The June 2020 issue of Flight Lines, the newsletter of the Colorado Pilots Association, focuses on efforts to support general aviation amid regulatory threats and pandemic-related challenges. A primary concern is a Longmont citizens group seeking a Charter Amendment that would require 2/3 voter approval for any airport funding at Vance Brand Municipal Airport, potentially restricting operations and federal funding acceptance. The CPA and AOPA volunteers are organizing to counter these efforts with economic data showing the airport generated over $68 million in local economic contribution in 2018. Meanwhile, CPA President Marty Brophy reports gradual returns to normalcy in aviation activities while updating members on organizational improvements including bylaws modernization and a new roster initiative.
Beyond airport advocacy, the newsletter highlights CPA’s commitment to growing Colorado’s pilot population through expanded scholarship programs for Private Pilot and Certificated Flight Instructor training. The organization has shifted to funding flight training rather than academic scholarships, with up to two scholarships of $2,500 each available annually in both categories, with an extended deadline of August 1, 2020.
Key Topics
- Vance Brand Airport (Longmont) facing Charter Amendment petition requiring 2/3 voter approval for airport funding
- Citizens for Airport Accountability group challenging airport operations and funding
- Economic impact study showing $68 million contribution to local economy (145% increase since 2012)
- Vance Brand hosts 240+ based aircraft and 88,000+ annual operations
- Pandemic impact on flight training and aviation activities
- CPA bylaws modernization efforts
- 2020 Roster development and distribution plans
- Private Pilot and CFI scholarship programs ($2,500 each)
- New “Flying West” memorial column for deceased members
Events & Activities
- Vance Brand Airport advocacy efforts (ongoing)
- Private Pilot and CFI Scholarship deadline: August 1, 2020
- 2020 CPA Roster distribution (planned)
Member News
- President Marty Brophy reports resuming solo flying after 7+ week absence due to pandemic
- In Memoriam: William L. Bredar (08/06/1924 – 04/24/2020)
