The January 2017 issue of Flight Lines highlights the Colorado Pilots Association’s successful holiday party, which featured special recognitions including CPA member Torry Krutzke receiving his Master Aviator Award from the FAA and his original instructor pilot Rudy Welch being honored for over 70 years of aviation service. The newsletter also commemorates the 75th anniversary of Pearl Harbor and features remarks from WWII P-38 Lightning pilot Walt Barbo. President Gary Tobey emphasizes the importance of preserving flying freedoms and encourages members to support local flight schools and recruit new pilots to strengthen general aviation in Colorado.
The issue includes coverage of legislative priorities for the upcoming Colorado General Assembly session, with particular focus on efforts to clear the way for seaplanes in the state. Additionally, the newsletter reports on a significant legal victory for Mile-Hi Skydiving, whose appeals court ruling against “Citizens for Quiet Skies” resulted in over $100,000 in legal fees and judgements against the opposition group, highlighting ongoing NIMBY challenges to Colorado aviation businesses.
Key Topics
- Master Aviator Award recognition and aviation mentorship
- Pearl Harbor 75th anniversary commemoration
- Front Range Flight School scholarships and success
- Colorado General Assembly legislation affecting general aviation
- Seaplane access efforts in Colorado
- Mile-Hi Skydiving legal victory against NIMBY opposition
- CPA merchandise available through Lands End
Events & Activities
- CPA Fly-In planning meeting – Saturday, January 7, 2017, 8:30 am continental breakfast and 9:00 am meeting at Mt Evans Room, Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport
- Colorado General Assembly opens – January 11, 2017
Member News
- Torry Krutzke – Received FAA Master Aviator Award at CPA Holiday Party
- Rudy Welch – Honored for over 70 years of aviation service; soled Torry Krutzke over 50 years ago
- Walt Barbo – WWII P-38 Lightning fighter pilot recognized at holiday party for his perspective on Pearl Harbor
- Craig Rathbun – Front Range Flight School announced successful 2016 launch with three students receiving CPA scholarships at Metropolitan State University of Denver
