From Wayne Mooneyham, President

Recently I was chatting with a couple of pilots while standing in the taxiway between rows Bravo and Charlie critiquing the excellent takeoff and landing skills of a young pilot in a tailwheel aircraft.Turns out this young man, let’s call him “Lance,” has just recently acquired his instrument rating and we were watching him now fly his solo flights in a tailwheel aircraft on his way to an endorsement in same.

While this was transpiring, a pair of airplanes taxied into the runup area and positioned themselves with the tails pointed toward the open hangars where we were standing. The result was all the debris from the area was blown into the hangars. Right away our conversation changed from Lance’s speed control and flight profiles to their lack of situational awareness and courtesy when operating aircraft in the vicinity of other aircraft and buildings. I recently read an AOPA article where it was called “hangar blasting.” Additionally, be aware of aircraft behind you and keep propwash from blasting them, too. I have touched on this subject before, but it is worth reiterating - watch where you aim all that wind. 

Speaking of young pilots, our organization will soon interview applicants for our flight scholarships. Additionally, DonWolfe is putting together a program to mentor our youth regarding “how to prepare for an interview.” More information on these activities will be forthcoming soon. Safety is key when flying is involved and radio communication is a big part of flying safely. Our application for a frequency change at our airport is in the pipeline. The application must be filed by the City of Auburn. Walt Wilson and I met with the City representative last week and the first step of the application process is now underway. Our goal is to have an exclusive frequency for our busy destination airport. As most of you are aware - we share our frequency with several other airports and our transmissions are often“stepped on” resulting in a loud squeal rather than a radio call. This can be a very real safety hazard. Safety is the main reason for requesting the frequency change.

On the subject of things in progress, our Airport Layout PlanUpdate/Narrative Report (ALP) is in the final stages of County, City and FAA acceptance. This Plan by Jacobs Engineering of Colorado has been a lengthy process but will serve us through 2035. Thought for the month - Be aware when flying and driving.

Regards,
Wayne Mooneyham