Members of the Burdekin Aero Club say recreational flying is becoming more and more popular and last month’s Aviation Open Days, which saw over 100 people visit the Ayr Aerodrome over the September 9-10 weekend, was proof.
Unfavourable weather meant October’s open day, held on Sunday, October 8, wasn’t quite as well attended, but loyal pilots flew in from nearby airstrips to enjoy the morning.
“There’s a big swing that’s happened over the last 20 years where general aviation in light aircraft is slowly dying out and there’s a number of reasons for that,” said Burdekin Aero Club Treasurer Kerry Paronella.
“With the advent of recreational aviation, where the aeroplanes are smaller, cheaper and easier to maintain, aviation has suddenly become affordable again.
“As a result, I think that’s seen an upsurge in the club.”
Mr Paronella has been a member of the club for approximately four years and Treasurer for a few months after training with local instructor Neil Hoffensetz.
He said he’s always had a general interest in flying but it wasn’t until he sold his business that he found the time to ignite his passion.
“It’s a whole different ball game to driving on the road,” Mr Paronella said.
“It’s a feeling of freedom and when you do get your license, it’s a feeling of achievement.
“For me, at an older age, it’s a feather in my cap.”
While it can seem a daunting undertaking, Mr Paronella urges anyone with an interest in flying to give it a go.
“Don’t ever be intimidated,” he said.
“There’s a training plane here, there’s a licensed trainer here, and it’s the camaraderie of the club.
“We’re getting more and more members all the time and we’re getting a lot of support.”
The Civil Aviation Safety Authority is hosting a training day at Ayr Aerodrome on October 29.
“They come annually for a seminar, and they’ve selected Ayr most years simply because we seem to be the hub of all the local flyers,” Mr Paronella said.
To find out more, contact Burdekin Aero Club Secretary Brian Richardson on 0429 144 921 or join Burdekin Flyers on Facebook.
Burdekin Aero Club Secretary Brian Richardson with his Jabiru aircraft. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
Kody Glindemann-Hodson with a Carbon Cub. Photo credit: Tracy Parsons
Tony Grant and Arthur Johnson with the Carbon Cub. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie
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