QDM
Why not fly to the Channel Islands in their 'Ludicrous Airspace'?
Bournemouth-Jersey is only 50 minutes in a PA28-181.
Land at Jersey & get detailed info on the areas nearby & VAT free fuel. The Aeroclub handle all GA traffic to 3 tonnes, only £3 every 1/2 tonne, so a PA28 is £9, that includes 7 days free parking. Perhaps land, park & catch a ferry to France.
There is so much to see over France, the V1 launch ramps south of Cherbourg, St Mere Eglise (sometimes with a parachutist hanging from the church), the Mulberry Harbour, Pegasus Bridge (Past CAEN), the beaches and cemetaries. Not to mention beautiful French towns & countryside. The aeroclub can normally guide you in the right direction.
Check your NOTAMS, chart, Jepps & any other source of info & you'll be fine. Before departure call the Jersey met office & you will get an accurate forecast for your trip (they are fully manned & all modcons) 0900 6650033 Automated. ATIS 0901 8101009 Automated, 112.2En-route (JSY VOR). Airport Flight Briefing 01534 492243.
File a flight plan & you will be expected. You will anyway for our Gallic cousins.
If crossing the danger areas I call Plymouth on the phone the day before, their number is in the Jepp. Being military they may use them at a last minute notice. They are very helpful too. Last time routed Jersey-Bournemouth DCT & back.
You enter the CI CTR at 50N, west of Cap de la Hague. Call the Channel Islands before entering the CTR on 125.2, do as you are told & it will be easy flying. Enjoy the view.
The ATCOs at Jersey are very friendly & helpful, not a group to fear. Most are members of the Aeroclub.
SVFR is fairly simple, maintain VFR & do as the controllers tell you, you can fly in vis as low as 3km.
If landing on 09 in Jersey & the wind is almost staight down the runway watch the little cliff that gives a downdraft, a bit of power just before solves that problem.
Have Fun.
FB
