The July 2012 issue of Flight Lines focuses on the dangers and impacts of Colorado's forest fires, with CPA President Mark Brown commending the brave pilots who fly firefighting tankers while advocating for dedicated federal funding to support a specialized firefighting aircraft fleet. The newsletter emphasizes the importance of checking TFRs (Temporary Flight Restrictions) before planning flights, as many are established for fire suppression operations across the western United States. Additionally, the issue highlights aviation literature, FAA website improvements, and updates to CPA's member communication policies.
Key Topics
- Forest Fires: Discussion of Colorado's recent large fires, destroyed homes, and the dangerous work of aerial firefighting pilots
- TFR Awareness: Reminder for pilots to check Temporary Flight Restrictions before flights due to extensive fire suppression activities
- Book Review: Review of "The Comandante's Gift" by Frank Gallo, a thriller about pilots flying covert missions in Nicaragua during the 1980s
- FAA Procedures Website: Information on FAA's revamped instrument procedures website with new features for registered users
- Chart Reading Trivia: Technical tip about Low-Altitude Enroute chart coverage grid and area chart airport identifiers
- CPA Website Changes: Member addresses and financial statements moved to members-only section
Events & Activities
- 2nd Annual RMLSA Expo: Event held at Front Range Airport (FTG) with CPA booth, corporate members, and aircraft displays
- Wings Over the Rockies Volunteers: Mentioned as participants in community activities
Member News
- Tanker 45 Operations: Photography coverage of Tanker 45 firefighting aircraft operating on the Waldo Canyon fire, returning to Pueblo (KPUB)
- Front Range Airport Hangars: Advertisement for new hangars for sale or rent at metro Denver-area airport, contact Bud Lewis at 303-888-8098
