Barton to IOM
I am working in the IOM at the moment and have been checked out on Manx Flyers 172.
My usual haunt is Barton so it made a nice change of scenery flying round the Island.
A logical progression and a must do for 2005 is a Barton IOM trip or the other way round depending on my location at the time!!
I have asked various people about such a trip over water and have made a provisional plan.
See what you think and would be grateful for any input.
1. Pick a good day. Light winds and good vis.
2. Check weather at both ends/on route and study the NOTAMS.
3. Contact Ronaldsway and tell them my intentions.
4. Contact Special Branch with details of my flight.
5. Plan full tanks with 1 POB for maximum duration should diversion be required.
6.Route plan BTN-Southport-IOM.
7. VFR Flight but using WAL and IOM VOR for tracking.
8. Carry life jacket and immersion suit if I can get hold of one.
9. Use Blackpool as diversion and use Blackpool APP for Radar Info Service. IOM when in range.
10.Check servicability of on board Nav Aids (VOR ADF TRANSPONDER DME and give the aircraft an extra special lookover with regard to oil level and clean windscreens.
11. Track to North of Laxey to stay clear of controlled airspace to allow Ronaldsway to "fit me in" between inbound commercial traffic.
Some folks say to treat it as any other flight as if you were over land. I guess the plane doesn't know the difference but it sure concentrates the mind when you see all that water below!!!
Playing it safe means you get to fly another day so thats fine by me!
Anyway your thoughts please.
Coop & Bear