The August 1996 issue of Flight Lines covers the Colorado Pilots Association’s ongoing efforts to protect aviation interests across the state. Major focus areas include the continued fight against the Meridian Apartment Complex near Centennial Airport, preservation of the Silver Heels Glider Port in South Park, and development of recreational back-country airstrips throughout Colorado. The newsletter highlights safety and noise concerns, particularly regarding the proposed 1,500-unit apartment complex planned for the approach zone of Runway 17 at Centennial Airport, which could pose significant risks to aircraft operations and residents alike.
The 20th Annual Denver-to-Jackpot Air Classic is celebrated as a successful event, with detailed race results and recognition of numerous sponsors and volunteers. The newsletter reflects on how navigation technology has evolved the competition over the years, with modern GPS and Loran systems enabling more consistent performance and closer finishing times among competitors.
Key Topics
- Silver Heels Glider Port closure threat due to noise complaints and BLM/Forest Service action
- Meridian Apartment Complex opposition and safety concerns near Centennial Airport
- Development of recreational airstrips in Colorado back-country areas
- Noise mitigation efforts and pilot education statewide
- Evolution of air racing competition with modern navigation technology
- Density altitude and aircraft performance
Events & Activities
- 20th Annual Denver-to-Jackpot Air Classic (July 1996)
- Next Air Classic planned for July 1997
Member News
- Fuel Category Winners: 1st place Vernon Randle; 2nd place Gretchen Jahn; 3rd place Chet Jewell; 4th place Jim Rowe
- Class B Racing: Sonny Elgin and James Perry competed in Twin Comanche aircraft, finishing 63 seconds apart
- Class A Racing: Dana Haglin won in a Cessna 210D; Gretchen Jahn placed second in a Cessna Skylane RG
- Special Recognition: Robert Venohr (Air Classic Committee Chairman) thanked Walt & Terry Barbo, Kevin Bunnell, Sonny & Darlene Elgin, Steve & Linda Harless, Bill & Marlys Marshall, Paul & Sheila Rossman, and Karl Sutterfield for their efforts
- Committee Leadership: Bruce Hulley serves as Airports Committee Chair; Ed Huber leading recreational airstrip development
