The June 2011 issue of Flight Lines features coverage of the Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo held on May 14 at an undisclosed Colorado location. Despite challenging weather conditions with high winds, cold temperatures, and low visibility that prevented many aircraft from attending, the event drew approximately 1,000 visitors throughout the day. President Walt Barbo reflects on the expo as a successful community engagement effort, noting popular exhibits including a Fantasy of Flight flight simulator setup with a Cessna 162 Skycatcher and participation from aviation artist Joe Jones. Though the event resulted in about $1,000 in losses for CPA, Barbo emphasizes the value as an investment in promoting aviation growth in Colorado, particularly in reaching families and children who might pursue aviation careers.
The newsletter also covers legislative updates from the AOPA Regional Report, highlighting successful efforts to protect aviation interests across Colorado, Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota. William Hamilton reports on wind tower legislation, aviation trust fund protection, and efforts to establish a Colorado Aviation Coalition. Additionally, the article on Area Representatives discusses initiatives to enhance communication with members in outlying areas of the state and provide localized aviation services.
Key Topics
- Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo and event operations
- Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category showcase, specifically Cessna 162 Skycatcher
- Community outreach and youth engagement in aviation
- AOPA legislative advocacy and wind tower safety
- Aviation trust fund management and protection
- Colorado Aviation Coalition formation
- Area Representatives network expansion
- Flight simulator demonstrations for public education
Events & Activities
- Rocky Mountain Light Sport Aircraft Expo – May 14, 2011 (Colorado airport location)
- Seminar sessions held in airport FBO hangar new classroom
- Fantasy of Flight flight simulator exhibit with triple monitor system
- AOPA and CPA Colorado Aviation Coalition meeting – May 11
- Upper Mid-West Aviation Symposium – Minot, South Dakota
Member News
- Joe Jones, aviation illustrator and graphic artist, participated as exhibitor at the Expo and was congratulated by CPA member John Penny; Jones created the RMLSA Expo poster and is recognized for his historic military aircraft artwork
- Ken Lawson, Assistant Airport Manager, volunteered at the event serving pancake breakfast
