CPA President Bob Kinney reflects on the camaraderie and friendships fostered through the Colorado Pilots Association, emphasizing that while flying can be a solitary pursuit, the real value lies in the community connections and shared experiences created through CPA-sponsored events and fly-ins. The newsletter highlights upcoming safety initiatives, legislative advocacy efforts, and major website improvements designed to enhance member engagement and interactivity.
The February 2010 issue underscores CPA’s multifaceted role as both a social organization and a serious advocate for aviation safety and legislative interests in Colorado. Members are encouraged to participate in upcoming fly-ins and safety programs while the organization works on important issues including airport noise disclosure legislation, fuel tax concerns, and economic advocacy for Colorado aviation.
Notable initiatives include the redesign of the CPA website with new interactive features and a comprehensive Mountain Flying Program, as well as preparations for a nationwide FAA safety event. The newsletter captures a moment of transition with recognition of departing aeronautics director Travis Vallin and showcases active member participation in planning the year’s fly-in calendar.
Key Topics
- Community building and camaraderie within the CPA membership
- CPA fly-in events and cross-country flying opportunities
- Flight safety programs and training initiatives
- Legislative advocacy (airport noise disclosure, fuel taxes, budget protection)
- Economic impact of aviation in Colorado ($2.141B annually)
- Website redesign and interactive features
- Mountain Flying Program
- Corporate member recognition
Events & Activities
- FAA Airmen’s Safety Stand Down (SSD): Saturday, April 17, 2010 at 8:00 AM at various Colorado airports
- CAOA Legislative Reception: Brown Palace Hotel, January 27th
- Fly-In Planning Meeting: Over 50 attendees; 10 proposals submitted including trips to Thermopolis, WY and Los Alamos, NM
- Travis Vallin farewell event at Front Range Airport, January 26th
Member News
- Travis Vallin: Recognized for his service as aeronautics director (departing)
- Dean Jaros: Fly-In Chair, leading planning efforts and rule development
- Craig Kozak: Presented proposal for fly-in to National Laboratory and Bradbury Science Museum at Los Alamos, NM
- Lotar Klingmuller: Presented proposal for fly-in to Thermopolis, WY
- Walt Barbo: Leading website redesign and modernization efforts
- Bill Hamilton: AOPA Representative, advocating on airport noise disclosure and fuel tax issues
