SS
I think there is a (albeit perhaps small) difference between backtracking to depart off 06 and backtracking after landing on 24. At the 'A' hold (close to 24 threshold) you have a clear view of the 06 approach and can check it is clear before nack tracking and have other options open to you (crossing to 'B' or taxi round the peri track). When landing short on 24 you only have the option of continuing ahead to 'C' hold (2/3rds of the way down) or immediate 180 and backtrack. If you believe the approach is clear (as you did) the immediate 180 and back track is the obvious choice but you can be caught out doing this if there is a non radio on approach so it has to be done with caution and you have to be ready to change the decision and contine ahead to 'C'. It is clear therefore that this is not as clearcut as the backtrack to depart 06 option. The description probably isn't as clear as it should be but it is only a minor point anyway.
The peri track option does have the potential danger you describe and I think I referred to this in the earlier post when I mentioned this option (careful not to recommend someone to do this without warning of the dangers in this highly litigative society!). For me I think I would still rather take this chance if the alternative was to have someone determined to land on top of me (which I think you have to agree is less likely in the case of a Range Rover
).
Correct on the photography point. We have a small unpaid volunteer team building an air to air and ground to ground library of aviation / aircraft pictures for an aviation magazine. The aircraft owner / pilot gets a free CD of shots in return for bringing aircraft along and flying for 20 mins or so.
Perhaps I wasn' too clear on the restriction point (and it is only loosely connected with the photography). The restriction is an airfield restriction not a CAA restriction. My role in the photo team is to act as formation pilot of the subject aircraft. I am also in the process of acquiring a Display Authority to display Chipmunk and Tiger Moth and this will include formation fly by. For both purposes I have a requirement to practice formation take offs and these (totally legal) have been banned for members at the airfield (although visitors can still do this). Means I have to go elsewhere to practice this and also means that photo sessions take a little longer as we have to join up out of the circuit.
Finally no Turb at airfield and not aware of a turb or similar in the local vicinity but will keep my eyes open.
Great post - loads of views - I think I have added all I can - SS hopefully see you in happier mood at airfield soon.