Flight Lines December 1995 focuses on the critical issue of airport noise complaints and their threat to general aviation in Colorado. President Patti Arthur reports that noise complaints are at an all-time high, with homeowners groups becoming increasingly organized in efforts to close airports, impose landing fees, or establish curfews. The CPA is responding by conducting noise abatement educational seminars for flight instructors across the state, emphasizing that pilots can instill good neighborly flying habits from the beginning of their training. Past President Mike Baldwin has also shown AOPA's "Flying Friendly" video to homeowner groups, with some success in building understanding and compromise, particularly at Centennial Airport.
The newsletter also covers important regulatory and organizational developments. Comments were due December 1, 1995 on an NPRM that would implement new training and recurrency requirements for all general aviation pilots. Additionally, a new Colorado General Aviation Council is forming to bring together non-commercial aviation organizations statewide to present a united front on legislative issues affecting aviation. The newsletter includes practical advice from Michelle Wing on flying techniques to reduce noise, such as following VFR flyways, climbing to higher altitudes, using lower propeller RPM, and maintaining tight landing patterns.
Key Topics
- Airport noise complaints and threats to close general aviation airports
- Noise abatement education and training for flight instructors
- AOPA's "Flying Friendly" video and community outreach efforts
- FAA NPRM with new training and recurrency requirements
- Formation of Colorado General Aviation Council for legislative advocacy
- Practical noise reduction techniques for pilots
- Bob Hoover's reinstatement of medical certificate
Events & Activities
- Starman Aviation Auction at abandoned Denver Stapleton Airport, November 11-12, 1995
- Noise abatement educational seminars conducted statewide by CPA president
- AOPA "Flying Friendly" video presentations to homeowner groups
Member News
- Walt Bell made successful bids at the Starman Aviation Auction, purchasing a new Riley Intercooler and used radio equipment for his T210
- Mike Baldwin (Past President) showing AOPA's "Flying Friendly" video to homeowner groups and chairing the steering committee for the new Colorado General Aviation Council
- Bob Hoover regained his medical certificate after an independent board of physicians reviewed his case at the request of the FAA Administrator
