April 2002 Issue Summary: This edition of Flight Lines focuses on protecting Colorado’s aviation infrastructure and celebrating member achievements. President Walt Barbo’s message emphasizes the critical need for the aviation community to remain vigilant in defending airports like Centennial from closure and conversion to non-aviation uses, warning that local politicians may prioritize business development over preserving established aviation facilities. The newsletter also highlights the upcoming CPA Idaho Backcountry Fly-In and recognizes outstanding achievements by several CPA members in aviation safety and professionalism.
The newsletter features detailed information about a backcountry camping fly-in adventure to the Frank Church Wilderness Area in central Idaho, encouraging pilots to experience remote airstrips, pristine natural scenery, and backcountry hospitality. Additionally, the publication celebrates multiple member recognitions, including FAA safety awards and significant career milestones in commercial aviation.
Key Topics
- Airport protection and preservation against urban encroachment and conversion
- Legislative history of aviation funding and the Aviation Trust Fund
- Backcountry flying opportunities and wilderness exploration
- Aviation safety and professionalism in the pilot community
- Member achievements and professional recognition
Events & Activities
- CPA Idaho Backcountry Fly-In: July 4-7, 2002 at Johnson Creek Airstrip (3U2) near McCall, Idaho. Camping trip to the Frank Church Wilderness Area featuring remote airstrip hopping, fishing, horseback riding at working ranches, and visits to Yellow Pine and McCall
Member News
- Vern Foster: Selected as 2001 Aviation Safety Counselor of the Year for the FAA Northwest Mountain Region. CFI, CFII, ATP credentials; chairs CPA Mountain Flying Committee and authored the CPA Mountain Flying and High Elevation Airport Operations handbook
- Emily Howell Warner: Inducted into the Colorado Women’s Hall of Fame (March 14, 2002). First female airline pilot in the United States (hired by Frontier Airlines on 1/29/73); holds multiple aviation firsts including first female Captain and first all-female crew. Currently FAA Aircrew Program Manager with United Airlines; has logged more than 21,000 flight hours, more than any other female pilot in the world. Was first member of CPA when organization was created in 1972
- Brian Lewis: Renewed NAFI Master Flight Instructor Designation, an honor held by fewer than 300 of 81,000 CFIs in the United States and only ten in Colorado. Flight instructor for gliders at Owl Canyon Gliderport; volunteers for FAA Aviation Safety Counselor Program and CPA Mountain Flying Program
