Wednesday, May 9, 2007

Township of Rideau Lakes - Aerodrome

As the copy from the very complete and professional looking Westport website declares, the town is nestled in the heart of the Rideau Lakes. The airport however, operated by the Rideau Lakes Flying Club, is loacated in the Township of Rideau Lakes.

Civic government organization aside, the strip is a worthwhile visit for the more experienced pilot, though not for a quick $100 burger. The COPA page has a fairly good plan view showing the distance from the airport entrance to the town, which front on Upper Rideau Lake just north of the airport.

I was by there the other day with the video camera on board. The wind was strong and gusty, out of the west, so I did a quick low and over of runway 25. I didn't land because it is still early in the season, the grass could be soft and I hadn't called for a condition report. The video shows the approach over the lake and the trees off the end of 07. For those pilots who like to come in low over the threshold and drop it on the numbers, check out the hay bales! Whenever landing at a strip with limited maintenance it is always a good idea to call ahead, and make an inspection pass.



The flying club located at the airport hosts a Breakfast Flyin the last Saturday in May. I never seem to get there because of scheduling conflicts, this year will be no different, but it is on my list of things to fly to. If you have skis, they also host a chili flyin mid February.

So if you are looking for a somewhat different destination, think about Westport/Rideau Lakes. I understand it is equally pleasant if you arrive by car, or boat.

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