Flight Lines from August 1997 highlights the Colorado Pilots Association’s active summer season, featuring two major fly-in events and community aviation engagement. President Bart Jones emphasizes the dedication of volunteers who organize these activities, from the annual Jackpot Air Classic to smaller community fly-ins. The newsletter celebrates both large-scale events and grassroots aviation support, encouraging members to patronize smaller airports and appreciate the volunteers who keep general aviation vibrant in Colorado communities.
The issue features a detailed fly-bike adventure guide to Glenwood Springs, Colorado, showcasing how pilots can combine flying with recreational activities. Additionally, the newsletter covers the 21st running of the Denver-to-Jackpot Air Classic, which faced significant weather challenges as participants navigated a stationary front between Rock Springs and Utah. Despite weather complications, 29 participants in 13 aircraft successfully completed the 528-mile event.
Key Topics
- Volunteer appreciation for event organization and execution
- Denver-to-Jackpot Air Classic and weather navigation strategies
- Fly-in activities at small community airports
- Fly-biking recreational trips combining aviation with outdoor activities
- Glenwood Canyon bicycle trail and hiking opportunities
- VFR flight planning and safety considerations
Events & Activities
- Denver-to-Jackpot Air Classic – 21st running of the 528-mile event; 29 participants in 13 aircraft; weather challenges from stationary front
- Granby Fly-in – CPA-hosted trip with Colorado-Big Thompson lift station tour on Lake Granby
- Brush Community Fly-in – Parade and pancake breakfast welcoming visiting pilots
- Glenwood Springs Fly-Bike Adventure – 33-mile round trip along Glenwood Canyon with optional Hanging Lake hike
Member News
- Gary Valentine – Manager of Rock Springs Airport, recognized by Walt Barbo with appreciation plaque for 18 years of support for the Denver-to-Jackpot Air Classic
- Bob Venohr – Committee chair for Jackpot Air Classic organization
- Bill & Penny Hamilton and Carolyn & Bob Doubek – Organizers of Granby fly-in and Lake Granby tour
- Walt & Terry Barbo – Participated in Brush community fly-in and parade
- Sonny Elgin – Safety officer for Jackpot Air Classic; flew Twin Comanche and navigated weather delays
- Dave Burke – Mooney 231 pilot; navigated around southern edge of weather system
