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Blake Crosby

@fly.blakecrosby.com
973 followers 95 following 86 posts

🇨🇦 Pilot and Nerd all rolled into one. IG: instagram.com/drunkwithjetlag Web: fly.blakecrosby.com

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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 18/08/2026
My 100LL fuel tracker is starting to come together. Since 2022 the green airports have added 100LL fuel for sale, while the brown airports lost that ability. You can contribute to the dataset by uploading your copy of the CFS to: drive.google.com/drive/u/0/fo... #flying #aviation #avgeek #canada
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 17/08/2026
I need your help! If you have an old copy of the Canadian Flight Supplement (CFS) in PDF format. Can you please upload it here? I'm working on a project to document the decline of avgas availability across the country. #flying #aviation #avgeek
drive.google.com
CFS Files - Google Drive
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 15/07/2026
I wrote a Windy plugin that overlays smoke aloft. To install: Click on Options, Install Windy Plugin, Load Plugin Directly from URL windy-plugins.com/1108003/wind... Once it loads, select: “Column-total PM2.5 Smoke” from the product. #forestfire #flying #aviation #avgeek
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 15/07/2026
If i'm missing anything, please let me know and I will add it to the map.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 14/07/2026
For all of the Ontario Pilots out there. I've created a @foreflight.bsky.social content pack of all of the practice/training areas for the flight Schools. Check out: fly.blakecrosby.com/2026/07/onta... Stay safe out there! #flying #aviation #avgeek
fly.blakecrosby.com
Ontario Flight School Practice Areas
A flying buddy of mine asked if there was a way to display all of the practice areas that are used by the local flight schools. I created this ForeFlight Content pack for you to upload to your iPad.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 29/06/2026
🔥 With wildfire season upon us. I've put together an interactive map using my Visibility Risk Matrix. Check out fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/06/smok... #flying #aviation #avgeek
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 27/06/2026
After crunching all the numbers, my summary of the data is live. If you are curious about how pilots flew the circuit at uncontrolled airports in 2025, read my latest blog post. fly.blakecrosby.com/2026/06/pilo... #flying #aviation #avgeek
fly.blakecrosby.com
Pilots Love Arguing About Circuit Entries. So I Looked at the Data.
At uncontrolled airports, everyone has an opinion about the “right” way to join the circuit. Some pilots love the overhead join, yet others treat straight-ins like a war crime. Adding fuel to the fire...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 25/06/2026
Before I officially publish my findings, I need a second set of eyes to help me validate the data. If you have time, can you take a look at my new Uncontrolled Airport Circuit Study data and let me know if anything weird pops out at you. #flying #aviation #avgeek fly.blakecrosby.com/mid-field/
fly.blakecrosby.com
Mid-Field — how Canadian GA pilots join the circuit
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 25/06/2026
Oh also, this just shows which direction you do your "turn back to the field" when descending to circuit altitude on the dead side. It really is just personal preference if you turn left or turn right. There is no rule specifying how.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 25/06/2026
I'm trying to find documentation on this. All I was able to find was the noise abatement procedure. flyefc.ca/wp-content/u...
flyefc.ca
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 23/06/2026
Sooo.. which airports are the worst offenders to CAR 602.96? Using a LH circuit when you should be using a RH one? 30% of traffic to CYXL are doing wrong-hand circuits on 34. However, these tracks avoid the city and this is an MF airport, so does that make it ok? #flying #avgeek #aviation
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 23/06/2026
It's what were taught to do. Gives you the opportunity to check the conditions of the airport before committing to landing. Also makes sense at ATF airports where no airport advisory from ground crew is available.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 22/06/2026
Analyzed 13,023 GA landings at Canadian uncontrolled airports using ADS-B data. As expected, ATF airports (typically less busy airports) are dominated by overhead joins at 61%. But flip to MF airports and straight-in approaches dominate at 57%. The system is working! #avgeek #flying #aviation.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 22/06/2026
Analyzed 321 overhead join teardrops at 🇨🇦 uncontrolled airports using ADS-B data. Surprising result: there's no national consensus on which way to turn on the dead side it's (55% left, 45% right) for standard LH circuits. But individual airports show striking consistency. 🛩️ #avgeek #aviation
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 17/06/2026
🇨🇦 Pilots. I'm doing a study on uncontrolled airports and the most popular circuit entry type pilots use. If you would like your uncontrolled airport included, please let me know! I will be publishing the results. #flying #aviation #avgeek
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 16/06/2026
This is probably the best history of the phonetic alphabet that I've come across. Super interesting. #flying #aviation #avgeek www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAT-...
youtube.com
The genius logic of the NATO phonetic alphabet
YouTube video by RobWords
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 02/05/2026
After months of testing. I'm ready to open up beforeyoufly.ca to the public. A simple free service that allows you to subscribe to updates from Nav Canada every time they publish a new Aeronautical Information Circular or AIP Supplement. Filter by FIR and update type. #avgeek #flying #aviation
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 28/04/2026
Can Trigger NOTAMs help fix NOTAM overload? NAV CANADA’s new 14-day Trigger NOTAM approach isn’t just administrative housekeeping, it’s an attempt to improve how critical flight information is surfaced. Read all about it in my latest post. #flying #aviation #avgeek
fly.blakecrosby.com
How Nav Canada Is Making NOTAMS Better
In November 2023, Nav Canada introduced the “Trigger NOTAM”. So called trigger because they don’t contain detailed information to the pilot in the NOTAM it self. But “triggers” you to look up the…
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 30/03/2026
Over the past few weeks I’ve shared my thoughts on advocacy, engagement, and the future of the GA community in Canada. This final piece focuses on preparing COPA for what’s ahead. With voting now open, I’d be honoured to have your support. #flying #aviation #avgeek #generalaviation #canada
fly.blakecrosby.com
Preparing for Sustainability & Long-Term Relevance
General aviation is entering a period of real change. To stay relevant, COPA needs to become more data-informed and forward-looking in how it operates.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 24/03/2026
Canadian Airports where MLAT for surface detection is enabled at YYZ, YYC, YUL, YVR. Which *requires* all vehicles to have an operating transponder.. It is based on ICAO's A-SMGCS system. I've put together a list of sources here. #flying #aviation #avgeek fly.blakecrosby.com/avops-at-can...
fly.blakecrosby.com
AVOPs At Canadian Airports
AIM RAC 7.2 states: “Multilateration (MLAT) increases air traffic service (ATS) situational awareness of aircraft and vehicles on the ground allowing them to safely manage ground movements…
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 24/03/2026
Following up on my blog post last June (fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/06/smok...). I'm developing a tool to better visualize forest fire smoke induced visibility for VFR pilots. A tool to get "real world" visibility values due to how particulate matter and humidity reduces vertical and slant visibility.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 19/03/2026
Running for the COPA Board means listening, not just talking. I’m hosting a live Q&A today. Ask me anything, challenge ideas, or just come see what I’m about. Let’s talk about where COPA goes next. 🗓️ March 19: 7PM ET. ✅ RSVP: fly.blakecrosby.com/copa2026 #flying #aviation #avgeek
fly.blakecrosby.com
Building a Stronger COPA Together
Blake Crosby is a nominee for the COPA Board of Directors and shares his priorities for strengthening membership, advocacy, and long-term sustainability.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 16/03/2026
Aviation organizations worldwide are struggling to attract younger pilots COPA included. If we want the next generation to see value in COPA, we need to meet them earlier in their journey. Here’s how I plan to help make that happen. #avgeek #flying #aviation #copa
fly.blakecrosby.com
Welcoming & Reflecting the Next Generation
COPA already plays an important role in supporting the next generation of pilots through its scholarship programs and outreach efforts. Continuing and strengthening that presence is essential.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 11/03/2026
The future of Canadian aviation won’t be shaped only in boardrooms or policy meetings. It will also be shaped around breakfast tables, fly-ins, and BBQs at local airports. What I've learned over the past few weeks speaking to COPA Flights. #flying #aviation #grassroots #copa #avgeek
fly.blakecrosby.com
The Two Cultures of Aviation Community
Over the past few weeks I’ve been reaching out to COPA Flights across Southern Ontario. My goal has been simple: listen to what local chapters are seeing on the ground.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 06/03/2026
If my vision for strengthening COPA’s community through mentorship, better member feedback, and modern communication resonates with you, I invite you to read my latest post on advancing member engagement and supporting the next generation of Canadian aviators. #flying #generalaviation #copa #avgeek
fly.blakecrosby.com
Advancing Modern Member Engagement
My Priorities for COPA’s Future Aviation has always been built on community. Pilots share knowledge, help each other learn, and pass experience from one generation to the next.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 26/02/2026
If my vision for stronger, smarter advocacy at COPA resonates with you, I ask for your support in the upcoming election. #flying #aviation #avgeek #copa @copanational.bsky.social fly.blakecrosby.com/2026/02/stro...
fly.blakecrosby.com
Stronger, Smarter Advocacy
My Priorities for COPA’s Future Effective advocacy isn’t about volume. It’s about credibility, preparation, and sustained engagement. For COPA to remain influential, we must strengthen communication…
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 21/02/2026
As a candidate for the COPA Board of Directors, I’d like to share my philosophy on leadership. I’ve written a short piece on why governance clarity matters and why it’s foundational to COPA’s future. #flying #aviation #avgeek #copa
fly.blakecrosby.com
Strong Boards Build Strong Organizations
Good governance isn’t sexy or flashy and it doesn’t make headlines. When it’s working well, most members never think about it. But when governance becomes unclear, when roles blur, oversight weakens, ...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 16/02/2026
I'm proud to announce that I am running for a position on the Board of Directors for COPA. For more information on why you should vote for me, please see my campaign platform. fly.blakecrosby.com/2026/02/stre... @copanational.bsky.social #flying #aviation #avgeek #copa
fly.blakecrosby.com
Strengthening COPA for the Future of Canadian Aviation
The Canadian Owners and Pilots Association (COPA) is the national voice for general aviation in Canada. For decades, it has worked to protect airport access, advocate with government, promote safety, ...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 02/02/2026
Canadian Pilots: I've put together a notification system for when new AICs are published by Nav Canada. You can filter by FIR or update type. Notifications straight to your inbox with one-click unsubscribe. beforeyoufly.ca #flying #aviation #avgeek
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 16/01/2026
For all the 🇨🇦 pilots out there. New IFR currency rules coming this summer. (Thanks @peacewind.aero for the heads up) fly.blakecrosby.com/2026/01/new-... #avgeek #flying #aviation
fly.blakecrosby.com
New IFR Currency Rules in May, 2026
When it comes to IFR currency in Canada, all pilots know the "6-6-6" requirement: 6 Approaches 6 Hours of instrument time in 6 months Under the current regulations, instrument-rated pilo...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 26/10/2025
Haha. If only he lived in the city.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 26/10/2025
I'm selling a 50% share of Plane Jane! More info: planejane.ca
planejane.ca
1971 PA32-300 For Sale
This is your chance to own a 50% share in C-FQYH. A 1971 Piper Cherokee Six.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 15/09/2025
100% an entire you perspective.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 06/09/2025
Smoke On! Break off! Last Weekends photoshoot. #flying #aviation #avgeek #cytz
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 04/09/2025
Few select photos from our photoship mission. #avgeek #flying #aviation
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 06/06/2025
Planning a VFR flight in smoky conditions? Check out my visibility risk matrix. 0: most likely VMC. 3: Most likely IMC. Read More: fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/06/smok... #flying #aviation #avgeek
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 04/06/2025
Frustrated with trying to predict visibility in smoke. I've created a "Visibility Risk Matrix" to help plan VFR flights during forest fire season. Learn how aerosols and humidity can affect in flight visibility in my latest blog post. #aviation #flying #avgeek fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/06/smok...
fly.blakecrosby.com
Smoked Out: When Wildfire Haze Turns VMC into IMC
Wildfire season in Canada typically runs from May to September. Over the past 20 years of flying, it’s become clear to me that wildfire seasons in Canada have grown not just longer—but more intense. I...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 02/06/2025
It seems like VORs and NDBs are still alive and well. Top countries searching for Airway vs. Air Route
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 02/06/2025
Top Google Searches that make it to my blog: 1. C172 PAX Briefing Card 2. LVP a precision or non precision approach 3. How to transit through YYZ airspace 4. IFR Flying In Canada 5. VOR Time Check 6. How to fly at an uncontrolled airport 7. Airway vs. Air Route fly.blakecrosby.com #avgeek #aviation
fly.blakecrosby.com
✈ Fly With Blake
Follow along with a Canadian Pilot
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 29/05/2025
The importance of strapping in your pets while flying. These two doggos survived a forced landing and crash in Quebec, Canada. www.bst.gc.ca/eng/rapports... #flying #aviation #avgeek
bst.gc.ca
Air transportation safety investigation report A24Q0053 - Transportation Safety Board of Canada
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 08/05/2025
Have you ever filed a composite flight plan? Read my latest blog post to know when and how to take advantage of this rarely used tool. fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/05/comp... #flying #aviation #avgeek #flightplanning #generalaviation
fly.blakecrosby.com
Composite Flight Plans Demystified: Combining IFR and VFR Flying
What is a Composite Flight Plan? The composite flight plan is a unique type of flight plan that you can file with ATC that combines both VFR and IFR segments. They are designated by either a "Y" (f...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 21/04/2025
Imagine me, wanting to be a pilot *and* having formal training in aviation, trying to learn how that worked ;) It sucked for everyone.
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 17/04/2025
Now that NavCanada has turned off the majority of VORs and NDBs in the country, what is it doing next? #avgeek #flying #aviation fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/04/deat...
fly.blakecrosby.com
Death to the VOR! Long Live the VOR!
Countries around the world are slowly deprecating old radio navigation aids in favour of using GPS for navigation. These old navigation aids include VORs and NDBs. However, GPS specifically is prone to spoofing and jamming. Resulting in aircraft unable to navigate properly. Since 2020, NavCana
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 06/04/2025
I've updated my "Flying in Toronto" how-to article for 2025. #flying #aviation #avgeek fly.blakecrosby.com/2024/06/how-...
fly.blakecrosby.com
How To: VFR Transit Through Toronto (YYZ) Airspace (Update 2024/2025)
Editor's Note: This article was originally published in August 2023. A lot has changed with Toronto's airspace since then and this post has been updated accordingly with those changes and corrections ...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 31/03/2025
473 hours total time so far. Looking forward to breaking 500 this year. #flying #aviation #avgeek
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 28/03/2025
For all you cartography and navigation nerds out there. NavCanada is deprecating the WGS83 coordinate system in favour for the ICAO standard: WGS-84. #flying #aviation #avgeek #cartography #navigation fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/03/nad8...
fly.blakecrosby.com
NAD83 versus WGS84, Understanding NavCanada's AIC 005/2025
Here is AIC 005/2025 for reference. When trying to chart a three dimensional sphere (the earth) on a two dimensional piece of paper. You need two things: A map projection to use (Mercator, Azi...
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 28/02/2025
A quick montage of flying from KHII to KSUX. #avgeek #flying #aviation
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 14/02/2025
For this year's Valentine's day. I present to you the time the previous owner of my plane provided "mile high club" rides in Plane Jane at burning man. #avgeek #flying #aviation #burningman #Valentines
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 29/01/2025
If the ECMWF model forecast holds up, looks like I'll be making my way westbound to KHII on the 7th. With a day break on Sunday to watch the Superbowl in Phoenix. Bless this high pressure sitting over Texas. #avgeek #flying #aviation
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Blake Crosby @fly.blakecrosby.com · 22/01/2025
New Blog Post! #avgeek #aviation #flying fly.blakecrosby.com/2025/01/roge...
fly.blakecrosby.com
"Roger!" The History of Common Radio Phraseology
Humans have been using radios to communicate for over 130 years now. Ever since Guglielmo Marconi's invention of the radio telegraph in 1894. From his humble beginnings designing his new radio in the ...
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