Several of our readers responded to a request for pilot tips on airshows. Here are just a few:
Don Howard, Blanco, Texas: Every pilot HAS to go at least once to AirVenture, and fly if possible.
Talk to someone responsible who has flown to Oshkosh. It’s not hard, but it is certainly different, You have to know and follow the rules/procedures.
The North 40 aircraft camping area at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2015. (EAA photo/Craig Vander Kolk)
The people you will be dealing with are the BEST, so get the NOTAMs ahead of time and follow them. Take someone with you to help watch for traffic and to locate landmarks.
Camp or stay in the dorm, there is plenty of transportation, and people who will help if you don’t know what to do. Go to as many forums as you can,
There is no better place to go if you are interested in aviation.
George Gould, Galveston, Texas: If you fly to an airshow or fly-in, make sure the proper paper work is in the aircraft and in your wallet because that is where the chance of being ramp checked are the greatest.
The FAA is always there to check the performers and when they are through with that, you can be next. Been there, done that.
Bill Repucci, Greenville, S.C.: When I was president of the Charlotte, N.C., EAA chapter, I would arrange an “arrival training” session the week before each big event. Someone who has flown in would discuss the arrival procedures and what to expect.
Other people who have flown the approaches would be available to answer questions as well.
In addition, I recommend “flying” the approach on Google Earth and look for YouTube videos.
Ken Conston, Hopewell Junction, N.Y.: Read the arrival and departure NOTAMs before the event, and again the day of the event, and have it available when entering the area. READ IT!
Every time I arrive, a couple of pilots get to the area and clearly have no idea of the procedure. They are a danger to the rest of us following the directions.
Travis Capps, Greenville, Alabama: Having flown into SUN ’n FUN many years, MOST pilots cannot read or do not get the NOTAM. The NOTAM says to monitor radio frequency, do not TALK, follow instructions.
Most times it’s hard to hear the radio for pilots asking if they can do this or that.
Source: http://generalaviationnews.comTips: Flying into airshows