The March 2011 issue of Flight Lines focuses on initiatives to reverse the declining pilot population in Colorado and across the nation. CPA President Walt Barbo discusses FAA statistics showing approximately 600,000 active pilots nationwide, with concerns that numbers could drop to 400,000 without significant intervention. The newsletter highlights multiple community efforts underway to stimulate aviation activity and pilot engagement, including ambassador programs, airport visitation initiatives, membership benefits, and upcoming aviation events. These efforts represent collaborative action by pilots, airports, and aviation organizations to maintain Colorado's general aviation infrastructure.
Key Topics
- Declining pilot population trends and economic impact on small airports
- FAA pilot statistics and employment data analysis
- Community initiatives to reverse aviation decline
- iPad app approval for pilots to replace paper charts
- Aircraft investment strategies: avionics and modifications
- Garmin 430/530 and glass panel avionics value retention
- Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) capabilities and features
Events & Activities
- May 14, 2011: First Annual Light Sport Aircraft Expo at Front Range Airport, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
- February 22, 2011: Colorado Aviation Coalition inaugural meeting (State Aeronautics)
- Weekly luncheon airport visitation flights by CPA member pilots
- Annual airshows at Rocky Mountain Metro and Akron airports
Member News
- Bill Totten: Introducing Ambassador Program encouraging pilots to visit Colorado's airports with recognition for most visits
- Walter Bell and Bob Doubek: Leading weekly luncheon trips to various state airports
- Jerry Kelly: Created CPA Membership Benefits Program with discounted aviation products and services
- Mark Kolber: Featured testing LSA (Piper Sport) capability for carrying golf equipment
