The April 2003 issue of Flight Lines features President Eric Jensen’s reflections on managing an unexpected engine crisis during the off-season. While his Mooney required a crankcase overhaul due to a discovered crack, Jensen discusses the valuable resources available through the internet for aircraft owners, including weather briefing tools (DUATS and Cimrs), online forums (AOPA, Mooney Tech lists), and flight planning resources. The newsletter also showcases a dramatic account by Bob Waldron of a turbo Saratoga emergency where the throttle failed during practice approaches, requiring a deadstick landing back at Fort Collins-Loveland.
Throughout the issue, there is emphasis on community engagement with the upcoming 2003 Air Classic at Jackpot and continued support from Frontier Airlines. The newsletter demonstrates active CPA membership involvement, from fly-in events to shared aircraft experiences and emergency procedures discussions. Members are encouraged to utilize online resources and maintain connections with the pilot community during both routine maintenance and unexpected challenges.
Key Topics
- Engine Overhaul and Ownership: President Jensen’s experience with a cracked crankcase and subsequent engine rebuild project
- Internet Resources for Pilots: Discussion of flight planning tools (DUATS/Cimrs), weather services, and online forums (AOPA, Mooney Tech lists)
- In-Flight Emergency Management: Bob Waldron’s throttle failure incident and deadstick landing procedure
- Bahamas Trip: Four CPA couples completed a round trip to Stella Maris on Long Island
- Weather and Safety: Reference to the Blizzard of ’03 and concerns about Iraq War conflicts
Events & Activities
- 2003 Air Classic: Scheduled for July 12th at Jackpot; features silent auction for Frontier Airlines round-trip tickets for two
- Marble Fly-In: Summer 2003 fly-in to Marble, Colorado with spectacular scenery and local hosts
Member News
- Bill Meine: Featured at Marble, Colorado fly-in event (Photo by W. Barbo)
- Bob Waldron: Spotlight article on emergency handling during throttle failure in turbo Saratoga
- Walt Barbo: Listed in committee notes
