This September 1986 issue of CPA Flight Lines features an urgent message from President Vern Foster on the critical topic of fuel management and the dangers of operating with inadequate fuel reserves. Through several real-world examples of fatal accidents—including a high-time pilot with a retractable gear aircraft arriving with only 30 minutes of fuel reserve, and a company president flying a twin-engine aircraft that ran dry while on approach—Foster emphasizes that FAA minimums are just that: minimums. He advocates for conservative fuel planning that exceeds regulatory requirements, stressing that “I think I can make it” is an amateur’s approach to aviation. The newsletter also highlights member activities, including several pilots upgrading to Cessna Skylanes, a group fly-out to Meadowlake Airport for low-cost fuel, and an article exploring the regulatory implications of using Phillips X/C II oil.
Key Topics
- Fuel Management and Safety: President’s emphasis on conservative fuel reserves beyond FAR minimums; real-world accident case studies
- Retractable Gear Aircraft Operations: Recommended 45-minute to 1-hour fuel reserve for day VFR flights
- Aircraft Maintenance and Regulations: Use of Phillips X/C II oil and FAA Form 337 requirements; insurance compliance implications
- Colorado State Airport Directory: New resource now available to members
- Aviation Insurance Issues: Reports of high-time pilots unable to obtain insurance quotes for new aircraft
Events & Activities
- EAA Convention: August 1-4 in Oshkosh (Walt Barbo attended and reported on aviation products)
- Meadowlake Airport Group Fly-Out: The Lyles and Jewells flew their Bonanzas to sample Giovanni’s Hangar Restaurant; noted remarkably low fuel prices ($1.39/gallon avgas, $0.99/gallon MOGAS)
Member News
- Aircraft Upgrades: Bill and Beverly Totten, Don and Renee Welsh, and Vanita and Frank Gallo upgraded to Cessna Skylanes
- New Aircraft Acquisition: Chet and Nancy Jewell recently acquired a V-35 model Bonanza (featured in photo)
- Sales Interest: Larry Merkowitz being courted by Beechcraft dealers interested in selling him a new Beech 367C
- Notable Mentions: Mayor Steve Love of Grand Junction suggesting retirement opportunities for members
