The May 2003 issue of the Colorado Pilots Association “Flight Lines” newsletter focuses on airport advocacy, community fly-ins, and mountain flying opportunities. President Eric Jensen opens with a passionate response to the closure of Chicago’s Meigs Field, calling for pilots to boycott the city and urging continued vigilance in protecting Colorado’s airports from development and neglect. The newsletter emphasizes that airports in growth areas face ongoing threats and highlights CPA’s commitment to supporting backcountry aviation and pilot proficiency.
Key initiatives include two scheduled fly-ins to the private airstrip near Marble, Colorado, and the launch of “Fly the Rockies,” a tour program designed to make mountain flying safer and more accessible. The newsletter also covers FAA Wings proficiency programs, state aeronautical board discussions regarding runway improvements, and updates on Colorado aviation legislation.
Key Topics
- Closure of Chicago’s Meigs Field and call for pilot boycott of Chicago
- Airport preservation and protection from development in Colorado
- FAA Wings pilot proficiency programs
- Mountain flying safety and endorsement requirements
- Backcountry aviation and airstrip operations
- Colorado aeronautical board funding decisions
- State aviation legislation and excise tax matters
Events & Activities
- FAA Wings Proficiency Program: Pagosa Springs Airport (2V1), May 17-18, 2003. Speakers include Larry Bartlett (retired ATBCFI/DPE) and Monty Taylor (Denver FSDO Safety Manager). Contact: Windstar Aviation Services, 970-731-2127
- CPA Fly-in to Marble, CO: June 7-8, 2003 and September 6-7, 2003. Limited to 60 aircraft (40 CPA, 20 others). Includes fly-in/community dinner Saturday evening and overnight camping. Registration at coloradopilots.org/marble.asp or contact Ed Huber
- “Fly the Rockies” Mountain Airport Tour: June 13-15 and September 19-21, 2003, departing from Gunnison/Crested Butte Regional Airport. Includes Saturday and Sunday morning flights, briefings, and lunches provided by FBO
- CPA Mountain Flying Ground School: June 21 or August 16, 2003. Contact CPA at 303-367-0670
Member News
- Scott Morse: Featured in photograph with bicycle in front of his plane at Marble, CO (fall 2002)
- President Eric Jensen: Reports extended grounding of his Mooney for ten weeks, the longest period without flying since beginning lessons in 1995
