This will be my first time flying in and camping at Air Venture. I started this blog to solicit ideas that will help me survive the North 40 and C2O. I’ve heard a few good tips as I spoke to people (Gil Velez) but I am sure that there are many more tips that will improve my experience and more importantly, my wife’s experience!
Feel free to add your suggestions for all to read. Here are a few that I have heard:
Bring 8x2 boards to put under the tires
Make external control surface locks that mechanically block the surfaces, especially the rudder.
Purchase the camping days for more that you plan on using then get a rebate on the day you leave.
I have a few questions:
What is the best placement of your tent in relation to the aircraft and also is it a good idea to put a tarp over the wing with the tent underneath?
How do you keep drinks and food cold? Obviously coolers are the way to go but how accessible is ice?
I understand that they usually get a few heavy rain days but does the ground in the North 40 drain well or do I need a contingency plan (ie hotel)?
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
JJ
ReplyDeleteIce is available from a number of locations. Depending on your urgency. C2O has in the past had a van and a white board to put your request for ice. Usually a daily run. There is also ice at the entrance gate to the grounds or a shortish walk to the gas station outside of the north west corner of the grounds.
I have not put the tarp on the wing due to fear of the wind rocking the plane and rubbing dirt into the paint. Just my feelings on it. You will see others doing it.
I have a 206 and we pitch a rather large tent behind the wing with the opening towards the large double doors to the plane. It works for us. I have see both behind the wing and in front. It all depends on your desires. Being behind the wing it does give one more room to set up chairs for relaxing in.
While I have been there for some monster rains I have never feared being flooded out. It has drained very well in the places that they park the planes. I do not take the boards for under the tires as there are lots of nice airplane people to help push you out of any depressions you might create. If you have a twin then yes I would suggest the boards.
There is a store not too far off the grounds and it is the place to buy your food and drinks once you are there. It sure saves on flying heavy.
I do the wheel board thing... just makes it that much easier.
ReplyDeleteI put a wing tarp on, which helps immensely in staying dry for the inevitable rains.
I put my tent under the left wing, 'cause then it's easier for me to access the baggage door of my 182.
As James said, ice is not a problem, and we usually arrange a daily ice run you can get in on.
Bring good solid comfortable walking shoes. Also bring some sandals or something to slip on quickly for the midnight potty run.
I bring along some large size spring clamps to hang towels securely for drying. They have other multiple uses too.
Bring a wide brim hat and plenty of sunscreen.
When parked, place your prop vertical, otherwise I guarantee you will run in to it at least 15 times before you turn it vertical.
Check the Airventure web site for your recommended tie-down methods. Auger-type anchors are generally frowned upon; the preference seems to be the spike type anchors. The parking staff will insist that your airplane is tied down within minutes of arrival. Don't forget your plugs for the various orifices on your plane (cowl plugs, pitot cover, close your cowl flaps, etc).
I'm sure we'll hear more ideas soon!