Jan 2010 -- TIGER MOTH FLYING AT NOK -- Apparently, the Tiger Moth at Nok Airport in Chiangmai is up in the air. This is only a rumor, but if we receive any confirmations or photos, we will let you know. Yin Dee.

28 Nov 2009 -- TFC MEMBER JACKY WINS KINGS CUP ULTRALIGHT COMPETITION AT KLONG 15 -- All of Thai Flying Club was celebrating for the stunning victory of their fellow member Khun Jacky who brought home the King's Cup Trophy for Ultralight competition that was held at Ongkarak Airfield at Klong 15 in November 2009. Here is pictured Khun Jacky with TFC Super Manager Worawoot. Now TFC is gearing up to send an airwing delegation to the OSHTAK airshow in Udon early next year from 8-10 Jan 2010.

22-24 Jan 2010 -- KHON KAEN FLY-IN -- Fun trip to Khon Kaen organized by SFAT.

NEW AIRPORTS NEAR BANGKOK -- We have confirmed positions of two near airports near Bangkok -- Klong 15 in Nakhorn Nayok and Ongkarak. These are two different airports, but they are very close to each other. Exercise caution and proper pre-flight briefing.

10 Jan 2010 -- TIGER BREAKS INTO TFC OFFICE -- BREAKING NEWS -- Last night a Tiger fell through the ceiling of the TFC office in pursuit of a cat. Now we know who has been eating all the cats at TFC. The Tiger proceeded to ransack the office and devour several portions of TFC T-shirts throughout the night. TFC Manager Worawoot said, "this was not a normal situation." TFC Secretary Damri said, "This is the Year of the Tiger, so we feel honored to have had such a visit." All TFC staff have been put on full alert to protect all cats from the Tiger in the future, because the cats have done a marvelous job of keeping the mice in check at the TFC. TFC Manager Worawoot has announced that, in light of recent events, all TFC members will receive one FREE partially eaten T-Shirt to celebrate the YEAR OF THE TIGER at TFC. Please ask Worawoot for your free Tiger Signed T-shirt on your next visit to TFC.

12-13 Feb 2010 -- AOPA CONFERENCE IN PHILIPPINES -- IAOPA will be conducing a General Aviation Conference in the Philippines. This will be during the Philippines Balloon Festival and we will update with more details when able.

8-10 Jan 2010 -- OSHTAK SUCCESS IN UDON THANI -- Oshtak 2010 in Udon Thani was a great success. There were over 60 airplanes with great aviation pioneers Khun Vutichai, the Director General of the Thai DCA, and General Pracha who hosted the event and Khun Porntep from Udon mastertech who sponsored the fuel and hotels. The Royal Thai Army flew up a Black Hawk and Apache helicopter and there was a Royal Thai Airforce Alpha Jet low pass along with a Royal Rainmaking Kaset Formation Flight. Everyone was extremely pleased with the turnout, especially the 5,000 children who were thrilled on National Children's Day. Thank you very much to everyone for making this year a tremendous Oshtak Event. View previous Oshtak event. Any questions -- sunnysportflying@yahoo.com

09 Jan 2010 -- ENTHUSIASTIC AVIATOR ED HEADING SOUTH FOR DUGONG SURVEY -- One of Thailand's most enthusiastic aviators is heading South to assist with Thailand's Dugong Survey. The survey will last for 2 weeks, and it will be conducted from the airports of Trang, Krabi, and Hat Yai. This is a very good example of how General Aviation and the Government Wildlife Department can work together for the benefit of wildlife conservation. We wish Ed luck with the flying and will update you on the progress.

Nov 2009 -- SKYDIVING IN SRIRACHA -- According to Mac, Skydiving is finally up and running down in Sriracha with a Pilatus Porter. This could be a great step forward for General Aviation in Thailand. We will keep you posted on the progress of this exciting project -- www.thaiskyadventures.com

FUNERAL CEREMONY FOR ADJAN KRISDA -- The TFC is very sad to report that our dear friend and former President of the club, Adjan Krisda, has passed away. Adjan Krisda was very instrumental in the pioneering development of the club in the early days and he will be missed. His funeral ceremony is being held at Wat Benjamobpit, Sala 100 year, starting at 7pm on 14 January 2010. Present on the first evening were Khun Chuan (former Prime Minister) and Khun Suthep (Vice Prime Minister). The ceremony continues until 25th January with the Buddhist ritual lasting for 100 days. If you have any questions, please email Khun Worawoot -- manager@thaiflyingclub.com

NEW AIRSTRIP NEAR BUDDHA MOUNTAIN -- We hear that there is a new grass airstrip near the Buddha Mountain near U-Taphao. If you see this, please send us a photo and a name and perhaps some runway and contact information -- info@thaiflyingclub.com

NEW AIRSTRIP IN BURIRAM -- click here. Tel: 044-602466 / 083-7757070. Please check with DCA to make sure this airstrip is licensed and approved. We do not know.

26-27 Dec 2009 -- PHUKET AIRPARK CHRISTMAS FLY-IN & AIRSHOW -- Khun Suchard has announced that PHUKET AIRPARK will have a Fly-In and Airshow this Christmas Boxing Day 2009 in Phuket. Everyone is welcome to come, but if you want to fly-in, you will have to receive an invitation first. Khun Suchard is planning special airshow events and competitions for all the visitors and many businesses in Phuket will be setting up booths for a fun weekend of activities and aviation fair in Phuket. For more information Call Khun Suchard -- 0818104510..

BANG PHRA AIRSHOW 2009-- Over 500 people came to Bang Phra on 29 August 2009 to see the finest airshow and flyin competition that the club has seen in the past 6 years. Old students received their certificates. New students were welcomed. 7 Students from Bang Phra flew for their first time ever, there was Flour Bombing (won by Khun Rolf) and balloon bursting (won by Khun Rolf). Khun Damri took the Cessna 206 up in the air and made two successful flights. Past presidents Khun Thira and Khun Wichai were present to give awards to students and instructors. There was a fantastic cookout and dinner with Khun Rin cooking up a storm. The TFC instructors and ATC team did an amazing job of coordinating and keeping everyone safe with sometimes up to 7 aircraft flying in and out and dropping bombs at the same time. Kruu Piya gave an Extra 300 aerobatic show. Khun Charn and Lek and Nuni were there. Sonny brought many of his friends from 604 Squadron. Shashank and his friend set up a fantastic bar in the clubhouse. Khun Suchard was flying and representing the Phuket Airpark. Khun Norman was back from Canada and represented the Earthrounders. Khun Pakamas came to visit with her friend. Khun Dana from Thai Cessna brought the MJets team and her Bill. Khun Rolf received a trophy in honor of his 1000th flying hour and he presented 100 cans of Singha beer to the party. Papa Dave was sadly not with us, but Tony was and Alistair and Ron from Pattaya and Khun Neil from Pattaya Airpark were there. It was a great day for General Aviation in Thailand. If you have any questions about joining the next groundschool class, please call or email Instructor Speedy -- 0818440823 -- Information on the TFC Groundschool.

BEST OCEAN'S FIRST FLY-IN-BREAKFAST WAS A GREAT SUCCESS -- On 23 August, 7 aircraft from Bang Phra, Pattaya Airpark, and Don Muang flew into Best Ocean Airpark for Breakfast. The group of 7 aircraft were greeted by DCA Deputy Director Khun Vutichai and Best Ocean Owner Khun Sittichai and an armada of golf carts and staff from Best Ocean Airpark and Golf club. Everyone was very impressed with the quality of the new airstrip. TFC member Khun Pracha was the last to land and he sprung into action after a quick brunch to hit the golf course. Khun Sonny then took Khun Sittichai's son, Golf, up for some touch and go's and the 7 aircraft returned. Amidst the intrepid pioneering aviators were Shmirmaxie and Khun Rolf on the cusp of 1000 hours, Commander Worawoot freshly soloed on a solo cross-country adventure, Khun Suchard all the way from Phuket, Commander Tony and Dave "you're damn right," trip idea originator Alonso Fernando, Khun "Thai Cessna" Dana, and special appearance from Khun Nawaporn and AJ. If you have any questions about Best Ocean, you can call Khun Sukanya on Best Ocean Airpark.

4-5 Dec 2009 -- UBON AIRSHOW -- CANCELLED

10-13 Dec 2009 -- BALLOON FESTIVAL PATTAYA -- For more inforation, contact SFAT.

6-8 Nov 2009 -- NOK FLY-IN -- Fun Fly in to Nok Airport and find out the latest news up there. Organized by SFAT.

DCA PPL VALIDATION TEST DATES -- TFC Club Manager Worawoot is informing all TFC members that the DCA is now requiring applicants for foreign license validation to take a Thai Air Law and Human Factors written exam before rendering foreign licenses valid for flight in Thailand -- view the new validation procedure flowchart. If you want to take the test on any other date, the fee is 1,500 Baht. You can check Thai Air Law on www.aviation.go.th/Thailaw/AviationActE.pdf  -- for Human Performance details or any other questions, contact Worawoot -- email Worawoot

20-22 Nov 2009 -- FAI KINGS CUP COMPETITION -- ONGKARAK AIRPORT -- Khun Virayudth Didyasarin has announced that Tango Squadron will organize King's Cup Ultralight and Microlight competition at Ongkarak Airport (Klong 15) in October or November. The King's Cup competition will be for UL (Medium and Low Power) and for Microlight (one class). These will be the two events. Aviators are welcome to attend. If you have questions, you can call Tango Squadron Tel: 025345012/13 or 025238725. More information on Tango Squadron -- Khun Tang recently visited Pattaya Airpark to drop off the application forms for the King Trophy for UL competition at Onkarak Airfield. The event organized by The Royal Aeronautic Sports Association of Thailand (RASAT). More information -- Email FAI

LEFT BASE 24 -- LUANG PRABANG, LAOS -- OCTOBER SFAT TRIP TO LAOS CANCELLED -- The October planned trip to Laos by SFAT was cancelled because the cost of flying a private airplane in Laos is too expensive. Every General Aviation private flight in Laos has to pay US$160 air navigation fee per flight leg. This fee does not exist in Thailand for Private Aircraft and this is the reason that General Aviation can grow in Thailand. If Laos were to cancel this navigation fee for private aircraft, then there would be more private and general aviation activity and growth in Laos. If you want more information, try contacting SFAT.

01 Aug 2009 -- 3,425 AIRCRAFT AT OSHKOSH AIRSHOW IN USA -- TFC Committee Member Khun Damri is at Oshkosh Airshow in USA and he reports that there are 3,425 aircraft at the Airshow this year. The reason that there are so many Private and General Aviation aircraft in USA is because the FAA does not over-regulate and inhibit the growth of aviation. When the rules are simple and easy to follow, then the industry will grow. It also makes for safer pilots who can fly with each other in their aircraft and learn more about aviation safety.  

28 Nov 2009 -- R/C MEETING FROM KLANG DONG -- Meet at Klang Dong then fly to airstrip nearby -- paul@aero-siam.com

NEUPORT-28 COMING TO THAILAND -- Khun Damri has been busy at Oshkosh in USA. He bought a Kit Neuport-28 Biplane and a Sopwith Pup. Both Kit planes will be arriving in Thailand in late October 2009. Damri estimates 4 months to build the experimental aircraft. He also bought the Rotex 7 cylinder Radial engine (110hp) for these aircraft. Damri has his leather flying helmet ready and the skies of Bang Phra will never be the same again. We will update with photos of the Neuport-28 soon. DAMRI WILL GIVE A SLIDE SHOW FROM HIS VISIT TO OSHKOSH 2009 AT TFC ON 29 AUGUST 2009. Damri reports that there were 3,425 aircraft at Oshkosh 2009 in USA.

126 REGISTERED ULTRALIGHTS IN THAILAND -- As of July 2009, there are 126 Registered Ultralights in Thailand -- VIEW THE LIST

WIN A FREE BOSE HEADSET -- GENERAL AVIATION SURVEY FOR AOPA THAILAND -- All pilots welcome. The Thai Flying Club and AOPA Thailand have been asked to participate in a market study of the general aviation industry, being conducted by L.E.K. Consulting. The study consists of a broad internet survey of general aviation aircraft owners and pilots to gain insights on the state of the market, and identify the levels of activity and any unmet needs in the marketplace across a number of aspects. Please take the opportunity to provide insights from your perspective by clicking on the link below and participating in the survey. Feel free to forward this link to any other aircraft owners or pilots across Asia Pacific you may know outside of the TFC and AOPA Thailand as well. As an incentive, L.E.K. is holding a sweepstakes giveaway for a Bose Aviation Headset X which survey respondents may enter if they wish upon completion of the study. Click here to enter the survey -- http://survey.euro.confirmit.com/wix3/p266060357.aspx?src=16 

INCREDIBLE JOURNEY -- C206 RETURNS TO BANG PHRA -- After so many years, finally Damri and Lek's Cessna 206 has returned to Bang Phra. Kruu Sirapol did a fantastic emergency landing between the high tension wires many years ago, and then the plane was disassembled and went to be repaired at Don Muang airport. Many many years passed and finally the Cessna 206 is back in the air and made a triumphant return to Bang Phra on 11 August 2009. There are not very many C206 in Thailand, and this is a very popular plane all over the world, because it is a workhorse. It can carry 6 people and 6 hours fuel and still take off on a short airstrip. The groundspeed is 120 knots which is 2 nautical miles per minute for easy bush pilot navigation with your thumb on a map. Congratulations to Kruu Toy from 604 Squadron and Khun Damri for a successful flight back to Bang Phra. As you can see all the mechanics are thrilled.

BANG PHRA STUDENT "CAPTAIN NU" VISITS TFC -- Rajamangala University is the only University in Thailand with an airstrip in its back yard. Now they have a very active Aviation Program. First year student Khun Nu (Panupong Nusing) stopped by the Thai Flying Club on Sunday 09 August 2009, because he wanted to watch airplanes. ATC Khun Kitty called Fernando who was about to take off, and said that he had a passenger for him, so Nu was up in the air. Khun Nu is in his first year of the Aviation program in Bang Phra. There are 2 CPL candidates (Khun Nu from Bangkok and Khun Film from Chiangrai). There are also 18 Aviation Management students. Khun Nu chose Bang Phra, because he was able to enter the aviation program with just a High School Graduation Certificate. Upon graduation from Bang Phra, he will receive his Bachelor Degree from RMUTTO and his CPL from CATC. He said that he also looked at BAC and CATC, but they only accept CPL candidates who already have a BA degree. Khun Nu could not wait that long. He has 8 other pilots in his extended family who now fly for Thai Airways, Bangkok Airways, RTAF, and Thai Air Asia. Khun Nu is very good in his English, because he has been going to AUA for 2 years to practice. Khun Nu is an example of someone who wants to follow his dream to be a pilot and will hang around the airport as much as possible to learn whatever he can. He has already flown with Kruu Mong in an Eagle, with Kruu Piya in a C150, and now most recently with Fernando in the Red Dragon. Khun Nu found out about the aviation program in Bang Phra by visiting the Aviation Career Camp 18-19 Oct 2008 at Bang Phra. He found this on the University website -- www.rmutto.ac.th -- and now he is a student following his dream to fly. We wish Khun Nu chok dee and we are sure to see him hanging around TFC in the future. Email Khun Nu -- hydrogen138@hotmail.com

MANY AIRCRAFT NOW FOR SALE IN THAILAND -- The Newly enforced 5 year permit regulations in Thailand now make it very complicated and difficult for multiple partners to own an aircraft together. This makes it impossible for young pilots to build time in their logbooks by flying with friends in their airplanes. This means that a young Thai pilot who does not have a lot of money, cannot build hours and get experience to be a safer pilot to reach the airlines. Many aircraft are now sitting on the ground, because the owners do not have time to fly them and no one else is allowed to fly them. Aircraft that do not fly regularly are not safe. The new regulations stipulate that only the owner can fly the aircraft and one other pre-designated person. Because of this regulation, there are many aircraft now for sale in Thailand, and they will probably be sold out of Thailand. There are currently for sale: a Socata TB-9 (4 seats), Grumman AA-5B (4 seats), Beechcraft Musketeer (4 seats), Socata TB-20 (4 seats), another TB-20, and a Siai Marchetti for sale at TFC. For more information -- visit Aircraft for Sale or Email the manager.

07 Aug 2009 -- BEST OCEAN AIRPARK IS NOW OPEN -- Khun Sukanya has informed us that BEST OCEAN AIRPARK has received its Landing Permit from the Thai DCA and is now open for aircraft to fly in and land. Best Ocean is 30 minutes by car from downtown Silom in Bangkok. Best Ocean is a private airpark for businessmen and aviators and golfers to fly into for golf or to live. Best Ocean Airpark is now constructing hangars and a flying clubhouse and building private homes along the airfield. If you have ever dreamed of flying and want to live next to your plane and a 45-hole golf course, then Best Ocean is your place. If you want to fly in or if you have any questions, please call Khun Sukanya -- 0899227622 -- and she will arrange a welcome party for you.

FUG BIN FREE 2009 -- 13 students from Rajamangala University and Burapha entered FUG BIN FREE competition this year. We had 3 winners and 7 people came to fly with us during the Bang Phra Airshow. We would like to thank Khun Robert for taking all the Fug Bin Free students up in HS-BOB.

WHO SAYS MAN CAN'T FLY -- We found this, and you are going to like it -- SPOT LANDING

AVIATION PROGRESS IN THAILAND -- CLASS G AIRSPACE -- Enthusiastic Aviator Ed has just reported that there was a presentation from Aerothai designating VTCP (Phrae), VTUL (Loei), VTPB (Petchaboon), VTUJ (Surin), VTPT(Tak) and VTPM (Mae Sot) airports as no longer having controlled towers effective from August 1st 2009. This means that the approach to final within 10nm of these airports will be on the CTAF basis of self announcement. The existing tower frequencies will be used as CTAF frequencies from now on unless there is a VIP flight being operated in which case they will temporarily bus in a controller and the airspace will revert to class C. Over 75% of the airports in USA and Canada and South Africa are operated this way because it saves money and it is a safe procedure. In USA, these are called UNICOM airports, where the pilot is responsible for communication and safe separation from other aircraft. Congratulations to Thailand for taking this very wise and economic step forward in General Aviation development. We would also like to thank Dr. Jarung (Head of Airspace) in the DCA for his considerable role in this great step forward. Dr. Jarung is a very keen pilot who loves aviation and is helping to move Thailand in the right direction. Thank you Sir.

IAOPA NEWS FROM KENYA -- The Aero Club of East Africa is a very old and established flying club in Kenya. It is similar to Thai Flying Club in that it is the representative to IAOPA. This is a link to recent General Aviation news from Kenya -- IAOPA KENYA NEWS

SUNDAY MORNING BREAKFAST AT EASTERN 8-10AM -- Everyone welcome. 150 Baht. Just show up at sunset and have great fun with pilots and delicious food. Jim will be cutting a hole in his fence, so people can move between the clubhouse and the porch.

NO MORE LANDING FEES AT SRIRACHA AIRPORT -- TFC Manager Worawoot has announced that TFC President Khun Pee and Khun Nophorn of Sriracha Airport have had a discussion and agreed to waive the landing fees at Sriracha Airport for all TFC members. Previously all aircraft that landed were required to pay a 100 Baht landing fee. This is a great step forward for General Aviation in Thailand and we want to thank Khun Nophorn and Khun Pee for this great initiative.

WATER CONTAMINATION IN FUEL -- Khun Paul recently reminded us about the dangers of water contamination in your fuel when refueling. Water in your fuel tank is extremely dangerous and it usually causes engine failure right after take off on the climb out -- the most dangerous stage of flight. This is a good time to remind people about Mr Funnel -- www.mrfunnel.com -- and this is one way to prevent water contamination. Remember: Complacency kills.

ALCOHOL & WATER TEST KIT -- www.fuel-testers.com/quikcheck.html

AIRSTRIP UPDATE -- We conducted a visual inspection of Koh Chang and Trat Military airstrips recently and have good news to report the excellent condition of these airstrps. We will put new photos up shortly.

CAPTAIN TREVOR DAVENPORT JOINS IAT IN BANG PHRA -- Captain Trevor Davenport has been appointed Aviation English Instructor at IAT Bang Phra. The University Flight School in Bang Phra welcomes Trevor to the campus. Trevor is a FAA CFI, CFII, MEI, LMT with certification to teach Aviation English. He is based in Bangkok, but will be teaching in Bang Phra on Monday and Friday mornings. He may be available to assist with FAA BFR currency if needed -- tjdsa@yahoo.com

Aug 2009 -- PIPER LOOKING TO HIRE PIPER AVIATION MANAGER ASIA -- Piper is keen to re-enter the General Aviation Market in Asia and are looking for a qualified person to fill this position. Take the Piper Survey -- http://survey.euro.confirmit.com/wix3/p266060357.aspx -- If you think you have what it takes -- email Peter

25-28 Aug (now postponed to mid-September) 2009 SABAI DEE ADVENTURE TOUR TO LAOS -- Khun Sonny Souvannavong is organizing an adventure flying trip to Laos on 25 August to recce the trip for TFC in November. If anyone is interested in an adventure trip to Laos, Sonny and Papa Dave will be going in their C150. Other aircraft are welcome to join, but Sonny stresses that it is an adventure trip, because no one has done this trip in a while, so there may be adventures on the way. They will fly from Bang Phra to Udon and clear out of customs and then fly to Vientiane, then down to Suvannaket. Returning on the 28th. Sonny estimates the cost to be US$300 to 400 in fees. He will sponsor the hotels and dinner in his hotels there. Sonny's dream is to set up the SABAI DEE FLYING CLUB in Laos and his philosophy is "Passion for Flying." If anyone is interested in joining this adventure flying with their aircraft or as a passenger, then email TFC

8-10 Sep 2009 -- ASIAN AEROSPACE 2009 -- Exhibition will be held from 8-10 September 2009 at AsiaWorld-Expo, Hong Kong -- Email

Sep 2009 -- TFC TRIP TO KLANG DONG -- Dr Rolf flew up to visit Khun Prasert in Klang Dong recently, and Khun Prasert said that it was too quiet up there. His face lit up when Rolf suggested that TFC should make a flying tour up to visit. Now, Rolf is organizing a Klang Dong Flying visit for sometime in September or October. If you are interested in joining -- please email Khun Rolf.

5-6 Sep 2009 -- OSHDOK ANNUAL FLYIN AT DOKKRAI -- One of the great General Aviation Fly-ins in Thailand today is the annual flyin to DOKKRAI -- where everyone is camping under their wings and participating in spot landings and water bombing competitions at Khun John's Dokkrai Resort. This is a very fun weekend for all aviators and friends. There is a swimming pool, hotel with delicious food, waterskiing on Dokkrai Lake, and the annual Fly-in Crocket competition. Don't miss the Annual "OSHDOK" at Dokkrai 2009. Previous OSHDOK 2005 Fly-in. For the latest update on when OSHDOK will be held -- Email Paul and Andy UPDATES: Rod has a 35 knot speedboat (water level permitting) and offers conventional water skiing as well as an inflatable armchair ride for 2 people which is great fun. The idea is to have a fun event at a great resort. The main day is Sunday with John doing the catering but everyone is welcome to arrive on Saturday or leave Monday. Accommodation is available in the resort and there will be 2 tents and sleeping bags also provided. We will arrange to make 95 Octane fuel available. Proposed events - balloon busting, flower bombing, spot landing, maybe a simple formation flight locally. More information: Call Jim 081 8282107. Johns rooms are available. 1,000 Baht for BBQ and Room and Breakfast (2 people/room). 350 Baht just for BBQ. 

30 Aug 2009 -- TFC SALUTES CAPTAIN WATANA ON HIS 60TH BIRTHDAY -- Captain Watana is one of the early members of Thai Flying Club and is also the current President of Phuket Flying Club. He is a very active general aviation pilot and one of the nicest people you can meet. All the the members of TFC and PFC salute Captain Watana on his birthday and wish him good luck in his retirement where he will be flying a lot in Phuket. If you want to come to his birthday party in Phuket, then call Khun Suchard -- 0818104510.

29 Aug 2009 (14:00pm) -- BANG PHRA AIRSHOW -- Everyone is coming to Bang Phra on 29 August. We will have a slide show of Khun Damri's adventure trip to Oshkosh in USA. We will have the students from IAT in Bang Phra coming to visit and 3 winners of FUG BIN FREE will receive a free flight. We will have Water Balloon Bombing with Judge Worawoot as the official and final say on the contest. We will have Dr. Rolf fly past to celebrate his 1,000th flying hour. We will have a dinner in the Bush Pilot Clubhouse. We will award the Groundschool and First Solo certificates to all the TFC students. We will welcome the 4 new students to the opening Groundschool in Bang Phra. We will have Papa Dave here and everyone can tell him "You're damn right!" We will probably have an aerobatic show by Kruu Piya or Khun Charn. We will have all club aircraft on display. Everyone is welcome to fly in and have dinner and camp out. Dinner is free and drinks are available. If you have any questions about joining the next groundschool class, please call or email Instructor Speedy -- 0818440823 -- Information on the TFC Groundschool. If you have any other questions, call the WORAWOOT HOTLINE -- 0868342636. Don't miss the greatest airshow in Bang Phra!
9:30am - Groundschool Welcome for new students
11:30am - Lunch (free for students)
13:30pm - Airshow Pilot Briefing
14:00pm - Airshow Flourbombing
15:00pm - Fug Bin Free Standby
15:30pm - Aerobatic Show
15:45pm - Dr. Rolf 1,000 hour Flyby
16:00pm - Airshow Balloon Burst
18:00pm - Certificate Presentation + BBQ + Damri Party
18:20pm - Kruu Jira and Kruu Surapol recognition plaques.
Thank you.

19 Apr 2009 -- VISIT FROM TOP 40 STUDENTS -- Thai Flying Club was very honored to have 40 of the top engineering students in Thailand come to visit the club. These students are building an aircraft in Bangkok, and they were very pleased to receive a tour of the club from Manager Worawoot and to watch an aerobatic display from Kruu Piya and then to have a photograph in front of Khun Charn's Grob motorglider. As soon as we receive the name of the teacher and the school, we will share it with you -- these will be great students to follow and we want to see how their plane turns out too!

THAI DCA CIVIL AVIATION EXHIBITION 2009 AT DON MUANG WAS A SUCCESS -- On 24-26 July 2009, there was a Civil Aviation Exhibition at Don Muang Airport. Several aircraft flew into the event -- including Miss Siam, and there were aircraft from Pattaya Airpark and a Malibu which have not been able to fly because they are waiting for 5 year permits that were given a special clearance to fly just for this event. The event was a great success, because thousands of Thai students and aviation enthusiasts in Thailand were able to walk around and visit booths about all the different schools, companies, and airports growing in Thailand. The general consensus among aviators and visitors to the show was that if the Five Year permit process could be simplified or eliminated, then more people could fly and there would be more General Aviation activity and growth in Thailand that would allow the growth of Thai Aviation Industry for engines, avionics, propellers and more Aviation companies to provide jobs for all the Thai students that are learning Aviation Management in different Universities in Thailand at the moment. The events were posted -- http://www.aviation.go.th/Safety/civil-aviation-exhibition.htm

EXOTIC DESTINATION -- KHAO KHEOW ESTATE BOUTIQUE SAFARI -- Thailand has its first Luxury Tented Camps Resort. The Estate - deep in the jungle at Khao Kheow - has beautiful air-conditioned tents in a very beautiful setting. If you are looking for an "adventure" near Bang Phra, then this is the place to go. Off season rates are 1,800 Baht. There is a beautiful tented restaurant. Worth a visit -- www.estateresort.com

NEW AIRPORT UNDER CONSTRUCTION NEAR BANGKOK -- Khun Sittichai has announced his plans for Best Ocean Airpark near Bangkok -- www.bestoceanairpark.com -- construction of the runway is in progress and should be completed in the end of February. There are plans for a 54-hole golf course. 18 holes are already open.

MESSAGE FROM TFC MEMBER DOUGIE CAIRNS WHO JUST FLEW TO ALL 48 STATES IN USA IN HIS BARON -- If you do get a chance to put the details of www.diabetesflight48.com on the webpage to share, that really would be great. we're really trying hard to get the messaging out for flying with diabetes with this project - endurance flight highlighting how well the US system for flying with diabetes works. I had the pleasure of using a continuous blood glucose monitor, so in additional to hourly blood sugar tests, I had an automatic reading every five minutes. This has some potential to opening doors around the world to allow more pilots with diabetes to fly. (we still only have five countries around the world allowing private flying for pilots with diabetes using insulin.) Perhaps with a small note that we "completed an attempt to break the existing record on 20th June in 97 hours and 32 minutes. Subject to ratification by the National Aeronautic Association, this cut 33 hours off the existing record......"

ROTAX UPDATE FROM PAUL & JIM -- Just to keep everyone informed and address current safety issues concerning Rotax Engines: Rotax has issued a new service instruction about operating fluids for the 912 -- http://www.rotax-owner.com/SI_TB_Info/ServiceInfo/SI-912-016.pdf -- Summary and Jim’s recommendations: FUEL: Gasahol E10 (10%) has been approved for use. However there are two problems. 1. Check with the manufacturer if your fuel system is suitable for gasohol because it may attack certain fuel lines and fibreglass tanks. 2. If the aircraft is not used regularly, water will separate out of the fuel. Jim recommends continuing to use normal 95 fuel. Avgas 100LL is not recommended but can be used. OIL: Mobil 1 SAE 15W-50 full synthetic. Top up with the same oil. The oil should reach at least 100 C once every operational day. COOLANT: Evanscool waterless coolant is recommended. Standard 50% water-glycol can be used but may boil at 120 C. Never mix Evanscool with standard coolant.

4 May 2009 -- GENERAL AVIATION HELPS WITH POLICE SEARCH -- On 04 May 2009, Bamrung called the Eastern Flying Club after there was a Gold Shop robbery, grenade explosion and M16 shooting in Jomtien. The thieves made off with 1/2 million Baht in gold. Officer Nipop (from Tunong Pleu Station) arrived with one other officer at Eastern Airport at 11:15AM. General Aviation pilots Alistair Stewart and Paul Keohane volunteered their time and aircraft and flew 1 hour each from Route 36 to Rayong and back and then to Plek Dang in search of a gold Vigo Truck and black Fortuna vehicle. The police officers were very grateful for the opportunity to search for these vehicles from the air and Eastern was pleased to be able to help the officers with their mission. This is a good example of one of the benefits of General Aviation to society as we saw during the Tsunami as well. Thank you to everyone for their support and promotion of General Aviation in Thailand -- www.iaopa.org

24-26 Jul 2009 -- THAI DCA CIVIL AVIATION EXHIBITION 2009 AT DON MUANG -- The Thai DCA is hosting a Civil Aviation Exhibition at Don Muang in July. Thai Flying Club aircraft are flying in on 23 June before 4pm. Landing and Parking fees are free. If you wish to fly in, then email TFC to join. The events are as follows -- http://www.aviation.go.th/Safety/civil-aviation-exhibition.htm
23 Jul
- aircraft fly in before 4pm.
- the Extra 300 from Nakhon Phanom is coming.
24 Jul - DCA SEMINAR
- 11am - Direction of Flight Industry.
- 1-4pm - Being a Pilot and Angel.
25 Jul
- 9am - Policy of Free Sky.
- 9:30am - Flight Safety (Khun Sampan).
- 10:45 - Legal Division (Khun Somchai).
- 1-2pm - Being a PPL and owning an airplane in Thailand (Khun Vuttichai)
- 1-4pm - How to make a safe flight (Capt Pisut).
26 Jul
- 9am - Aerodesign (Dr. Nattaporn).
- 10:30 - UAV Tech (Dr. Nattaporn).
- 1-4pm - Future of Sport Aviation in Thailand !!!!!
These seminars are Presentation with Question and Answers at the end. They will be in Thai language.
PHUKET FLYING CLUB COCKTAIL PARTY on Saturday - During the Civil Aviation Exhibition, Captain Watana and Khun Suchard from Phuket Airpark will be hosting a cocktail party at their General Aviation Flying Booth at Don Muang. Everyone is welcome to come and talk airplanes and meet new flying friends. For more information -- call Khun Suchard -- 0818104510

TFC STUDENT STATUS (MAY'09) -- Thai Flying Club now has seven students currently training. JACKIE and IVAN have both recently completed their first solo. OLIVER and ANAEK are in their pre-solo check phase and should be soloing very soon. NIWAT, ADAM and ANDREAS are in training and progressing rapidly. We also have new students MOHAMMED from Kuwait and KOJU from Japan who have successfully passed their Medical exam and are ready to begin the next Ground School Course. THE PROCESS TO JOIN THE GROUND SCHOOL -- 1. Come to the club and find out how to register for the Medical Exam. 2. After you pass the Medical Exam, you can join the club. 3. When we have 6 students who have passed the medical, we will start the next Ground School (we have 2 now; need 4 more). Any questions, Email the club manager -- manager@thaiflyingclub.com -- and visit our TFC Flying School Page

JOIN THE NEXT GROUNDSCHOOL CLASS -- TFC is now putting together a list of students for the next groundschool. We need 6 students to start. Our first student has arrived at TFC and signed up. If you are interested in joining -- info@thaiflyingclub.com -- and here is a list of the students so far: Greg White whitegw@gmail.com tel: 0818909460 // Samuel Desmier samuel.desmier@gmail.com 0899671629 // Shan Wang wangshan.mail@gmail.com from beijing in sing +65 98261610 // Peter Read peter@pattayatoday.net tel: 0806442511. // John Carter JDCarter@montpeliergroup.com // Alan (guy who called Worawoot) // Dominique Perregaux (based in Hong Kong and wants to join) //

14 May 2009 -- NEWS FLASH -- HS-PIA C150 NOW READY TO FLY AT TFC -- Club Manager Worawoot has gleefully informed us that HS-PIA is now under TFC registration and available for members to use. Another C150 to the fleet.

18-19 Jul 2009 -- SAREX 2009 AT SONGKLA -- This years SAREX sponsored by the DCA and the Military will be at SONGKHLA AIRPORT VTSH.

7-9 Jul 2009 -- ASIAN AEROSPACE SHENYANG CONGRESS IN CHINA -- Participate in the next growth spurt of China’s civil aviation industry -- www.aashenyangcongress.com

23 May 2009 -- TFC MANAGER WORAWOOT FIRST SOLO -- Club Manager Worawoot has been flying for almost two years, but this past Saturday, he finally went solo. The TFC manager must be the most qualified student pilot in the world, because he has been flying with everyone all over Thailand. Now that the club aircraft are getting on line, he was able to finish the job.

3 May 2009 -- NEWS FLASH -- NEW C150 AT TFC -- Club Manager Worawoot has informed us that TFC now has Sonny's two newly arrived C150 aircraft on line for dry rates of 3,500 Baht per hour. There is also a C172 in Customs which will be arriving at the club soon. For more information -- manager@thaiflyingclub.com

TFC 2009 SPRING TOUR TO NAN -- The TFC Spring Tour to NAN 27-29 Apr 2009 was a great success. The trip was led by TFC Club secretary Khun Damri and Club Manager Khun Worawoot. Several aircraft flew up to Nan and went rafting on the Wa River and then were invited for "open house dinner and camping" at Khun Damri's house.    

AVIATION KNOWLEDGE REFRESHER -- TEST YOURSELF -- Take Khun Paul's Aviation Quizz REFRESHER

THAI AIRCRAFT REGISTRY CHANGES -- Nov 2008 -- Nov 2008 Thai Registry Changes

NEWS FLASH -- FOUR C150 & ONE BEECHCRAFT MUSKETEER & ONE GRUMMAN & ONE CHEROKEE 140 & ONE C172 IFR COMING TO TFC IN MARCH/APRIL -- Khun Worawoot has informed us that the club will lease 4 C150, 1 Beechcraft, 1 Grumman and 1 IFR C172 for students use in March. The club Cherokee 140 should be ready in 2 months. This means the TFC fleet will be 10 aircraft. Plenty for the new students. The prices of the leased aircraft will be slightly higher, but they will have excellent working radios and navigational radios. Also, a new Ground School class will be starting soon -- keep watching here! The IFR Cessna 172N coming to the club will have the following avionics on board:
• Cessna 300 Audio Panel 3LMB
• Cessna 300 RT 385A NAV/COM VOR/LOC/GS
• Cessna 300 RT 385A NAV/COM VOR/LOC
• Cessna 300 ADF
• Cessna 300 Transponder/Mode C
• Cessna 400 Glideslope
• Intercom/PTT

FAA BFR IN BALI -- Our TFC friend John Mellor is now in Thailand (until 23rd) to help with BFRs if you need. He has been in China, Nakhon Phanom, Borneo and now he is headed to help with a flying school in Northern Bali. So if you need a BFR in Bali, then send him an email -- mellorsemail@yahoo.com -- John mobile: 0849233346 (Thai) / 081236416370 (Bali).

WORAWOOT OMLETTE -- If you want to try something new and exciting in your life, then come to Bang Phra on Saturday or Sunday and ask Club Manager Worawoot to cook you the "Worawoot Omlette." It is a mouth-watering special that you will return for again and again.

US AIR 1549 LANDS IN THE HUDSON RIVER -- Listen to the FAA radio transcript of the pilot's comms with ATC after the birdstrike -- http://www.avweb.com/podcast/podcast/AudioPodcast_USAirwaysFlight1549_Audio_199716-1.html?kw=AVwebAudio

KLANG DONG CAMPER -- Khun Prasert has been perfecting his KLANG DONG CAMPER. If you are interested in a Camper Truck for traveling and camping around Thailand, then you can visit Khun Prasert at Klang Dong Airport or you can call Khun Lek -- 0818521847.

8-10 May 2009 -- SFAT TRIP TO SAKHON NAKORN -- If you want to join, email Paul -- paul@aero-siam.com -- Colonel Amrung rang to advise that the route will include Surin. Now: Udon - Sakhon Nakhon - Nakhom Panom (back to Sakhon?) - Surin. Colonel needs to know how many aircraft from Tantawan to book the hotel. Other questions in Thai, please call Uthai -- 0814453236.

2-3 Apr 2009 -- POLICE AERIAL FORESTRY MISSION AT EASTERN -- The police are looking for volunteers for aerial patrol of the forests in Chantaburi. This has been organized by Dr. Bamrung who will visit Eastern and give more details. The Itinerary is as follows:
02APR: High-ranking police will visit Eastern.
03APR: In the morning, aircraft and paramotors will fly with Police. In the Afternoon, seminar to explain the program. In the evening, there will be a reception at the Ambassador Hotel to receive ID cards, etc.
04APR: Fly to the new Police airstrip in Chantaburi (near Tah Mai RTN). If you want to volunteer, Jim has applicant forms which Noom has translated. (You must own a plane or paramotor and be a pilot; You need signed copies of: passport, tabien barn, C of A, pilot license, and 2 one-inch photos). This is an important event for Eastern Club. Even if you do not want to be part of the program, please come on the 3rd and show support. It would be great to get all the aircraft out on display to welcome the police. For more info - paul@aero-siam.com

25-29 Mar 2009 -- ELEPHANT POLO IN GOLDEN TRIANGLE, CHIANGRAI -- There is an elephant polo tournament at Anantara Resort in Golden Triangle (near Chiangrai) -- www.anantaraelephantpolo.com

9-20 Mar 2009 -- CAUTION -- There are military exercises from 9 to 20 March except Saturday and Sunday. The areas are approximately:
East West - Lop Buri to Surin and
North South - Sa Kaeo to Petchabun

TFC BOOTH AT BITEC -- Khun Damri the club secretary organized a TFC booth at BITEC Industrial Fair -- www.thailandpages.com -- In addition, Khun Damri is making a webpage for Thai Flying Club in Thai which will have a Web board (members chat), Maintenance section, Admin section, School section, Events section. Standby for this -- www.thaiflyingclub.org

PHUKET AIRPARK FLYIN -- On 17 January 2009, Khun Suchard organized the first flyin to Phuket Airpark -- www.phuketflying.com -- the event was a great success with 10 aircraft flying in from Bang Phra, Bangkok, Chiangmai and other places. Khun Adrian made the first ever Hot Air Balloon flight in Phuket and landed right in the middle of the airfield. Construction is underway for this very grand scheme and all people are welcome to come and visit.

6-7 Mar 2009 -- WINGS OVER ASIA WEEKEND GETAWAY IN THAILAND -- Meng has informed us that he is organizing an Aviators Getaway Weekend in Thailand. The details will be updated as available --  http://docs.google.com/gview?attid=0.1&thid=11e4256d5bf073a9&a=v&pli=1

4 Mar 2009 -- HAWKER BEECHCRAFT 1A LIGHT JET COMING TO BANGKOK -- Dear Sirs, As a valued member of the aviation community and one who has a vested interest in the progress of aviation in Thailand, Hawker Pacific & Royal Sky cordially invite you to attend a flight demonstration of Hawker Beechcraft’s Premier 1A (Very Light executive Jet) at Don Muang airport on Wednesday 4th of March. The aircraft will be parked at Royal Sky’s Fixed Base Operation and be available for a personal tour and local demonstration sortie. Lunch will be provided as well as the opportunity to network with senior executives from one of the largest aircraft manufacturers in the world plus their South East Asia Main Dealer (Hawker Pacific Asia). I appreciate this is short notice but I would be grateful for an early indication of your availability as we have to submit ID card or passport details on Fax No. +662-504-3838 for access to Don Muang air-side as well as obtaining permission to fly. Yours sincerely, John Carter -- John.Carter@hawkerpacific.com -- Call John -- 0851535430.

12-15 Feb 2009 -- PHILIPPINE HOT AIR BALLOON FIESTA scheduled on February 12-15, 2009 at Clark Field in Pampanga, Philippines and the Bohol Island Fly-In on Feb. 16-18. Everybody welcome. Email Joy -- joyroa@flyaai.com

NEW IMPROVEMENTS AT TFC -- Khun Worawoot proudly demonstrates a brand new road at the new entrance to the club. The Club President Khun Pee has built a new road called "05L" on the Northeast side of the runway for people to drive to the club smoothly. In addition, all of the Eucalyptus trees on approach to runway 23 have been cut down, so now there is a very clean and safe approach to landing on runway 23. The new entrance to the club will have a new sign too and will make the runway safer because cars will not have to drive across it to reach the club. Thank you Khun Pee for these great new improvements and that you to Manager Worawoot for showing them to us. If you have any creative ideas or logos for the new TFC sign, please email them to Worawoot -- manager@thaiflyingclub.com

23 Jan 2009 -- 604 Squadron Lopburi Flyin -- 604 Squadron will be hosting the King's Trophy and the Crown Prince's Trophy at Koke Krathiem Lopburi VTBL Airfield (Squadron 201) in late January. There will also be an air rally over Ban Mi Airfield. For more information -- contact Tango Squadron or email Q at Ban Mi Airfield -- cpt_qq@hotmail.com

NEW RESTAURANT -- Gae and Gop have opened a new restaurant at TFC. They welcome you to visit on the weekends, and if you want to organize a function during the week which requires their culinary expertise, then you are welcome to call them and speak Thai with them -- 0810498904.

NEW TFC PRESIDENT -- The Thai Flying Club had and Annual General Meeting in the Bushpilot Clubhouse on 22 November 2008, and Khun Piya Malakul is the new TFC President. The club also elected new committee members. Next month, the President will appoint the positions for Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary General. The Thai Flying Club has a long history of Presidents who have served to promote General Aviation in Thailand and the the club's efforts have made Thailand one of the leading General Aviation countries in Asia today. Recent news at the club is that trees on the approach path to Runway 23 are to be cut down, a new road is to be built next to Runway 23, and a new entrance from the road near the mountain is to be opened, a large welcome sign to TFC will be erected, and Khun Damri is designing new TFC/IAOPA membership cards to use for Hotel and Car Rental discounts. There may also be a 20% discount at King Power with use of the TFC membership card. If you have any questions about joining the next groundschool or how to get involved at TFC, please call the Worawoot Hotline -- 086 834 2636 -- or email manager@thaiflyingclub.com. We all thank TFC for the splendid party and music that followed the AGM.

NEW AIRCRAFT ARRIVES & "KHUN TIKI BAR" OPENS AT EASTERN AIRPORT -- Khun Tik has finally opened her restaurant specializing in the "Out-of-town" Breakfast and another new aircraft has arrived in Thailand.

PICASSO HARD AT WORK -- Khun Worawoot was recently sighted at Bang Phra with his sleeves rolled up and painting numbers on the new runway markers. He looked like Picasso, because he was drawing all of these beautiful numbers freehand. Now, we will wait and see how long they last until the termites eat the wood that holds them up (starting date: 22jan09).

KHUN AMMY -- GENERAL AVIATION JOURNALIST -- Khun Ammy is Thailand's Special General Aviation Journalist. She is very active in covering all of the aviation activities and sharing them with the Thai public. She can be reached at ammy_bua@hotmail.com or tel: 086-7898630. Her latest article appears on -- www.transportnews.co.th

OSTAK UBON 2008 SUCCESS -- Oshtak was held in Ubon this 12-14 Dec 2008, and it was a great success. NOK Flying Club took 3, Chiangmai Flying Club took 2 and TFC took 2 aircraft to the event. There were approximately 45 aircraft that flew in. The highlight was a F5 formation airshow. HRH The Crown Prince also piloted an A319 to Ubon. Khun Piya put on an aerobatic show in Khun Charn's Extra. Khun Supap ferried people back and forth from Bangkok in his new Mustang jet. This was the first Oshtak show for the people of Ubon - VTUU - and they were thrilled to see so many aircraft. Congratulations to the DCA and all the sponsors for a great event. More information on www.sportflyingthailand.com - View the webpage of the first ever Oshtak.

13 Sep 2008 -- TFC GROUND SCHOOL OPENS WITH 12 NEW STUDENTS -- TFC Manager Khun Worawoot and Club Secretary Lek and Ground School Head Nuni and Chief Instructor Billy were thrilled today as the new Ground School class of 12 students met at the club. There was an orientation session from the TFC instructors and Khun Norman was also on hand to share some of his stories about the power of a dream and what happens when that dream is flying! It was a fun afternoon and now there are a lot of new student pilots at the club for everyone to meet. If you would like to join, email -- groundschool@thaiflyingclub.com -- The cost of the Ground school is 27,000 Baht and this includes the following materials -- Flight Bag, Map, Flight Computer, AIP Thailand, Jeppesen Private Pilot Manual. For more information, visit Ground School page.

3-7 Dec 2008 -- THAILAND BALLOON FESTIVAL IN KHAO YAI -- Another amazing balloon festival up over Khao Yai -- www.thailandballoonfestival.com

27-30 Nov 2008 -- PATTAYA INTERNATIONAL BALLOON FIESTA -- Khun Niwat has done it again, and this year the Pattaya International Balloon Fiesta will be back in Pattaya. There will be 80 hot air balloons from all over the world. Stay tuned as we bring your more details of this hot uplifting event. www.pibf.info/index.php

PHUKET AIRPARK IS NOW OPEN -- Khun Suchard has received DCA approval for Phuket Airpark on 14 Mar 2008. The airstrip is 500 meters long. Congratulations to everyone for this magnificent step forward for General Aviation in Thailand. Planes and people are welcome to fly in -- any questions, please email ROSY -- rosyraksangob@hotmail.com. They are organizing a grand opening ceremony for January 2009 after they have some hangars built. They have also purchased a C182 and Zenair for the club.

23 Nov 2008 -- 7pm -- CAPTAIN TANED & KHUN YING WEDDING PARTY -- STATE TOWER, BANGKOK -- On 28aug08, Captain Taned received his wings from Thai DCA, and on 19aug08 Taned had his your fiance, Khun Ying, strapped into the Eagle aircraft and off they went on a romantic "First Flight" together. Khun Taned invites all TFC members to join his wedding reception at 7pm on 23 November at the State Tower. Please wear a black tie or a flying suit -- up to you. For more information -- taned_s@hotmail.com

MACAU & HONG KONG -- Here are interesting links to 360* views of Macau and Hong Kong --  http://61226.com/self/macau.htm -- http://61226.com/self/hongkong.html

THE GOLDEN DAYS OF AVIATION -- If you want to recall the days when airplanes were made of wood and the pilots who flew them were made of iron -- www.funstufftosee.com/airlineempires.html

LADY PILOT PROMOTION -- TFC welcomes women to come and learn to fly at the club. Learning to fly in Bang Phra is a very relaxing and fun. There are plenty of members to share experiences with. There is a full ground school with students, and the oldest and most active flying club in the country. If you have some free time and are trying to find a new and challenging activity, then come and learn to fly in Bang Phra. The procedure here is you join the club, then you enroll in the ground school. After you have your Student Pilot License, you can learn to fly. It is fun. TFC is also the only school where you can PAY AS YOU FLY. You don't need to put a huge deposit down before you learn. Fly when you want. Fly when you have time. Pay as you go. If you have more questions, then please contact the club manager -- Worawoot -- 086 843 2636.

PAPA DAVE WINS THE BALLOON BURSTING COMPETITION AT BANG PHRA -- In a stunning display of flying ability, Papa Dave took to the air in the club 150 and flew a consecutive hat-trick bursting 3 balloons in a row on 18 Oct 2008. Having previously flown F4s in Vietnam and being shot down twice, Papa Dave was well aware of what it takes to hit a moving target. We also had a fantastic popping display by the team of Worawoot and Kruu Ake as they took the first balloon of the day. There was heavy rain in the midst of the activities. The balloon making truck complete with Sodium Hydroxide and plenty of aluminum cans was cranking out the cherry red balloons as fast as we could pop them. Neil brought a German ace up from Pattaya Airpark and Jim brought a full compliment of aviators from Eastern Flying Club. Alonso was on form with his flying dragon and Martin was also airborne with two hits. Tony was on hand to witness and plan for the next event. Khun Damri was at the club with action photographer Khun Oh to present the trophy and Kruu Sirapol was on hand to explain the "Finger Formation. Fernando tied with Martin for second place. Neil and Worawoot/Kruu Ake tied for 3rd place. More than 140 spectators were thrilled by the awesome flying demonstration. Thank you all for a great event and for coming -- info@thaiflyingclub.com -- or call the Worawoot Hotline -- 086 834 2636. View Khun Saranya's Excellent Photos of Balloon Bursting in Bang Phra. Thank you Khun Damri for bringing a professional photographer to the Balloon Bursting!

SGA VISITS TFC -- Thai Flying Club was very honored on 03 July 2008 to have a visit from former Mechanic Boomrung who now works for SGA in Bangkok. He was also joined by fellow mechanics Latthi Singhasut (Tua) and Pharkphum Suksanguan (Pom) who are radio specialists for SGA. Khun Worawoot put them right to work on the radio for HS-ATE, the club's C172, because the radio has some reception problems. The SGA team told us that if anyone has any problems with aircraft radios in Thailand, that SGA has all the mechanics and facilities to repair them. Email pharkphum@sga.aero or call 0853203180 or 025043302 and SGA is happy to help you. We also hear that Koh Kud airstrip may be open in 3 months time.

AEROSHOP BANGKOK FOR SALE -- For people who have needed quality aviation supplies or pilot gear in Bangkok, www.aeroshopbkk.com was the place. Captain Jacques has announced that the Aeroshop is now for sale. If you are interested, please email Jacques. Aeroshop is located on second floor of Amarin Plaza (next to Erawan Hyatt Hotel). Posted July 2008.

NOK AIRPORT NEWS -- Khun Niwat is now the new president of Nok Airport in Chiang Mai. Nok is right next door to Ban Thi (actually 270 meters away). If you have any questions about Nok, then Email Khun Niwat.

TFC NANG SATICK INTERNATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS AT BANG PHRA -- Khun Num takes the Black Label Trophy and the Klung Bin Trophy on Saturday 12 Jul 2008 at the BushPilot Clubhouse in the first international Nang Satick competition in Bang Phra. The competition was extremely fierce as Khun Mai and Khun Phu and Poojagan Worawoot competed late into the night, but Num won through in the end. The competition will be held monthly and Bang Phra feels they are the best of any airport anywhere in Thailand. They welcome any competition anytime. Stay tuned for more info.

30-31 May 2008 -- SAREX AT HUA HIN -- The Royal Thai Police and Department of Civil Aviation organized a very successful SAREX08 this year at Hun Hin -- VTPH. There were participants from many different flying schools in Thailand and from Thai Flying Club as well as interesting aircraft from the Army, Airforce, Police, Navy, Agriculture, Rain-making aircraft and SFAT. Visitors were welcome to view the many booths inside as well as walk around and look at aircraft.
ELT NEWS -- On 01 Feb 2009, the International Cospas-Sarsat [1] Organization (U.S. included) will terminate processing of distress signals emitted by 121.5 MHz Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs). This means that pilots flying aircraft equipped with 121.5 MHz ELTs after that date will have to depend on pilots of over flying aircraft and or ground stations monitoring 121.5 to hear and report distress alert signals, transmitted from a possible crash site. Why is this happening? Although lives have been saved by 121.5 MHz ELTs, the downside has been their propensity to generate false alerts (approximately 98 percent of all 121.5 MHz alerts are false), and their failure to provide rescue forces with timely and accurate crash location data. Both of which actually delay rescue efforts and have a direct effect on an individual's chance for survival. Rescue forces have to respond to all 121.5 MHz alerts to determine if they are real distress alerts or if they are being generated by an interferer, an inadvertent activation (by the owner) or equipment failure. Is there an alternative? Yes, the Cospas-Sarsat System ( U.S. included) has been and will continue processing emergency signals transmitted by 406 MHz ELTs. These 5 Watt digital beacons transmit a much stronger signal, are more accurate, verifiable and traceable to the registered beacon owner (406 MHz ELTs must be registered by the owner in accordance with Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulation). Registration allows the search and rescue authorities to contact the beacon owner, or his or her designated alternate by telephone to determine if a real emergency exists. Therefore, a simple telephone call often solves a 406 MHz alerts without launching costly and limited search and rescue resources, which would have to be done for a 121.5 MHz alert. For these reasons, the search and rescue community is encouraging aircraft owners to consider retrofit of 406 MHz ELTs or at a minimum, consider the purchase of a handheld 406 MHz Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) which can be carried in the cockpit while continuing to maintain a fixed 121.5 MHz ELT mounted in the aircraft's tail. Remember, after February 1, 2009 , the world-wide Cospas-Sarsat satellite system will no longer process 121.5 MHz alert signals. Pilots involved in aircraft accidents in remote areas will have to depend on pilots of over flying aircraft and or ground stations to hear emergency ELT distress signals. For further information concerning the termination of 121.5 MHz data processing visit www.sarsat.noaa.gov -- [1] The Cospas-Sarsat Organization provides a satellite based world-wide monitoring system that detects and locates distress signals transmitted by Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs), Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs). The system includes space and ground segments which process the signals received from the beacon source and forwards the distress alert data to the appropriate Rescue Coordination Center for action.

Mar 2008 - GLIDING IN NEW ZEALAND -- TFC Member Khun Charn was recently on a 5 day mountain soaring course in New Zealand and took this spectacular photo from aloft -- "One of the pictures is of the cloud covered peak of Mount Cook. Fantastic views of the world around viewed from lying position inside a clear bubble canopy. We averaged over 4 hours covering 300 nm a day, with just one take off and landing. This is the magical land of the Lord of the Ring (where the movie was made) with wide open plains surrounded by tall peaks and deep gullies. We were learning to read the terrain and wind and to explore. Clouds are high above, around us surrounding the peaks and over the plains. On the lakes below are ripples. They are all signs of the ways the winds blow at different level. The sun heats the ground unevenly forming hot spots that warms the adjacent air that rises from the cooler surrounding air in a vertical column. These invisible columns of hot air are everywhere, with interstitial sinking air that comes in to fill the void left behind. The NZ mountains are the fastest rising in the world, having grown 66,000 ft just in the past few million years, but the soft rocks are been worn down by weather and glaciers just as quickly as they grow. The old glacier formed valleys between the ranges are filled with small pebbles on which emergency landings can be done without likely permanent damage to the pilot. The lectures also covered emergency landings on the lakes - with wheel down and brake on to skid over the water and slow down to a stop, hopefully on the edge of the shore and up on the beach if exist. Of course there are lots of small grass landing strip on farms every where, well marked on the map and GPS. These slender 420 kg (empty) light weight twin seat gliders with 20m/66ft wide wings are amazingly strong, made of mostly carbon and glass fiber held together in a plastic matrix."

GENERAL AVIATION HELPS NATURE -- Enthusiastic Aviator Ed Loigorri has filed his report on assisting with the Dugong Survey in Thailand. This is a perfect example how General Aviation assists with many conservation projects around the world. For additional information, please visit -- www.warthai.org -- download PDF report -- email Ed.

5-6 Apr 2008 - TANTAWAN FLYIN -- On the weekend of 5-6 April, SFAT organized a very successful Tantawan Sunshine Flyin. Khun Supap was there with Dr. Choladhis and SFAT secretary NIWAT. All food was free and it was an exciting event with over 10 aircraft flying in.

31 Jan 2008 - "Rak Siam Tao Fah" Opens in Thailand -- www.firstflightthemovie.com -- This is a film about the early days of aviation in the Kingdom of Siam before World War I. Siam was the first country in Asia to have an aviation program in 1913 -- www.firstflightmovie.com (English).

26 Jan 2008 - NAKORN PANOM UNIVERSITY AVIATION OPENING CEREMONY -- www.npu.ac.th/iac/ -- Nakorn Panom University is organizing an OPEN DAY for anyone interested in learning aviation to visit the University. They have the first aircraft DA40 and DA42 arriving and they have trainers for B797, X48B to give the CPL/IR certificate. They are also planning to open an aerobatic school with an Extra 300. If interested, call Khun Pui -- 042+551137. She can help arrange your flight up there.

SINGAPORE AIRSHOW -- If any of TFC members happen to be in Singapore during the Singapore Airshow period, Meng and www.WingsOverAsia.com team would like to inform and invite all TFC members to the event specially for GA aviators -- www.wingsoverasia.com/calendar/event.php?eid=20080117045120138

20 Dec 2007 - FIRST SOLO PARTY AT BANG PHRA in the Bushpilot Clubhouse -- All of the Young Eagles Students and instructors turned out for a splendid first solo party as the group of students all finished their "First Solo" in less than 21 days.

29 Dec 2007 - YOUNG EAGLES AT OSHTAK -- Oshtak was a great success this year with over 40 aircraft in attendance. There was heavy fog on Saturday morning, but all had lifted by 10:30AM. The Air Rally was cancelled, but the two balloons were the hit of the show. DCA deputy director Khun Vutichai enjoyed the show and the 4 star General from the Royal Thai Army flew up to visit Oshtak.

21 Dec 2007 - NORM & LEC RETURN -- Norman and Khun Lec returned from their 7 month flight around the world in their Mooney. Khun Lec was the first Asian person to fly around the world in a small airplane. Captain Charoen, ATC Kitty, and Khun Worawoot were on hand to welcome them back to TFC and to cut off their shirt tails to post in the clubhouse.

12-20 Jan 2008 - FLY IN TO RAJAMANGALA UNIVERSITY AGRICULTURAL FAIR -- Located next to the airfield in Bang Phra

28-30 Dec 2007 - OSHTAK at Mae Sot -- SFAT and everybody will be organizing Oshtak at Mae Sot this year. Don't miss it.

15-16 Dec 2007 - AIR FORCE SQUADRON 2 LOPBURI FLY IN -- Air Rally Celebrating The King's 80th birthday at Air force Squadron 2 Lopburi from 15th - 16th Dec. You may fly-in to the airbase from the 12th - 14th. Most aircraft will fly-in on the 14th. For Ultralights, the form to apply flight permit is available from Neil. If you have problem fill in the form in Thai you may send info to the Foundation email tangoclassic@yahoo.com 

8-12 Dec 2007 - Pattaya International Balloon Festa -- www.pattayaballoonfiesta.com -- Royal Thai Army Sport Centre and SFAT will jointly host as part of celebrations to mark the 80th birthday anniversary of His Majesty the King. The event will take place at Thammasat University's Pattaya campus.

18 Aug 2007 -- KASETSART AVIATION STUDENTS VISIT THAI FLYING CLUB -- Thai Flying Club Manager Khun Worawoot was very excited to receive a visit from Aviation students at Kasetsart University in Bangkok. The students came to Bang Phra to learn about General Aviation and to understand the current aviation activities in Thailand. The club's chief mechanic Num took three students for a taxi along the runway in the club Eagle, and Khun Worawoot gave them a very exciting lecture on aviation. Many of the students are interested in careers in aviation management, mechanics, and some are interested in becoming pilots. Chok dee.

12 Aug 2007 -- GENERAL AVIATION ASSISTING WITH SEARCH AND RESCUE -- Long time member of Thai Flying Club Eric Bodart assisted with a Search and Rescue Mission over Khao Yai wilderness. A BAC Cessna 172 was lost somewhere in the jungle 3 days previously with two 22 year old students on board. There was no elt signal to track. A telephone signal was used to locate an approximate position, and then Thai military aircraft and many volunteers on the ground have been searching for any trace of where the aircraft may have gone down. They may have encountered a thunderstorm or low cloud and become disoriented in the mountainous terrain. Everyone is still searching hard and hoping for the best.

31 Aug 2007 -- SFAT MALAYSIAN ADVENTURE TRIP -- SFAT secretary Khun NIWAT and advisor Sunny Yong flew down to Phuket to meet with Inche ISMAIL (PRESIDENT of the MALAYSIAN SPORT AVIATION FEDERATION - MSAF), who flew into PHUKET on Monday, 30th April in a LEAR JET belong to the DCA of Malaysia on his way to Berlin. Inche Ismail of MSAF is the organizer of the KUKL 2007 - KARNIVAL UDARA KUALA LUMPUR - the major ANNUAL GA event in Malaysia (supported by the Malaysian Government). He has invited SFAT to participate in KLKU 2007 in SUBANG (WMSA) on 31aug2007 - 01sep07. ALL GA planes (INCLUDED ULTRALIGHTS, TRIKES, BALLOONS) are welcome!!! He will officially invite SFAT to organize the THAI GA and THAI U-registed AIRCRAFT TO FLY INTO MALAYSIAN AIR SPACE to SUBANG WMSA (as well as other places, like exotic TIOMAN ISLAND, PENANG, PANKOR Island or the grass strip airfield in their NATIONAL PARK - TAMAN NEGARA in Central Malaysia!!) LATEST NEWS ON MALAYSIA TRIP AND HOW TO JOIN

3-6 Sep 2007 GA MEETING IN HONG KONG -- SFAT Secretary Khun Niwat is taking a Thai Aviation Team to the Asian Aerospace Convention in HONG KONG this September -- www.asianaerospace.com -- SFAT is organizing a large delegation of Sport Aviators and General Aviation enthusiasts from Thailand, and if you would like to join -- Email Khun Niwat -- Asian Aerospace 2007 is the world’s premier commercial aviation with 25 years of experience for Asian Aerospace from Reed Exhibitions, the event featuring over 500 international companies will show of latest products, services and innovation in MRO,  Air freight, Aircraft interiors and Aviation training from 27 countries including 12 national pavilions. It will be the largest dedicated civil aviation exhibition where it will offer the most comprehensive civil aerospace platform on the international industry calendar in an exclusively all-business B2B environment. The show will be held in Asia World Expo, Hong Kong 3-6 September,2007. Further details -- Ms.Sutthipun Nujjaya -- Phone +668 1720 6822 -- inn@asianaerospace.com

DAMRI'S MINI-WILGA -- TFC Member Khun Damri has built a flying scale model of the Wilga. We can't wait to see this thing fly and to take a picture of it next to the real Wilga. We also want to know if he has as much trouble landing the mini-one as we do the big-one. Chok dee Damri. Learn to fly the "WILGA" (tail-dragger)

May 2007 AROUND THE WORLD -- TFC Member Norman Livingstone & "Nang Fah" will attempt to fly around the world in a Mooney Ovation starting from USA -- www.around-the-world-2007.com

17-19 Aug 2007 -- Malaka Air Festival -- MALAYSIA --Thai Flying Club has been invited to this flyin in Malaysia. Anyone who flies in will get free room, food and gas. For more details call Khun Worawoot hotline -- 0868342636.

23 Jun 2007 -- GRAND OPENING OF FLYER RESTAURANT -- Khun Neil has promised that he will not change the date. 23 June is the grand opening of the Flyer Restaurant at Pattaya Airpark. Fly in for a meal and enjoy the scenery -- www.pattayaairpark.com
Dear All, I will have the opening of "Princess Siribhachuthaporn's Center of Volunteer Pilots for Preservation and Rescue (Eastern Chapter - Pattaya Airpark) + Opening of our Airport Restaurant "The Flyer" + Introduction of Ultralight "Beaver" from Canada by CPA Product + Introduction of "Virus" the high performance kit plane - powered glider from Pipistrel, all at Pattaya Airpark on this Sat.23rd June started at 09:30 am. The opening ceremony by Vice Admiral Charnchai, Commander-in-chief of Thai Navy Base at 10:00 am after fly-in of "The O-1 Birddog" to base here at Pattaya Airpark. All fly-in pilots are requested to sign-in and will be invited to have a free lunch (we expect you to buy some drink). All fly-in please do it before 09:35 or after 10:10. Please call-in 122.30 for landing instruction before landing. I'm sorry for my late notice as many of you might have known that one of our plane, Cessna-206 had a bad accident last month and the pilot had injured seriously (now survived after 3 operations but still in the hospital) so I have been very busy. However, life must go on and here is the invitation and the program.
09:45 - Vice Admiral Charnchai arrive and The O-1 Birddog fly-in and low pass
09:50 - Cheer leader from Asian University dancing, The plane land then taxi to park at the position
10:00 - I read the report and Vice Admiral Charnchai have a speech opening the Center and The planes
10:10 - Vice Admiral Charnchai go to cut the ribbon at the Office of The Center, visit the Center and Restaurant
10: 30 - Having coffee, snack and watch the planes flying at the restaurant
10: 45 - Visit the hangars then go back to the reception area in front of the Tower
10:50 - The planes land and Vice Admiral Charnchai take a look at the planes
11:00 - End of the opening ceremony
There will be RC flying show and some flying, introduction flight, etc. all day so please follow the controller instruction for safety
Cheers, Neil

24-25 Nov 2007 - Loy Kratong Flyin at NOK -- SFAT and Chiang Mai Flying Club will be joining for a flyin at Nok Airport for the Loy Kratong Ceremony. Everyone is welcome and foreign aircraft are invited to visit too.

CAPTAIN ED WITH HIS NEW PLANE -- TFC Member Eduardo Loigorri has completed his PPL License up at the Chiang Mai Flying Club. Ed is one of the most enthusiastic aviators in Thailand today, and probably the only guy who bought his airplane before he passed his flight exam. After Ed passed his exam he embarked on a solo 25 hour flight across Thailand in marginal weather to test out all the things he had learned. This is called "jumping into the deep end and seeing if you can swim." Ed had a grand adventure and he has posted his story to share with all of us.

TFC REUNION ON THAI AIRWAYS -- Thai Flying Club Membership has great surprises. Dr. Rolf was on a flight from Japan to Thailand with Thai Airways. After Takeoff, he heard this voice "Welcome to Thai Airways, I am Captain Watana...." and Rolf immediately recognized the voice of our Senior TFC Member Captain Watana. A few minutes later, Rolf was invited to the cockpit to see Captain Watana at work in his 777 office. Captain Watana is a great lover of General Aviation, and is one of the driving forces behind the Phuket Flying Club. Captain Watana made a very smooth landing at Suvarnabhumi.

04 April -- SFAT NORTHERN TRIP -- SFAT organized a successful trip to the North. This time about 6 planes flying to Tantawan, Udon, Khon Kaen, and all sorts of places over 5 days. SFAT is a very active General Aviation Organization in Thailand that is doing much to promote safe flying in Thailand. Thank you for your leadership. 13 April 2007 -- SONGKRAN NORTHERN RALLY -- SFAT organized a successful Rally to the North for Songkran festival. They had a fun stop with splendid VIP treatment at MAE SOT and then a music band and gliding and lots of fun at NOK AIRPORT and then off to Pai and Chiang Rai. Khun Prasert was on this trip with his tailwheel Kitfox and Khun Suchard was his passenger. Khun Niwat and SFAT are one of the most active General Aviation Organizations in Thailand and they invited all aircraft to join them. More information -- Email Khun Niwat

Grand Opening of AERO SHOP BANGKOK -- Thailand's new PILOT SHOP for pilots. Everyone is invited to visit AERO SHOP on 2nd Floor Amarin Plaza (next to Erawan Hotel) in central Bangkok (Chitlom BTS). Discount for all flying club members. Meet Jacques Sabirou who used to fly in Bolivia, Madagascar and now is flying for Bangkok Airways. It is great to have a dedicated Pilot Shop now in Bangkok. Shop hours 10am - 8pm (7 days a week). Jacques and Khun Pia came to visit Bang Phra to fly this past weekend and met with club members and staff for a photograph. Thai Flying Club is excited about the new pilot shop and are looking forward to the grand opening this coming Friday.

Khun Savas Funeral -- The Thai Flying Club would like to share with club members the news that Khun Savas -- The previous Director General of the Thai Department of Civil Aviation -- has sadly passed away in early November. He was a friend to many club members and was a great supporter of General Aviation in Thailand. His Royal sponsored cremation was on Saturday 11 November in Bangkok.

WONDERFUL SUCCESS -- SUNSHINE TANTAWAN FLY IN 20 & 21 January was a great success. 15 aircraft flew in to Tantawan Airport in Saraburi. Thank you to Sport Flying Association of Thailand and to Khun Chatchawan and to Khun Niwat and to Dr. Choladhis and to Sunny for a really fun fly in and camping and delicious Barbeque dinner. The highlight of the event was the Helium Balloon Bursting competition (previously introduced in Thailand by Dr. Choladhis), but this was the first International Balloon Bursting festival. Khun Uthai was the chief ATC and did a spectacular job of controlling and organizing everyone. We had 10 aircraft competing, and Khun Sunny surprised everyone by bursting all 4 balloons in a row (after missing every balloon in the practice). Second place went to Khun Oody, with his expert navigator Col. Amrung. Khun Suchard surprised everyone too, because he hit every balloon in the practice, and then only hit one in the competition. Khun Prasert brought his KLANG DONG CAMPER to demonstrate, Miss Tantawan was there, and Sunday morning we assembled for a GROUP PICTURE with the SFAT Banner. Thank you Sunny for a delicious BBQ dinner and the cigars! The furthest distance airplane was Khun Robert from Chiang Mai. Kruu Piya put on a fantastic aerobatic show. Thank you Tantawan and thank you SFAT for a wonderful event. OUR NEXT EVENT IS THE CHANTABURI DOLFIN FLY IN -- DON'T MISS IT.

TFC CAPTURES KING'S CUP at SUN & FUN -- Khun Worawoot led the Thai Flying Club Aerial Dive Bombing Team to victory at this year's Sun & Fun Flour Bombing Competition. His fearless tactics and precision command surprised everyone -- especially the judges on the ground -- and he ended up bringing home the King's Cup!!! Congratulations to our club manager. It was a great Fly-in and we are all grateful to Tango Squadron and Pattaya Airpark for hosting this fun aviation event. Khun Supap gave an excellent helicopter display. Khun Lek and Nuni also gave a helicopter demonstration. Khun Charoen landed in the Robin and gave a fly past demonstration. Kruu Piya gave a thrilling aerobatic show in the Eagle. Kruu Speedy stopped by with some of his students. Khun Tanet flew in from CMT airfield, and many of Thai Flying Club's students and members were there. The ATC from the Thai Navy did an excellent job controlling the air traffic. Khun Tang and Tango Squadron brought in Miss Siam, a Birddog and a Citabria. Aircraft flew in from Chiang Mai and many flying clubs in Thailand. Khun Padet and Khun Wichai and many other VIPs came to the opening. There were skydivers and paramotors everywhere. Khun Neil was on his bright yellow motorized wheelchair. BMW cars raced up and down the runway. Thank you again to all aviators and friends for coming to Sun & Fun 2006.

TFC Member Khun Suchard and SFAT secretary Khun Niwat and Nok Air Yves flew to Philippines and back in February 2007 for the Philippine International Balloon Fiesta. Khun Niwat flew the first Thai Registered Hot Air Balloon in the Philippines. This is a great celebration of General Aviation activity in Thailand. Congratulations on this successful journey.

17 Feb 2007 -- TFC ANNUAL MEETING IN BANG PHRA (3PM) FOLLOWED BY PARTY & DAMRI BAND -- TFC ANNUAL MEETING was held at TFC on 17 Feb 2007 (3PM). Khun Worawoot recorded the minutes of the meeting (in Thai) and Khun Norman will get some photos of the party from Khun Lek (the club secretary) for us to post here.

23 February 2007 -- SFAT SUMMER RALLY TO NORTHEAST -- SFAT is organizing a summer rally to the Northeast of Thailand. Aircraft meet at Eastern and leave on Thursday 23 February. Eastern - Khon Kaen - Sawan Dandin - Sakon Nakhon - Ubon - Korat - Tantawan or Eastern. Any questions, contact Uthai -- 0814453236

31 March -- HAPPY BIRTHDAY KHUN WORAWOOT -- Our club manager celebrated his birthday this Saturday. The best possible present that he could have was that TFC Students -- DAVID TUCK and UCHIDA SAN -- passed their DCA Flight Tests. We hope Rajan will soon too. Worawoot has had a busy week at the DCA, and thanks to his hard work Khun Rolf was able to get his C of A, and the returning Eagle was permitted to fly back and operate on its Thai registration, and the TFC students were able to complete their flight test. Thank you Khun Worawoot for a great job -- now relax and enjoy your birthday!!