Irish Light Aviation Society Home page news

Some Pictures from Breakfast Fry-in '25

Thu, 05 Jun 2025 11:40:01 GMT

Piper Super Cub D-ENLH has recently arrived from Germany and will go on the Irish register under ILAS later this year.

New Tool Library Acquisitions

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 15:15:58 GMT

The ILAS Tool library has added two new items in recent weeks. They are a tyre bead breaker and a brake pad rivet setting tool. Both will be of interest to aircraft operators working on their undercarriage.

Contact either secretary@ilas.ie or webmaster@ilas.ie to get a loan of these items.

EFLEVA publishes calendar of member association annual fly-ins

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 21:39:11 GMT

EFLEVA has published a spreadsheet listing all the annual fly-ins of its member associations across Europe in 2024.

Here it is: EFLEVA Member Associations Annual Fly-in's - 2024 - v4.pdf

In addition, we have been notified of a fly-in at Fly-in in Voghera LILH on 14.-15. September, which does not appear on the list.

Passing of John Duggan R.I.P.

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 13:41:49 GMT

ILAS has been informed of the sad news of the passing of John Duggan on last Sunday 16th June, the great age of 95.

John was an original founder of one of our predecessor organisations SAAC (Society of Amateur Aircraft Constructors). He was a man of many talents, including an early SAAC builder and constructed an Evans VP2 / EI-BDL (saac s/n 004), after he stood down as ILAS Field Coordinator he took up cycling in a serious manner, John was principal of Vocational School New Ross for many years and was an inspirational teacher by all accounts

The committee wish to express their condolences and their respect for John to his bereaved family on behalf of all the membership.

Notice of his passing is available at https://rip.ie/death-notice/john-duggan-wexford-wexford-town-559650

ILAS members to present seminars at Private Flyer Fest

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:07:06 GMT

Private Flyer Fest, Which takes place at Ballyboy airfield on 5th and 6th April, has announced its seminar programme. Two of the seminars on each day will be given by prominent ILAS members. Chairman Noel Maher will give a presentation on the first steps to building your own aircraft and Committee member Michael Bergin on behalf of GASCI will present on aeronautical decision making.

ILAS will also have a stand at the show and display typical aircraft from our fleet.

Tickets to the show for the public are available at https://www.privateflyershow.com/ireland/tickets/.

ILAS members have access to an exclusive free entry passes, which can be accessed here (requires log-in)

The full seminar programme is as follows:

Air Courtage announce their 2024 Air Show programme

Sun, 24 Mar 2024 10:07:03 GMT

Members attending the most important airshows and exhibitions across the UK and Europe will have the opportunity for in-person consultation with Air Courtage, who have announced their programme for 2024.

Staff will be delighted to meet ILAS members, whether existing customers or not.

Check them out at these shows or contact:

Alexis MORILLON

International Account Executive

ilas@air-assurances.com

Tel. +33(0)4 74 463 482

2024 Fly-in Dates Confirmed

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 18:49:48 GMT

ILAS have confirmed dates for the three fly-in events that will take place during 2024. The first is the Breakfast Fly-In which traditionally takes place in April. This year it will take place on Sunday 21st April. This now means there is a fly-in planned for every weekend in April, a great start to the flying season!

The second event is our annual mid-summer fly-in which will be a two-day event taking place over the weekend of 22nd and 23rd of June. The final event is the Harvest fly-in on Sunday 25th August. All three events will take place at ILAS Field, near Taghmon, Co. Wexford and are of course subject to weather. PPR applies for flying visitors.

More details will be available closer to the time and will be announced here on www.ilas.ie

Exclusive ILAS tour of Air Corp Museum at Baldonnel

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 22:46:45 GMT

A strong group of 25 ILAS members enjoyed a unique tour of the Aer Corps museum at Casement Aerodrome Baldonnel on 18th September. The event was organised with the assistance of Tadgh Firman, to whom we are grateful for a very enjoyable visit.

Harvest Fly-in CONFIRMED for 2/3 Sept as a 2-Day event

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 18:00:49 GMT

As it has not been possible to hold any of our previously planned Fly-in events so far this summer due to the unsettled weather, with what looks like a suitable weather forecast for the coming weekend, we have decided to extend the planned Harvest Fly-in to a two-day event. This would be centred on a barbeque on the afternoon of Saturday 02/09, along with breakfast catering on Sunday morning 03/09. As always, PPR rules apply, and details are available on the Airfield Information Sheet.

Harvest Fly-in Re-scheduled to 3rd Sept (subject to weather)

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 09:04:40 GMT

Our Harvest Fly-in, originally scheduled for 27th August has fallen victim to the appaling flying weather of this 2023 'summer', like so many other flying events.

It has now been rescheduled for 3rd Sept, which is also subject to the weather forecast and will be reviewed during the week. Watch the website event listing for further updates

Mid-summer Fly-in abandoned

Sat, 05 Aug 2023 21:29:44 GMT

The atrocious weather of 2023 has claimed another victim in the shape of the Mid-summer Fly-in. This follows the cancellation of the season opening Breakfast fly-in also due to weather.

After an attempt to re-schedule it to 5th/6th August, which also had to be cancelled due to weather, the committee have now decided to abandon any further attempts to hold the event in favour of concentrating on the Harvest Fly-in scheduled for 27th Aug.

To compensate, the committee are looking at the possibility of extending the Harvest Fly-in to begin on Saturday 26th Aug and run over both days. However, this has yet to be confirmed so please watch out for further notices via email to members and on this website

Potential New date for ILAS Mid-summer Fly-in

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 10:28:46 GMT

The weather is so unsettled at the moment that it’s impossible to predict with any degree of confidence more than a few days in advance. There are air displays scheduled for next weekend, but no fly-ins that we are aware of that might conflict.

Hence we just want to give some advance notice that we are looking at Saturday and Sunday next (Aug 5/6) as possible dates to host a belated Summer Fly-In at ILAS Field.

This is subject of course to weather and we will confirm one way or the other later in the week when the forecast is clearer. This message is just a ‘heads up’ of our plans at the moment.

Bray Air Display FREE PROGRAMME available on-line

Thu, 20 Jul 2023 14:35:11 GMT

The Programme for the upcoming Bray Air Display 2023 is available as a digital download from the on-line store of the event's website. Click here

Breakfast Fly-in Abandoned

Fri, 26 May 2023 21:03:00 GMT

With regret, the Committee have decided to forego the traditional ILAS Breakfast Fly-in for 2023. To date, there has been a total lack of a clear weather forecast for any weekend since the original scheduled date of 30th April.

In fact, the committee had been gearing up to host the event this weekend on the 28th May to take advantage of the good forecast. However, it came to our attention that Ballyboy were also planning to have their own delayed event this weekend. Not wishing to 'split the vote', we have decided to defer to our friends at Ballyboy, happy in the knowledge that ILAS members will have an enjoyable fly-in event to plan for and take advantage of the weather.

We will now focus our efforts on our Mid-summer rally and fly-in at EIIF on 24th & 25th June as well as our Harvest fly-in on 27th August, in the hope that we can get both events done without weather interference.

In the meantime, EIIF is in great condition and ready welcome visitors at any time subject the usual PPR

EFLEVA Q1 2023 newsletter published

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 16:14:18 GMT

The EFLEVA Newsletter - First Quarter 2023, has been received from Catherine Dartois. Some interesting content, including an article on the risk of using motor / pump fuel containing Ethanol in aircraft engines, a topical issue which was raised from the floor by a member at the AGM on Sunday last and was also the subject of an IAA Aeronautical Notice - A16, revised on 26/09/2022.

Tentative Dates for 2023 Fly-in Events Announced

Sat, 28 Jan 2023 14:58:49 GMT

Subject to confirmation by the incoming committee at their February meeting, the following dates have been announced for fly-in events at ILAS Field (EIIF):

Tentative event listings have been posted to the websites Events page, where further details will be posted as they become available.

So SAVE THE DATES!

ILAS Awards 2022 presented

Tue, 20 Dec 2022 17:54:20 GMT

It has been three years since we have been able to get together in person for our traditional Christmas dinner and awards ceremony. So the attendance of about 50 members at this year's event held on 3rd December at the Spa Hotel was an expression of relief and confidence as well as the strong fellowship or our Society.

Our thanks especially to Brig. Gen. Rory O'Connor GOC Air Corps, who was our guest speaker on the night.

Awards were presented by Brig. Gen. O'Connor on the night as follows:

Touring Award Winners, JP Smith & Neil Johnston

JPSmith receiving award from Brig Gen O'Connor

Homebuilt Award winners, EI-SRV - Martin Doody & Kevin Keigher

Kevin Keigher receiving award from Brig Gen O'Connor - Noel Maher in background.

Vintage & Classic Restoration Award winners, EI-EPZ - Michael Munnelly & Alan Dunne

Michael Munnelly, Alan Dunne, Brig Gen O'Connor & Noel Maher

'John O'Loughlin Exemplary Airmanship Award' winner, Irish Air Corps 1922 - 2022

John O'Loughlin presenting the award to Brig Gen Rory O'Connor GOC AC, who accepted the award on behalf of the Air Corps.

ILAS Mid-Summer Fly-in is CONFIRMED for 9th and 10th July

Mon, 04 Jul 2022 20:04:01 GMT

After a postponment due to weather on the original date, our main flyong event of the year will definitely go ahead next weekend the 9th and 10th July at EIIF.

The official announcement and event page is here

Breakfast Fly-in 2022 Confirmed

Fri, 29 Apr 2022 20:01:55 GMT

The postponed 2022 ILAS Breakfast Fly-in has been rearranged due to a favorable forecast and will take place on Sunday 15th May. Members have been notified by email and the event details are posted in the Events section

Irish Air Corps celebrate 100 years

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 13:56:06 GMT

The 23rd March this year marked the 100th anniversary of the foundation of the Irish Air Corps. A short video has been published to summarise the first century of the work of the service.

Updated Easy Access Rules for SERA published by EASA

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 14:29:42 GMT

The newly updated Easy Access Rules for the Standardised European Rules of the Air have been published by EASA. Not a light read at 200+ pages, but all pilots have a duty to familiarise themselves with SERA, at least to the extent of scanning the contents to know what's in it and reading further into the sections that pertain directly to our kind of flying.

So we have linked this document in our Downloads - Technical, Advisory and Regulatory sub-section or directly by clicking here.

IAA 600kg Opt-out Consultation - ILAS voices must be heard

Wed, 27 Oct 2021 20:50:46 GMT

ILAS has been working closely with the IAA for several years to encourage them to take advantage of the ability to 'opt out' of the basic regulation for factory built aircraft under 600kg MTOW and to bring such aircraft under national regulation only. Finally we appear to be on the verge of success.

Nine other EASA territories have already opted out and so has the UK. Ireland is among four others who are leaning positively towards a similar decision

As one of the last steps towards the formal opt out, the IAA have launched a consultation on the issue and it is vital that ILAS members now make their voices heard in support of this initiative.

The IAA consultation document can be viewed here

The consultation questionnaire can be filled in here

ILAS Member Insurance Programme launched

Tue, 26 Oct 2021 20:51:22 GMT

ILAS has launched its new "ILAS Member Insurance Programme in cooperation with Air Courtage.

This programme is exclusively available to ILAS members and has a number of unique features specially designed to meet the needs of recreational permit aviators. These include:

"Pilot -Attached Liability Insurance"
No Age restriction
Cover for the builder and the project during amateur building/restoration projects
"DIY option" premium reduction for DIY repairs in the case of insurable partial loss
Option to choose classic 3rd party insurance
Insurance for owners' syndicates recognising members differing experience levels.

The programme is part of a wider initiative promoted by EFLEVA and now being implemented by a number of its member associations across Europe.

Full details and a quotation request form are available on the dedicated ILAS page of the Air Courtage website

EFLEVA Annual Conference Report

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 21:17:00 GMT

The Annual EFLEVA Technical and Business Meeting was held 'in person' again on October 16th this year after a virtual event in 2020 due to the pandemic. It was followed by the General Assembly (AGM) on the next day. The meetings took place in Prague and Loman O'Byrne attended on behalf of ILAS. The main points from both meetings were as follows:

EFLEVA Experimental Days Fly-in still intended for 2022 but no details as yet
The new EFLEVA website is now completed with knowledge base in the members area. Log-in credentials already circulated. Input is needed from member associations.
New EASA Part 21L creates a new light type certificate with normal CofA and a self-declared procedure leading to a restricted CofA valid only within EASA territories. Expected in 2022
10 member nations have already opted out of EASA <600/650Kg with 4 more who have agreed but not implemented
The EFLEVA insurance scheme, as per previously circulated documents, was approved. Further Information is needed from member associations.
Membership fees will be rebated by 50% at the next renewal. This will create losses which will reduce the cash balance to reasonable levels. Balances grew too large as a result of low spending during the Covid pandemic
Retiring members of the EFLEVA Executive group Hermann Eigner (DE) and Catherine Dartois (FR) were re-elected. Sven Kindblom (SW) was added as a new member

A full report is available here.

September Third Tuesday gathering CANCELLED

Mon, 20 Sep 2021 22:33:14 GMT

Terry Coughlan has advised that, due to unforeseen circumstances, his Third Tuesday event scheduled for 21st September has unfortunately had to be cancelled. The series will resume with the next scheduled event on 19th October.

Harvest Fly-in expanded to 2-day format

Wed, 25 Aug 2021 16:02:01 GMT

To compensate in some small way for the loss of freedom from which we are (hopefully) emerging, The Harvest Fly-in is being expanded from its usual Sunday morning format and will take place over two days, Saturday 28th August and Sunday 29th of August with breakfast being provided on both days. Members and friends can therefore choose to attend on or either, or both days.

Further details will be posted on the Events listing as they emerge

Mid-Summer Fly-in Postponed

Fri, 18 Jun 2021 10:04:06 GMT

Once again, the weather forecast for our scheduled Mid-Summer Fly-in next Saturday and Sunday looks like it is going to spoil the fun. The forecast for Sunday in particular looks very dodgy.

We want our main event of the year to be accessible to all types, including the more weather-dependent ones, and to pilots who may not have flown as much as they would like and therefore need to pick their weather window with more than the usual care. We also want our neighbours at the field to come along and enjoy themselves.

Consequently, and with deep frustration, the Committee decided at its meeting last night, that the Mid-summer Fly-in should be postponed to a future date

A new date will be announced shortly. Details will appear on the Event Section listing for this event on our website, or accessed directly using this link

Meanwhile, the field is in great shape. So please use any opportunity you have to drop in, at any time of your own choosing, but with the usual PPR from the Airfield Coordinator, Aidan Power, on 087 6765207

Mid-Summer Fly-in Approaches

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 11:31:39 GMT

Don't forget to plan for the IlAS Mid-summer Fly-in on 19th and 20th June at ILAS field EIIF. Let's hope for good flying weather and a safe, well-attended event - we all deserve it at this stage!

Newsletter Call for Content

Fri, 04 Jun 2021 11:16:56 GMT

The Editor is looking for extra content for the Summer 2021 edition of the Newsletter. Deadline is 9th June. Email Cathal on editor@ilas.ie

New Deck Area at ILAS Field is Ready

Sat, 15 May 2021 22:36:52 GMT

Airfield Coordinator Aidan Power and his team have just finished putting the final touches to the new deck area adjacent to the clubhouse at EIIF.

This significant addition to the facilities at the airfield will make it an even more attractive destination for flying visits, especially on summer days. It will really come into its own for fly-in events.

As always, if you are flying into EIIF remember to obtain prior permission and the up-to-date airfield information from Aidan by email or by txt/phone on 087 6765207

Breakfast 'Fry-in' 2021 Cancelled

Sat, 15 May 2021 22:26:03 GMT

It hasn't gone away you know.

Meaning the weather of course. Even though Covid restrictions have been lifted sufficiently, the weather is always a factor in organising fly-ins.

So it is with great regret that we must cancel our re-arranged 2021 Breakfast Fry-in that was due to take place at EIIF tomorrow Sunday16th May. This is because of greasy ground conditions after heavy rain at the field as well as an unfavourable weather forecast for the day itself. This event will not be re-scheduled for a later date.

Instead, it is our intention now to focus on our Mid-Summer Fly-in as planned for Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th June.

Breakfast 'Fry'-in Re-arranged for 16th May

Sun, 02 May 2021 11:47:30 GMT

Now that a firm date has been announced for the resumption of inter-county travel, it makes sense to re-arrange our annual Breakfast 'Fry'-in for a date when the maximum number of people are permitted to attend either by land or air. The event will now take place on Sunday 16th May, subject to the usual requirement for PPR and of course weather permitting.

The event listing can be accessed here

The full listing of ILAS (and selected other) events can be viewed here

Airspace Review 2021 - ILAS responds

Sun, 02 May 2021 10:33:16 GMT

The IAA is currently undertaking a review of Irish Airspace and has held a number of on-line briefings that were open to the public. As part of its advocacy role on behalf of Irish permit aviators, ILAS participated in these sessions and has now submitted a document with its comments to the IAA.

This document sets out a number of important principles which should inform the design of all changes to Irish Airspace. In addition, it calls for a variety of specific changes to airspcace affecting VFR traffic in locations such as Waterford, Coonagh, Sligo and the environs of the Dublin CTZ.

The response document can be read and downloaded here

ILAS will pursue the principles and objectives set out in this document in its relationship with the IAA.

Next Newsletter Content Deadline - 25th May for June edition

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 21:58:02 GMT

The next edition of the new ILAS newsletter will be published in early June. The Editor invites contributions for the forthcoming March edition, which must be received by his press deadline of:

25th May

Contributions can be emailed to editor@ilas.ie. Photographs are especially welcome and text should ideally be in editable form - preferably not pdf

Event dates for 2021 Announced

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 21:44:08 GMT

A provisional calendar of events has been announced by the Committee. With the exception of the GASCI safety evening which is online, these events are subject to Covid 19 restrictions prevailing at the time, as well as the usual weather constraints, . Dates are as follows:

GASCI Safety Evening	11th March @1900 hrs	online via Zoom
ILAS Breakfast Fly-In	Sunday 2nd May	TBC
ILAS Midsummer Fly-In	19th & 20th June	TBC
ILAS Harvest Fly-In	28th or 29th August	TBC

All of these events are now posted in the Events section so please check back there for the latest updates..

AGM 2021

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 16:39:47 GMT

The ILAS Annual General Meeting is scheduled for Sunday Jan 31, 2021 at 12:00. As with many other meetings over the last year, it will by necessity be an online meeting. More details will be available when the appropriate arrangements are in place.

The draft minutes of the 2020 AGM may be downloaded from the Downloads section of the ILAS website (login is required). Anyone who has difficulty accessing this should e-mail secretary@ilas.ie.

For the election of the new Committee, it’s planned to use a simple low-tech approach to voting, with nominations sought beforehand and voting on the day during the online meeting. The outgoing Committee wish to strongly encourage members to consider putting themselves forward for a role on the Committee, as energy, time and a diversity of expertise are required to manage the Society’s day-to-day responsibilities. Committee meetings have been successfully conducted online during the pandemic-related restrictions, so ‘long-distance’ membership of the Committee is now better facilitated than heretofore.

Candidates for officer or Committee membership should be notified to secretary@ilas.ie at least 14 days before the AGM, but may also (as per the Constitution) be proposed at the AGM itself.

Invoices for the annual membership subscription will be issuing early in the New Year. Payment will be possible online via Stripe, or by cheque/money order via surface mail to the Permit Secretary c/o 14 Herbert Park, Bray, Co Wicklow, A98 P3X2 . Note that the membership subscription is €50, but there's a reduction to €40 for existing members who pay within 30 days of the issuing of the invoice.

Kind regards and best wishes for 2021,

Noel Murphy, Hon Secretary,

on behalf of the ILAS Chairman and Committee

Please write something for the Newsletter

Tue, 05 Jan 2021 16:31:08 GMT

February 20th is the deadline for contributions to the March issue.

The second quarterly edition of the IlAS Newsletter is being prepared at present. We want to make it a members' publication so please consider writing something for this next edition. It is due out next March.

It can be as little as 200 words (less than a typed A4 page). Photographs are always of interest.

Send your contribution to editor@ilas.ie before 20th February to guarantee inclusion.

Harvest Fly-in Cancelled due to expanded Covid-19 restrictions

Wed, 19 Aug 2020 13:54:15 GMT

Regrettably, we have to cancel our Harvest Fly-In scheduled for Saturday & Sunday next at ILAS Field due to the latest Covid-19 restrictions, as announced by the Government last evening.

Clearly, we are all disappointed, but you will understand that it would be inappropriate to proceed in the circumstances given that: "All outdoor events and gatherings will be limited to 15 people - reduced from 200".

The Committee will continue to monitor the situation, but it appears that this restriction will remain in place until 13th September at the earliest. Local lockdowns in counties in Kildare, Offaly and Laois will be reviewed by NPHET on Thursday and we understand that the Government will publish a new 'roadmap' in the coming weeks.

In the meantime, take care and stay safe !

Harvest Fly-in extended to include Sat 22nd August

Sat, 01 Aug 2020 10:01:24 GMT

Now that Covid-19 restrictions have eased, the Committee is confident of being able to run the Harvest Fly-in, weather permitting. This will now be our only fly-in event of 2020.

To recoup some of the ground lost to the disease restrictions, the event will be extended to encompass Saturday 22nd August. The pattern will be much like our main two-day fly-in that we normally hold in June.

Here's hoping the weather plays ball and allows us to begin to forget the horrible flying year we have had so far. See you there!

ILAS Mid-summer Fly-in and Rally falls victim to Covid19 restrictions

Tue, 26 May 2020 12:13:45 GMT

The Committee has reluctantly decided that it is not possible to safely hold the main Mid-summer Fly-in and Rally, which had been scheduled for 20th and 21st June, within the current Covid 19 restrictions. The event is therefore cancelled.

If it becomes possible to arrange a future alternative date for this event, a notice will be published on this website and circulated to members.

Just one further event; the Harvest Fly-in scheduled for 23rd August, remains on the calendar.

As always, please check for final information on all ILAS events before travelling.

Breakfast Fly-in Cancelled

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 15:23:00 GMT

Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, the Breakfast Fly-in scheduled for 26th April has been cancelled.

If it becomes possible to arrange a future alternative date for this event, a notice will be published on this website and circulated to members.

Covid-19 Cancellations

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 15:16:56 GMT

As a result of the current restrictions imposed by government to counter the Covid-19 pandemic, no ILAS events up to 5th May can proceed and are therefore cancelled.

However, as flying events in general fall well below the 5000 visitor limit set by government as the size of public gatherings which are cancelled up to the end of August 2020, there remains the possibility that events after 5th May CAN proceed.

Please refer back to this website for the latest news on whether or not ILAS events are proceeding and always check again for the latest news immediately before travelling to any ILAS event.

Third Tuesdays Cancelled

Mon, 16 Mar 2020 13:15:48 GMT

Terry has advised that he is cancelling Third Tuesday gatherings until further notice. As soon as he gives us the all clear, notifications for future gatherings will once again be posted in our Events Section

Happy Christmas from ILAS

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 22:11:54 GMT

We'd like to wish a Happy Christmas to all our members, their family and friends. Enjoy the festive season and best wishes for the New Year. May the 2020 flying season be safe and enjoyable for all.

See you at the AGM. 26th Jan 2020 at 12 noon.Weston Airport

Best regards,

ILAS committee

Harvest Fly-in Enjoys Glorious Weather

Wed, 28 Aug 2019 20:03:15 GMT

Our Harvest Fly-In this year took place on Sunday the 25^th of August. The weather at the field in the morning was excellent with bright skies and light winds.

The full report, including a full listing of the visiting aircraft, can be read here

2019 ILAS Awards Programme Begins

Mon, 29 Jul 2019 08:13:58 GMT

It is time once again to invite all members to put forward their nominations for the 2019 ILAS Awards in each of the five categories:

1. Air Touring Award.

For the best journey by an ILAS member in command of any aircraft (any type, any registration) during the judging year (the 12 months up to Monday 7th October), based on a log of the trip.

2. Homebuilt Award.

For the best new build ILAS permit type aircraft first flown during the judging year.

3. Vintage/Classic Restoration Award.

For the best re-build/renovation of an ILAS permit type aircraft that was returned to flight during the judging year.

4. John O’Loughlin Exemplary Airmanship Award

For the best display of airmanship in the operation of homebuilt and classic/vintage aircraft.

5. Aerobatics Award

For the best display of aerobatics from an ILAS member.

We are inviting members to make their nominations by email to chairman@ilas.ie not later than Sunday 20^thOctober. You may also nominate yourself if you wish.

The ILAS Awards function / Christmas dinner is planned for Saturday 7^th December 2019 at the Lucan Spa Hotel in Lucan, Co. Dublin.

Nominations are especially important for the Airmanship Award because the judges may not know of the incidents or events that demonstrated airmanship. Equally, nominations are important for the Air Touring Award and Aerobatics Award because the judges may not know about the event.

When nominating a person for an award, please give reasons why you think that person deserves the award – the more detail the better. Nominations without supporting justification cannot be accepted. On the other hand, multiple nominations of the same person won’t confer any advantage. The Permit Secretary will be aware of first flights of C&V and Amateur-built aircraft if the paperwork has been submitted.

There is a separate FAQs document which you can access by clicking on the link below. If you are having trouble locating please send a mail to webmaster@ilas.ie.

ILAS_Awards_FAQ_2019.pdf

Good luck to all entrants and please get those nominations in.

Mid-summer Fly-in - Full Report

Wed, 03 Jul 2019 21:04:40 GMT

Our Mid-summer Fly-in provided another wonderful day at EIIF. The usual two day format had to be shortened to just one day due to impending adverse weather forecast for the Sunday. However, that one day was blessed with glorious flying weather and was graced by the attendance of over 20 aircraft and a good attendance of members and guests to enjoy those aircraft.

An additional highlight this year was the inauguration of the new clubhouse.

A full report is available by clicking here.

Service Bulletin re Slick Mags - Inspect asap

Fri, 29 Mar 2019 15:07:18 GMT

This is an important SB from Champion re Slick 4 series mags. They recommend inspection as soon as possible, but before 50hrs. Many of the ILAS fleet have this model fitted.

Slick Service Bulletin SB1-15A

It is also available on the "Technical and Advisory" page within our Downloads section

Happy Birthday to Us

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 22:28:22 GMT

ILAS is 10 years old today!

25th Jan 2019.

You can read all about the background here.

Congratulations to all our members over the years and particularly to our founders in SAAC and CAACI for their foresight in bringing the two organisations together to create something more than the sum of the two parts. Congratulations in particular to all those members who served on the committee or helped out in so many other ways down through the years. Your efforts have brought about the creation of a strong and vibrant society that enhances our sport.

We have achieved a great deal together in this past decade. Most importantly, we have preserved and developed the freedom that the permit system gives us while also expanding its scope. Along the way, we have created the opportunity for members to get together and share their knowledge and enthusiasm as well as showing off the fruits of their labour in their natural habitat; flying our machines throughout our country and beyond.

Nothing is perfect of course and we have had slips along the way. however, we have mostly learned what we could from them, fixed the problems and moved on.

Our ambition is still not achieved either. There remains a great many improvements that we have in mind. As we move into the second decade of ILAS, we have the energy and the talent to achieve these improvements, and much more besides.

Documents for the 2019 AGM have been Uploaded

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 00:35:31 GMT

The links on this post are accessible to members only and require log-in.

The draft agenda for the forthcoming 2019 AGM (at 12 noon on 27th January is now available to members.

ILAS AGM 2019 Agenda

The draft minutes of the 2018 AGM had previously been uploaded and can be accessed via this link:

ILAS AGM 2018 Draft Minutes

The Committee Minutes page has also been updated with approved minutes of all committee meetings held in 2018. The draft minutes of the latest meeting on 17th January this year will not be available until adopted by the incoming committee. That page can be viewed via the link below:

Committee Minutes

Tailwheel Training in the Condor - a Personal Journey

Tue, 04 Sep 2018 11:42:00 GMT

To be honest, I did not take a whole lot of notice of the ILAS Condor project while it was developing. How things have changed!

I was always very keen that ILAS should pioneer the use of permit aircraft for flight training, but when it eventually became possible, it was too late for me personally. I felt I had to go ahead with my pilot training because I was getting closer to the completion of my own RV-9 project. I eventually did so, finally achieving the PPL in November '17. So I saw the Condor as good for ILAS but not really relevant to me.

If I was starting now, I would certainly do my 'ab initio' training in the Condor. For one thing, the cost would be perhaps 50% of some of the commercial outfits.

Secondly, my own aircraft will be a 'tail dragger' like so many permit aircraft in this country. So training on the Condor would have been especially appropriate for me. True, EI-BDX is flapless, so I would have had to acquire the skills of approach and landing with flaps on another aircraft. But that is much easier than transitioning to tailwheel landing from a tri-gear aircraft.

Now, having achieved a PPL in C150s, I need to exercise the privileges of this 'license to learn'. So it makes complete sense to further my flying education by adding that tailwheel endorsement. As I write, I am abut 9 hours into that process and it is going to take me another few hours.

However, the result will not be merely an ability to land a tailwheel aircraft but a completely transformed level of 'stick and rudder' flying skills.

So what's it like to fly? Well, I can tell you that,coming from a series of C150's of about the same vintage, it is a pure joy! I am okay with overhead wings but the Condor's low wings just feel so 'right'. Changing from a yoke to a stick, which I was worried about, was just a non-issue from the start and actually feels much more natural. A particular joy of this type is its responsiveness to the rudder. In the C150s, I couldn't really feel the rudder and didn't need it that much but BDX gives you such a nice coordinated turn with rudder that you actually enjoy using it correctly.

EI-BDX is in great shape - probably almost as good as when it left the Rollason factory. But it still has a very 'classic' feel and in comparison to the beat-up C150s I trained in, which are just worn out, it has an atmosphere that I would compare with Triumph Spitfires or Mini-Cooper rally cars of about the same era.

The Rollason Druine Condors were always conceived as training aircraft. In fact the original business model was that they remained factory owned and were leased out to flight schools across the UK. It is certainly the case that EI-BDX demands better flying skills. Obviously, you need to be far better with the rudder to counter P factor on take off and to keep her straight on the ground. But, in addition, without flaps, speed control in the approach and landing phases is far more important and you also need to be far more active in using the throttle along with pitch to keep a stabilised approach.

In comparison, the C150 (the only point of reference I can talk about) can be 'driven' down or dragged in. It seems to cope with a far wider range of ineptitudes than the Condor and the student pilot won't always know that he or she has done anything wrong. In the Condor, the threshold can climb up the windscreen or disappear under the nose very quickly unless you get the speed right. Round-out speeds outside of the optimum range for the conditions (50-60 knots) will result in a very firm arrival or a balloon/bounce.

As a builder, I would love to get stuck in to re-organising the panel of BDX. Crossing hands to use key controls like mixture and carb heat (both located above my 'stick' hand) is not ideal . Nonetheless I was working those controls without needing to look at them within the first hour.

Yes, you can learn the basics of flying in a C150 but the Condor will make a pilot of you. I recommend you give it a go.

Details of the Condor group and how to get flying in EI-BDX can be found by clicking below

Fly the Condor.

I will keep you posted on how I am progressing as my training goes on. Look out for updates to this post.

Loman O'Byrne

EFLEVA Newsletter

Wed, 01 Aug 2018 12:25:27 GMT

The latest newsletter from EFLEVA has just arrived

EFLEVA Newsletter July 2018.pdf

2018 ILAS Awards Announcement

Wed, 18 Jul 2018 22:38:42 GMT

It is time once again to invite all members to put forward their nominations for the 2018 ILAS Awards in each of the four categories:

1. Air Touring Award.

For the best journey by an ILAS member in command of any aircraft (any type, any registration) during the judging year (the 12 months up to Monday 8th October), based on a log of the trip.

2. Homebuilt Award.

For the best new build ILAS permit type aircraft first flown during the judging year.

3. Vintage/Classic Restoration Award.

For the best re-build/renovation of an ILAS permit type aircraft that was returned to flight during the judging year.

4. John O’Loughlin Exemplary Airmanship Award

For the best display of airmanship in the operation of homebuilt and classic/vintage aircraft.

We are inviting members to make their nominations by email to chairman@ilas.ie not later than Sunday 21^stOctober. You may also nominate yourself if you wish.

The ILAS Awards function / Christmas dinner is planned for Saturday 1^st December 2018 at the Riverside Park Hotel in Enniscorthy.

Nominations are especially important for the Airmanship Award because the judges may not know of the incidents or events that demonstrated airmanship. Equally, nominations are important for the Air Touring Award because the judges may not know about the trip concerned.

There is a separate FAQs document which can be found at ILAS_Awards_FAQ_2018.pdf or in the downloads section of our website. If you are having trouble locating please send a mail to webmaster@ilas.ie

Good luck to all entrants and please get those nominations in.

Michael Ryan

Events Coordinator

ILAS Mid-summer Fly-in June 2018

Tue, 03 Jul 2018 14:20:07 GMT

People started to arrive on Friday in preparation for the event. Campers set up in the field and G-UINN had already flown in.

The weather was perfect for the weekend. Aircraft started to arrive from 9.30 am and EI-BSG Gyrocopter was being assembled. The gyrocopter flew around 10:30 and then again in the evening. A total of 32 aircraft flew into the field during the course of the day. Of these, some aircraft enjoyed local flights of the surrounding sunny south east and appreciated the breath taking views that were on offer. Many came by road as well and over 150 people were in attendance through the day. After the BBQ, EI-AHI Tiger Moth was busy and allowed some of the other pilots to experience the joy and excitement of open cockpit flying in such a prestigious craft.

Many people commented on how well the field was presented. Visitors and visiting pilots were greeted with refreshments at the club house throughout the day and a BBQ in the afternoon. People camped for the evening and some stayed locally and made use of the B&B facilities.

The Fly Market was set up in the new ILAS gazebo. This is a great opportunity for people to buy/sell and swap equipment. This is something we hope to continue for future fly-ins. In the meantime, you can use the website Buy and Sell page to offer or seek items. Also on display in the porta-cabin was a sample of equipment that can be borrowed from the ILAS tool library. On view were the boroscope inspection camera, propeller balancer, differential pressure tester and high voltage cable tester. A full list of items that can be borrowed is available on the ILAS website.

Early Sunday morning started off with a mist over the field but before long this had burned off and the first of the flyers had arrived. A total of 20 aircraft visited the field and were assisted by the follow me marshals. Some of the aircraft that arrived were pilots who had visited the day before. Again, many people came by road as well, and there were around 80 visitors. The BBQ was fired up for 1 o’clock and the aroma soon had people lining up for a bite to eat.

The two day event was an excellent opportunity for our members to get together to swap and share stories, to reminisce on old times and to make plans for the future. As you walked up and down the field it was a delight to hear the stories, the laughter, the in-depth technical debates and the sharing of knowledge.

We had a fantastic two day event. This would not have being possible without the volunteers at the field so we would like to thank all who volunteered and helped out. It was due to their contribution and hard work before, during and after the two day event that made it a memorable gathering.

Our next fly-in is the Harvest Fly-in scheduled for 28^thAugust. Registration is on the ILAS website. Hope to see you all there.

Mike Ryan, Events Coordinator

ILAS appoints new Chief Inspector

Thu, 03 May 2018 20:10:31 GMT

John Kent has stepped down as ILAS Chief Inspector at his own request and has been replaced by John O'Toole.

John O'Toole has worked for Aer Lingus for nearly 20 years, currently in the role of training captain on the A320 fleet. He became a licensed Aircraft Maintenance Engineer in Canada in the late 1980s having completed technical college and an apprenticeship. He started flying commercially and worked as a pilot/engineer on various smaller aircraft types in remote regions. After a few years in Ireland, he got involved with flying and maintaining light aircraft. He later became involved with the Iolar restoration project (Aer Lingus Charitable Foundation) and subsequently the DH Chipmunk fleet of the Irish Historic Flight Foundation. In 2013, he became an inspector for ILAS. He holds an MSc. from Cranfield University, in Safety and Accident Investigation. He is desperately trying to finish a Murphy Rebel kit aircraft for at least ten years now. John is the current holder of the ILAS Classic/Vintage trophy for his upgrade of EI-AET to floats

John would like to express his gratitude to the ILAS committee for his appointment to CI and is delighted to serve the greater ILAS membership in support of their sport aviation goals and aspirations.

On behalf of the members, we wish him every success in this new extra position of responsibility and we assure him of our full support.

Permit Aviation Safety - the Inaugural Dave Ryan Memorial Lecture

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 09:19:25 GMT

30 people attend turned out to hear Leo Murray of Air Accident Investigation unit deliver the inaugural Dave Ryan Memorial Lecture at Kilrush on Saturday 7th April on the crucial subject of permit aviation safety

Soup and rolls were there ready for all when they arrived. The time before the lecture was time for people to meet up and catch up with fellow aviators. While the weather was good at the airfield, it was not as good in other parts of the country. Nonetheless, four aircraft flew in for the event and the rest attended by road.

Charles O’Shea opened the lecture by speaking about Dave Ryan and his contribution to aviation, as well as acknowledging Eamon Fitzgerald. Leo Murray from the AAIU then gave his presentation.

The presentation was split into two parts. The first part of the presentation focused on the process the AAIU has in place to handle accidents, beginning when an accident is reported, then the onsite procedures, followed up by the lab and the final report being issued. He mentioned the regulations they must follow: Annex 13, SI 460 2009 and EU 996/2010. In the second part of the presentation, Leo spoke about different problems that single engine aircrafts experience including induction icing, He also covered the safety aspects of BRS parachutes and inappropriate landing sites

Leo gave an overview of the report issued by the AAIU in relation to Dave’s case. Given the occasion and the number of us who knew and admired Dave Ryan, this was difficult for all in the room. However, it was done in a positive way to raise awareness and was all the more effective because of that personal connection.

Leo displayed an interesting chart in which Irish meterological data over the last 30 years was mapped onto the familiar chart showing the risk of induction icing. The vast bulk of the data points fall within the induction icing curve and almost half of them fall within the most serious risk area. This demonstrates what we all know but need to take more heed of; there is scarcely ever a day in Ireland without risk of induction icing.

Leo spoke about BRS parachutes, advantages, disadvantages, costs and safety precautions. He showed some videos of BRS being deployed in a test environment and an emergency situation.

Leo spoke about the difficulties of choosing landing sites other than airfields, in particular about the dangers of unknown slopes and hills. If it is not an emergency, he recommended performing a flyover and possibly walking the site first to make the landing and take-off safer.

All AAIU reports are on the website www.aaiu.ie and if you sign up you can get email notification of when reports are issued. Leo encouraged people to read the reports and gain knowledge and lessons learned from them. On average, Ireland has approximately four fatalities a year and everyone would like to see it reduced to zero.

After the main presentation, Loman introduced John Todd who gave an update on Dave Ryan’s Little Wing 3 project which he has taken over. He showed pictures of the progress made to date and discussed the build and plans.

The information contained in this lecture was very important to all of us. Hopefully we all took something away from the day so we can improve our own practice. As pilots, we are always learning.

Dynamic Propellor Balancing - ILAS Tool Library

(Past member) — Sat, 27 Jan 2018 21:20:34 GMT

The ILAS Tool Library has made an important acquisition; an ACES Probalancer Sport Model 1015 dynamic propellor balancer.

This advanced tool will form the basis of a new Prop Balancing Service to be delivered through Inspectors who have been trained in the process.

Details of how to access the service are available on the Member Services page

A short case study video can be seen here: https://youtu.be/zCVS4GED_Vk

ILAS announces a new winter lecture series

(Past member) — Thu, 04 Jan 2018 15:12:26 GMT

The committee has arranged a series of lectures to take place during the remainder of the winter and spring period.

The list of events planned for the coming winter/spring series are:

Aviation Weather, given by Met Eireann
Permit Aviation Safety, given by the AAIU.
EASA - what on earth is going on? given by Julian Scarfe of European Air Sports

Following the fly-in season, the lecture series will resume in September with further events planned for locations around the country. Our intention is to have approximately six such events over the course of each autumn winter and spring. With the Annual Awards event and the AGM, this will make for a busy social and educational season in the period when flying weather is less reliable.

During the summer flying season, ILAS will continue to host 2-3 fly-ins, so the focus on 'indoors' activity will diminish.

All events will be published on this website and will be announced via email to members.

ILAS launches New Website

(Past member) — Thu, 04 Jan 2018 14:57:01 GMT

You are viewing the new ILAS website, launched at the AGM on 28th Jan. This major revision features a new and clearer navigation structure, membership self-service features and event management services.

The new website is a total rebuild of the last version, based on an entirely new platform called "Wild Apricot" (whose name is seen in the generic help system) and offers a fresh new interface with a much more logical member structure.

There is now a clear division between the public face of the website and the members' area, with much of the most valuable information and facilities accessible within the members' area only.

The website has greatly enhanced event management facilities, with the option for users to register for events, each of which will have its own unique event page. While events in general remain free to members, registering ensures they are added to an email list for any updates. Event announcements will now only go to those who have not yet registered while a reminder will only be sent to those who have registered. Members can also register guests that they would like to bring along. For the odd event such as a training course for which the trainer is brought in from abroad, the website has facilities for collecting event fees on-line and issuing e-tickets.

In addition, the website has very powerful membership facilities, including the ability for members to reset their own password and edit their own profile. Members can also make subscription payments as before, but now they can opt to make automatic recurring subscription payments, which removes just one more administrative hassle from the aviation world.

ILAS Awards winners for 2017 announced

(Past member) — Fri, 24 Nov 2017 17:08:41 GMT

The ILAS awards winners for 2017 were confirmed by the Committee at their meeting on 23rd November. They are:

Category	Winner
Air Touring	Andrew Butler for his RV-7 trip to Switzerland with mountain flying in the Alps
Best Classic/Vintage Restoration	John O'Toole for his conversion to floats of Piper J3 Cub EI-AET
John O'Loughlin Airmanship Award	Ken Townsend for his handling of the 'open canopy' incident at EIIF in his Colibri EI-EWZ

No eligible first flight of a homebuilt type took place within the judging year so the Ferguson trophy cannot be awarded in 2017. This is a matter of concern to the committee.

Congratulations to all of the winners