The May 2009 issue of Flight Lines focuses on general aviation advocacy, emergency preparedness, and community service. CPA President Bob Kinney challenges members to submit personal stories to AOPA demonstrating how general aviation makes a difference in their lives and communities, urging Colorado to lead the nation in submissions. Kinney shares his own inspiring story of transitioning from 30 years of volunteer firefighting to Angel Flight missions, combining his passions for flying and helping those in need. The newsletter also addresses ongoing TSA security concerns and highlights critical changes to emergency locator transmitter (ELT) monitoring that require pilots to take an active role in search and rescue operations.
Key Topics
- GA Advocacy: AOPA campaign requesting pilot stories demonstrating general aviation’s value; challenge for Colorado to provide more stories than any other state
- Angel Flight: Volunteer pilot organization providing free medical transport for patients in need
- TSA Security Directives: Ongoing concerns about LASP/SD regulations and their impact on general aviation
- Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT) Changes: Cessation of 121.5 MHz satellite monitoring as of February 1, 2009; transition to 406 MHz technology
- Search and Rescue: Pilot responsibilities in monitoring and reporting ELT signals to support SAR operations
Events & Activities
- WAM Flight Tests with lunch gathering (participants: Phil Wright, Bob Doubek, Russ Bien, Larry Romrell, Mack Connelley, Carl Jensen, Pat Murphy, Amnon Pollak, Bill Totten, Bob Kinney)
Member News
- President Bob Kinney: Featured in President’s Message sharing his personal story of transitioning from volunteer firefighting to Angel Flight pilot, including his own battle with cancer
- Richard Palm: Authored an eloquent 4-page comment on Security Directive and LASP for government comment board
- Captain Steven Goetz (Civil Air Patrol): Authored article on ELT monitoring responsibilities for pilots
