August 2016 Flight Lines highlights a significant breakthrough in aviation medical certification, upcoming fly-in events, and Colorado’s historic first seaplane splash-in. CPA President Gary Tobey emphasizes the passage of H.R. 636, which simplifies third-class medical certificates for light aircraft pilots—a major victory for general aviation advocates. The newsletter encourages members to take advantage of excellent flying weather with several planned activities, including a mountain flying ground school, a fly-in to Cortez with scenic tours, and a day trip to Grand Junction. Additionally, the issue features coverage of Colorado’s inaugural seaplane splash-in at Lake Meredith, marking a watershed moment for seaplane access in the state.
Key Topics
- Third-class medical certificate reform (H.R. 636) signed into law on July 15
- Temporary flight restrictions (TFRs) expected through November due to election campaign schedules
- FAA Part 107 drone regulations and limitations
- Colorado Springs approach control frequency changes
- Colorado’s first designated seaplane base at Lake Meredith
- CPA merchandise available through Land’s End
Events & Activities
- August 13, 2016 – Mountain Flying Ground School at Rocky Mountain Metro Terminal Building (8:30 AM MDT) with Bill Standerfer; counts toward BFR requirements
- August 19-21, 2016 – CPA Fly-In to Cortez featuring Ute Mountain Tribal Park guided tour and winery visits
- September 3, 2016 – Day trip to Grand Junction for West Slope Farmers Market
- September 10, 2016 – CPA-sponsored UAS/UAV/Drone Expo at Legacy Air, Rocky Mountain Metro
- June 18, 2016 – Colorado’s First Ever Seaplane Splash-In at Lake Meredith (historical event)
- June 23-25, 2016 – Flaming Gorge Fly-In (Utah)
Member News
- Ray Hawkins – Featured in article about Colorado’s historic seaplane splash-in; SPA Colorado Field Director instrumental in establishing Lake Meredith as Colorado’s first FAA-designated seaplane base
- Bill Standerfer – Presented on mountain flying at AirVenture and leading CPA mountain flying ground school
- Bill Totten – Vice President heading up CPA-sponsored UAS/UAV/Drone Expo; seeking volunteers
- Seaplane event participants included Marc Lenart (turbine-powered Beaver owner, Erie, CO) and Mike Smith (Lake Renegade owner, Kansas) among other regional pilots
- Approximately 500 attendees at Lake Meredith splash-in included Colorado State Senator Larry Crowder and county officials
