2005 trip report

In 2005, its second year, FLY-UK again achieved its aims Lands End to John O'Groats and back in time for the Wight Party. And still despite the weather!

Friday 17th June

Nine aircraft were given a warm welcome this evening by Sarah and Joe at the Redlands Airfield Microlight Club. Pilots flew in from places as far afield as Kent, Cheshire and Norfolk with more expected to meet up early tomorrow. A great barbeque was provided in exchange for donations to the Fly-UK charity, Children with Leukaemia.

Did the cat get the remains of the Barbecue?

Did the cat get the remains of the Barbecue?

Saturday

After a hearty breakfast we set off for Halwell where we enjoyed their fly-in. A tail wind helped us reach Land's End where they have the best lady ATC ever. Could it have been the same tail wind that then chased us to Eaglescott?

Evening at Eaglescott

Evening at Eaglescott

Sunday

Some reached Haverfordwest by the direct route while others diverted to Swansea.  Most successful were those who routed via Shobden.  Aircraft at Ince and 5 other locations tonight.

Caught in poor weather at Swansea

Caught in poor weather at Swansea

Monday

A challenging flight across southern Scotland with multi-level clouds and windshear.  Aircraft regrouping at Oban.

Leaving Cumbernauld bound for Oban

Leaving Cumbernauld bound for Oban

Tuesday

Four aircraft flew round Cape Wrath, north west corner of Scotland, while seven took the route through the Great Glen, arriving in time for a fine meal at the Lowry Tea-Rooms, Dornoch.  Regrettably two aircraft were damaged at Plockton.  Four others chilling out in Oban.

Visiting Perth airport for fuel

Visiting Perth airport for fuel

Wednesday

Wednesday's flying has been interesting!  Worsening weather required a fast departure from Scotland, but hill cloud and lower cloud in the valley bottoms made a direct route impossible.  One aircraft diverted to Aberdeen at £93 including fuel and ILS charges!  The team regrouped in the evening at Fishburn.

Mixing with the big boys at Inverness

Mixing with the big boys at Inverness

Thursday

Everyone enjoyed a splendid day heading down the east coast to Rayne Hall Farm and another fine meal in a local hostelry.  Expecting to sit out the bad weather tomorrow and hit Sandown on Saturday evening, weather permitting.

The team at Fishburn

The team at Fishburn

Friday

Through a window of opportunity, Fly-UK visits Headcorn, then reaches Sandown amidst thunderstorms and lightning strikes!  After 1800 miles in 7 days, another successful event completed.

Visiting Headcorn for fuel and lunch

Visiting Headcorn for fuel and lunch

The participants at Sandown

The participants at Sandown