FOG Lunch: Willows
2022-03-06 12:00 - 14:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | San Carlos Flight Center, Select a Country:
Want delicious food and some cross-country time? Join FOG on March 6 as we head north to Willows (WLW), where we’ll break for lunch at Nancy’s Airport Cafe.
Willows can be found on the northwest side of the Central Valley and is located between Nut Tree and Redding. Flying in the Springtime will hopefully present a green and colorful landscape, as many of the surrounding hills will be various shades of green from the winter rains. On a clear day, you may even be able to get a glimpse of the towering Mt. Shasta and Mt. Lassen on the descent!
Nancy’s Airport Cafe is a small airport diner, but is known for its all-day breakfast, American fare, and best of all, their pies! Make sure to grab a slice before heading home, as they’re known for keeping pilots coming back for more. To access the restaurant, please park on the ramp alongside the hangers and self-serve fuel depot, and walk through the gate.
As always, if you’re interested in attending, please let us know by signing up below.

Full Moon Flyers: Monterey
2022-03-18 19:00 - 21:00
Nothing beats flying on a Friday afternoon after the workweek, and with the full-moon happening on March 18th, come with FOG to Monterey (MRY) for a dinner at Woody’s at the Airport! Enjoy dinner in the venue that overlooks the airline ramp, allowing you to view take-offs and landings with your meal.
The flight down is an easy one from the Bay Area, and an excellent choice to take passengers on a short flight if they have never been on a general aviation plane before. With views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Silicon Valley, and Monterey Bay, the flight down is one they won’t forget. Instrument pilots or students can practice their skills with a variety of approaches into the airport, as well. Afterward, you can refresh your night currency at Monterey or any of the other local airports on the way back to the Bay Area.
After landing, park at Del Monte Aviation, as Monterey does not have any transient parking near the terminal. From there, it’s a short walk to the terminal. Woody’s is located upstairs from the entrance, before the TSA checkpoints. Please plan to be at the restaurant around 7 PM.
Like other FOG events, RSVP below, and please indicate if you are able to take passengers, so we can allow student pilots and other aviation community members to participate. We’re looking forward to the event, and hope you are, too!

Airport of the Month: Camarillo
2022-04-01 - 2022-04-30
Exactly 250 NM from San Carlos is Camarillo Airport, one of the first airports you’ll find as you enter the busy Los Angeles airspace. This is a large airport with a lot of services, a great restaurant, and a stunning view on approach.
Camarillo is located just southeast of Santa Barbara and to the east of nearby Oxnard Airport. Pilots landing at Camarillo should ensure that they are heading to Camarillo, as both Oxnard and Camarillo can be interchangeable from the air. Both feature a singular long runway and numerous hangers, so double-check your position and heading on your GPS or chart before entering their airspace.
Camarillo has multiple FBOs, so park at the one that offers the services you desire. The on-field restaurant, Waypoint Cafe, is located next to the Avex FBO ramp. Waypoint Cafe has won awards and accolades among the nation’s airport cafes, so expect to wait a bit for a table if you don’t arrive early. Almost all the options are recommended, but the breakfast items and milkshakes are particular hits.
When arriving at Camarillo, enjoy the views of the nearby mountains, fertile farmlands, and the ocean in the distance, but be aware of the coastal marine layer that may persist in the early mornings. The airport does have multiple approaches, and there are plenty of nearby alternate airports in the vicinity.
This is a great airport to stretch your flying skills on a longer cross-country and is a common destination for those working on their long commercial cross-country flight. While the flight may be long, the Waypoint Cafe is a treat to go to and is well worth the trip.

FOG Lunch: Half Moon Bay
2022-04-03 12:00 - 14:00
On April 3, make the quick hop over the Santa Cruz Mountains to Half Moon Bay for lunch, where FOG will try the long-awaited and much-acclaimed new restaurant, Pilot Light!
The flight is quick from points around the Bay Area but is much faster and less stressful than navigating the traffic on Highway 92. This is a perfect flight to take friends and family on, as it affords stunning views of the local coastline, beaches, and mountains in such a short flight.
After landing, taxi to the ramp on the northeast side of the airport. Secure your aircraft and we’ll walk through the gate to meet at Pilot Light at 12 PM. The restaurant is run by the same team behind the famed All Spice restaurant in San Mateo, and revel in serving up unique brunch offerings. The restaurant has received a lot of positive praise in the few weeks after opening, with diners noting the fun twists and fresh ingredients on classic dishes. (Learn more about the restaurant in this article).
While April is often a good time to visit Half Moon Bay, low fog and clouds may prevent VFR traffic from participating. If this is the case, we will alter our destination to Santa Rosa. The FOG coordinator will advise those who registered if a change is needed.
Please RSVP below so we can inform the restaurant of our headcount. We hope to see you in Half Moon Bay on April 3!

Full Moon Flyers: Ukiah
2022-04-16 19:00 - 21:00
Notice: The restaurant has informed us that they are closed this evening for an unforeseen event. We will reschedule the event at a later date, and are sorry for the inconvenience.
Take a scenic flight up north with FOG to try out a new destination and restaurant! El Molcajete is a Mexican restaurant right across the street from Ukiah Airport’s transient parking. On April 16, let’s fly out to Ukiah (UKI) and meet at the restaurant for dinner.
Plan to meet at El Molcajete at 7:00 PM. El Molcajete is a local favorite, and has a lot of praise as one of the best Mexican eateries in the area. The enchiladas and burritos are popular items but be aware that the portions are often large, so plan on taking some leftovers on the return trip!
Ukiah Airport is a non-towered airport with a long runway about an hour’s flight north from San Francisco. We’ll park at transient parking, where you can also find a fuel pump with self-serve 100LL. To get to Ukiah, you can follow Highway 101 from Marin, or take a slightly longer but scenic route along the coastline, and then go direct to the nearby Mendocino VOR. For instrument pilots and students, the airport also has three different types of approaches that you can use.
Like other FOG events, please RSVP below so we can get a proper headcount, and we hope to see you at the event!

Airport of the Month: Columbia
2022-05-01 - 2022-05-31
This month’s airport is a classic – Columbia Airport in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The airport is known for being within walking distance of the downtown area of Columbia, which features Gold Rush-era buildings and Wild West amenities.
The airport has two runways – one paved and one grass. There is fuel and an FBO, which does have access to Rental Cars. Many pilots enjoy using the cars to get into the mountains, allowing easy access to the numerous trails and scenic overlooks only a short drive away. Another fun option is to camp at the airport, which you can do on the north side of the field!
The downtown historical area is a 20-minute walk from transient parking. If you’re flying in the summertime, please make sure to bring water, as the area can be warm. Numerous restaurants are in the area, as well as places with cool drinks and ice cream to help cool off. Outside of the passing cars, the area looks very similar to how it was 150 years ago. Make sure to spend some time wandering around, and imagining what life would be like in the 1800s.
One other thing to keep in mind is density altitude. Pilots should always calculate their performance numbers for landing and takeoff, as the area is known to have wide fluctuations in density altitude.
If you visit Columbia, this month, please send us pictures of your adventures to fog@sancarlosflight.com!

FOG Lunch: Auburn
2022-05-01 12:00 - 14:00
Located at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Auburn Airport (AUN) displays a change of scenery from its Central Valley counterparts, with rolling hills and beautiful pine trees lining the field. Take advantage of the warming temperatures this May to visit this airport and sample the delicious cafe serving both breakfast and lunch during the outdoor dining season. Wings Grill and Espresso Bar is located right next to transient parking on the south side of the ramp and serves pilots both breakfast and lunch. On Sunday, May 1, let’s meet up for lunch at Auburn at 12 PM.
While not considered a mountain airport, pilots should watch the temperatures when operating at Auburn to ensure the density altitude does not affect your flight. If it is warm enough, density altitude can climb a few thousand feet above field elevation, so make sure to double-check your performance numbers on takeoff and landing.
As always, please RSVP below, and indicate if you can take passengers, so student and prospective pilots can participate, as well. We hope to see you in Auburn on May 1!

Full Moon Flyers: Hollister
2022-05-16 19:00 - 21:00
Need to practice night flying, or just want to gain more experience at night? Come join us for dinner at Seabrisa’s Eatery in Hollister (CVH) on May 16th at 7 PM.
On the way down, soak in the gorgeous sunset over the coastal mountains before descending into Hollister Airport. Make sure to remain clear of the San Jose final approach course, and consider talking to NorCal Approach to have an extra set of eyes looking out for you. Park in transient parking, and then at 7 PM, walk across the street to the local airport restaurant – Seabrisa’s Eatery! A local favorite for many pilots in the area, they’re known for their unique flavors and vegetables grown from many of the local farms.
After dinner, Hollister is a great place to work on night landings or fly to San Jose (SJC) to complete your night requirements there. With big runways, it’s easy to make the landings to a stop-and-go, and you’ll enjoy the challenge of flying alongside jet traffic.
Everyone is welcome to join us, so please RSVP below and we’ll see you at the event.

Airport of the Month: Oceano
2022-06-01 - 2022-06-30
Summer has arrived, so what better way to kick off the season than with a trip to the beach? This June, head down south to Oceano Airport (L52), where a seaside airport awaits you on a sunny day.
Located south of San Luis Obispo, Oceano is famous for its miles of sand dunes and beachfront access. The dunes are a common attraction for thrill-seekers who attempt to take beach buggies up and down the sandy slopes, and there are even rides available if you want to try them for yourself. Other highlights include the numerous restaurants a five-minute walk from the airport or grab a ride-share into the nearby town of Pismo Beach for more options. The restaurants that specialize in crab dishes are particularly noteworthy. You can even get it to go if you’d like to take it to the beach for a picnic!
Oceano Airport is small with only a 2300-foot runway, but it does have self-serve fuel and a small terminal building. You may also utilize the camping spots next to transient parking if you want to stay overnight.
The arrival and departure from this airport are incredibly scenic, but ensure that you remain clear of San Luis Obispo’s airspace and the restricted areas to the south unless you have permission from ATC to enter. Passengers are encouraged to have their cameras ready, as the views are spectacular.
Want to learn more about flying to Oceano? You can view a Safety Seminar on flying to Oceano in our Seminar Video Archive. Just search “Oceano” in the search field to view it!

FOG Lunch: Red Bluff
2022-06-05 12:00 - 14:00
This June, let’s go up north and try a new airport restaurant – Breezy’s Wings and Wheels in Red Bluff (RBL)! Located at the airport, enjoy comfort food and breakfast items with a view of the ramp and runway.
The flight up to Red Bluff is simple – once clear of the busy SF/Oakland airspace, follow I-5 up north until reaching the Red Bluff Airport. On clear days, you may be able to see Lassen Peak to the east, the Coast Range to the west, and possibly Mt. Shasta up north. The terrain nearby is flat, making this area a great place to practice ground reference maneuvers, especially if you’re a private or commercial pilot student.
After parking, plan to meet at the restaurant at noon. The restaurant has excellent reviews and is a favorite of Red Bluff residents. People recommend the sandwiches, and say the price is reasonable, especially as you may have leftovers to eat on your way home.
Interested in going? Sign up below if you’re planning on flying up, or feel free to reach out to pilots with open spots to tag along. Hope to see you there!

Full Moon Flyers: Livermore
2022-06-14 19:00 - 21:00
Summer is here, so let’s celebrate with a quick flight over to Livermore for dinner!
Beebs is located on the west side of the airport across from transient parking. After parking in transient, walk the short distance to the Golf Course clubhouse, where the restaurant will be. Please plan to be seated by 7:00 PM. With a variety of food and options, there are plenty of choices for everyone.
Feel free to arrive earlier to visit the driving range or play a few holes of golf before dinner, too! The golf course has gear to rent, or you can bring your own.
Since it’s a short flight, consider taking your passengers on a sunset Bay Tour before dinner. The views during the cooler summer evenings will be spectacular, and nothing beats the gorgeous sunsets. After dinner, you can refresh your night landings at many of the nearby airports, such as Livermore, Hayward, or Oakland on your way home.
Like other FOG events, RSVP below, and please indicate if you are able to take passengers, so we can allow student pilots and other aviation community members to participate. Hope to see you there!

Airport of the Month: Rio Vista
2022-07-01 - 2022-07-31
This month’s airport is a great airport to visit for a flight training student – Rio Vista (O88)! While it may look like a normal airport, this small field has a lot of things that make it a great way to add some sizzle to your training.
Located in the Sacramento River Delta, Rio Vista is an untowered airport with two crossing runways. There is self-serve fuel available, and a small FBO on the field with a pilot lounge. The area is noteworthy for the breeze that picks up, making landings very tricky.
Are you a private pilot student? Grab a CFI and hone your crosswind landing technique on the runway with the most crosswind. You’ll be surprised at how much better you get once you practice a few laps in the pattern. Don’t forget your short field landings, either. With one runway only 2,200’ long, you’ll be great at nailing your precision landings for your checkride.
Commercial students will benefit from the same features, but also will like the flat river area for ground reference maneuvers like Eights on Pylons. Lots of small bridges, floats, and structures abound in the Delta region, making it easy to practice all types of ground reference maneuvers!
Instrument students and pilots also have a GPS approach to use, as well. The circling minimums are fairly low, and with the two runways, pilots appreciate the challenge of perfecting their circling approaches to the airport after reaching minimums. In summer, it’s rarely foggy, making this a great airport to practice at with a CFII or safety pilot.
If you head up to Rio Vista this month, let us know what you worked on and how it went at flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com. We look forward to hearing about your adventures.

FOG Lunch: San Luis Obispo
2022-07-02 12:00 - 14:00
This July, venture down the Salinas Valley to San Luis Obispo (SBP) and enjoy brunch at the Spirit of San Luis Restaurant. Known for their California-fare, their omelets, scrambles, and hamburgers sample local ingredients and are served alongside an excellent outdoor view of the airport ramp and runways.
On the flight down, travel down via Monterey Bay, the Salinas Valley, and then descend over the rolling hills south of the Paso Robles VOR. San Luis Obispo Airport also has a variety of instrument approach procedures, including an ILS, RNAV, and VOR approach. This is a great opportunity to fly down earlier in the morning and log a few approaches for currency or practice with a safety pilot or CFII, and then treat yourself to some great food afterward. On the return flight home, treat your passengers to a flight up the Central California Coast if you’d like, with gorgeous views of Big Sur, the coastline, Bixby Bridge, and more.
Please plan to arrive at the short-term transient parking a few minutes before noon, which is located on the northwest side of the control tower. Leave the ramp, and the restaurant is a two-minute walk to the north.
As always, please make sure to RSVP and book your plane early! We look forward to seeing you at the Spirit of San Luis!

5-Day Colorado Mountain Training Trip
2022-07-06 - 2022-07-10
Each year an armada of 182s departs the Bay Area bound for a fun and amazing mountain flying adventure! This year we head back to Colorado for some awesome Rocky Mountain flying. We will take the southern route through Arizona, landing at the KSEZ for an overnight stay in Sedona. Day two we journey into the heart of the Rockies for a two-night stay in Eagle, Colorado, our home base for mountain flying. Eagle is situated among the best mountain passes and 40 NM Northwest of the famous Leadville Airport, North America’s highest airport at 9927′. Day Four we overfly the Grand Canyon en route to Las Vegas. The trip is a great opportunity to master advanced avionics, get an airplane-specific checkout and earn your high-performance endorsement. Each plane will have 1 CFI and 2 pilots on board. With two pilots per CFI and aircraft, the daily rate is halved between you and whomever you fly with to get mountain flying experience.
It promises to be an unforgettable flying adventure with plenty of room for ground-based fun as well.

The trip is billed by SCFC at aircraft Hobbs time and instructor daily rate. The costs below is per person and assumes 2 people sharing airplane and CFI costs.
CFI: 2.5 daily rates @ $665/day = $1657.50
Airplane: 12 Hobbs hours @ $245/hr = $2940
Lodging: 4 nights @ $165/night = $660
Rental car: 2 nights @ $150/night = $300
Estimated total cost: $5,563 (excludes food, incidentals, ride-share at destinations without rental cars, etc.)
Contact the SCFC Chief Pilot team (chiefpilot@sancarlosflight.com) to express interest in and sign up for the trip.

Full Moon Flyers: Santa Rosa with Upwind
2022-07-13 19:00 - 21:00
Update 7/8: The event is currently full! If you’d like to participate and have not currently signed up, please email flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com to inquire about event availability.
FOG’s biggest event of the year is back!
On the evening of Wednesday, July 13th, join us at Santa Rosa (STS), where we will join forces with the Upwind Summer Scholarship to showcase the fantastic General Aviation community to the high-school students and their families. Park around 6:30 PM at Kaiser Air, then plan to meet up no later than 7:00 PM at Sky Lounge Steakhouse and Sushi Bar inside the passenger terminal. FOG and Upwind will have the outdoor patio to ourselves, allowing for plenty of seating and opportunities to view the sunset. Afterwards, enjoy the twilight flight home, where you can view the San Francisco skyline on the way back, or land at a few airports to reset your night currency.
Upwind students will fly with their instructors, but FOG pilots who are able to will often allow the students’ families to ride along in their aircraft. This is a great way to introduce the families to the aviation community and the incredible people behind it.
This is FOG’s most popular event. Last year, we set the record for the largest FOG event ever. Can we top it this time?
Due to the popularity of this event and the coordination of rides, please make sure to RSVP and book your plane early! Also, when you register, please let us know where you are departing from and if you are able to accept passengers. For those that are willing to take parents and family members, FOG and Upwind will be in contact with you to coordinate the logistics.
Please RSVP below by July 7 so that we can inform the restaurant and FBO of the headcount.
This promises to be a great event, and we look forward to a fun evening in Santa Rosa!
FOG is open to all pilots, even pilots not affiliated with the Flight Center. However, you must create a free account to register for FOG events, which you can do here. If you have any questions, please contact flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com for assistance.

Full Moon Flyers: Harris Ranch
2022-08-11 19:00 - 21:00
A longtime favorite of pilots in California, Harris Ranch (3O8) is known for its award-winning steak and hamburgers. Located just outside Coalinga, the ranch features a hotel and multiple restaurants, as well as an excellent lighted runway for pilots to fly in. On Thursday, August 11, let’s fly down to the Ranch to have dinner at their signature restaurant.
The flight down is varied as it takes you from the urban sprawl of the Bay Area, across the Diablo Range, and then an easy flight following the I-5 corridor. You’ll get a view of the ranch from the air before descending for the thin runway that sits just to the south of the restaurant. Upon landing, we’ll walk to the restaurant together at 7 PM, where we will enjoy a variety of freshly cut steaks and other dining options. Harris Ranch is regarded as one of the best restaurants for pilots to fly into in Northern California. The food truly is excellent.
After dinner, depart for a moonlit flight back to the Bay Area. The route is easy, as you will follow the I-5 interstate until reaching Tracy, and then from there, it’s just a quick flight over the Altamont Pass into the Bay Area. If you need to reset your night currency or practice night landings for your next certificate, Los Banos, Tracy, and Byron airports all are excellent places to do so.
Important: As Harris Ranch’s restaurant is very popular, please make sure you RSVP no later than Monday, August 8th. This will ensure we can accommodate seating for everyone.
Like other FOG events, please RSVP below, and indicate if you are able to take passengers, so we can allow student pilots and other aviation community members to participate.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Update August 9: This event is currently full! If you’d like to sign up, please contact flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com to inquire about any extra space.
FOG is open to all pilots, even pilots not affiliated with the Flight Center. However, you must create a free account to register for FOG events, which you can do here. If you have any questions, please contact flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com for assistance.

FOG Lunch: Watsonville
2022-08-20 12:00 - 14:00
Come join the FlyOutGroup (FOG) on Saturday, August 20th, with a scenic flight to Watsonville (WVI)! An easy location to get to from the Bay Area, enjoy a scenic hop over the Santa Cruz Mountains, and then descend over Monterey Bay. Park in Transient Parking, and we’ll all meet at Zameen’s at the Hanger for lunch.
Zameen’s is located across the street from the aircraft terminal. A new restaurant for FOG, this Mediterranean establishment is known for its gyro wraps and salad bowls. You can place your order inside, and the group will most likely be seated in the patio area. Zameen’s has received a lot of positive feedback, so bring your appetite and beat the summer heat with a refreshing lunch!
We’re excited about the event, and look forward to seeing you in Watsonville! Please RSVP below.
FOG is open to all pilots, even pilots not affiliated with the Flight Center. However, you must create a free account to register for FOG events, which you can do here. If you have any questions, please contact flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com for assistance.

Full Moon Flyers: Nut Tree
2022-09-10 19:00 - 21:00
A unique destination, Nut Tree Airport (VCB) in Vacaville is located right next to a major shopping and dining center. A former amusement park, the Nut Tree area is now home to numerous dining options, making it a great place to travel to and satisfy all kinds of appetites.
On Saturday, September 10th at 7 PM, let’s meet up at the Nut Tree airport and walk to the dining area. The flight is easy, but picking a restaurant is the hard part, with options ranging from BBQ to pizza, ramen to vitamin bowls, and sushi to Mexican food. Once you’ve secured the airplane at transient parking, walk to the south side of the hangars to the west, through the gate, and then follow the pathway to the shopping and dining center.
After your meal, treat yourself to Fenton’s Ice Cream, which is known for its one-of-a-kind creations and flavors, and is a popular place for residents of Solano County. Grab ice cream for the walk back, or enjoy dining on their patio.
The airport is lit at night, and it’s easy to pick up flight following with Travis Approach. Need to work on your night landings? Concord, Napa, and Oakland are within a fifteen-minute flight away.
Like other FOG events, RSVP below, and please indicate if you can take passengers to allow student pilots and other aviation community members to participate. Hope to see you there!

FOG Lunch: Monterey
2022-09-18 12:00 - 14:00
It’s hot in the Bay Area in September. Beat the heat this month and head down to the Monterey Airport to cool off and enjoy great food at Woody’s at the Airport! On September 18th, enjoy lunch on the outdoor patio that overlooks the airline ramp, allowing you to view take-offs and landings with your meal.
The flight down is an easy one from the Bay Area, and an excellent choice to take passengers on a short flight if they have never been on a general aviation plane before. With views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Silicon Valley, and Monterey Bay, the flight down is one they won’t forget. Instrument pilots or students can practice their skills before or after lunch with a variety of approaches into nearby airports like Marina or Salinas.
After landing, park at Del Monte Aviation, as Monterey does not have any transient parking near the restaurant. From there, it’s a short walk to the terminal. Woody’s is located upstairs from the entrance, before the TSA checkpoints. Please plan to be at the restaurant around 12 PM.
Like other FOG events, RSVP below, and please indicate if you are able to take passengers, so we can allow student pilots and other aviation community members to participate. We’re looking forward to the event, and hope you are, too!

Castle Air Museum Open Cockpit Day
2022-10-08
October 8th is a special day at the Castle Air Museum – it’s Open Cockpit Day! Castle Air Museum has a wide variety of historic aircraft, and on two days per year, the museum allows visitors to visit the inside of normally off-limits aircraft! Let’s spend a Saturday viewing the insides of these magnificent aircraft, as well as the exteriors in the museum’s beautiful outdoor setting.
The museum is conveniently located next to Castle Airport, which as a former B-52 Air Force base, boasts one of the longest runways in California. The sole 11,800’ foot runway can be seen miles away and is a great place to practice your flare upon landing. It also boasts numerous instrument approaches should you wish to spend some extra time resetting your instrument currency before or after the museum visit. After landing, park at Gemini Flight Support (offering no ramp fees) and walk fifteen minutes to the museum.
At the museum, see aircraft such as a Boeing B-29 Superfortress, SR-71 Blackbird, and the Convair RB-36H Peacemaker, which is the largest mass-produced piston aircraft. Another highlight is a chance to view the museum’s “Hidden Collection” of special exhibits. In addition to the static displays, the museum will open simulators and other fun activities for people of all ages. The museum also offers a food court for lunch along with food trucks.
The museum opens at 9 AM and closes at 4 PM, so feel free to arrive anytime within that window. The museum is fairly large, so plan to stay at least a few hours. It also is mostly outside, so please bring water and sunscreen. Afterward, grab fuel with the FBO, and enjoy a leisurely flight home.
This is always a popular FOG event, so please RSVP early and let us know if you are able to take passengers, in order to allow student pilots to participate. Looking forward to seeing you at Castle Air Museum this fall!
FOG is open to all pilots, even pilots not affiliated with the Flight Center. However, you must create a free account to register for FOG events, which you can do here. If you have any questions, please contact flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com for assistance.

Full Moon Flyers: Half Moon Bay
2022-10-09 19:00 - 21:00
On October 9th, make the quick hop over the Santa Cruz Mountains to Half Moon Bay for dinner. The flight is quick from points around the Bay Area but is much faster and less stressful than navigating the traffic on Highway 92. This is a perfect flight to take friends and family on, as it affords stunning views of the local coastline, beaches, and mountains in such a short flight.
After landing, taxi to the small ramp on the southeast side of the airport (located southeast of the taxiway that takes you to Runway 30). Secure your aircraft, and we’ll walk through the gate to meet at Mezza Luna at 7 PM, one of the best restaurants in the town. Enjoy an Italian dinner, complete with classic favorites like pasta and freshly-caught seafood.
While October is often a good time to visit Half Moon Bay, low fog and clouds may prevent VFR traffic from participating. If this is the case, we will alter our destination to Livermore. The FOG coordinator will advise those who registered if a change is needed.
Please RSVP below so we can inform the restaurant of our headcount. We hope to see you in Half Moon Bay on October 9!

FOG Edwards AFB: Aerospace Valley Airshow
2022-10-14 - 2022-10-15
Join the FlyOutGroup on October 14-15 for a very special event! For the first time in over a decade, Edwards Air Force Base will be open to the public for the Aerospace Valley Airshow, where participants will be able to get up close with military aircraft on the Flight Line, see a variety of exhibits for all ages, and watch an incredible airshow over the backdrop of the Mojave Desert.
According to the event website, “the world-famous U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flight demonstration team will headline the show and include performances from nearly every aircraft in the current Air Force inventory, various NASA aircraft, and a world-exclusive special ‘Race to Mach 1’ high above the crowd. The event will be anchored by a large STEM Expo, featuring dozens of hands-on activities that encourage the community to think big and create.”
Before the airshow, FOG pilots will be able to fly into Southern California Logistics Airport (VCV) on Friday, October 14th, where we’ll spend the night in a hotel located in nearby Victorville. The next day, we’ll board a bus that will take us to Edwards AFB. Once the show is over, the bus will then drop us off at the airport where you can depart for home that evening.
Itinerary:
Friday, October 14

Fly to Victorville (VCV) – arrive by 6:30 PM
Transfer to your hotel – board charter bus no later than 6:55 PM
Group dinner at the hotel

Saturday, October 15

7:15 am – board bus bound for Edwards Air Force Base
9:00 am – event begins
5:00 pm – event ends, board return bus to Victorville
~6:30 pm – return to Victorville, depart at your leisure

Hotel:
After you register, FOG will reach out to you with instructions on how to book your hotel room for the night of October 14th using our special Group Rate.
Cost:
$150 per person (not per plane) includes bus to and from the base, administrative costs, and trip supplies. Transportation to VCV, Hotel, and meals will not be included. The event fee is non-refundable within two weeks of the event.
To pay the $150 attendee fee, please call the Flight Center at (650) 946-1700 within one week of registering, otherwise your spot may be released to other attendees.
Registration:
This is a very popular event. The event does have a maximum capacity of 50 attendees, so please register and book your plane early. When registering, please ensure your aircraft headcount is accurate.
Questions:
If you have any questions, please contact the FOG Coordinator, Travis, via email at travis@sancarlosflight.com
FOG is open to all pilots, even pilots not affiliated with the Flight Center. However, you must create a free account to register for FOG events, which you can do here. If you have any questions, please contact flyoutgroup@sancarlosflight.com for assistance.

FOG Lunch: Sacramento
2022-10-23 12:00 - 14:00
This month, come along with FOG on a lunch trip to Sacramento Executive Airport (SAC)! Inside the airport’s main terminal building lies Aviator’s Restaurant, a neat aviation-themed cafe serving all-day breakfast and lunch fare. The prices are very reasonable, and the seating allows you to view movement on the airport ramp below.
Sacramento is a great cross-country destination, and this flight is a good opportunity to complete the requirements for the next rating you’re working on. Grab your CFI and gain experience flying into a new airport. Instrument students also can utilize a variety of practice approaches into the airport, with an ILS, RNAV, and VOR approach.
Interested in going? Sign up below so we can get a headcount for food, and we’ll see you in Sacramento at 12:00 PM on October 23!

Full Moon Flyers: Hollister
2022-11-08 19:00 - 21:00
Fall is here, and with the cooler temperatures comes earlier nightfall. Need to practice night flying, or just want to gain more experience at night? Come join us for dinner at Seabrisas Eatery in Hollister (CVH) on November 8th at 7 PM.
On the way down, soak in the gorgeous sunset over the coastal mountains before descending into Hollister Airport. Make sure to remain clear of the San Jose final approach course, and consider talking to NorCal Approach to have an extra set of eyes looking out for you. Park in transient parking, and then walk across the street to the local airport restaurant – Seabrisas! A local favorite for many pilots in the area, they’re known for their unique flavors and vegetables grown from many of the local farms.
After dinner, Hollister is a great place to work on night landings or fly to San Jose (SJC) to complete your night requirements there. With big runways, it’s easy to make the landings to a stop-and-go, and you’ll enjoy the challenge of flying alongside jet traffic.
Everyone is welcome to join us, so please RSVP below and we’ll see you at the event.

FOG Lunch: Stockton
2022-11-20 12:00 - 14:00
For November, join FOG on a fly-out lunch to Stockton! Top Flight Grill is located in the airport terminal building and a quick walk from Transient Parking or the Atlantic Aviation FBO. The restaurant has typical American fare, as well as Mexican-inspired cuisine.
Stockton Airport is a great cross-country destination for students, with ATC services and a long runway. Grab your CFI and gain experience flying into new airports and utilizing FBO services. Pilots can also test their instrument skills with a variety of instrument approaches into the airport, including an ILS and RNAV approach to Runway 29R.
Interested in going? Sign up below so we can get a headcount for food, and we’ll see you in Stockton at 12:00 PM on November 20!

Full Moon Flyers: Willows
2022-12-07 19:00 - 21:00
Want delicious food and some cross-country time? Join FOG on December 7th as we head north to Willows (WLW), where we’ll break for dinner at Nancy’s Airport Cafe.
Willows can be found in the northwest side of the Central Valley, and is located between Nut Tree and Redding. Flying in the winter time will hopefully present a green and colorful landscape, as many of the surrounding hills will be various shades of green from the winter rains. On a clear day, you may even be able to get a glimpse of the towering Mt. Shasta and Mt. Lassen on the descent!
Nancy’s Airport Cafe is a small airport diner, but is known for its all-day breakfast, American fare, and best of all, their pies! Make sure to grab a slice before heading home, as they’re known for keeping pilots coming back for more. To access the restaurant, please park on the ramp alongside the hangers and self-serve fuel depot, and walk through the gate.
As always, if you’re interested in attending, please let us know by signing up below.

FOG Lunch: Concord
2022-12-18 12:00 - 14:00
This month, let’s explore our own backyard and head over to the nearby Concord Buchanan Field (CCR) for lunch. Across the street lies The Habit, a great burger restaurant with some unique spins on classic lunch options.
This is an excellent flight if you are a student pilot doing training and want a simple flight to break for lunch with your instructor. Similarly, if you are planning on taking passengers on this trip, don’t pass up on the opportunity to fly a Bay Tour before or after lunch. The cool December days often have excellent visibility, and many pilots report being able to get a great vista of the entire Bay with the lush green hills in the background.
For parking at Concord, please park in the transient parking ramp located just south of Runway 1R. (Don’t be afraid to ask for “Progressive Taxi” while navigating the taxiways, as Concord Airport is a complex airport). Then, walk through the gate and across the way to the restaurant around 12 PM.
As always, please make sure to RSVP, and we look forward to seeing you at Concord!

Full Moon Flyers: Watsonville
2023-01-06 19:00 - 21:00
Come join the FlyOutGroup (FOG) on Friday, January 6th, with a scenic flight to Watsonville (WVI)! An easy location to get to from the Bay Area, enjoy a quick hop over the Santa Cruz Mountains, and then descend over Monterey Bay. Park in Transient Parking, and we’ll all meet at the Beer Mule for dinner.
The Beer Mule is located across the street from the aircraft terminal. This brewery serves forty craft beers for those not acting as PIC, and many food options sourced from the surrounding farms. Bites like Buffalo Style Fries and the Hot or Not Chicken Sando are some of their unique offerings.
After dinner, feel free to play a round of cornhole or ping-pong with your fellow pilots, and don’t miss the chance to pick up a few cans of craft beer to take home. Ask the Beer Mule staff which ones they recommend.
We’re excited for the event, and look forward to seeing you in Watsonville! As it’s a Friday evening, please RSVP below so we can give the restaurant a heads-up of our headcount.
Note: Beer Mule has plenty of patio seating outside, so please remember to bring a jacket to keep warm.

FOG Lunch: Lampson
2023-01-15 12:00 - 13:30
Located in the North Bay, Clear Lake is one of the biggest lakes in the area, although it is often hidden by the mountains between Santa Rosa and the Central Valley. The local airport in the area, Lampson Field (1O2), has an airport diner on the field, so what better way to spend a Sunday than by grabbing lunch at the restaurant.
On January 15th at noon, enjoy lunch or dinner with fresh, local ingredients from Red’s at the Skyroom. This restaurant features West Coast-fare with a variety of entrees and drinks for you and your passengers. With patio seating, this is a great place to replenish after a training flight or as a break on a long cross-country trip to the north. After your meal, venture around the ramp area to see a collection of vintage aircraft from a variety of eras.
A few FOG pilots sampled the food before. Here is what FOG Pilots Heidi and Bob had to say:
“Red’s was fabulous food. They open at 10:00 a.m. and have a few breakfast items even though there are none on the menu. I recommend the crab cake eggs benedict (see picture). There is indoor air-conditioned seating and lots of shaded outdoor seating. I highly recommend it as a great nearby-to-the-Bay-Area destination.”
The airport also has an RNAV approach if you want to practice your instrument skills, and features 100LL fuel at a self-serve pump. Like other FOG events, RSVP below, and please indicate if you are able to take passengers, so we can allow student pilots and other aviation community members to participate. We’re looking forward to the event, and hope you are, too!

Full Moon Flyers: Monterey
2023-02-05 19:00 - 21:00
With the full-moon happening on Sunday, February 5th, come with FOG to Monterey (MRY) for a dinner at Woody’s at the Airport! Enjoy dinner in the venue that overlooks the airline ramp, allowing you to view take-offs and landings with your meal.
The flight down is an easy one from the Bay Area, and an excellent choice to take passengers on a short flight if they have never been on a general aviation plane before. With views of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Silicon Valley, and Monterey Bay, the flight down is one they won’t forget. Instrument pilots or students can practice their skills with a variety of approaches into the airport, as well. Afterwards, you can refresh your night currency at Monterey or any of the other local airports on the way back to the Bay Area.
After landing, park at Del Monte Aviation, as Monterey does not have any transient parking near the terminal. From there, it’s a short walk to the terminal. Woody’s is located upstairs from the entrance, before the TSA checkpoints. Please plan to be at the restaurant around 7 PM.
Like other FOG events, RSVP below, and please indicate if you are able to take passengers, so we can allow student pilots and other aviation community members to participate. We’re looking forward to the event, and hope you are, too!
