The June 1997 issue of Flight Lines highlights the Colorado Pilots Association's growing "share-the-ride" program and upcoming fly-ins to encourage broader participation in aviation. President Bart Jones emphasizes the success of the Los Alamos fly-in and announces upcoming trips to Granby and Durango. The newsletter also covers significant state aviation policy developments, including failed funding for remote community air service but successful legislation supporting Western Pacific Airlines' relocation to Denver International Airport and the continued growth of Colorado's aviation fund through fuel tax revenues.
A major focus of this issue is the complex interplay of state aviation funding and policy decisions. The newsletter details how HB 97-1061 authorized fuel tax rebates to support Western Pacific's move from Colorado Springs to DIA, while acknowledging United Airlines' historical support for the 1991 fuel tax that created a sustainable funding source for aviation infrastructure. Additional legislative successes include contract authority that resulted in over $1 million in savings on statewide airport paving projects.
Key Topics
- CPA "share-the-ride" program launch and promotion
- State funding for remote community air service (SB 97-146) denied
- Western Pacific Airlines relocation to Denver International Airport
- Colorado aviation fuel tax and revenue distribution
- Airport infrastructure improvements through coordinated contracting
- United Airlines Boeing 737-200 donation to Wings Over the Rockies Air & Space Museum
- Centennial Airport noise contour protection from residential development
Events & Activities
- Granby Fly-in – June 29, 1997 at Granby/Grand County Airport (GNB); includes tour of the Pump Plant, picnic lunch, elevation 8,203 feet
- Durango Private Car Railroad Trip – September 26-28, 1997; for fall color viewing
- Los Alamos Fly-in – completed as first ride-share opportunity
Member News
- Frank and Lynn Niehaus – recognized as first members to offer shared ride seats to new pilots Sarah and Paul Manoogian on Los Alamos fly-in
- Babette Andre – featured as Broker Associate, CFI-I, ATP, and Airport Property Specialist at Keller Williams Realty, specializing in aviation properties
