In memory of Charlie Leake 1932-2024

Dear members of the Courtenay Airpark, I

It is with much regret that I am writing to let you know that one of our long-standing members, Charlie Leake, passed away at home on Sunday, 8 December 2024. Charlie was one of the oldest, licensed pilots in Canada, and would have been 93 next month. Charlie was formerly a pilot in the RCAF, and flew a variety of fighter aircraft and helicopters during his time in uniform.

He was the Commanding Officer of 408 Tactical Helicopter Squadron at CFB Namao, just north of the City of Edmonton, when I first met him in 1976. He retired after his tour in Namao, as a Lieutenant-Colonel, and opened a floatplane and helicopter business in McBride, BC, shortly after leaving the military. He was so successful, and such a key member of the community, that the airport in McBride was ultimately named "McBride / Charlie Leake Field". Quite an honour for any aviator! After he closed his business, Charlie moved to Comox with his wife Pat, and has been flying his RV-4 at the Courtenay Airpark for nearly two decades.

He was admired as one of the most current and proficient pilots at the Airpark, flying whenever he could. Without a doubt, he had a passion for flight that was part of his very being. Charlie will be sorely missed by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

Ray Henault, President

"A dead gull was found on Airpark property last month (November 2024). Because there was no obvious trauma, the bird was picked up with gloved hands, frozen, and sent to the Animal Health Centre which is part of the BC Ministry of Agriculture and Food in Abbotsford, BC. Upon investigation, the gull was found "Positive for Influenza A virus, Type H5". This is more commonly known as "Bird Flu". Please report any future dead bird findings to Chris Hansen (call/text 250.702.7403) who will take care of disposal or transport to the Animal Health Centre, if required. Do not touch dead birds with your bare hands. Signed, Ray Henault, President".

....are reminders!

A. Respect our short runway, don't land long!

B. If you have an aircraft in an outside spot, please ensure tie-downs are secure, especially when storms are in the forecast.

Photos: 

C172 Runway overrun 18Nov2024

Ultralight Challenger blown over fence during storm, 20Nov2024

Winner of the draw for a local flight, held at the CVEX August 25th. 2024 was Danielle Guiney, shown here with Airpark member and pilot Duane Dubyk.

In recognition of the Airpark's 60th. anniversary, we opened our gate to the public on Saturday Sep. 21st.

Several Airpark members had their aircraft on view. An information booth with historical photos dating back to the Airpark's birth in 1964 as well as a display board showing the various present-day activities the Airpark supports, were included.

Undoubtedly, the star attractions were the Pipistrel fully-electric training aircraft flown in from Campbell River (thanks Sealand Flight!) and the free ice cream for all (thanks Mo!)

With minimal advertising for the event attendance was somewhat sparse but as the compressed video below shows, a steady trickle of citizens did come through the gate for a look.

We appreciate the public's interest in our effort to reach out to the community and will consider making the Open House an annual event.

Winner of the draw for a sightseeing flight, held at the Airpark's Open House on Sep.21st, was Jody MacFarland shown here post-flight, along with fellow passenger Jaden Williams and Pilot and Airpark member Clint Mowbray.

Courtenay Airpark Static Display at the 2024 Comox Airshow

The Courtenay Airpark was invited by 19 Wing Comox to participate in the 2024 Comox Airshow, held on May 18th, 2024, with a static display of Airpark aircraft.

Six members of the Airpark flew their aircraft to 19 Wing on 17 May to park their aircraft in the assigned static display location. The aircraft included an RV-6, an RV-6A, a Sidewinder, a Cessna 185 on amphibious floats, a Cherokee II, and a Zenair 601. Sealand Flight also joined our group with their new Pipistrel Velis electric aircraft.

The group was visited by hundreds of Airshow visitors throughout Airshow Day on May 18^th, and was acknowledged by 19 Wing as a great addition to the static display lineup for the Airshow.

The Airpark participants proudly represented the Airpark at the Airshow, demonstrating the passion for aviation shared by our friends in uniform and promoting General Aviation in the Comox Valley.

The Airpark extends its congratulations to 19 Comox for the huge success of the 2024 Comox Airshow, and its thanks for the opportunity to participate in this event that also marked the 100^th Anniversary of the Royal Canadian Air Force.

Ray Henault, President

A new e-bike stand with four positions, has been installed near the Airpark main gate (walkway, far side of boat launch). The Courtenay Airpark has no connection with this service other than to inform visiting pilots of this availability.

"Dear members of the Courtenay Airpark Association;

Over the past few weeks, there have been a number of hangar and aircraft intrusions at the Airpark, resulting in the theft of some equipment and damage to hangar doors, interior structures and the perimeter fence. The RCMP has responded to the incidents and has been diligently investigating them. Hangar occupants affected by the intrusions have also undertaken repairs to their hangars.

If you discover intrusions to your aircraft or hangars, please report the incident to the Board of Directors and the RCMP immediately. The case file to quote when you contact the RCMP is: RCMP File # 2024-4809.

The Board of Directors is investigating ways to enhance security at the Airpark.

Ray Henault

President Courtenay Airpark Association *

Ray Henault, president of the Courtenay Airpark Association, has been honoured by the Governor General's appointment as a Member of the Order of Canada (2023)

Here is the official announcement:

General Raymond Roland Henault, C.M., C.M.M., M.S.C., C.D. (Ret’d)
Courtenay, British Columbia
For his long-time commitment—both in and out of uniform—to Canada’s defence and peacekeeping operations and policies.

The Airpark members extend their sincere congratulations on this well-deserved honour.