The February 2016 issue of Flight Lines focuses on honoring aviation pioneers while looking toward the future of general aviation in Colorado. The newsletter reflects on the passing of Carl Williams, a founding member of the Colorado Pilots Association (established March 15, 1972), and Gwen Mayo, head of Mayo Aviation. President Gary Tobey emphasizes the importance of applying the wisdom of past aviation leaders to current challenges and invites members to contribute ideas for improving CPA programs and activities. Key legislative priorities for 2016 include supporting seaplane access to Colorado waters, addressing unmanned aircraft systems, and advancing the Pilots’ Bill of Rights 2 in Congress.
The issue also features practical guidance from consulting engineer Bill Bredar on the challenges of serving as both a business executive and company pilot, emphasizing the critical importance of prioritizing flight safety over business concerns. Additionally, a feature article by Walt Bell explores the newly accessible opportunity to fly private aircraft to Cuba, highlighting the recent changes in US policy that now permit such flights with proper approval.
Key Topics
- Honoring founding members Carl Williams and Gwen Mayo
- CPA airport representative program improvements
- 2016 Colorado legislative priorities (seaplanes, unmanned aircraft systems)
- Pilots’ Bill of Rights 2 advocacy
- Executive pilots balancing business and flight safety responsibilities
- Private aviation access to Cuba
- Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) during election year
- FAA small unmanned aircraft registration
Events & Activities
- 2016 CPA Fly-In Planning Event (led by Bob Kinney) – schedule to be published
- Colorado 99s Women Pilot Scholarship – Application deadline April 30, 2016; Award announcement by May 15, 2016
- Copper State Flyin – October 28-29, 2016 at Falcon Field Airport (KFFZ) in Mesa, AZ
- The Museum of Flight (Seattle) – Boeing Centennial exhibits opening January 23, 2016
- Colorado legislative session – January 13 through May 11, 2016
Member News
- Carl Williams (Member #5): Founding member of Colorado Pilots Association (March 15, 1972) passed away November 27, 2015. Notable accomplishments include leadership in creating Wings Over the Rockies Museum, a 5,000-mile 1992 flying safari over the Australian Outback in Cessna 172s and 182s, and extensive contributions to general aviation.
- Gwen Mayo: Long-time head of Mayo Aviation; recently passed away (details in January 2016 Flight Lines).
- CPA Merchandise: Lands’ End business outfitters now carries CPA-branded items featuring the organization’s wings logo available in the CPA Store.
