SFC is proud to celebrate private member Peter Macdonald for achieving 3rd Place in the Forced Landing category at the 2026 Australian Light Aircraft Championships (ALACs), held from 8 to 11 April at Latrobe Valley Aero Club in Victoria.
Organised annually by the Royal Federation of Aero Clubs of Australia (RFACA), the ALACs brings together pilots from aero clubs across the country to compete in a series of precision flying events including Forced Landing, Spot Landing, Streamer Cutting, Formation Flying, and Aerobatics.
This year’s competition was particularly challenging, with strong crosswinds and difficult weather conditions testing the accuracy, discipline, and decision making of competing pilots throughout the event. According to SFC instructor Massimo Murgida, the event provided valuable experience in safely managing and adapting to challenging weather conditions while building confidence in both the aircraft and operating environment. The championships also offered an opportunity to meet pilots and aero club members from across Australia, forming strong professional and personal connections within the aviation community
Representing SFC, Peter Macdonald secured 3rd Place in the Forced Landing competition alongside top-performing pilots from around Australia:
• 1st: Sam Garden – Latrobe Valley Aero Club
• 2nd: Julian Turecek – Latrobe Valley Aero Club
• 3rd: Peter Macdonald – Schofields Flying Club
The Forced Landing event requires pilots to simulate an engine failure and accurately glide the aircraft to a designated landing zone without the use of engine power. The competition highlights a pilot’s precision, situational awareness, aircraft handling, and overall airmanship under pressure.
Peter’s achievement reflects the high standard of flying and strong aviation community within SFC. Massimo, who attended the championships as Peter's instructor, noted that the event also helped develop strong camaraderie among private members through shared flying experiences, teamwork, and friendly competition.
The Australian Light Aircraft Championships has been running since 1957 and remains one of Australia’s most respected aviation competitions for non-professional pilots, attracting participants from aero clubs nationwide.
Congratulations to Peter on this outstanding achievement and for proudly representing SFC on the national stage.
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