YouTube Flying Videos by Jan
Nademlejnsky
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September 1, 2024
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489. Beautiful Flight to Little Fort Area via N Thompson
River, Kamloops, Aug 25, 2024
It was one of my best flights. It
was smooth and interesting. I like this variety of the flying environment: Sun,
deep shadows, high clouds, low clouds; interesting to look at. I followed the
It was almost 200 km (64 mi) of pure
fun in super natural beauty.
488. Exploring Area South of Kamloops Lake, Aug
20, 2024
The original plan was to fly to
Merritt via
487. Flew to Duck Range and S Thompson River
Areas. Kamloops Aug 14, 2024
The original
plan was to check the status and damage of the wildfires east of
486. Exploring S and SW of Kamloops Area, Aug 7, 2024
I had to
change my original plan to fly to Salmon Arm area due to heavy smoke form the
surrounding forest fires. I stayed S and SW of Kamloops which had very decent
air to go through. It was interesting to go from no wind take off to 50 km/h
(31 mph) west wind just 1372 m (4500 ft) higher. This wind direction changed
from W to E in about 300 m (~1000 ft) elevation difference. This is a typical
It was
different plan but loaded with the same amount of fun.
485. Super smooth, 195 km long Flight to Sun
Peaks, Several Lakes and other Peaks, Aug 2, 2024
It was the smoothest flight in my
life. I was taking scenic route to the second largest ski hill in
Lac
Du Bois, McQueen Lake, Isobel Lake, Sullivan Lake, Knouff Lake,
Heffley Lake, Paul Lake, Pinantan Lake, Harper Ski, Sun Peaks
Pictures
484.
Checking Wildfires
and many Lakes around Kamloops BC, Jul 16,
2024
We had
serious lightening storm in BC which started numerous forest fires, including
I was very
impressed with the results. All fires were well under control thanks to quick
aerial response to “kill” it while it is still small. I flew over many lakes
and also highlighted drastic difference between two climate zones just side by
side. That is interesting.
483.
Kamloops Area Flight over Thompson
Rivers In Kamloops Jul 17, 2024
Short flight to check status of Thompson Rivers in
482. Flight around Greenstone Area Lakes and
Kamloops from 10,000 ft. Kamloops
Jul 13, 2024
Another fantastic,
120 km long nature flight to show many
481. Flight to Red Lake and Cache Creek through
Unbeaten Path. Kamloops Jul 4,
2024
I took a
nature flight through beautiful valleys above peaks and many lakes. Set of
lakes around the
Pictures
480.
Scenic Flight to Chase, Monte, Disdero,
Scuitto and other Lakes, Kamloops Jun 28, 2024
Another
perfect flying day which took me to 165 km long super beautiful nature trip.
Pictures
479. Flight to Salmon Arm Downtown through a bit
of Unbeaten Path, Jun 20, 2024
I could not
ask for better flying conditions. The air was smooth like freshly paved road
during my 225 km flight. I choose a bit unusual path over the hidden valleys to
discover another natural beauty. I followed the Salmon Arm shore line and other
parts of downtown. I am showing the burned out vastness of the 2023
Scenic
flight by many lakes mainly:
Jacko, McConnell, Stake, Lac Le Jeune, Shambrook, Walloper,
477. Super Scenic Flight to Clearwater BC
Canada, Jun 6, 2024
I embarked on an incredibly scenic flight, tracing the North Thompson
River valley toward the small town of
476. Turbulent Flight to Sun Peaks Area. May 31,
2024
Everything
in the
475. Turbulent Flight to and from Douglas Lake,
May 15, 2024
It was
beautiful, but not relaxing flight to
474. Exploring NE of Pritchard (Pemberton), Niskonlith Lake, Chase Area
and other. Kamloops, May 10, 2024
An
excellent flight in greening
473. Exploring SW of Kamloops. May 2, 2024
One hour
flight over many lakes, meadows, fields,
hills and other interesting and complex terrain features.
472. Beautiful Scenery above Paul Lake Valley
and Paul Lake. Kamloops, Apr 22,
2024
My trip was
cut short due to area of some serious turbulence kicks. The prospect for better
flying conditions was not good. Regardless, the 100 km trip was worth every
penny. The natural beauty of this region is beyond any description. Check it
out
471. 225 km Flight to Intimidating
Mountainous Area near Lillooet. Kamloops, Apr 14 2024
It was a
challenging flight to potentially very nasty and unpredictable flying
conditions. I wanted to land at small village Lillooet airport (N50.673
W121.892). It is located well below the ring of tall
mountains. I made it to the edge of the SE mountain ridge, just 20 km (12 mi)
SE of the airport and gave up. I looked down into that enormous bowl from 2438
m (8000 ft) formed by south wall covered with snow, while the north facing wall
was dark, with no traces of snow. Those are the best conditions for some
serious thermal turbulence. Regardless, it was spectacular 225 km (140 mi) trip
470. Local Exploration Flight, Kamloops, Apr 12, 2024
It was a
perfect day to showcase
469. Unsuccessful, Turbulent Flight to Sun Peaks, Kamloops, Apr 7, 2024
It looked like
a perfect morning to go flying. Blue sky, crisp air and very light wind. I
decided to fly to
The flight
was very picturesque and relaxing. The sky was all around clear, except the
468. Excellent Flight to Mt Martin; 175 km of
Natural Beauty, Kamloops, Apr 1, 2024
I tried this
flight in Nov 2023 (YT video # 457)
but I was badly kicked out by very nasty turbulence. This time, she was kind to
me. Challenging and definitely not boring terrain was pleasurable background in
this flight. This interesting video in relaxing music can bring your mood up.
The Martin Mt is very well defined mountain on eastern horizon with almost
always first and the last snow glowing above the eastern river valley.
An excellent flying weather for some buzzing around. There is
so much to see just around
466. Test Flight with New Prop. Flying Loops
above North Ridge, Close to Airport. Kamloops, Mar 13, 2024
This was my
first flight with new Warp Drive Prop. I set it to 10 deg pitch, measured on
the prop tip and it was good choice. Checked the carburetors balance and it was
the same to my previous PowerFin prop. Now fiddling around required. I flew
close to airport just in case. It was actually very nice, no surprises flight
with good video capture.
464. Excellent Flight except the Scary Landing. Kamloops North Ridge, Feb 2, 2024
It was
weird day.
The sun
started to peak through around noon. The west half of runway was still totally
fog covered when I started to prepare for flight. It cleared by 1:30 pm, the
time when I took off.
It was very
relaxing and enjoyable flight in crispy clear air, but with many clouds around.
Warm, +6C on the ground and +9C at the top (5500’). Actually, it was too warm,
because I had partially covered the engine radiator for cold flying. The engine
temp reached max, so I had to pull back a bit to keep it from overheating. It
was totally spring like flying.
The fun and
relaxation was dashed just about 50 ft above ground when all hell broke loose.
I felt like garbage bag in the wind. I had to give up in very scary, super
turbulent and gusty conditions. I was glad to make it in one piece. I noticed
the wind sock, while taxing “home”, was moving very erratically and at one
moment it pointed even straight up. It was some experience. 10 min after that
the wind was blowing like mad.
463. My Excellent First Flight of 2024, Kamloops
Jan 21, 2023
I was
rewarded by beautiful and relaxing winter flight after serious snow removal (by hand shovel) from my
access path to runway. There was low ceiling cloud base all around except
462. I had to Shovel all this by Hand before my
Flight, Kamloops Jan 21, 2024
It was
serious exercise to clear all that snow from my hangar up to the taxiway. The
taxiway was closed for me by big snow withdraw from the airport plow. Well many
people pay for the gym membership and I have it free.
I
discovered so many muscles. I didn’t know I have. See the actual flight below
461. South Thompson River Low Water Level. Aerial View from Prichard to Kamloops
Lake, Dec 23, 2023
I flew 48
km (30 mi) east to Pritchard to start the aerial “survey” view of our main
water supply,
460. Waiting for Sunset on Cloudy Day. Kamloops
Dec 20, 2023
I wanted to
capture usually very colorful sky at the sunset. Also, I wanted to do it during
the shortest day. Here I was just one day too early because the weather
forecast for the next day was no good for my flying.
I could see
low level clouds all around except very large hole of blue sky over the Brock
and
459. Exploring North Ridge Area with Beautiful
Clouds Formations, Kamloops Dec
16, 2023
Awesome scenery all around
with still no snow by the airport location, while the terrain all around is
snow covered. One of the best flights with 120 km of pure fun.
458. Above Clouds Flight to Sun Peaks and Harper
Mountain, Kamloops Dec 7, 2023
An
excellent winter, almost no snow, flight to the second largest ski hill in
457. Very Turbulent Flight to Mt Martin &
over South Thompson River, Kamloops Nov 19, 2023
This was
not a relaxing flight, but very challenging and full workout exercise. I was
flying about 100 km (62 mi) in a heavy turbulence with shifting winds in 180
deg direction changes. I wanted to fly to Mt Martin, which is the highest
visible mountain from
This is my best video so far. The weather and
the flying conditions were perfect and the selection of the flight area was
perfect too.
Brock, N
Shore, downtown, Aberdeen, Knutsford, Shumway Lake, Walker Lake, Campbell
Creek, Barnhartvale, Dallas, Harper Ranch, N Ridge, Sun Rivers, Tranquille
River, Tranquille Farm…
455.
Checking 2023 Ross Moore Lake Wildfire
Area Status, Kamloops Oct 29,
2023
My
afternoon flight, surprisingly turbulence free to 2023 summer devastating
wildfire with centered by
It was 170
km (106 mi) of pure fun. Normally I fly early morning to avoid the usual air
turbulence. The morning rising sun makes the visual conditions very difficult. The
east side of the mountains is almost black and the west side is overexposed.
The cameras cannot handle those extreme contrasts in Auto modes.
This time I
took a chance and flew in the high overhead noon sun. It was perfect in the
This video
shows very well the Tobiano and
453. Flying around Kamloops Lake and more.
Kamloops Oct 12, 2023
It was one
of my best and very relaxing, 130 km long flight. Weather was perfect, a bit on
chilly side, but without those typical and sudden bursts of nastiness. The
nature around
452. Flying
to Check Adams Lake Wildfire Situation. Kamloops Oct 1, 2023
I am
following my failed attempt in previous day to check the Shuswap area affected
by
Pictures
451. Flying to Shuswap Area. Kamloops Sep 31,
2023
This was
the day to fly. Almost sunny and no wind. I decided to check the still active,
but almost over the Adam’s
The flying
day was very interesting with spotty terrain from broken clouds shadows and
changing fall terrain colors. Of course I also checked the ever changing
sandbars in the Thompson River delta by
450. Flying over Ross Moore Lake Wildfire Area,
Sep 8, 2023
The flying
conditions were very good and even smoke form wildfires was not too bad. I
decided to check the status of
Pictures
449.
Kamloops Area Covered with
Wildfire Smoke, Sep 2, 2023
It was not
an ideal day to go flying because we had some serious, out of control fires
near by. Also wind direction helped to blow the smoke from the other places
too. I have to turn around in mid
flight, because to visibility was getting critical. I still have very good
video from
448. Low Water Level of Thompson
Rivers. Kamloops Aug 19, 2023
I flew
above both North and
447.
Kamloops in the Middle of
Wildfires. July 23, 2023
It was my
interesting, early morning flight.. Flew south by the monster, out of control,
wildfire by
446. Scenic Flight to Chase, Mt
Martin, Monte, Campbell and Scuitto Lakes. July 18, 2023
Beautiful
and very scenic flight through the
445. Scenic Flight to Little Shuswap Lake. High
Level Views of the River Valley. July 12, 2023
I was
originally flying to Salmon Arm airport, but heavy smoke from surrounding
forest fires made me to turn back earlier. Regardless, I have very good video
of the
444. Scenic Loop to Highland Valley
Copper Mine, Spences Bridge Area, Ashcroft, Savona… July 4, 2023
It was a perfect and scenic flight through very interesting
country sites in various styles. Very nice aerial view of super big, Highland
Valley Copper Mine, open pit operation. I continued then into
443. Flying to Bonaparte Lake &
Bonaparte Provincial Park via McLure. June 30, 2023
It was 177 km
(110 mi) long flight of pure fun. I tried several times to fly to
I was
really surprised with number of lakes and lash green and beautiful areas. I
also saw ravaged areas from 2021 forest fire, but the nature is slowly
recovering from that disaster. I captured the
442.
Flying to Deadman Falls over Tobiano,
Savona, Deadman River and Straight Line Back. June 26, 2023
I visited
the Deadman Falls in 2021 by motorcycle.
I also flew very nearby previously, but at that time I didn’t know about the
waterfalls there. I decided to check it out. It was very good, 153 km long and
very enjoyable flight. The scenery and the nature are spectacular. I followed
the
441.
Flight through Nicola Valley to Merritt,
Logan Lake and Tunkwa Lake, Kamloops June 17, 2023
This was
the day to fly. Absolutely the best conditions to do video. The fluffy clouds
created beautiful spotty patterns on the ground. Everything around was in full
green and healthy looking shape. I flew to small city Merritt airport through
one of the most scenic region
440. Local
Flight to Test Gimbal Head GoPro Camera, Kamloops June 6, 2023
I replaced
my Insta360 X2 camera with GoPro Hero 7B mounted in 3 axes stabilizer Removu
S1. The 360 deg camera is very good, but editing and lining the wanted views is
very tedious and time consuming. I was looking for better results, but I was
disappointed. I was hoping that motorized Gimbal head with 3 gyroscopes would
be proper solution. It is not as shown in the video. I will be going back to
Insta360 X2 as front view camera. You could still enjoy aerial views of
439. Scenic Flight from Vernon to Kamloops in
Extreme Turbulence. Part 2 of 2, May 31, 2023
The return
leg from
I chose
more scenic road through the
438. Direct and Peaceful Flight to
Vernon, Part 1 of 2. May 31, 2023
I was
considering this flight to neighboring airport in
I was up in
the air at 6:15 am to avoid heat changes from cold(er) morning to hot noon,
which brings turbulence. I chose straight line flight over the mountains to
437. Flight to Barriere, Whitecroft,
Barnhartvale, 180 km of Beauty. May 16, 2023
This was
another beautiful flight through less traveled areas. I followed the
I tried many times for several years
to fly close to the Rock Needle of Buse Hill, but the weather conditions had
always different plans. It looked promising this time, but my main, full view
camera battery died. I flew close, but still encounter unpleasant turbulence
there. I completed my journey above the south side of the
436. Flight to Sun Peaks, Chase and High Water
Level of South Thompson River. May 19, 2023
Beautiful
flight to quickly changing Sun Peaks from winter ski paradise to green mountain
playground. I continued to small village Chase, which is start of
It is
interesting to compare the river valley character between those two extremes.
See my video # 432 from Apr 14, 2023
for comparison.
435. Return Flight from Cache Creek to Kamloops,
May 11 2023
This is the
second part (video #434) of my trip
to Cache Creek to see the flooding situation there. The flight is threading
through very interesting geographical nature with beauty in every direction.
434. Flight to Cache Creek to Check the River
Flooding Situation. Kamloops, May 11 2023
It was an
interesting flight in the Thompson and Bonaparte river valleys to see the
flooding river conditions. Small town of Cache Creek was already affected by
damaging flood and expecting additional flood by
I was
considering this flight for several years now, but the terrain looks and is
very intimidating. The gold containing Tranquille Creek is running in very
deep, steep and narrow canyon. Definitively any mechanical or even
environmental failure would be total disaster in that hostile environment. I
started early in the morning to limit my exposure to expected turbulence, but
it was still not relaxing flight. The strong headwind created mechanical
turbulence behind and around the hills. This combined with warm and cold sides
of the canyon created very good turbulence. Well, I made it through! It is very
nice in the
The sky was
very clear and visibility perfect so you could see the Costal Mountain Ridge
still covered in snow.
432.
Complete South Thompson River, Low Water Level Aerial Survey, Kamloops, Apr 14, 2023
Here is my
aerial survey of all South Thompson River from Chase to
It was very
nice and interesting flight. I received warning form the Kamloops Flight
Services about ash from Russian (
431. Kamloops from the Air in Heavy Turbulence,
Apr 11, 2023
I wanted to
document extremely low water level in whole
I did not
make it too far this time, because of very strong and unpleasant
turbulence. I was getting air sick and I
did not want to push my luck. I had to give up. I hope I could make it soon. I
brought very interesting video from around the
430.
Flight to Lac Le Jeune and Detail Survey
of Kamloops Sandbars, Kamloops Mar 29, 2023
I flew over
scenic road to Lac Le Jeune Provincial Park, campground and residential area.
While
429.
Checking Low Water Level of North and
South Thompson Rivers, Kamloops
Mar 20, 2023
.
428.
Flying to Buse Lake in no Fun
Turbulence. Mar 16, 2023
I have been
trying 11 years to do close up of Buse Hill rock face needle, but the flying
conditions had been too dangerous to do it. The turbulence was too much for my
fun even far away from the hill. I toured above several
427. Flying
to Harper Ranch, Campbell Creek Rd to Knutsford, Ajax, Afton, Cherry Creek,
Kamloops, Mar 9, 2023
I ventured
a bit behind the hills in area which might not be very well known. All this is
presented with easy listening music. You could see: Brock,
Pictures
426. Flying
to Harper Ski Hill in very Good Turbulence. Kamloops Mar 3, 2023
Beautiful,
but turbulent flight to
425. Flying
over the City. Short, Intro Video. Kamloops Feb 11, 2023
424. Flying
over East of City, Valleyview, Dallas, Barnhartvale and then Sun Rivers, North
Shore and Brock. Kamloops Feb 11, 2023
This is the second part of my detailed city fly over.
423. Flying
in Survey Pattern over South Side of City, Kamloops Feb 15, 2023
It decided to do detail fly over the south side of
422. Flying
to Beautiful Area of Walhachin. Kamloops, Feb 9, 2023
It was beautiful winter day to have some good fun in the air.
Sunny sky and temperature above freezing added to that special mood. The
Walhachin area has very interestingly carved winding river banks, looking like
being made by a machine. The flight to that place goes through many natural
wonders looking spectacular from the ground and the air. Places to see from 113
km long flight: North Shore, Domtar, river junction, Aberdeen, Dufferin, Afton
mine, Cherry Creek area, Tobiano, hoodoos, Balancing Rock, Savona, Thompson
River rec areas, Walhachin, South Thompson River delta sand bars…
421. Flying
with the Clouds. Kamloops, Jan 15, 2023
This video
has background music
Another interesting
flying conditions: Heavy, multi-layer clouds, blue sky, bright sunshine, dark
ground areas. I covered North Ridge, Batchelor area, North Thompson River,
Westsyde, Mt Mara, Tranquille Creek valley, Lac du Bois Area. The
Tranquille-Criss Creek, normally deep and steep valley was under clouds. This
created very interesting visual effect. See also nice Sundog (Halo) effect in
the clouds
I had
interesting moment before my landing when looking for entry hole in the clouds.
I had to ask the control tower to check it for me, which they did. It was
difficult to see anything except very bright white fluffs reflecting the sun
directly into my face. Another moment happened while I was taking pictures
above Batchelor subdivision where I was hit with sudden and strong updraft,
which almost ripped the control bar from my hand. It was fun and interesting
flight.
420. Flying with the Clouds.
Kamloops, Jan 15, 2023
This video has no background music.
Another
interesting flying conditions: Heavy, multi-layer clouds, blue sky, bright
sunshine, dark ground areas. I covered North Ridge, Batchelor area, North
Thompson River, Westsyde, Mt Mara, Tranquille Creek valley, Lac du Bois Area.
The Tranquille-Criss Creek, normally deep and steep valley was under clouds.
This created very interesting visual effect. See also nice Sundog (Halo) effect
in the clouds
I had
interesting moment before my landing when looking for entry hole in the clouds.
I had to ask the control tower to check it for me, which they did. It was
difficult to see anything except very bright white fluffs reflecting the sun
directly into my face. Another moment happened while I was taking pictures
above Batchelor subdivision where I was hit with sudden and strong updraft,
which almost ripped the control bar from my hand. It was fun and interesting flight.
Picturest.
419. Kamloops
Winter Sunset: Shorter Version of #418 Video. Dec 28, 2022
This is a
shorter version of the video #418, with mainly views from the front camera. It
is made for people liking to look around while enjoying the beautiful Kamloops
natural beauty. This version has no music, just an engine and wind sound.
Pictures
418. Kamloops
Winter Sunset: Uncut Front Camera View. Dec 28, 2022
This is a long
version of the video #417, with mainly views from the front camera. It is made
for people liking to look around while enjoying the beautiful Kamloops natural
beauty. This version has no music, just an engine and wind sound.
Pictures
417. Kamloops
Winter Sunset, Part 2 of 2. Dec 28, 2022
Spectacular
atmospheric conditions were captured in this late afternoon video. High clouds
above, low clouds just below, orange glow from setting down sun, rainbow, blue
sky, spectacular clouds colors and shapes…. Majority of my flight was very
peaceful and relaxing, but also with sharp awakening by a local turbulence. Good
aerial view of Batchelor Hill area, Brock, glowing in the sun Mt Peter, Harper
Ranch area, Dallas, North and NW Ridge area, Tranquille Farm / Padova area.
Pictures
416. Kamloops
Winter Sunset, Part 1 of 2. Dec 28, 2022
Finally,
some decent weather for very nice late afternoon flight. This is short video
from above Brock and North Shore areas. I forgot to turn my main camera on, so
I had to turn back and start again. The sky was spectacular with beautiful
effect from sun setting behind the hills.
415.
Cold Birds Views from Kamloops Areas.
Dec 13, 2022
I was
waiting whole month for this moment due to unreasonable weather. It was worth
of wait. The air was smooth like silk which took off the usual nasty weather
related surprises. I am showing very detail views of
Pictures
414. Spectacular
Flight over Snowy Downtown, Sun Rivers, Harper Ranch and North Ridge. Kamloops
Nov 12, 2022
Finally,
another nice flight after long pause due to bad weather. Everything looks even
more spectacular with the contrasting snow covered and bare surfaces. Check it
out.
413. Local,
170 km Long Flight till 30 min after the Sunset. Kamloops Oct 15, 2022
Enjoyable
evening flight to see Kamloops sunset and then till the end of allowable legal
limit, which is 30 min pass the sunset.
Interesting
views of Kamloops, Knutsford areas, North Ridge and Kamloops in nightlight.
412. Rough Flying to See Ravaged Area by 2021
Wildfire of Monte Lake. Kamloops Oct 12, 2022
This was my
3rd attempt to see the effect of the 2021 devastating wildfire in Monte Lake
area. The bad turbulence always won over my bravery. Not this time. I stuck
with it and even when I complicated it with my 1 pm take-off during heat laden
air. The timing guaranteed good bumps. I was not disappointed. The visibility
was much better than during my usual early morning take offs, but the
turbulence was relentless. I was really swearing into my helmet after some
serious jolts.
The area
looks like a different world. I felt like being in the volcano crater. Poor
residents: they had to live through this nature hell. I think I have very
interesting video from 5 cameras documenting my 130 km flight.
411.
Fantastic River Sandbars from the Air,
Sep 27, 2022
The end of
my 133 km (83 mi) journey, flight over the South Thompson River sandbars. They
are forming very interesting, complex, ever-changing and very beautiful
under/above water creations. Two minutes video.
Pictures
410. Flight
to Red Lake to Check Results of the Devastating 2021 Sparks Forest Fire, Sep
27, 2022
Flight started flying west, above the Kamloops North Ridge,
following the steep and rugged north shoreline of Kamloops Lake. I then
followed the Copper Creek farming valley to the Red Lake area which was
devastated by the incredible 2021 Sparks wildfire. This fire consumed 737 km2
(280 mi2) of forest. It was interesting to see how such an enormous fire burned
very selectively in many places. Some trees were untouched with many islands of
trees still green, while everything around is black. I continued to Deadman Rd
valley with several low passes by very interesting steep cliff rock formations,
reminding me of many Europeans castles built similarly on steep hills.
Strangely, the air was filled with fire smoke, while nothing was burning up
wind.
I finished my journey with several low passes over the ever-changing underwater
sandbars, forming very interesting, complex and beautiful creations.
Pictures
409. Nice
Flight in Serious Turbulence, Kamloops Sep 7, 2022
It looked
like an ideal condition for flying, but the reality changed very quickly into a
nasty turbulence. Decent condition changed within 10 km into scary situation.
Cool morning, no wind, cloudy without thermals so why this sudden change? I had
to change my original plan because I did not want to push my luck. It was still
very nice and eventually peaceful flight. Test
408.
My Stupid Mistake and Surprised Trike
Reaction, Kamloops Aug 28, 2022
This is
short video taken from my previous video #407. I am showing in details my
serious mistake and consequence when I forgot to buckle up the seat belt.
My seat
belt is not the best kind. It has the flip up latch to open it. This poor
design allowed me to unbuckle in flight (3x) when lifting the neck camera. I
solved this unpleasant problem with the funny pack covering the buckle. The
camera strap does not accidentally unbuckle me now, but complicate situation to
buckle up in flight.
The air was
very good and steady. I set (tuned) the electric wing trim to level, hands free
flight first. The complication started when trying to place both belt ends
under the funny pack with camera on the top of it. Then, suddenly and instantly
the control bar went to max forward up to the front brace. I did not change the
RPM. It had to be vertical puff of air. This proved my point that it is
important to relax your hands on control bar, but still control or dampen the
bar/wing from reaching the extreme movement due to the asymmetrical vertical
air movements.
407.
Turbulence Changed my Plan to Fly to
another Nature Beauty, Kamloops Aug 28, 2022
Originally
I had different plan, but totally unexpected and ever increasing turbulence
made me turn around and look for some more peaceful place to fly. I found it
and it was very beautiful country site with many lakes, hills and deep valleys.
I had also one stupid moment shoving how close I was to some serious problem. I
will show more details in my follow up short video to show my stupidity from
different camera angles. You will get the pictures in this video.
Pictures
406. Flight
to Salmon Arm Airport Coffee and Return Flight Back at Hot Noon, Aug 17, 2022
I was
considering this flight for long time, but the hot noon weather effect scared
me from doing it. Salmon Arm flying club, about one hour away, has Wednesday
morning coffee fly-ins, which starts at 10 am. Normally, I am back from my
flights by 9 am to prevent the nastiness of the hot weather turbulence. This
time it was different. I took off at 9 am (22 C / 72 F) and returned at noon at
29 C (84 F). The first leg was a straight line over some mountain area very
hostile to emergency landing. I encounter turbulence close to the peak. The
turbulence is not the problem, but the apprehension about what will come next.
Is this the first warning, would it get worse, what to do next. I could go
higher, but eventually I had to go low too… Salmon Arm is very member active
airport located is beautiful area by enormous Shuswap Lake. I had coffee and
Tim bits, took some pictures, talked to other pilots and headed back.
I followed
the highway and the river valley through the civilization on my way back. The
sun was in my back, so it was better for the cameras. This video is extract
from my 10 hours, 5 camera videos, 214 km (133 mi) long flight through one of
the best nature in this region. There was practically no heat turbulence except
above the concrete runways, like always.
405.
Beautiful Flying to Douglas Lake over
Many Other Lakes, Aug 12, 2022
190 km (118
mi) long trip through the most picturesque hills, valleys and lake areas to a
special recreational area of Douglas Lake Ranch. The ranch is owned by an USA company as a
self contained small village even with private airstrip and church. I visited
this area several times by road and flying there and every time I discover
something new. Enjoy my video!
Pictures
404.
Mountain Flying to Greenstone Mt, Ajax
Mine, Kamloops Downtown and Watching Creek Wild Fire, Aug 6, 2022
It was very
relaxing and a bit colder flight (11 C (52 F) to very nice area of Greenstone
mountain. It used to be the forestry
fire watch tower, before they switched to satellites and electronics. The shack
is still there and maintained be volunteers even though it was several times
vandalized. It is one of the highest peaks in that region which offers perfect
360 deg view. I flew to Ajax dormant gold mine for low path views, Kamloops
downtown, Kamloops landmarks Mt Peter & Paul. Finally I flew for aerial
view of still classified as out of control wild fire started by Jul 29 lightning. I have been watching
and video this Watching Creek fire progress from ground up and now from top
down. You could see defensive reddish lines from the local jet water bombers
and fire break path to stop the fire progress. It is still burning (smoldering)
in the E and NE slopes.
403. Hot Summer Morning Flight to Isobel and
Many Other Lakes, Jul 28, 2022
I took off
at 7:30 in 24 C (75 F) sweating temperature to cool off in higher up, but no
luck. Regardless, I flew over another spectacular and diverse terrain with many
lakes, hills, deep valleys, meadows and forest. I am shoving this beautiful
Kamloops region which is relatively easily accessible by the roads and very
popular with locals looking for a fun in nature. Places to see:
Long Lake,
Lac Du Bois, McQueen Lake, Griffin Lake, Isobel Lake, Battle Bluff, Frederick,
Tranquille Creek Canyon, Tranquille farm, Kamloops Lake, North Ridge
Pictures
402.
Another Fantastic Flight to Knuff Lake
and Sun Peaks, Second Largest Ski Resort in Canada, Jul 20, 2022
Morning
flight to beautiful recreational area of Knuff and Sullivan lakes and then to
Canada famous Sun Peaks. Sun Peaks is the 2nd largest ski resort in
Canada. It is year round super fun to spend time there. I had opportunity to
add extra perspective into that spectacular playground. I was a bit chilly at
8000 ft (2438 m).
401. Flight to Ashcroft and Landing in Cache
Creek, Jul 14, 2022
Perfect
flight in spectacular river valley and good combination of sun and cloud for
good video. I did this route several times and it is always challenging with
very variable weather conditions. There are several valleys meeting in one
point which is very often rough to fly through. After every landing in Cache
Creek I made decision not to land there anymore, but, like this time, I did it
again. This is short video from 165 km flight made into very nice music. Check
our luckiness to live in such complex natural beauty. I had very rare
opportunity to video two opposing trains in the same place, but separated by
river. It looks like model trains running in the loop.
400.
Flight over Mountain to Chase and S
Thompson River Track Back, Jul 2, 2022
It was one
of my best ever flight; perfectly relaxing and without any unpleasant weather
surprises. I flew in straight line over the Paul Lake and Harper Ski Hill to
Chase at 7:30 am with sun directly into my face. I could not wait for my return
flight with sun in my back and perfect visibility. This video is made into very
happy and jumpy music to boost your mood. I spent an extra time over the Sun
Rivers subdivision, spectacularly located and built under Kamloops famous
landmarks, Mt Peter & Paul.
Pictures
399. Hot Evening Flight over Flooding Rivers,
Jun 25, 2022
It was the
first very hot day and in this case evening, 30C (86 F) at 8 pm. I flew to
check the status of our two major rivers flooding. It was a bit let down,
because the water level was lower then previous night. This is good news that
the predicted, half century flooding will not happen. We cannot do victory lap,
because the nature could always surprise us with own quirks.
It was very
good flight and the resulting video, fully annotated is showing it. I really
like to read your comments, which is the only reward for my hours of hopefully
not wasted life.
Pictures
398. Flying over Flooding S Thompson River from
Chase for Kamloops Lake. Jun 20, 2022
I flew 150
km in early morning to see the state of the South Thompson River. This followed
my previous flight (video) in Jun 11, 2022 over N Thompson River.
The
flooding of N and S Thompson rivers is an annual event. Each spring those
rivers change from shallow rivers with many islands, beautiful beaches and
interestingly sculptured sand bars into raging rivers (almost like small lakes)
flooding many low laying fields and areas. Time to time they create disaster
floods as marked on the attached photo of the historic floods. So far, the
rivers are at annual flood, but forecast is for disastrous flood in the level
of 1972. It was very relaxing flight above all green and yellow terrain except
usual and sudden turbulence to wake me up from my daydreams.
397. Flying over Kamloops Flooding Rivers in
Turbulence. Landing Experiment. Jun 11, 2022
An
unusually colder spring delayed snow melting in the mountains. Finally we had
several very warm days and mainly nights which is now accelerating the snow
melting. The rivers cannot keep up and so we are expecting some serious floods.
I flew to check it out. The North and South Thompson rivers are already
spilling out in the low laying areas. It was almost relaxing flight until I hit
serious turbulence in the 7:30 morning sun heat. This cut into my original
plan.
I did also
my pre landing experiment to lower the effect of dark and hot runway in the
middle of green and cold grass. It really took an age from usual unpleasant
turbulent landings. My experiment worked.
396. Flight to Buse Lake Area in Sudden and
Crazy Turbulences. May 29, 2022
Early
morning flight into a special natural rock formation in very weird weather. I
started with no wind, which was changing up to 53 km/h. The flying was from
very relaxing to instant heavy turbulence. Landing was interesting too with
head wind speed from 52 km/h to no wing within 1000’ elevation
difference. I was hoping to fly close to the Buse Hill rock face, but the
weather conditions there were too risky.
Pictures
395.
Beautiful Flight to Paska and Other
Lakes. Playing in the Clouds. May 24, 2022
Super
flight to Paska Lake Recreation Resort, low level fluffy clouds to Ajax mine
and Kamloops area.
394. Beautiful Flight to Roche Lake Area. May
21, 2022
This was
one of my best flights over many lakes, meadows, hills and valleys. The sky was
sprinkled with scattered clouds creating interesting patterns of shadows down
below. The flight was mix of relaxation to full attention from turbulence. It
was also my best landing with zero kinetic energy into my wheels. I was
impressed.
393.
Turbulent Flight to Deadman River
Valley, May 17, 2022
The flight
was almost relaxing until I entered the Deadman Valley (NW of Savona, BC). I
experienced very good turbulence dance and on few occasions “trap door open”
feelings. I was pushed up at 1000’ per minutes in one location. There
were now clouds above me. Overall, it was very good flight in, as always,
spectacular nature.
392. Flying between Battle Bluffs and Harper
Ranch in Heavy Turbulence, May 10, 2022
My original
plan was much more ambitious, but I had to change it due to increasingly more
unpleasant turbulence. Terrain is more beautiful with greens covering the
majority of its surface. My flight is over the most beautiful natural area of
Kamloops showing the diversity and complexness of our nature.
391.
Flying to Tobiano, Savona Mt, Tunkwa
Lake, Logan Lake, Lac Le Jeune, Ajax, Petersen Creek, Apr 23, 2022
Flying 145
km round trip through some spectacular and also sad scenery. The SW portion of
my flight was over the remnants of the devastating 2021 forest fire(s). It
looks interesting, but also very sad. The small town (pop 2500) Logan Lake was
the center of unwanted attention during that fire. The people saved themselves
by installing external sprinkler systems on their structures. It was very close
call.
I captured
also different and complete view of Tobiano and nearby hoodoo areas. East side
of Mt Savona looks very interesting.
I flew over
several still frozen lakes around Lac Le Jeune. I had an opportunity to spot
the three large flocks of cranes, but much lower then I was flying. I made a
few attempts to get closer, but they were faster in their maneuvers. They were
very well aware of my presents above them.
I made
closer aerial video of the Petersen Creek canyon and Kamloops downtown. Don’t
forget to watch the river underwater structures, my popular and continually
changing nature beautification. It was very good flight
390. Flying to Louis Creek, Whitecroft and
Heffley Lake, Apr 15, 2022
It was very
nice flight through the backcountry in deep valleys. In 2021 fire season
the Whitecroft was in unwanted center of attention when it was part of very bad
forest fire. The fire result could be seen in video. It was very close to the
Whitecroft village and just barely separated from the very popular Sun Peaks
Ski Resort, the 2nd largest ski resort in Canada. We were very
lucky.
Nice view
of still frozen Heffley Lake.
The landing
was as expected, hairy. There was no reported wind at the airport, the air was
about 5C, but the dark runway was heated to perhaps to 15C. This created very
unpleasant turbulence near the runway surface. I also felt twice sudden push
from the back, which was the first one for me. I was bounced in every
direction, which is not very pleasant experience few feet from the ground.
389. Round Flight to Merritt BC through
Beautiful Nicole Valley, Mar 29, 2022
I few to
small city airport in Merritt. Merritt was seriously damaged during the autumn
2021 flooding. Some houses and properties were destroyed. I could not see much
of that effect from the air. Merritt is located in beautiful mountain
surroundings and connected with famous Coquihalla Hwy well known from reality
TV show Highway thru Hell. I flew over the city and stopped for brief chat with
local pilot, changed camera battery and flew back close to “Highway thru Hell”.
Sun heat started thermal turbulence already (11 am), but it was not too bad. It
was very nice, 190 km long flight.
Pictures
388.
Exploring Kamloops Area Natural Beauty,
Mar 24, 2022
I am
presenting fantastic beauty of the Kamloops NE Ridge area. I flew above 3 herds
of wild horses grazing in very picturesque setting. It was windy, but not gusty
day to have very good flying experience. Join me to see what only a few people
could experience.
Pictures
387. Flying back from Cache Creek Challenging
Airport, Part 2 of 2. Mar 16, 2022
This is second leg of my flight as describes in video #386. I
was not looking forward to take off due to high wind in about 45 deg to my
left. It was bumpy, but not too bad. Trip scenery is always spectacular,
because it is very diverse. It is very complex terrain all around us. I wish it
was a bit green to make it more colorful, but it is still too early for that.
The flight was very easy and smooth except, of course, just above Kamloops
runway. The sun was already cooking and with no wind, there were very good
thermals all the way down.
Pictures
386. Flying to Cache Creek Challenging Airport,
Part 1 of 2. Mar 16, 2022
The weather was just great with blue sky to fly 45 min west
to small, single runway, mountain type airport. I was following Thompson River
valley, over Tobiano, Savona, Walhachin and Cache Creek. This flight was over
relatively safe terrain for some emergency landings. The airport location
creates challenging (to say it mildly) landing conditions. It is the place
where all kind of mountain wind streams are colliding. I am used to an
“unlimited” space at Kamloops airport, so everything else looks very small from
the air and it looks really small. The short and narrow runway is surrounded by
Coastal Mountain Ridge, snow covered on the west, deep and relatively narrow,
sun heated valley on the east. South side is even worse with a hill then narrow
valley and then steep up to the runway edge. I was not trilled with stacked up
concrete barriers just of the west side of runway. I had a hard time to spot
the wind sock. Eventually I spotted straight line of the wind sock, indicating
the wind speed is at least 25 knots from south. I was considering skipping the
landing, but eventually I did landed there. I stayed just a few minutes to
replace battery in one camera and take some pictures. There is practically
nothing around, because of the 2018 devastating area fire.
Pictures
385. Exploring North Thompson River with
Insta360 One X2 Camera. Mar 6, 2022
I had very nice flight while testing additional features of
my new camera, Insta360 One X2. In this video, I used explanatory comments of
tested features.
Pictures
384. Super Day over
Super Nature – The Way the Birds See It. Mar 3, 2022
It was unbelievable sunny day with very complex sky and
complex ground. Dark and still some snow covered surface created indescribable
nature complexness which would be a big challenge for any artist to paint. I
tested my Insta360 One X2 camera in another location, but I am still not happy
with the result. The next time I will mount it on the wing. This video plays
into classical music, creating relaxing mood. The last few years of camera
technology progress surprises me every time I view my videos. Let me know if
you like it.
383. Testing my New
Camera Insta360 One X2, Part 2 of 2. Feb 18, 2022
Side mounted camera vibrated too much in previous video. This
time I mounted it up front on the trike nose. Resulted video, which looks like
globe must be edited into viewable clips to be integrated and synchronize with
other GoPro cameras. A big advantage is that I could keep horizon level in
turns. This has to be done manually in post editing process. Also the GoPro
camera video could be speeded up max 3x without too much of extra distractions.
Faster it plays more jerking it become. I tested the Insta360 in speed 8x
faster, which translates into perceived flying speed of 960 km/h (597 mph). I
was very impressed with the results. This and part 1 videos just test the features. I will be
very careful not to be sucked into gimmicks. The bottom line is that camera is
very impressive.
Pictures
382. Testing my New
Camera Insta360 One X2, Part 1 of 2. Feb 18, 2022
Just bought
the Insta360 One X2 camera and testing it in two positions. In this test it is
on my side long mount. The bracket is long but it is vibrates too much.
I am
learning totally new field of editing. This camera is actually two cameras
together taking 360 global views. I have to edit individual views, play speed,
horizon angle correction in turns…, just more time to kill. I also wanted to
know if it will integrate with my GoPro cameras. So far it works. This and part
2 videos just test the features. I will be very careful not to be sucked into
gimmicks. The bottom line is that camera is very impressive.
Pictures
381. Interrupted
Flight due to Heavy Turbulence and Strong Wind. Feb 10, 2022
It was
beautiful sunny day with no wind and +2C (36F). I was planning to fly to
different airport, Merritt BC. I noticed over Knutsford area my ground speed
was 177km/h (110mph)!! Wow, that’s the first one! I was pushed by 65km/h
(40mph) tail wind. Such a drastic change between elevations.
I knew that
I would have hard time to fly in that headwind back. It was decision time:
Should I or shouldn’t I? Suddenly terrible turbulence started which bounced me
very good. It decided for me. I turned back and was inching towards Kamloops
while being kicked by the Mother Nature. I heard from another pilot that it is
decent at 7000ft, and it was. Practically no turbulence but painfully slow
progress in that 65km/h headwind. GPS was showing that I am still moving, but I
have no sense of motion from my elevation. I was not looking forward the fly
down through that nastiness, but it was not bad west of the airport. Eventually
I made it through into total calmness. Wow. What an experience.
Pictures
380. My Best Flight to
Harper and Sun Peaks Ski Hills. Feb 6, 2022
This was my age depressing, 75th birthday flight. I needed to
take some edges of those “It’s over life feelings”. Fortunately, the weather was perfect
to relax in the air. I flew first to Harper Mountain Ski area, showing our
smaller ski hill. The next on my list was the 2nd largest ski area
in Canada, Sun Peaks. I made several fly-arounds to show the vastness of that
enormous playground region. The visibility was very good to see 100 km or so
all around. It is not boring and uniform terrain, but very complex and diverse
configurations in all directions. Bring your coffee, sit down and watch our
beauty from very unique perspective. Watch it on large screen of smart TV. It
is worth it.
Pictures
379. Day to Explore Natural
Beauty of Kamloops, SW and NW Areas. Jan 24, 2022
This was one of the best days for winter flying with smooth air and very
little weather surprises.
I flew over many frozen lakes and mountain ridges, eventually view Kamloops
form 8,000’ elevation from over the NW Ridge. https://youtu.be/9K_CWbdOuc8
Pictures
378. Beautiful Winter
Flying in N Thompson Valley, Jan 18, 2022
Nice flying day to get some fresh air and have fun with it.
Pictures
377. Kamloops First
Flight in 2022. Relaxing, Awesome and
Turbulent, Jan 15, 2022
After long period of very cold weather, the Mother Nature smartened up
with quickly disappearing snow and above freezing temperatures. Patches of the
disappearing snow created very interesting ground patterns with awesome
results. It was very good flight at totally relaxing mode, but also with some
shaking up turbulence. New camera mount and view angle.
376. Kamloops Winter Beauty, Dec 19, 2021
It was cold, but sunny so it looked very inviting to go flying. We
received some snow, but wind formed many high drifts. I spent more then hour to
shovel my access to runway.
I started at -7C (19F), but ended up at -10C (14F). I found that all my
4 GoPro cameras were off when landed, while batteries showed 100%. This was
serious letdown. Eventually I learned that Hero 7 cameras are good only down to
0C (32F). Previously I had few unintended cameras off at minus 5C, but I
thought it is the usual GoPro quirk. They definitely did not like -10C (14F).
BTW, it is nor written in the manual. I Goggled it. Regardless, I have only half on my flight
which sill shows Kamloops in its full winter beauty. My, high tech and
expensive Volt heated gloves were also disappointing. I did not feel any
difference between my regular mitts and these gloves. My thumb and 1st
finger were still getting numb.
Pictures
375. Low Level
Flight over Kamloops Downtown, Tobiano and Spectacular North Ridge, Dec 6, 2021
It was perfect flying day at -6C (21F) and some fresh snow. I was lucky
again not to worry about wind nastiness and turbulences, so I could enjoy
closer (then normally) proximity of Kamloops area natural beauty. I have good
views of snow covered Tobiano. I then crossed the Kamloops Lake to Frederick
area and followed steep cliffs and deep valleys around the Battle Bluffs. I
flew those areas many times, but every time I discover something new. It is
never boring for me.
Pictures
374. Low Level
Flight over Kamloops Downtown, Mt Peter & Paul and Frederick Road, Dec 3,
2021
The weather was perfect for low level flying without worrying about
turbulence and wind flow over different hills. I follower Petersen Creek bike
path, then to Mt Peter and Paul to show how big it is on the top. The next
points were low level flights over Mt Mara, Battle Bluffs and surrounding hills
and valleys. Finally I follow the Frederick Rd to small off grid residential
area, Frederick by Kamloops Lake. This road has very steep grades, sharp turns
and twists, which would be very challenging to drive for many people. It
appears that it is not big deal for Frederick residents to drive their big, bus
like, motorhomes and big holiday trailers. That area is spectacular.
373. Low Level
Exploration of Phenomenal Walhachin Area, Nov 26, 2021
The river banks of Walhachin (small village west of Savona,
BC) area are very interesting natural formations. The banks are very steep and
with perfect angle of repose. They look like made by a landscaping company with
army of people raking those slopes by hand. The river is relatively flat so the
river meandered in many snake like patterns and carved those 3D twisted slopes.
I attempted several times before to fly low there. This time, the air
conditions were perfect to allow me to have closer look. It was fantastic
experience. I followed the north ridge of Kamloops Lake which is on its own a
special experience of complex and diverse terrain.
I
made mistake in my video labeling: What I noted there as
Juniper Beach RV Park is in fact the Rock and River Rustic Retreat located in
Thompson Rivers Estates. Juniper Beach is further to the west.
Pictures
372. The Best Time to Fly; First Snow Made
Everything Even More Beautiful, Nov 19, 2021
I love this time of the year: Fresh snow, blue sky and no wind and
turbulence. The snow really enhances the Kamloops area interesting and complex
terrain into even more interesting patterns. It highlights every crack, ridge,
dips, road, trail… in contrast white and brown colors. It looks like photos
enhanced by a paint program gimmicks. It was supper flight above and around
clouds. I used very relaxing, lazy weekend music for your enjoyment.
371. Flight
over the most Beautiful Areas in Kamloops, Nov 13, 2021
It was beautiful flight with some serious turbulence too. I covered
areas in Dufferin, Aberdeen, Rosehill, Barnhartvale, Harper Ranch, NE Ridge,
North Shore and Brock. Check my guided excursion made into relaxing music.
Pictures
370. Guided Tour through Kamloops Area Beauty,
Oct 31, 2021
I think that this is one of my best videos. Slow and low over North
Ridge popular hiking areas, Lac Du Bois Grasslands Westsyde, Bachelor Heights.
I paid a special attention of slow flying over Ground Zero of “Indian
Residential School” awareness. This Kamloops beautiful area become center off
world wide attention after finding of potential school children unmarked
graves. This unfortunate event exploded into movement right across Canada. It
become as symbolic with “Every Child Matters” as the USA “Black Life Matters”.
I posted some links under my YouTube video for more info. Canadian PM visited
that site and even Pope will visit Canada in 2022 with big hope that he will
visit Kamloops, Ground 0 of those, unfortunate historical events.
Info Links:
https://www.bcachievement.com/2020/09/29/every-child-matters-the-meaning-behind-orange-shirt-day/
Enjoy relaxing and even upbeat music. Watch
it on large screen for better experience.
369. Relaxing
Flight over Beautiful Countryside of Knutsford Area, Low Level Downtown and
More, Oct 30, 2021
Chilly, sunny and no wind morning flight over some of the most beautiful
areas of Kamloops. I covered NE ridge by Sun Rivers, south across Dallas to
west ridge of Campbell Creek Rd, Beresford lakes, above clouds in SE Knutsford
area, close up of Ajax mine, Jacko and Inks lakes, close look over Aberdeen,
downtown and many more places. Just listening to the video classical music is
experience on its own. Check it out.
368. Challenging
and Turbulent Adventure Flight around many Kamloops Lakes and Provincial Parks,
Oct 19, 2021
It was fun, but a bit challenging flight. I had to wait till 1 pm for
sky to open and it really did. Still a bit hazy, but happy, sunny day.
I flew through 4 provincial parks and around 14 (annotated) lakes. I
experienced totally relaxing flight in no wind, 55 km/h (34 mph) headwind to 85
km/h (53 mph) tail wind and all this within 15 min. A significant portion of the flight was in
turbulence, but it was not as scary to me as it used to be before.
Half of my flight was above burned out forest section which was
significantly destroyed during 2021 summer Tremont Creek fire. There is a lot
of evidence how the fire progressed to small town Logan Lake (pop 2070). Logan
Lake was lucky that the village survived. It was very close call for them and
stressful time for all of us in Kamloops region too. It is enjoyable video with
nice scenery and relaxing music.
367. Flying to
Tobiano and Spectacular River Sandbars.
Oct 14, 2021
This was my second flight of the day. The first flight was very
turbulent and so I was hoping for something more relaxing. It started in very
good weather and smooth air up to a point. Eventually it became very turbulent,
just west of Tobiano. In this video, I spent more time in low level flight
above the Kamloops famous sandbars. They are spectacular and never the same. I
call them famous, because I make the famous. You cannot see it from the ground
level. You have to be high above the water, but not too high to lose all those
underwater detail. My craft is ideal to see all that natural beauty. The best
is to watch this video on TV or large monitor. Phone is not enough to
appreciate what is hidden from you.
366. Flying
into Very Sudden and Nasty Turbulence.
Oct 14, 2021
I found (eventually), that I had cracked and leaking fuel tank. I almost
run out of fuel during my
365. Short and
Sweet Aerial Video from between Kamloops and Walhachin. Oct 6, 2021
Short video of Kamloops area natural beauty. It includes West of
Kamloops, Tobiano, Savona and Walhachin area. Video plays with good mood music.
364. Flying above Beautiful Landscape to Johnson
Lake. Oct 1, 2021
We came back from holiday into very beautiful fall weather, big contrast
to smoke ravaged air from the summer forest fires. I flew to Johnson Lake,
which supposed to be one of the best area in BC. I tried to verify that claim
in that afternoon on my all terrain motorcycle. I choose wrong road which lead
me into very difficult terrain, while GPS did not work there. So, I have to try
again soon.
The flight was very relaxing over low cloud/fog in the river valley,
forming spectacular views. The steep hills were filled by fall colors, while
horizon Dunn Peak area mountains were in the fresh snow. The terrain bellow is
beautiful, but very hostile in any emergency. It would not be fun with engine
out there.
363. One of the Best Days to Fly through 200 km
of Kamloops Area Beauty. Sep 2, 2021
We had 1.5 month of terrible forest fires all around BC, poor or no
visibility and serious restrictions where and how to fly. Everything suddenly
changed. Crisp clear, but cold morning provided perfect weather to do some
local exploration. My original plan was to fly to Johnson Lake, but all valleys
in that area were under low level clouts. These clouds provided special
attractive feature into our complex and exciting landscape. It was like flying
in the dream land with all those peaks sticking out from the milky fluffs in
the valleys. It was also trilling to fly again over our famous and always
changing sand bars appearing from the continually dropping water lever in South
Thompson River.
362. Flying over Tremont Creek Fire Ravaged Area
(Mt Savona, Tunkwa Lake, Logan Lake…).
Aug 24, 2021
Interesting birds views of Tremont Creek fire, the east side of burned
out areas. The fire started in July 12, 2021, 27 km west of where I was flying,
burning solid for 2 weeks. I did not use in this video my usual short cuts, but
I kept continual views from my full view front camera.
It is interesting to note that not everything is burned out. The fire is
actually very choosy and the result is patch work of black/brown and green
areas.
I started east of Mt Savona then follow close to Tunkwa Lake Rd to
Leighton and Tunkwa Lakes. That recreational complex was in serious jeopardy,
but the nature and firefighters’ action spared that community from major
damage. The next I flowed to Logan Lake village, where fire was just behind
some residential back yards. Fortunately, the residents did very good fire
prevention measures, including water sprinklers installed on roofs. Again
combination of prevention, fire fighting and nature kindness spared this
community from disaster. There were many smoking areas all around my flight
path. I continued NE over results of the Durand Lake fire, to east of Kamloops
and then back to airport. I was very unique experience for me to see the first
time this side nature power. Pictures
361. Kamloops in the Middle of Wild Fires from
11, 340 ft. Aug 18, 2021
It looked like nice weather for change, but it did not last very long. I
was planning to fly to Merritt, but right after take off I saw it would be
impossible. The smoke on south site of the city was so thick that the upper
Kamloops was totally covered with zero visibility for me. I change my plan to fly
just around Kamloops. Very bad smoke was up to 5,500’ ASL. Eventually I ended
up 10,000’ above airport, 11, 340’ ASL. The wild fire smoke created interesting
patterns among to various peaks and valleys. It was good flight.
360. Kamloops, Walhachin, Barnhartvale in Clear Sky
while Surrounded by Wild Fires. Aug 9,
2021
Exceptionally nice weather with good visibility, rarity in these days
when Kamloops is surrounding by many out of control fires. I flew west to
Walhachin and then at 8,500’ east of Kamloops.
359. Kamloops Area
is Burning – Extremely Smoky Sky. Aug 6,
2021
I could not wait to get back into the sky. We are here in Kamloops in
the middle of serious forest fires with many areas evacuated or ready to go.
The air is loaded with smoke and ash. After almost 3 weeks of solid smoke, I
felt that it was a bit break in the situation to check how this area looks also
from the above.
The visibility was very poor with two lines above horizon: smoke line at
around 7000’ and very close above it the cloud line. I could not go higher then
8,500’ to have clear view, because the clouds were low. There was certain
beauty in this ugliness and very spooky feeling. The visibility was very bad on
the way back.
358. My Record
Adventure Flight to 3669 m / 12,004 ft. July 17, 2021
I took off into smoky (forest fires) skies in west direction to check on
developing and existing, out of control fires. Previous day, I visited some those
effected places by motorcycle and now it was the time for the distant bird
view. I had to climb to over 3048 m / 10,000 ft to just clear the smoke layer
to see distant fires. I hit the smoke wall above Savona bridge and had to turn
around. The view was spectacular with very distinctive smoke line between north
and south. The smoke in some areas looked like famous Australian spider
invasion covering vast areas in webs. The north was 100% in smoke and south 95%
beautifully clear. Even Durand Lake, still listed as out of control was looking
very peaceful and no trace of any smoke. I was flying east at 3505 m / 11500 ft
above Kamloops area well blanketed in smoke. I called in two fires (just in
case) in SE direction from hwy 5A. I could not see anything from Spark Lake and
Sunpeaks area fires. Eventually I ended up at 3669 m / 12,004 ft, which I notices at home when loading GPS data. This was
my new altitude record. I spent almost 1 hour in 5C / 41F and I was just
comfortably cold until on my descend back to airport. I was getting into
serious shiver. 24C / 75 F on the ground was very pleasant for change. I flew
also over 3 arson fire areas (annotated). We don’t have enough of fire misery
here, people must create more.
357. Flight in
very Smoky Air. July 14, 2021
We have 320 wild fires burning in BC. The air was loaded with thick
smoke, which looked worse with the increasing elevation. It was decent when I
left home, but it was changing quickly. I ended up with fire ash covering my
front camera lent.
I wanted to check the latest fires (from distance, of course), but the
west side was like wall of smoke. The east side started to get very turbulent,
when I reached the valley level when the latest fire was burning. I turned
around and cut this flight short. The video still turned out interesting, with
rising sun just slightly poking through like orange ball and layers of smoke of
different colors and shades.
Pictures
356. Kamloops
Area on Forest Fires. July 6, 2021
We have in British Columbia (BC), which is the most western province
(state) in Canada, 199 active forest fires as of July 7, 2021. We had very
close call on Canada Day (July 1) when the serious heat turned into serious
thunderstorm which started many fires. I was watching from our window 3
lightning strikes which also started forest fires. The worst case became forest
fire near Juniper Ridge subdivision. It was scary to see when whole valley,
which is steep and crispy dry was on fire during the night. At the same time,
we were also lucky, because the thunderstorm brought also heavy rain in some
places. Juniper Ridge fire was that lucky place, where rain saved us from
deadly disaster. I made several flight passes over that subdivision. I started
west of Kamloops where there are 2 major fires which covered whole region in
heave and dense fire smoke.
I had to go up to almost 10,000’ to clear the smoke.
355. Early
Morning Hot and very Turbulent Flight. June 26, 2021
I took off at 6:30am at 26C, no ground wind and perfectly sunny day. It quickly changed
into 30 km/h headwind and very unpleasant turbulence, which was coming in
serious bursts. I was looking for different elevations, but it was actually
getting warmer with height and more unpredictable higher up. Eventually I did
not want to push my luck and turned back I could feel the hot blast from the
concrete runway during landing. The air temperature was already at 28C
354. Last Day
of Spring, Hot Evening Flight. June 20, 2021
I took off soaked in my own sweat at 7:45 pm and 28 C (82 F) and almost cold
at 2290 m (7,500’) at 17 C (63 F). It felt at about 1000’ above ground while
coming down like opening oven and walking through it. It was good flight above
our nature beauty which is all aground us here in Kamloops region.
353. Flying to Roche
Lake Area, June 17, 2021
Explored new region to me, which is set of lakes around Roche Lake
recreational area. It is SE of Kamloops. It was beautiful flight with forest
fire smoke hanging in the valleys, making the distant mountains and peaks
sticking out into interesting patterns.
352. Checking
Flood Situation of our Rivers and Terrible Turbulence, June 6, 2021
I started at 6:30 am to avoid thermal turbulence, but it did not help.
Within 5 km the situation changed almost instantly from peaceful to dangerous.
I had to cut short my original plan to check the both Thompson Rivers and their
critical water levels. The river banks are more then full. The most visible
effect is close to South Thompson delta to Kamloops Lake. The land and pastures
are deep under water. You could compare the difference between low water levels
in my video # 341 (https://youtu.be/nLLc8NRD7kI).
351. Challenging Flight to Dunn Peak Mountain
Area, May 22, 2021
This was my 2nd flight (https://youtu.be/3pdqw_gorPY)
to the highest mountain peak in this region. The flying conditions here are by
default unpredictable and they change within minutes or few kilometers. I took
off at 6:40 am to beat the sun generated turbulence. The flight started right
off the deck with turbulence getting progressively worse. I was contemplating
to call it off and suddenly everything stopped into very peaceful flight. I
flew up to Dunn Peak near Little Fort, BC and then turned east climbing up to
3139 m (10,300’). Luckily it was even warm over the show covered mountains at
+3C (37F). I always worry about my fingers which go first to indicate they have
enough.
The mountain area is spectacular and huge. I spent more time there then
in 2019, to record and absorb all that beauty. How lucky I am to do this! I
wish I could take a busload of people with me to share my experience there. I
was glad when I was back in the river valley, back to civilization. The mountains
are spectacular, but potentially dangerous. The return flight was peaceful down
to Barriere village, then another challenging spot to overcome through the
canyon valley and then turbulence really started. I was flying lice garbage bag
in the wind. There was no return for me; I had to carry though it. Everything
stopped again in about 15 minutes. Landing was another issue when landing on
hot dark runway. I was bounced there very well.
350. Morning,
128 km Fight in Kamloops Area Beauty, May 16, 2021
I discovered new (to me) lakes, meadows, hills and plains in this
spectacular region, lucky to be living in.
349. Early
Morning Fight Joined by another Homebuilt, May 11, 2021
This was different and very unique experience for me. I was joined by
another local pilot in his beautifully built Zodiac homebuilt aircraft. We took
of at 6:30 am to avoid turbulence from the powerful Kamloops sun and headed
north to Barriere village. We started with short briefing what and how to do it
safely. I was lead, because of all my mounted cameras and he supposed to fly in
the cameras views. It started a bit bumpy, but eventually it turned out into
very pleasant flight through the beautiful North Thompson River valley. We had
147 km of fun at 8C above freezing.
348. Beautiful Flight to Sun Peaks and South
Thompson Rive, May 5, 2021
This early morning flight was very relaxing and enjoyable. I took off
early and 6:30 to beat the powerful sun heat and of course turbulence as shown
in my previous video. This made the trick. My first leg was east, straight into
very low rising sun. I felt like Lindbergh in his Spirit of
St. Louis. I could see nothing with that sun shining
directly into my face through the windshield and my helmet visor. I had to look
sideways to see where I am going. Everything changed when I turn north towards
the Sun Peaks. The Sun Peaks Ski Resort is the 2nd largest ski area
in Canada after Whistler, BC. I did several passes above the hills and village
and departed south towards South Thompson Rive. The river valley is one of the
most beautiful area in Kamloops region. It looked even more beautiful with the
sun in my back and perfectly blue sky in front of me. I saw three groups of
wild horses there.
I landed and taxied to my hangar at 8 am and suddenly, like if someone
turn switch on, the wind started to blow but only in the east part of the
airport. The wind sock in the west side was still limped. It was very good flight
347. Flight in Terrible Turbulence but Beautiful
Weather, May 2, 2021
My plan ended up totally differently from the original one. I started in
calm, sunny and warm weather, but it changed quickly into very nasty and few
times terrifying turbulences. I was looking into different elevations but no
luck. I made it just 20 km north from the airport, just 1/3 of my planning
distance to Bonaparte Lake. I decided to give it up, before it would be too
late. I turned east to North Thompson River which I followed back to Kamloops
and to Knutsford area. It was very bad there too. But I have very good and
bouncy video.
346. Beautiful, Exciting, Intimidating and
Turbulent Flight to Vidette, Apr 20, 2021
I followed Deadman Rd valley from Savona area to north to Vidette. The
first part was over small fields and meadows in very deep valley. This peaceful
flight eventually turned into flight over very (emergency landing) hostile
environment. The air temperature at up to 6,000’ was +12C and very ripe for
some nasty turbulence. There was still ice on some lakes below which helped
turbulence to show its power. I was bounced very well. It was scary. I was even
rehearsing what to do first just in case: press SOS on my Spot (satellite
tracking device) and then pull the trigger of my ballistic parachute or the
other way around. I was flying low over the ground on the way back. It was
relaxing to watch winding Deadman river spilling already from its normal banks.
345. Beautiful Sunset Flight in Summer like
Weather, Apr 17, 2021
I was thinking about this flight long time. I wanted to know how those
navigation lights would look like in darkness. It was exceptionally warm
evening from 24C to 19C and surprisingly no surprises from touchy Kamloops
weather. I had fun
344. Beautiful Flight from Salmon Arm Airport to
Kamloops, Apr 15, 2021
This is return leg of my 223 km cross-country flight, this time from
Salmon Arm back to Kamloops. I chose more direct flight over the mountain,
while very scenic it was also very hostile terrain to have power failure. The
worst part for me is always the anticipation of worsening thermal conditions.
This part of the Canada is so beautiful and definitely not boring to fly over
and through it.
343. Beautiful Flight to Salmon Arm Airport, Apr
15, 2021
Very scenic flight following shore of famous and in summer popular
Shuswap Lake to charming city of Salmon Arm. This is first part of my 223 km
long cross-country trip. Return trip will be more challenging over hostile
terrain and unpredictable weather condition.
342. 145 km Flight over Knutsford and Tobiano
Areas, Apr 13, 2021
Very scenic flight over complex terrain and spectacular views. It was
good day.
341. Flying to Chase, Apr 6, 2021
Very good flight east through South Thompson Rive valley, one of the
most scenic area in Kamloops region. I hit one serious air hole on the way
back, which was very quick awakening from relaxing flight.
340. Very
Unpleasant Flight in Pure Turbulence, March 31, 2021
After several days of serious winds, this day was totally calm with blue
sky and +8C. I was really looking forward to my cross country flight, but it
was quickly clear that it will not happen. I was bouncing like yoyo as soon as
I took off. I was in one continual turbulence which eventually made me
nauseated. Four days before I flew on commercial flight (as passenger) in heavy
turbulence, which was my second worse turbulence on commercial flight. I become
air sick which I felt for 3 days. My flight only multiplied that sick in
stomach feeling. At least I have very good video from just 30 min flight.
339. Very Nice Flight to Nicola Valley and
Glimpse Lake, Mar 16, 2021
I took advantage of perfect weather to fly through spectacular BC
countryside.
338. Flying
in Campbell Creek Valley to
Barnhartvale, Mar 9, 2021
I attempted to fly this valley several times already, but the non
cooperating weather always changed my plans. I was lucky this time. It is very
nice area which I explored on motorcycle from ground up. It was time to do it
from the air. The valley is usually very windy with crazy turbulence, because
the air is compressed into narrow and winding trough. One of my 4 cameras did
not record anything, so I lost one view, but I still have nice video into
classical music.
337. Flying to Knutsford and North Ridge. Heavy
Turbulence, Mar 2, 2021
It was decent day for https://youtu.be/xOV1d5IvHewflying
with no wind at the
336. Flying form Cache Creek in Exciting Flight,
Feb 21, 2021
I was getting anxious to go back after 40 minutes flight from Kamloops.
I did not want the weather change on me. I was already experiencing unpleasant
turbulence when flying in.
I met another ultralight pilot there, Daniel Berwin who landed after me.
He decided to follow me a bit and take some aerial pictures. It was nice
change, because it is just 2nd opportunity in my life to fly with
somebody. Another excitement happened in about 10 minutes in my flight when I
spotted another plane (Cessna) well down under me flying to Cache Creek. He
really sucked the air from my track resulting good bump. I started in -2C in
Kamloops landed in +6C in Cache Creek and +8C back in Kamloops. It was very
good and exciting day.
335. Flying to Tobiano, Walhachin and Cache
Creek. Good Turbulence, Feb 21, 2021
This was the first leg of my 1.5 hour flight to Cache Creek. I flew via
golf and residential area high above Kamloops Lake, Tobiano and down in the
valley on the end of Kamloops Lake, Savona. I continued in the complex valley
of winding South Thompson River creating spectacular scenery. I flew over small
historic village situated high above the river valley, Walhachin. I continued
towards Ashcroft through to deep canyon of South Thompson River, but I felt in
my bones that it would not be smooth sailing. The complex terrain and shifted
winds create unpredictable flying conditions. Eventually, I had enough of
bouncing around and got out before it would be too late. The Cache Creek
Airport and its location are a bit intimidating. First it looks very small from the air
especially when flying from Kamloops with such large airport runway. Secondly
the location in the middle of the mountain slope creates good crosswinds and up
or downdrafts by winds from the perpendicular valley. I met there another
pilot, Daniel Berwin with his Zenair bird. We exchanged few Covid distant words
and experiences. He followed me on my way back and took several pictures from
his ultralight. It was nice.
334. Beautiful Winter Flight in Beautiful
Wintery Kamloops, Feb 16, 2021
Finally, after several windy days of real winter in Kamloops, there was
no wind and temperature just below freezing. It was beautiful flight after
morning snow starting to melt on sunny sides. The contrast between the snow and
bare surfaces creates unique enhancement of the Kamloops very complex
topography.
333. Flying in Fresh Snow to Kamloops Juniper
Ridge and Area, Feb 6, 2021
It was gorgeous day after overnight fresh show, blue sky and above
freezing temperature. I took off downwind (~13 km/h) west, turned to east in
totally calm air and in about 200 m higher I got into serious tail wind of up
to 45 km/h from west. The wind was flowing simultaneously from opposite
direction within short elevation difference. I flew over Juniper Ridge
subdivision, which looks very flat from the air, but it is actually very hilly
and assuming also challenging to drive those steep streets in winter. I
explored Rose Hill and Knutsford area too. It was very good flight.
332. Experience
with “GoPro Hero 9 Black” as a Prime Camera for Unrestricted Frontal View, Feb
2, 2021
I sold my
GoPro Hero 7 and replaced the front full view camera with the latest GoPro Hero
9 Black. The reason is Hero 9 horizon lock to prevent horizon tilt when
turning. Tilting horizon is annoying in my videos, so I always switch in those
moments to side camera views. Well, the horizon lock did not work very well and
actually it was very bad. I could use only few clips from this miracle Hero 9
camera. I return the Hero 9 back to store. Now, I need to buy another Hero 7
Black. I am showing examples of badness and my interpretation of how this
horizon lock would not work in my case. I was hoping for steady “Super
stabilized” views, so I could run video 4x faster without any distractions. I
am sorry to report that the result was totally unacceptable. This is excellent
camera for other application, but not for what I wanted it for. For that
purpose Hero 7 Black is far superior. If you are considering to buying it for
flying then you should watch this video.
331. Following
North Ridge to Harper Ski Hill in Heavy Turbulence, Feb 2, 2021
I sold my
GoPro Hero 7 and replaced the front full view camera with the latest GoPro Hero
9 Black. The reason is H9 horizon lock to prevent horizon tilt when turning.
This was annoying in my videos, so I always switched at those moments to side
camera views. Well, it did not work very well and actually it was very bad. I
could use only few clips from this miracle camera. I return the Hero 9 back to
store. Now, I wish to buy back my Hero 7 Black camera. I am looking. I will
post me experience and example, why this camera is no good for aviation at
least for full camera view without any part of airplane in the view. It was expensive
experiment for me. I sold my like new camera cheap and most likely I will pay
more and most likely for abused and bruised camera.
It was
beautiful and calm (!) day, but not for long. Within of about 5 minutes it
started kicking up and down. It was getting progressively worse on the way
back. I was looking for some smoother air level, but there was nothing
available for me. When I crossed the N Thompson River west, the peace returned
again. At least I have good video.
330. Flying
over North and South Thompson Rivers, Jan 29, 2021
I have very
good video from cold flight. We had some traces of new snow, which makes the
surrounding scenery more contrasting and more interesting.
329. Kamloops
Aerial Photos: Peterson Creek, Downtown, North Shore, Brock - Slideshow, Jan
20, 2021
Pictures
taken from the top (south) of Peterson Creek in small increments through
downtown then west up to airport. Pictures are from video # 327
328. Beautiful
Nicola Valley Aerial Photos - Slideshow, Jan 20, 2021
Pictures
taken only in
327. Low
Flight through the most Beautiful Valley in Kamloops Region, Jan 20, 2021
It was an
excellent, but a bit chilly flying day. I tried several times before to fly low
in the Nicola Valley, but it was always very drafty a of course unpredictable.
I was lucky this time. This is one of the most scenic roads in BC and
especially on motorcycle. It looks so peaceful from the road, but it is totally
different from the air due to the complex terrain causing unpredictable winds
and wind flows. I have very good video from one hour flight at 90 to 140 km/h
ground speed.
326. Cloud
Challenge to Keep within Clear Sky, Jan 15, 2021
The airport
area was without clouds when I took off. As soon as I was above their level I
could see that it would be wise to stay within that hole only. The clouds
eventually cleared on the west side and open up also south. I flew over Ajax
mine, Tobiano and sandbars. The flying conditions were very interesting. I
could see just peaks of the Kamloops landmarks poking through to cotton balls.
It was warmer by 5C just under the clouds then by the river. The ground was
calm, but 40 km/h wind at 5000’.
325. Following
South Ridge to Buse Hill and North Ridge to Sandbars. Turbulent Air, Jan 15,
2021
Finally
after 16 days of warm, but very windy weather, the Mother Nature finally
brought crispy, blue sky and no wind day. Masses of people enjoyed this sudden change
together with several local flyers. I was planning to go for low and close
aerial exploration of Buse Hill which looks very cool on its north side. I soon
discovered that I would be lucky if I even make it there. The air was very
bumpy with many very sudden kicks and pushes, which took a bit of optimism from
my joy. I made it there, but I did not dare to go any close to it. The flight
on the way back was not any better. I saw 9 wild horses on at the foot of North
Ridge. I finished my flight with a victory lap over the river delta sand bars.
They are amazing creation of nature, which could be seen only from the above,
high just enough to see the underwater formations. When I landed I found out
that my full view, front mounted camera refused to record. Those cameras are
not very reliable. It was very good day anyway.
324. CBC
Radio Interview with Me, Jan 7, 2021
This is
radio interview with me about my flying in Kamloops. I turned it into a slide
show to make it more enjoyable to watch. It was very good and I am happy how it
turned out.
323. The Last Flight of Decade, Low Level over
Downtown and North Shore, Dec 31, 2020
Very good
video from the low level flight over the Kamloops key areas, like University,
Aberdeen and Sahali shopping. After flight over Mt Peter and Paul I went down
over the center of North Shore and Brock. Kamloops is very interesting no
matter of weather or season. This is not visually boring city or region. I wish
the 3D effect could be reproduced in 2D video. The terrain looks flat from the
air, but in fact it is very hilly with steep streets, which are fun to drive on
in the winter (not).
322.
Flying to Savona-Deadman Rd Area via
North Ridge and Tobiano, Dec 27, 2020
Another decent
day to fly, with temperature just hovering around freezing, but sunny west of
the airport. This is what I selected to fly; following the sun. The mountain
views of the N-W Ridge are spectacular. The snow and bare area create pencil
like drawings with so much details filling every pixel. It was beautiful. I flew above many eagles on South Thompson River.
321. Flying
to Harper Mt Ski Area by South Thompson River, Dec 27, 2020
It was
beautiful, sunny day to fly over just 2 day old snow covered terrain. This
valley is the most picturesque area in the Kamloops region. I spotted again two
groups of wild horses, but I could not find them when I was editing this video.
Finally, we
had good flying weather with temperature a touch above zero. I was following
TransCanada hwy #1 to Tobiano. This very winding road is carved through very
nice hills and valleys while passing through the upper Kamloops on the hill.
This used to be the main highway, before high mountain Coquihalla highway was
built as short cut connecting Kamloops to Vancouver. There are nice views of
still green Tobiano golf and residential area. Of course, I could not resist to
do a few almost ground level passes over the South Thompson River sandbars.
This is only way to see underwater nature creations, which look like very
complex 3D carvings.
Pictures
319. What
to Wear in Cold Weather, Nov 28, 2020
Several
people posted on Facebook question about what to wear in winter while flying
open aircraft. This short video shows what I wear and what works. I used to fly
down to -25C (-13F), so I feel to be qualified to show what works.
318. Low
level flight over Knutsford area and North Thompson River, Nov 28, 2020
I wanted to
fly over 7 peaks south of the Campbell Creek. Unfortunately, very low cloud
ceiling forced me to turn around and look for some better conditions. I flew
north up to McLure, very low to get better view of my surroundings. Weather was
excellent and flight very enjoyable.
The video looks very good and I hope that at least people living in those areas
would like it. Just after take of I felt me knees getting cold and realized
that I forgot to put on my snowmobile (winter) pants. I flew 1.5 hours and I
was a bit stiff, but not too bad. This trike is reasonably “warm”. I flew 1.5
hours at average ground speed of 121 km/h. That’s very good!
317.
Flying to Sun Peaks to Check the Ski
Season Opening Day, Nov 21, 2020
Sun Peaks
Resort is the second largest ski resort in Canada. It is perfect playground for
every person looking for year round fun. Sometimes it could get tricky to fly
there, because the weather and especially cloud cover could change very
quickly. This time I was lucky with perfect wintery weather. The radio
communication with Kamloops control tower was vey busy with all other airplanes
flying from and to all directions. Nobody wanted to waste the exceptional
weather. The trip was uneventful, but of course spectacular, because it is
Kamloops area, which is super spectacular, no matter where you look.
Sun Peaks
from the top look like true Christmas Paradise even so it is another month till
Christmas. I took good fly over and around for good video and picture taking
views. I flew again very low over the airport area sandbars, to see the latest
nature creations.
316.
Flying above Kamloops Rivers, Nov 19,
2020
It was
another beautiful day to go exploring the Kamloops nature from the above. I
followed North and South Thompson Rivers, Kamloops downtown and of course I had
to check the ever changing river sand bars. Flying low is the only way to see
the underwater highly sculptures sand bars. If you want to see something which
you most likely never have seen before, then watch this video and listen the
background relaxing music.
Pictures
315. Flying
in Quickly Changing Clouds Ceiling, Nov 10, 2020
We received
real winter like snow, but sun started to peek through the clouds. I have to
clear snow to get to the runway first, while blue sky was quickly shrinking.
Traces of sun were replaced with white clouds pushing downwards and squeezing
me out like a tooth paste. I was forced to turn around to just legal limit to
avoid those clouds. I still have good video from around the downtown.
Pictures
314. Very
Few People have Seen Kamloops Beauty from This Angle, Nov 6, 2020
I changed
editing concept in this video and I think I will stick with it. I am using 4
GoPro cameras, which run continually. Previously I cut views in 5 sec clips,
while cuts were synchronized with the music beat. My intent was to show all
views, front, both sides and pilots view. Now, I run the front camera with full
170 deg horizontal view at 2x speed with minimum cuts. I use the other cameras
views only in turns, because the front view does not look good because of the
panning effect and horizon tilt.
The weather
was exceptional with perfect Alberta blue sky and crisp, cold air at just +3C.
It was a bit warmer up in the air at 6C. This video shows the spectacular
Kamloops nature beauty and glacier beautiful terrain carving formations. Watch
the video on large screen of TV to see all those details. The GoPro cameras
(Hero 7 in my case) are so good these days that the results are incredible.
It would be
nice if you leave me your comment, and tell me what you think about my video
editing change.
Note: I have LG TV with 3D feature (3D
glasses). I tried to turn TV on 3D and the view was amazing. I was very, very
impressed. How is it done, to convert it instantly into fake 3D, without 3D
cameras?
313.
Glory, Optical Effect, During my Flight,
Oct 31, 2020
Wikipedia: A glory is an optical
phenomenon, resembling an iconic saint's halo around the shadow of the
observer's head, caused by sunlight or (more rarely) moonlight interacting with
the tiny water droplets that compose mist or clouds. The glory consists of one
or more concentric, successively dimmer rings, each of which is red on the
outside and bluish towards the centre. Due to its appearance, the phenomenon is
sometimes mistaken for a circular rainbow, but the latter has a much larger
diameter and is caused by different physical processes.
Glories arise due to wave
interference of light internally refracted within small droplets.
312. Beautiful Flight along North and South
Ridges, Oct 20, 2020.
After unexpected cold snap down to -11C, it was another
beautiful day for flying. It is still pleasant to fly at +6C temperature and especially
in my “warm” Apollo trike. The Apollo cockpit is very well designed to protect me from the
element. It is big difference when compared with my previous AirBorne “cold”
trike.
I
followed North Ridge west, crossed Kamloops Lake south to Tobiano, then east to
chase some clouds, north to downtown and Mt Peter and Paul. Finally, I turned
west to Bachelor Heights to follow construction corridor of government Trans
Mountain Expansion Project.
311. Flying with Spectacular Kamloops Clouds,
Oct 20, 2020.
Late morning with -3C temperature and many different layers
of clouds were too inviting to ignore. It was one of the most spectacular
flights for me. I am so lucky to have almost 360 deg no obscured view from my
trike so see that vast area beauty. I have never seen this type of clouds at
the second cloud layer. You cannot see that from the ground, I felt like to
jump into them and have some serious fun there. It was very good flight.
310. Flying to Tobiano and Mt Savona in the Best
Scenery Ever, Oct 14, 2020.
It was one of my best flights ever. If you want to watch this
video then do yourself favor and watch it on a large monitor or at least on a
tablet. The phone screen is too small to really appreciate our natural beauty
in Kamloops area.
All my cameras worked perfectly and the sun and clouds were
in right places to capture the nature at its best. I was a bit sidetracked to
check potential forest fire on western horizon. I made low passes over the edge
of Mt Savona Provincial Park with spectacular rocky cliffs and top covered with
the first autumn snow. You can see very, very long train snaking along the edge
of Kamloops Lake and steep cliffs of the South Ridge. I also tested my new bar
mitts, with temperature just 2C and my fingers were not frozen like with the
original mitts which I shredded in the prop (see video: 306. This is how I Ruined my Flying Days,
Aug 2, 2020.)
Pictures
309. Flying above
Clouds to Ajax Mine and Tobiano, Oct 11, 2020.
Chilly morning at 3C, but sunny day brought smile to my face.
I could fly and enjoy to Covid free time above Kamloops area beautiful nature.
It was big contrast between the early summer green fields and slopes and
current brown surfaces. It was still beautiful. Unfortunately, my front camera
failed to record, so I don’t have any full nature views.
Pictures
308. My First flight after 2 Month Wait for New
Prop Blade, Oct 6, 2020.
This was my first flight after the August unfortunate mistake
(see Video # 306), which ruined 2
months of my flying days. I also changed this time the prop pitch from 9 to10
degrees. I set it correctly on the ground (when I bought this trike) to prevent
potential engine over revving, but I found that in flight it would run about 500
extra RMP. My cruise speed now increased about 5 kn (10 km/h) at 5000 RPM, but
I have to push the throttle harder. I think my fuel consumption will go up. I
will see the next time during at least one hour flight.
It was short, just local flight, because the sky was still
very smoky from the West coast USA fires.
307. Dean with his
New Rev X Trike, Aug 15, 2020.
I
came to see in real life the famous USA built trike Rev X, and meet its owner
Dean Wichmann. It is very nice toy. Jade Waterhouse demonstrated his new 1974
Bellanka in very nice paint job. It was beautiful day at the Knutsford airstrip
Pictures
306. This is
how I Ruined my Flying Days, Aug 2, 2020.
It was ideal weather for flying, but I wished I stayed at
home. Just a few seconds after take off I felt like a wing cable broke off.
Engine started to vibrate. Landed immediately and taxied back to my hangar
where I saw what happened. One bar mitts was on the ground. I removed my winter
bar mitts, because it was already 25C and put them on my rear seat bag. The mitts
are very florescent bright, so they are difficult to miss, but I did. I forgot
them behind my back.I checked for damage and there was just about Ľ” of prop
blade edge protection tape slightly damage. Checked the prop pitch values and
the affected pitch was 1 deg off. I figured I got off very easy this time. I
set up the pitch, started the engine and the vibration was the same. Now what?
Hopefully it is not the engine. Eventually I found that the blade was cracked
just on the edge of the blade hub. I was very lucky to be above the runway when
this happened.
305. Pritchard to Kamloops Full Screen Aerial
View, July 28, 2020.
This is just section from flight as per video # 303. It is unedited, full
screen view from just front camera. The best is to watch it on large screen or
TV to appreciate the natural beauty of that region in Kamloops area.
304. Sun Peaks Full Screen Aerial View, July 28,
2020.
This is just section from flight as per video # 303. It is unedited, full
screen view of Sun Peaks, second largest ski resort in Canada. The best is to
watch it on large screen or TV to appreciate the natural beauty of that region
Pictures
303. Flying to Sun Peaks and Chase
Village, July 28, 2020.
My first really warm flying, because it was already 19C at 7
am. It was even 19 C at 2334 m (7625’). The sky was very hazy which looked even
worse while flying against the raising sun. I made several passes over the Sun
Peaks ski area which is the 2nd largest ski resort in Canada. Sun
Peaks is just 40 min driving from our house. This is real winter (summer too)
paradise where I can snowboard whole day and be all the time on different
slope. This is not boring place. I then turned SE towards Chase village with
beautiful lake called Little Shuswap Lake. I followed South Thompson River from
Chase back to Kamloops Airport. This is one of the best and very spectacular
valley and especially about half way to Kamloops.
302.
Flying
Savona, Tunkwa Lake, Face Lake, Chuwhels Mt, Knutsford, July 20, 2020.
This was my 3rd attempt to do the above loop.
Finally sky was clear and conditions just right. It was very pleasant and
relaxing trip. I am just showing snippets from this 136 km long flight, over
very spectacular countryside. The terrain is very divers and complex. It is
always pleasure to look around from the eagle perspective.
301.
Flying to
Barriere BC and Back over North Thompson River, July 17, 2020.
155 km long trip to small town Barriere about 60 km north of
Kamloops. I flew first over North Ridge to join the North Thompson River
valley. It is relatively safe way to fly as there are many meadows and fields
for forced landings. The worst part is just south of the Barriere which goes
through narrow valley with steep slopes on both sides. I could see that “new”
islands are already appearing in the river while water level is going down
after the annual river flooding.
300.
Flying to
Harper Ranch via Cold Creek with some Clouds to Enjoy, July 13, 2020.
I was anxious to try my new drag chute camera. I tried it the
previous day, but the view angle was disappointing. I made new camera bracket
which did its work. I was also anxious, because potential negative effect on
flying characteristic. The camera is attached to “badminton style” basket and
pulled on string attached to one side of the wing. This causes unsymmetrical
directional force, resulting, as one pilot described, difficult to control in
straight direction. I did not find any problems.
My plan was to fly to Sun Peaks, but I found that they were
totally in clouds. I turned SE before Mt Lolo to stay clear of that cloud cover.
I still had some fluffs to enjoy their company. I have very good video of
Kamloops beautiful nature.
Pictures
299. Flying to Kamloops Downtown, Knutsford and
Dew Point Areas. Heavy Turbulence, July 12, 2020.
Typical Kamloops weather, which is unpredictable. Originally
I had different plan to fly, but unpleasant turbulence change it. It started as
beautiful calm morning, but as soon as I crossed the North Thompson River, the
turbulence started to harass me. It was getting progressively worse close I was
towards Knutsford. Finally I had enough of it and decided to fly back south of
the airport. It was very bumpy. Surprisingly, it became again very calm so I continue towards North Ridge. I explored
Dew Drop hills tops. This is very popular hiking area, so I am giving people to
see it from different angle and perspective. It was very good day.
Pictures
298.
Checking
Flooded South Thompson River in Kamloops, July 5, 2020.
I flew about 1500’ feel above ground to see the effect to the
river flood. I started about 6 km east of Kamloops flying west to airport. North
Thompson River was much calmer then a day before. I could not see any debris
floating from the north, but the water was still very muddy. This contrasted in
the rivers confluence where brown water from the north mixes with the South
Thomson River, which is very clear.
297.
Flying to
Tobiano, Savona and Tunkwa Lake with Nice Clouds, July 5, 2020.
Beautiful day to be in the open air. It was still on colder
side at 11 to 12C around 8 am, but sky was blue and eventually I met some
fluffy clouds to enjoy. I had to change my original plan due to heavy and very
intimidating cloud in front of me. It was very peaceful flight.
296.
Flying to
Savona in Turbulent and Hazy Air, July 3, 2020.
My original plan was to fly triangular cross-country, but the
poor flying conditions changed my plan. I completed just one side of the
triangle and decided to fly back. It started as beautiful and sunny morning,
but the sky changed to overcast and very hazy before I got ready. I expected no
turbulence, because thermal changes were very small. I was wrong. My trip
turned few times and instantly from peaceful to nasty rides. I cut it short,
because I did not want to push my luck.
I have still very good video with very good background music
which will lift your feet in its rhythm.
Pictures
295. Flying across Nicola Valley to Douglas
Lake, June 18, 2020.
170 km (106 mi) flight over beautiful area of rolling hills,
deep valleys, many lakes and exceptionally green terrain. It is interesting how
green it was. We are living in very dry climate, where everything is normally
brown, except spring and early summer. It is amazing how the nature is rushing
though its life to push itself to display all its beauty in very short period.
My goal was to check the
294. South Thompson River Flooding Part 2 of 2,
June 3, 2020.
This is unedited and complete aerial view from front camera
only. It starts at 17 km east of Kamloops and ends at Kamloops Lake delta.
Pictures
293.
North Thompson
River Flooding Part 1 of 2, June 3, 2020.
This is unedited and complete aerial view from front camera
only. It starts at 28 km north of Kamloops and ends by rivers junction in
downtown Kamloops.
Pictures
292. Survey of North and South Thompson River Flooding,
June 3, 2020.
Both Kamloops rivers are very ripe to cause some serious
damage from their floods. Low laying areas are already submerged and the water
is slowly creeping into Riverside Park. I flew straight north about 15 km and then
flew above North Thompson River to downtown. Then I turned east and at 15 km I
started my flight west above South Thompson River. The countryside is even more
beautiful now when everything is green with many patched of yellow flowers. I
notice that I left the neck camera on the back seat. It was major decision to
land or to retrieve it in flight. I did it in flight.
Pictures
291. Fun with Clouds in Nicola Valley, May 27,
2020.
Beautiful flight, https://youtu.be/LoLslqEodxg
south of Kamloops, over green meadows,
fields, hills and lakes. This area is always challenging for me to fly, because
the conditions are very often unpredictable and changing quickly. It started
with no wind, but turbulent, bumpy ride, eventually smooth and relaxing when
flying over the clouds by Stump Lake. I almost wanted to jump into those
fluffs, which reminded me my childhood dreams to do something like that.
Pictures
290. Flying along North Ridge and Flooded Tranquille Farm, May
24, 2020.
Pictures
289. Flying to Knutsford, Ajax and Flooded Tranquille Farm, May
19, 2020.
288. My Trike in the Air, May 19, 2020.
Pictures
287. Flight from Kamloops to Brigade Lake, May 14, 2020.
Pictures
286. Flight from Merritt to Kamloops, May 8, 2020.
285. Flight from Kamloops to Merritt BC, May 8, 2020.
284. Flight from Kamloops to Cache Creek, May 1, 2020.
Pictures
283. Flight from Buse Hill to Kamloops, Uncut Version. Apr 19,
2020.
282. Flight to Buse Hill, Apr 19, 2020.
Pictures
281. How to Set up SPOT to be Ready in Emergency with only the
Last Track.
280. Kamloops from 10,000’ above Airport, Apr 9, 2020