BOIS DE LA PIERRE 98 (Cont'd 2)

To our knowledge, the Autogyro Patrol is the only one of its kind in Europe, and participates since years in various fly-ins and shows upon request of the organization.

Usually featuring 4 homebuilt single-seat gyros fitted with some extra gear (for instance to drop the flags), it presents a nice show with well trained changes in flight configurations, and is used to demonstrate and promote gyros.

All the Patrol pilots are amateurs, therefore organizers that wishes to have them on show have to cover the travel expenses, but this is a very nice show at an affordable price. Think about it for your next fly-in, the public really loves them.

This year, the flew under the attentive eyes of Dominique Méreuze (left), the FFPLUM president (French Federation), who did not hesitate - as well as his wife - to make a test flight with Xavier Averso (right): the best way to see that a gyro is a perfect secure aircraft in the hands of a correctly trained pilot. Should you wish to have the Patrol for your next fly-in, contact Xavier Averso at +33 5 61 48 83 91, or fax +33 5 61 48 46 55.

During the day, a group flight of more than 20 gyros was organized, allowing participants to visit nearby landings and to overfly this beautiful region. South of France is truely the place for gyros. The Bois de la Pierre Gyro Club has twenty based aircrafts, with around another fifty scattered in this region.

Well, when evening comes onto the Bois de la Pierre, there is no lack of warmth and varied events, among which a tombola allowing to go back with a lot of souvenirs.

Below left, our collegue Philippe Tisserant (from Vol Moteur) looks at Jean-Marie, the club's president, who somewhat refreshes his Patrol's friends Xavier Averso and Pierre Céna - the later being as well the Bois de la Pierre's mayor.

Believe us, ambiance is very, very friendly. Don't miss Saturday's pilots' nigth (fever !). We have to give a special award to the local caterer, who, during the wole week-end, provided varied meals at affordable prices. This is so scarce that you should note it.

Out of our first visit in the Bois de la Pierre, we will remember the the very warm welcome and excellent organizations. We only wish that our Italian and Spanish friends will join in 1999. We will definitely be there. Will you ?

Copyright ã ULM Europe 1997, 1998, all rights reserved worldwide