We know that there have been lots of questions related to HEFA and our lease at SP into 2023, especially with all of the news of pending development. Well... at this time and unless there is a change of plans, we anticipate that our lease will not be renewed in 2023 at SP. We have been so very fortunate to be able to fly at this central site in HRM and to help maintain the property. Really this has only been possible due to our adherence to rules and ultimately our great safety record - so lots of recognition and thanks to all of our members for this history.
So where does this leave us? Well - we can continue to fly at SP until the end of December. Into January, we have Porter's Lake as a valid option for continuing to enjoy this great hobby. It is a good site with an accessible runway for take-offs and landings which can be reached in the winter too. Much of the flying there is completed over the treeline and certainly there needs to be awareness of full-sized aircraft that can use this area. Flying areas are defined in the MAAC website: https://secure.maac.ca/wcm-docs/airfiel ... 0Lake1.png and as depicted below:
In the meantime, we are continuing to explore potential new flying sites and are trying to get this effort ramped up. Most sites will be more on the outskirts of the city. If you know of any possible sites, or might have time to support such an effort, then please reach out.
We recognize that this is not the news that anyone wants to hear. We've had some great times at SP and have formed memories that will last a lifetime. We've known that development was pending but had hoped for just a little more time with the site. Time to continue to enjoy this central location; time to continue to introduce new pilots to this great hobby; time for friendships and memories.
Again - please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any questions.
Brian