Flight Lines June 2016 focuses on summer flying safety, seaplane initiatives in Colorado, and upcoming fly-in events. CPA President Gary Tobey emphasizes that June, July, and August—despite excellent flying weather—are the most accident-prone months, urging pilots to carefully assess weight and balance, density altitude, and currency before summer adventures. The newsletter highlights the historic first Colorado Splash-In seaplane event and federal advocacy efforts for pilot support, including the FAA Reauthorization Bill and Pilot’s Bill of Rights 2.
Key activities include the rescheduled seaplane gathering at Lake Meredith and a successful April fly-in to Fort Lancaster/Fort Lupton Historic Site that attracted 38 CPA members. Additionally, Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado Community College are launching a new aviation associate degree program with flight training components.
Key Topics
- Summer flying safety and accident prevention during peak season months
- Weight and balance calculations for family and friends
- Density altitude considerations in Colorado’s high-performance environment
- Historic first Colorado Splash-In seaplane event
- FAA Reauthorization Bill and Pilot’s Bill of Rights 2 advocacy
- Opposition to air traffic control privatization and user fees
- New aviation associate degree program at Colorado Mesa University and Western Colorado Community College
- CPA member feedback initiative for program improvements
Events & Activities
- June 18, 2016: First Colorado Splash-In at Lake Meredith—seaplane gathering with 10-15 aircraft expected and 500-1,000 spectators; transportation available from La Junta airport
- June 18, 2016: New Mexico Pilots Association Work Party at Negrito Airstrip (0NM7)—Friday evening through Sunday morning (6/17–6/19); maintenance work party with meals provided
- April 23, 2016 (past): CPA fly-in to Fort Lancaster/Fort Lupton Historic Site—38 members attended with bison BBQ and historic tours
- Multiple June fly-ins listed in CPA Events Calendar including Canoe the Niobrara, LaGarita, Hooper Pool, and Flaming Gorge destinations
Member News
- CPA member Bob Kinney and his wife Shawn donated an early 1850s trapper’s cabin to the South Platte Valley Historic Society
- Ray Hawkins (Seaplane Pilots Association, Field Director for Colorado) coordinating the historic Colorado Splash-In and launching efforts for state-level seaplane support legislation
- CPA President Gary Tobey encouraging members to wear CPA wings proudly and purchase official CPA merchandise through Land’s End
- Vice President Bill Totten seeking member suggestions for improving CPA value and services
