and/or the Hangar BBQ on Saturday.

At this time we have 48 people RSVPd for the Fly-Out and 47 for the Hangar BBQ. There are a total of 23 aircraft that plan on landing on Vargas Island and 4 aircraft that will go as far as Tofino. 

Fly Out
We are monitoring the weather. So far it is looking like Saturday will be nice in the Lower Mainland but there is a chance of showers for the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Our first choice is to fly to Vargas Island but if weather does not allow for this our backup destinations in order of preference are:

1. Gillies Bay 
2. Pemberton
3. Merritt

We will send another email on Friday evening to those that RSVPd with an update and the final call will be made around 0630 on Saturday morning.

The Fly-Out Plan
Originally we said that we would all meet in Tofino. Due to the large number of aircraft attending we feel that it is unnecessary to cause chaos at Tofino airport only to all leave at the same time and fly to Vargas (11nm from Tofino).

The plan is that everyone will fly directly to Vargas Island and meet there around 10:00-10:30. 

REVIEW THE RECOMMENDED ARRIVAL PROCEDURE INTO VARGAS

Those of you that have indicated that you only want to go as far as Tofino and catch a ride to Vargas (6 people in 4 aircraft) should arrive in Tofino by 10:00am. 

Ryan and Rick will stop and pick up a few passengers and drop them off at Vargas then return for the rest of you. We will only be accommodating shuttles to Vargas for those that have already indicated that they need a ride via RSVP before 0000lcl March 25th. (If any other people can stop in YAZ and pick up 1 or 2 others please let us know. There are 6 people to move)

We will hopefully be able to light a fire at Vargas or any of the other destinations. If you wish to put a snack on the fire (Marshmallows, wieners etc.... please bring your own. 

We will depart around 1330 and return to the Lower Mainland.

The Hangar Party / BBQ Plan (Rain or Shine)
Once your aircraft is safely tucked in you are invited to join us for a Hangar Party / BBQ at the Pitt Meadows Airport (Hangar 45, Apron 5 / 18300 Ford Road Pitt Meadows).

If you are from out of town and plan on spending the night at the hangar you will be able to park your aircraft in front of the hangar (there are no tie downs). 

The BCGA will be providing some non-alcoholic beverages as well as hamburgers and hot dogs. Please feel free to bring something to share if you wish (not mandatory). Also, please bring any alcoholic beverages that you plan on drinking.

At the BBQ we will enjoy each others company, camaraderie, music and food. We will also be celebrating the BC General Aviation Association's inaugural event as well as our new status as COPA Flight 194. 

Things To Bring to the Party

1. Yourselves.
2. An exaggerated story or two.
3. You own booze.
4. A camping chair
5. Something to share (Optional)
6. A few $$ for the BCGA fundraising box or for a BCGA T-Shirt or Hat (Optional)
    ( T-Shirts - $20   / Hats - $30)
7. If you plan on spending the night bring a ground mat, sleeping bag and a towel

We are really looking forward to seeing you all. If you have any questions do not hesitate to email info@bcaviation.ca

Next update expected Friday Evening. 

The BC General Aviation Association (COPA 194) is pleased to announce its first Fly-Out & BBQ
Saturday March 26th 2016

EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO BOTH EVENTS
THE BBQ / HANGAR PARTY WILL HAPPEN RAIN OR SHINE

Please RSVP For Updates

The Fly-Out Destination is Tofino / Vargas Island
WEATHER ALTERNATE DESTINATIONS ARE:
1. Gillies Bay (CYGB)
2. Pemberton (CYPS)
3. Merritt (CAD5)

(Final destination will be emailed to those that RSVP'd by 0600 on March 26th)

Weather permitting we will all meet at the Tofino Airport (CYAZ) at 1000. From Tofino we will be flying to Vargas Island and landing on the beach where we will enjoy a bonfire, great company and an endless horizon.

RECOMMENDED VARGAS ARRIVAL PROCEDURE

For those members that are not comfortable flying into the Vargas Beach we will plan to have you leave your planes in Tofino and catch a "lift" with someone who will be landing on the beach.
(No man/woman shall be left behind)

At 1400 we will depart Vargas via. Tofino and return to your home airport an you will have ample time to put your plane to bed before the real festivities begin.

** If due to weather we are unable to get to Vargas, the alternate fly-out destinations will be: Pemberton (CYPS), Merritt (CAD5) or Gillies Bay Texada Island (CYGB). The final destination will be announced at 0600 on March 26th.***

The hangar party will begin at 6pm at the Pitt Meadows Airport Apron 5 Hangar #45 (See Map).
Once your plane is tucked in for the night please join us for a hangar party/bbq. There will be food on the grill, beverages in the cooler with great tunes and new friends.  Please bring a few dollars for the BCGA donation jar.

- Hamburgers, Hot Dogs & Snacks will be provided by the BCGA.
- Bring your own alcoholic beverages. 
- If you want to bring a dish to share we will graciously accept.

(The hangar party will happen regardless of weather and regardless if we end up doing the fly-out portion)

At the hangar party we will also be celebrating our new status as COPA Flight #194. 

For those of you who are from out of town or plan to indulge a little more than others you will be welcome to spend the night at the hangar. It is heated and has a full bathroom. Just bring a ground pad and a sleeping bag. We will also arrange for there to be space to park your aircraft outside if you plan on flying in and spending the night.

​For those of you who are a little more classy than the rest of us there is a Ramada just down the road.

See y'all there!

The most recent issue of the Flying-U Guest Ranch newsletter had some very interesting content! Most importantly it appears that the ranch is making an effort to design some of its special programming around aviation.

The Flying-U Ranch is hosting some big aviation events this summer and have even made aviation a big part of their summer sleep away camp. For more information visit their website or see the excerpt from their newsletter below:

Thank you to those of you that took the recent member survey. We heard back from 176 (56%) of you. This is a phenomenal response when it comes to member engagement. 

We are pleased to share the results with you. Please visit the link below to view the results. You will need your BCGA website login in order to view the survey.

If you have not yet set up your password and need assistance please do not hesitate to contact us.

As always please contact us if you have any questions comments or concerns.

The John Anderson family funds an annual $5,000 scholarship, awarded in June to a young aspiring BC pilot, aged 16-19.

 Nominations for 2016 are now open with closing date of March 31, 2016. 

 Winner will be announced by mid June

​Download nomination form.


About the BC Aviation Council Anderson Family Flight Training Scholarship

The John Anderson family of North Vancouver BC has agreed with the BCAC to fund a scholarship, awarded in June each year to a young aspiring pilot.  This Award, called the “Anderson Family Flight Training Scholarship”, will be administered by the BCAC.
We are proud and pleased that Mr. Anderson has placed his confidence in the BCAC in support of our long-standing commitment to education in the aviation and aerospace industry.
This Award may be presented annually to a deserving High School student in British Columbia to assist in completing their Private Pilot’s License.  The student will have shown an interest in Aviation and will have demonstrated a commitment to complete Private Pilot training.  The application for the Award is to be supported in writing by a PCTIA accredited or registered Flight Training school in British Columbia.
Recipient of the Award will be announced by June 15th and winner, if any, will be asked to present an update on their training at the Silver Wings banquet in October.

Dear Members,

Please take 3 Minutes and complete this quick anonymous survey. It will help us better understand our members and allow us to make decisions moving forward that are in the best interests of the association and its members as a whole.

Thank you for your time in advance!

We found this strip on another website and it is located in BC but it says nothing more than its name which is "Redfern" does anybody know where this is or have the coordinates?