Colorado Pilots Association’s January 2024 Flight Lines newsletter focuses on organizational leadership transitions, critical challenges facing general aviation in Colorado, and efforts to increase membership engagement. The issue highlights new co-chairs for the Education Committee—Makayla Galler and Michael Mayfield—who are energizing the scholarship program. President Adrian Nye discusses major issues facing the aviation community including a severe DPE (Designated Pilot Examiner) shortage, hangar shortages at various airports, and threats to several Colorado airports including Boulder. The newsletter emphasizes the need for coordinated leadership across Colorado aviation organizations and outlines potential legislative action regarding aircraft noise and unleaded fuel options.
Editor Vince Otto calls for increased member engagement, urging readers to share the now-public newsletter widely and contribute articles and photos. The CPA continues efforts to grow its membership from 650 to reach Colorado’s estimated 20,000 pilots. A key theme throughout is the organization’s pivot toward more local events and fly-ins to build community and attract new members.
Key Topics
- DPE shortage crisis affecting pilot training and pass rates in Colorado
- Potential development of common scheduling system for DPEs
- Airport threats including Boulder airport closure possibility and noise/lead litigation at KBJC and KAPA
- Hangar shortage issues at local airports
- Need for coordinated leadership across Colorado aviation organizations
- Expected state legislation on aircraft noise and unleaded fuel
- Membership growth strategy and newsletter distribution expansion
- Planning expanded local events and fly-in activities
Events & Activities
- CPA Fly-In Planning Meeting – Saturday, January 6, 2024 at Rocky Mountain Metro (KBJC), Evans Room, 11755 Airport Way, Broomfield, CO 80021
- Ongoing fly-in coordination led by Bill Marvel
Member News
- Makayla Galler – New co-chair of Education Committee (representing Women in Aviation International)
- Michael Mayfield – New co-chair of Education Committee (recently retired Executive Director)
- Garth Fasano – CPA member running scheduling company, exploring DPE scheduling solutions
- Paul Anslow – Former KBJC director, recently removed from position
- Martin Kelly – Civil Air Patrol liaison contributing to strategic discussions
