Meet Greg Stern, Airport Development Engineer

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

Greg Stern joined the Wisconsin DOT Bureau of Aeronautics (BOA) in May 2021. As an airport development engineer, Greg is responsible for managing projects at 10 airports around Wisconsin. His duties include helping airports develop a realistic and achievable capital improvement plan; contracting with consultants for planning, design and construction engineering services; conducting plan reviews; and working as a liaison between local sponsors and state and federal agencies. In addition to his role as an engineer, Greg also assists in the review of planning documents, such as master plans, and Airport Layout Plans (ALPs).

Greg earned a Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville in 1997 in Civil Engineering. He worked in consulting for over 24 years before joining the BOA and is registered as a Professional Engineer in Wisconsin.  Greg enjoys helping airport owners meet their development goals and looks forward to continuing to be of service to Wisconsin airports as a member of the BOA staff.

Greg lives in Madison with his wife, Lisa, and their three children. 

Airport officials can contact Greg Stern by calling 608-266-7910 or via email: gregory.stern@dot.wi.gov.

Posted in Airports, August/September 2021, Columns, Columns, Columns, Wisconsin Aeronautics Report | Tagged , , , , | Leave a comment

New Publications For Wisconsin Aviators

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

by Hal Davis
WisDOT Bureau of Aeronautics
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

The Wisconsin Bureau of Aeronautics (BOA) is pleased to announce the release of several new publications for aviators. Digital copies of these new publications, along with numerous others, can be found at: https://wisconsindot.gov/av-pubs. 

2021-2022 Wisconsin Airport Directory & Pilot’s Guide

For anyone who frequents Wisconsin airports, the all-new Wisconsin Airport Directory and Pilot’s Guide is a must have for your flight bag. The directory contains airport diagrams and essential information like frequencies, services, airport remarks and contact information for all public-use airports and seaplane bases in the state. Participants of the “Fly Wisconsin Airport Passport Program” will also find a description of the stamp location for each airport.  

New this year, we’ve added the directory as a free content pack for ForeFlight. The content pack, along with instructions for installation, can be found on our website. Once downloaded to ForeFlight, users will be able to view the airport directory as a geo-referenced map.  

As always, most aircraft owners registered in Wisconsin will receive a physical copy of the directory in the mail. Hard copies of the directory can be purchased by mailing in an order form found on our website. There you will also be able to view and download a digital pdf version of the directory for free as well.

www.wisconsindot.gov        608-266-3351

 

Posted in Columns, Columns, Columns, February/March 2021, Wisconsin Aeronautics Report | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Breezy Point Aviation Days 2021 Was A Go!

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

With the cancellation of Breezy Point Aviation Days 2020 due to the pandemic, there was pent-up enthusiasm for the annual fly-in held Saturday, May 1, 2021, at Breezy Point Airport – Muller Field (8MN3), Breezy Point, Minnesota. 

Photos by Dale Zoerb

This fly-in is completely free, including the food and drinks, and there are no parking or landing fees. Over 1,200 people showed up to see the 87 airplanes that flew in, and the 74 classic cars on display.

Breezy Point Resort bought farmland in 1964 and built the 2576 X 50 ft. paved, unlit runway (17/35) that exists today. Most recently, an asphalt parking area was built on the East side, midfield. 

The resort retained ownership of the airport over the years, even though the ownership of the resort changed. The airport and the resort finally parted company in 1980, when Hopkins House Breezy Point Co. which bought the resort in 1968, sold the airport to a group of pilots and Breezy Point Airport, Inc. was founded. Most of the adjacent properties, hangars and residences along the runway are deeded to private owners.  

The airport is private and operated by its shareholders. Flight operations are limited to its members and their guests. Pilots who flew in for the fly-in were required to preregister in advance at https://www.breezypointairport.com/ and receive a briefing.

The mission of Breezy Point Airport – Muller Field is to further the enjoyment of general aviation by providing an airport that is safe and valuable to the community. The airport is located 12 miles north of Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport, northwest of Pelican Lake. 

The Breezy Point Airport Preservation Group is an affiliated group of aviation enthusiasts dedicated to preserving the property as an active airport. The group supports growth in the number of  pilots who use the airport and who become shareholders in the airport corporation.   

For more information, contact the airport manager, Cliff Muller, at 218-838-3434. Tom Moroni is treasurer of Breezy Point Airport, Inc.

Posted in Airports, All Headlines, August/September 2021, Events, Headlines | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Eagle River, Wisconsin… A Vacation Paradise Year-Around

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

Jenifer Oimoen Photo

by Dave Weiman
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

Just the name “Eagle River” suggests a Northwoods appeal…  Abundant wildlife; rustic, yet modern accommodations; a river and a chain of crystal-clear lakes; boating and water sports; fishing tournaments; bicycle, cross-country skiing, snowmobile and ATV trails; horseback riding; golfing and tennis; excellent restaurants; a friendly atmosphere; and a first-class airport!

 

I’ve been flying to Eagle River ever since local and international businessman, Ray Rubin, stopped by the airport one day in 1988 and picked up a copy of Midwest Flyer Magazine. After reading the magazine, he gave us a call, and bought an advertisement to promote a Canada fishing resort he built in partnership with Al Reed of Winnipeg, Manitoba. As soon as the airstrip was in, Ray and I flew up to the resort, while the resort was still under construction. Once finished, the resort was rated five stars! That was the start of the annual Canada Fishing Fly-Out we promote each year, now at Miminiska Lodge in northern Ontario (CPS5).

Eagle River was the site of the first permanent Indian settlement in the Wisconsin Northwood’s, located on the shores of Watersmeet Lake where the Wisconsin River and Chain of Lakes meet. These early Indians were called Old Copper Indians and were succeeded by the Woodland Indians from 2,600 B.C. to 800 A.D. They are believed to be the ancestors of the Chippewa, Potawatomi and Menominee. Settlers started coming to the area in 1857. Logging and fur trading were the dominant trades. It wasn’t until 1925 with the development of the automobile that the resort industry began to grow.

At its peak, there were 1,600 residents in Eagle River. The current population is 1,431. The city’s name was derived from the abundance of eagles nesting along the river.

Eagle River has retained its small, northern Wisconsin appeal, but gone are the days of the “ma and pa” resorts that rented little cabins with outhouses, which have since been sold to individuals who made improvements and formed condominium associations. Today, resorts are modern, and many privately-owned cabins have been replaced with glorious lake homes, most of which are weekend getaways!

My idea of an ideal vacation is to fly into Eagle River Union Airport (KEGV), rent a car and drive over to one of the marinas, such as Boat Sport Marina, (https://www.boatsport.com/), and rent a boat, then boat on over to a resort, such as the Chanticleer Inn (http://www.chanticleerinn.com/).

Dollar Lake.
Peggy Weiman Photo

The Chanticleer Inn, where our family has stayed many times, dates back to 1922, with the Alward family purchasing the property in 1951, which now consists of 30 acres. In January 1964, the Alwards pioneered the first World Championship Snowmobile Derby on nearby Dollar Lake, which two years later moved to the permanent derby site near the airport on Highway 45 North. Today, Dollar Lake is the location for the annual Labatt Blue USA Adult Pond Hockey Tournament. Thirty (30) hockey rinks dot the 107-acre lake for the three-day event that attracts 2,000 participants and spectators. As many as 300 teams from across the country participate on adult male, female and co-ed teams. The players range in age from 18 to 70-plus!

During our stay this summer, we found Dollar Lake wonderful for swimming and kayaking, and aside from one fisherman we saw one day, and a mom and her three toddlers another day, we had the lake all to ourselves.

Owners Jake and Sue Alward live in a private residence adjoining the Chanticleer property and were very accommodating. In fact, Jake himself rented us the kayaks.

Photo Courtesy of the Eagle River Chamber of Commerce.

Besides boating, fishing and water skiing, golfing is a popular sport in Eagle River, and one of the best golf courses in the area is Lake Forest Golf Course. It features nine (9) holes and 2819 yards from the longest tees for a par of 36. The course rating is 33.8 and it has a slope rating of 115. Best of all, the course is open to the public (http://www.lakeforest-golfclub.com).

Lake Forest Golf Course was originally called Eagle Waters Golf Club. In 1917, a small group of wealthy regulars started a private club open to only an elite group of cottage owners and their guests. Many famous people golfed there, with President Dwight D. Eisenhower being a frequent visitor in the 1950s. The 210-acre club was sold in 1963 and built in its place was Lake Forest Resort and Club, Wisconsin’s first successful timeshare resort. Lake Forest Resort has condominiums for rent, and yes, we’ve stayed there as well (www.lakeforestresort.com).

Like all vacation destinations following the pandemic, Eagle River is playing catchup with people again going on vacations and dining out at restaurants, so you need to book well in advance for accommodations, and the earlier you can go out for lunch and dinner, the better!

Upon Ray’s recommendation, we dined at the Kickback Grill (https://kickbackgrilleagleriver.com) on beautiful Duck Lake, once by car and once by boat. A well-maintained pier makes boating to the restaurant very enjoyable. Dining indoors and on the patio is available.

Since the uniqueness of Eagle River is its chain of lakes, a great pastime is to boat the chain from Eagle River to Three Lakes, Wisconsin, which takes a full day roundtrip. However, Three Lakes Municipal Airport (40D) has a 3400 X 120 ft grass airstrip (Rwy 03/21) on the east end of town, so you can fly there as well. The Sunset Grill and C-Store, and Jake’s Bar and Grill, are located a half-mile from the northeast end of the airport. Check with your ForeFlight app or the Wisconsin Airport Directory and Pilot’s Guide for additional information.

We also enjoy boating around at 5-10 kts looking at the beautiful homes and historic boat houses. Over the years, we’ve also done our share of waterskiing with our kids. Now it’s time to teach our grandchildren.

This region of Wisconsin has a lot of aviation history. Jack Vilas, for whom the county is named after, was one of the first people to have a commercial aircraft operation.

Eagle River Union Airport Manager, Rob Hom. Dave Weiman Photo

Eagle River Union Airport was built in the 1930s and the runway orientation that exists today is from the mid-1970s. The airport is operated by the City of Eagle River, Town of Lincoln and Town of Washington. The airport features a separate helipad for medevacs and a Civil Air Patrol squadron is located on the field.

When you fly to Eagle River, you will be greeted by airport manager, Rob Hom, and his staff. Full and self-service fuel is available (100LL and JET A), as well as courtesy cars and bicycles for quick trips to town for breakfast, lunch or dinner, and car rental for longer stays.

One fall while flying home from the Upper Michigan Peninsula, we diverted to Eagle River because of weather, and was able to rent a car on short notice. But this is not always possible, especially during the summer. So, if you plan to vacation in Eagle River, it’s best to call ahead to reserve a car.

AVIS is located on the field, featuring midsize, SUVs and minivans. The airport also has heated hangar space, as it does get cold up there come winter.

Rob Hom was born and raised in St. Catharines, Ontario, which is near Niagara Falls. He attended Confederation College of Applied Arts and Technology in Thunder Bay, where he received his Commercial Pilot Certificate, Seaplane Rating and a degree in Aviation (Flight) Management.

After graduating, Rob flew for Weagamow Air in Weagamow (Round Lake), Ontario; Central Air Transport in Sioux Lookout, Ontario; and Lac La Croix Quetico Flying Service out of Crane Lake, Minnesota and Lac La Croix, Ontario from 1983 to 1992. He flew de Havilland Beavers, Otters, Cessna 180s/185s and an Aeronca Champ – all on straight floats in the summer, and skis in the winter. That’s when Rob met his American wife, Katie, and they moved to Garrison, Minnesota in 1992, where Katie accepted a position as a veterinarian and Rob changed careers, serving as an assistant manager at Mille Lacs Golf Resort. They moved to Ashland, Wisconsin in 1998 to be closer to family. Rob began his career in airport management at John F. Kennedy Memorial Airport in Ashland in 2000 and was appointed manager at Eagle River Union Airport in 2009. Rob and Katie have a daughter and two sons.

In his freetime, if Rob isn’t flying his 1946 Taylorcraft BC12D, he is either making pottery or playing soccer and coaching the local high school soccer team.

Eagle River Union Airport features a 5000 ft hard surface runway (04/22) with RNAV (GPS), LOC/DME, and VOR/DME approaches, and a 3400 ft crosswind runway (13/31). The airport accommodates all GA aircraft, including large corporate jets. It is not uncommon to see a half-dozen or more jets parked on the north ramp on a busy weekend, some with passengers from as far away as the West Coast. Ample parking is available in front of the terminal building for small GA aircraft.

The modern, but rustic-looking terminal building has a conference room, ice and vending machines, pilot lounge with Direct TV, a flight planning room, and free wi-fi and internet access. If after visiting Eagle River you fall in love with the community and want to spend more time there, the airport has vacant land available for hangar development, and there’s plenty of real estate companies to choose from.

Aircraft maintenance is available at Noble Aviation. Contact Roger Shadick for additional information: 715-477-0719.  

For a complete listing of all airport services, visit www.erairport.com or call Rob Hom at 715-479-7442 or email fbo@erairport.com. 

Besides its first-class airport, Eagle River is home to Eagle Fuel Cells (https://www.eaglefuelcells.com/), which is owned and operated by Kurt Hartwig. The Hartwig family consists of longtime pilots and residents of Eagle River, and Kurt, his dad, Carl, and son, Andrew, 17, are pilots and EAA members. In fact, Carl and his brother, Albert, were among only 150 people who attended the first EAA Fly-In at Milwaukee Timmerman Airport in 1953. Andrew is the current Cadet Commander for the Eagle River Civil Air Patrol Chapter and will be attending EAA AirVenture this year as a Blue Beret. Kurt served on the Eagle River Union Airport Commission for 10 years during the airport’s growth years, and as chairman during his final four years.

Kurt Hartwig

Whether you are looking for fuel cell maintenance and inspection tips, overhaul and replacement options, or researching the historic and technical background of aircraft fuel cells, you will find it at Eagle Fuel Cells. For assistance, call 800-437-8732, 715-891-0524 (Cell) or email: kurt@eaglefuelcells.com. Eagle Fuel Cells exhibits at EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, so you can find them there as well.

To learn more about Eagle River, Wisconsin, go to https://eagleriver.org/.

Posted in All Features, August/September 2021, Destinations, Features | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Experience Moab 360

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

by Yasmina Platt
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

Moab, Utah is one of my favorite hubs for adventure. It has absolutely something for everyone: two National Parks (NP), two more State Parks (SP), lots of open Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land, a cute town (for shopping and restaurants), the Colorado River, camping or glamping, and history (including dinosaur tracks and petroglyphs)… all surrounded by stunning red rock landscapes.

We often spend a week in Moab on our way to/from home with the motorhome and the Jeep Rubicon that we pull behind it. But there are a couple of airstrips to fly into as well. The more obvious one is Canyonlands Regional Airport (KCNY). With a 7,360 x 100 ft paved runway, and a secondary 2,000 x 60 ft gravel runway, this is the easiest way to get in and out, rent a vehicle (suggest a Jeep), etc.

The more adventurous option, but one that requires more planning (such as fuel provisions, food/drinks, potentially camping, etc.), is Mineral Canyon (UT75). This BLM airstrip requires permission prior to landing, but it is otherwise open to the public. Contact the Moab Field Office at 435-259-2100. The airstrip is in the Green River Canyon (about 1,000 ft deep), right between the river and Campground 1. The dirt runway (14/32) is 2,000 x 40 ft. For recent pictures and “ride reports,” visit the Utah Back Country Pilots Association website. Warning – Once there, you may never want to leave! 

Dead Horse State Park
Yasmina Platt Photo

Thelma and Louise Point (What they dropped into at the very end of the movie.)
Yasmina Platt Photo

Some of my favorite sites include, of course, the National Parks. Arches NP has many drives and hikes, including one to see Utah’s iconic Delicate Arch (which you can find on many UT license plates and it’s best viewed early or late in the day). Canyonlands NP is so large that it is divided into two areas: Island in the Sky and The Needles. The NP website has everything you need to plan your trip, including suggested itineraries based on available time. However, for Canyonlands, I suggest driving the Shafer Trail with a 4×4, down Canyonlands to Moab via Potash Road and Scenic Byway 279. The views, including Thelma and Louise’s Point, are phenomenal. If that’s not an option, then you can also do the short hike to Mesa Arch and visit Dead Horse Point State Park instead to view the area from above.

In addition to Dead Horse, the State of Utah is also creating a brand-new state park called “Utahraptor,” only 6 miles from Canyonlands Field Airport.

If you want a more intense 4×4 experience, the Sand Flats Recreation Area is a popular spot for Jeeps and ATVs. The Slick Rock Bike Trail is also popular in this area amongst bicyclists.

No matter how long you visit Moab, you won’t have enough time to do it and see it all. But, no matter what, you’ll have a great time!

If you decide to fly though, flying over the Potash Ponds (along Potash Road… yes, the one you can drive based on my earlier suggestion) makes for an interesting 3D site.

For more information about flying around Utah, visit www.airtrails.weebly.com/utah. Fly safe and fly often… explore and experience!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Yasmina Platt’s new job has her planning the future of aviation infrastructure for Joby’s electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft. She also writes an aviation travel blog called “Air Trails” (www.airtrails.weebly.com), in addition to articles on pilot destinations for Midwest Flyer Magazine. Pilots can locate articles Yasmina has written by going to www.MidwestFlyer.com and typing “Yasmina” in the search box.

Posted in August/September 2021, Columns, Columns, Columns, Destinations | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 13 Comments

Airport Authorities, Commissions, Advisory Councils & You!

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

by Kyle Lewis
Regional Manager
Government Affairs & Airport Advocacy / Great Lakes /
Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

How well do you “know” your airport? How well do you know the recent airport decisions that may impact your home field? If the answer is “not very well,” then read on.

Airport governance is wide ranging. Pilots need to know who makes decisions for the airport and what direction the airport is headed. More importantly, airport stakeholders need to be involved in the decision-making process!

Most airports are owned by a “sponsor” (terminology used in accepting federal grants) that falls under the jurisdiction of the local elected government – perhaps a county, city, township, village, or even multiple owners, as in regional airports. Some sponsors are an airport authority or commission, which is created by local or state law and have the same duties and powers as any other government body. Advisory councils or advisory boards are another form of airport oversight, but with different rules. Let us take a closer look at these airport governing bodies, and how you, as an airport user, can have an impact.   

At most small general aviation (GA) airports, the airport sponsor is the local elected government. Day-to-day operations are the responsibility of an airport manager, who may report to the public works or transportation director or directly to the mayor, county executive, or city administrator. Sometimes the airport manager plays “double-duty” with another role in the local government. The airport manager may have been hired without the requirement for professional airport management training and he or she may be a staff of one!

Regardless of how small the local GA airport is, it will certainly face the same challenges as larger airports – like incompatible land use development, noise complaints, seeking and managing state or federal grant projects, and maintaining a positive community relations campaign.

Small GA airports provide essential services and are a vital transportation mode that connects the local community to the national transportation network. 

Small GA airports may also have their own airport authority, perhaps a multiple-member board comprised of local airport users, or individuals with a strong tie to local business that have an interest in the airport. While this model is not perfect, it does provide a diverse viewpoint for airport planning and development. In some cases, these individuals may not have the best intentions of the airport in mind, creating conflict among the local airport stakeholders. Usually, it takes some educating of these misaligned folks, and once the curtain is pulled back and the economic power of an airport is revealed, they understand the value of the airport and are airport proponents, or at least are open to promoting the airport.    

Airport authorities or commissions usually have the same authority as a local government body and can enter into contracts, have taxable authority, sue or be sued, hire employees, enter into leases, adopt and amend bylaws, acquire land, and create and maintain a police force. All the above-mentioned powers are all in effect to create, operate, and maintain an airport or airports within its jurisdiction. In metro areas, airport authorities are quite large and oversee the development of multiple airports – the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) in Minneapolis oversees seven (7) airports, including KMSP and six (6) GA reliever airports. The MAC is one of the largest airport commissions in the country with over 600 employees, and over 1,500 GA tenants at the reliever airports, not to mention the ever-changing landscape of commercial operators, FBOs, flying clubs and flight schools based throughout the system. 

Airport advisory boards are different. They are “advisory” in nature, have no real authority or power, and usually report to a city or county council on the airport.

The make-up of these advisory boards is similar in description of an airport authority, with diverse opinions and backgrounds. Some airport advisory boards include citizens from neighboring townships or cities. Some advisory boards are only created to deal with specific issues, like noise or relaying community input to airport managers on airport development. Either way, airport advisory boards present an excellent opportunity for local pilots to interact with airport management.

What does this mean to you? I, along with other AOPA Regional Managers and associated staff, receive calls and emails with a panic tone of “the airport manager is doing this (insert seemingly diabolical act here)!” Truth be told, the conversation on any major change, project, renovation, closure, etc. is usually months or years in the making. Most airport tenants and local airport users may not be aware of what has been going on. Don’t be like them! Go to airport authority and advisory board meetings… they are all open to the public. The exception is closed (or executive) sessions, at which votes affecting the public cannot take place.

One silver lining of the COVID pandemic has been the wide adoption of teleconference technology, which allows any airport tenant to participate from anywhere. These public boards are the avenue for transparency and public process. Be a part of them!

Want to be more involved than just listening at an airport board meeting? Become an AOPA Airport Support Network (ASN) Volunteer. AOPA oversees a network of more than 2,000 volunteers who are engaged at their local airport. These volunteers are members of advisory boards, airport authorities, and tenant associations. Is your airport lacking one of the above? AOPA can help institute one of these groups or expand on what is already there.

AOPA ASN Volunteers have access to an online resource library including topics on hosting an airport open house, airport development, community relations, land use and obstructions, economic impact factors, airport funding, compliance, and support groups. We have made it easy to volunteer. Visit www.aopa.org/asn to search for an airport in need of a volunteer and apply! kyle.lewis@aopa.org

Posted in AOPA, AOPA Great Lakes Report, August/September 2021, Columns, Columns, Columns | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

The Show Goes On

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

by Mark Baker
AOPA President and CEO
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

Over the past year, I think we’ve all learned a simple lesson in appreciation. Most of us didn’t realize how much we’d miss the little things: a family gathering, a sporting event, and for us pilots, an airshow. Or to be more specific, the World’s Greatest Aviation Celebration.

I’ve spent many summers at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, long before I became president of AOPA, and I’ll likely return to these grounds long after that title is retired. Along with half  a million aviation enthusiasts, I was disappointed to miss last year’s show. But we’ve waited patiently, weathered the storm, and I can tell you it will feel really good to be at Wittman Regional Airport once again.

Reflecting on previous trips, within minutes the nostalgia sets in. The roar of the military fighters over the flight line, the seaplanes splashing along Lake Winnebago’s shore, and the smell of brats grilling in the afternoon. I’ve missed being in the company of legendary pilots and innovative aircraft. But above all, I’ve missed that unmistakable blue tent proudly displaying my favorite acronym. In other words, I’ve missed seeing you.

Of course, it’s what’s inside AOPA’s tent that brings the magic to life. Over the course of a week, this tent is home to many aviators across the spectrum—rusty pilots, students, professionals, and pilots flying for fun.

I know there are hundreds of exhibitors to visit, lots of merchandise to buy, and many performances to see, but I hope a stop at the AOPA campus is on your agenda. Come say hello to the people behind your AOPA membership who work hard for your freedom to fly every day. Our government affairs staff, AOPA Air Safety Institute experts, member service representatives, and legal specialists are on site to answer any of your questions. Check out our recently renovated AOPA Sweepstakes Grumman Tiger in person (you might be calling it yours someday) or join us and your fellow AOPA members for a great view of the excitement taking place on the flight line. From educational seminars to my Pilot Town Hall, and our social media meet-and-greets, a lot of action is jam-packed into this airshow. We wouldn’t have it any other way.

AirVenture’s weeklong celebration reinforces what makes our aviation community so special and reassures me that our general aviation industry is thriving. The same demand to be in the company of the aviation community is extending to the desire to buy aircraft. Demand for aircraft outstripped supply in numerous market segments in the first quarter of 2021. According to the aircraft valuation service Vref, piston single-engine aircraft accounted for almost 65.5 percent of valuation activity. Cessna 182 Skylane models were at the top of a most-valued list for the category, followed by some Cessna 172s.

The momentum for GA is alive and well. It makes me excited for fly-ins down the road, and especially for our AOPA Aviator Showcases. I think we all could use an excuse to get out and fly! AOPA’s Aviator Showcases will be held August 27 in Manassas, Virginia, and October 1 in Fort Worth, Texas. These events require registration in advance and won’t be like our usual fly-ins, but rather a more intimate experience geared toward connecting pilots with industry leaders in avionics, technology, and aircraft. While these events may take a different shape, I can assure you that they reflect our same passion to connect with the community.

If you aren’t able to make it to our showcase events, we will be hosting a multi-stop air tour later this fall during which members will be able to interact in person with me and other AOPA leaders. I look forward to meeting you, all while building on our aviation inspiration.

I know I’ve said it time and time again, but the GA community never ceases to amaze me. It’s easy to see the spirit of GA come to life each year at grand celebrations like AirVenture or major fly-ins. We should all strive to keep that energy alive year-round for, as they say, the show must go on.

www.aopa.org         800-872-2672

Posted in AOPA, August/September 2021, Columns, Columns, Columns, From AOPA Headquarters | Tagged , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Anita Elliott Worthington

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

1938-2021
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 issue

It is with great sadness to report that contributing editor, Anita Elliott Worthington, passed away on July 14, 2021, from multiple health issues.

Anita was born in Washington, D.C. on September 3, 1938, and graduated from Marjorie Webster Junior College with an English degree, earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in 1973, and a Master of Business Administration from Trinity University in 1980. Anita and her husband, Bob, founded Worthington and Worthington Management Consultants, with Anita as president, and she began her professional writing career.   

Traveling was one of Anita’s and Bob’s shared passions, and together they flew their aircraft to four countries and landed in every state except Hawaii. Her experience in aviation led her to create and write a column, “The Right Seat,” for a national aviation magazine.

Anita requested that any memorial contributions be made in her honor to Mesilla Valley Hospice, 299 Montana Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88005 or www.mvhospice.org.

Posted in August/September 2021, People, Sections, Sections | Tagged , , | Leave a comment

Flying Cross-Country A Lot? A Timeshare May Work For You!

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

by Bob and Anita Worthington
www.BobWorthingtonWriter.com
Copyright 2021. All rights reserved!

Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

Extensive cross-country trips in a small plane are not cheap. In addition to the plane expenditures, there are food and lodging costs. Examine outlays for a 1500-mile trip in a C-182 to a resort for three (3) nights and four (4) days. The flight plan is to fly about 6.5 hours each day, so one (1) night is spent on the road, three (3) nights at a resort, then another night returning home. With the nightly hotel rate averaging $160, including tax, the room costs are $800. Add to this $1,350 for fuel and the trip will cost $2,150, plus food. If we went on this trip, we would have no room costs! Why? Because we own “timeshares.” 

For us owning timeshare property is a worthwhile asset. For others, timeshare ownership is not as beneficial. Now it seems that for many, timeshares are a bad purchase, even a financial disaster. We are aware of this. Timeshares are expensive, based on return versus investment. Each year owners must pay maintenance fees and even when a timeshare is not used, costs continue. Various timeshares use a “points system,” but it can be that points not used in the calendar year are lost.

A friend invested in a timeshare on Marcos Island, Florida with minimal maintenance fees. He touted how inexpensive his vacations were due to the low annual costs. Over time the yearly amount paid by the owners failed to sustain the upkeep and taxes, so the timeshare went bankrupt. Another friend had a timeshare in one location with a specific period to be used. But taking a vacation in the same place, at the same time, became boring and the maintenance fees excessive. 

Our time shares are a valuable part of our portfolio. We accept that time shares are expensive. We do not consider them an investment. We understand that selling a paid-off timeshare is extremely hard to do (and if sold, could be at a fraction of what you paid for it). Conversely, a timeshare with a mortgage is almost impossible to sell. With all this dire information regarding timeshares, why do we own some?  

For us, owning timeshares is because of the convenience and benefits attached to ownership. It has proven to be of immense value. Let us share with you the how and why of our timeshares.

First, it should be known that we flew all over the U.S. every year. As aviation journalists, we covered events and airshows around the country. We lived in the southwest but visited friends and family up and down the east coast. We covered around 28,000 miles a year. That added up to 30 to 40 nights spent elsewhere with a cost of several thousand dollars. We also love to take mini vacations at resorts and enjoy a few days of being pampered.

It started one day 15 years ago when we received an invitation to spend three (3) nights and four (4) days at a Hilton Grand Vacations Club Resort on The Strip in Las Vegas. The only requirement was to attend a timeshare presentation. Aware of the financial pitfalls of timeshares, initially we declined. On second thought we said, why not? Spending two hours in an intense sales pitch session seemed a fair price for three full days in Vegas, so we signed up. The presentation was scheduled for the morning of our second day.

Our first evening, at a casino next door, we were asked to visit another local timeshare operation. If we would attend a session the next morning, we would be presented a complimentary dinner. We ate a delicious meal and sat in the spiel. It was an education into buying timeshares. The sellers only had one resort, in Las Vegas (only one location like my friend). Calculating a cost analysis, we quickly realized it was not beneficial to us in any way. Now for the Hilton sales pitch, we had an idea of what we should look for.

Before the Hilton presentation, we wrote down questions to ask the presenter. Costly maintenance fees, yes! Loosing points if not used, yes! How much time do we get for how much money, yes! Can we only stay at the timeshare in Vegas, yes! Are there other places we could stay outside Las Vegas, yes! Before the presentation, we took time to do some Internet research on Hilton Hotels Resorts. What we found surprised and impressed us.

The next morning, we listened to the purchase performance, and at the conclusion, we were assigned to a sales consultant, Torry (known as a vacation counselor), who then began the sales pitch. We asked all of our questions and received what a timeshare costs (from a few thousand to several hundred thousand dollars) depending on what we bought. We did some financial calculations and decided to buy. In 2006, we bought our first unit. In 2007, another, and over the next six years, we purchased three more. Torry was our sales rep for each purchase.

Here is why we bought the timeshares.

Our level of membership is now at the top tier, so we receive numerous benefits (for instance, we pay no fees for any transactions regarding reservations or converting points) and additional perks when staying at any Hilton property. We never lose any points because we convert any unused points at the end of the year to Hilton Honors points, which are never lost. These points can be used at any of Hilton’s 15 brand hotels or resorts covering most market segments of travelers. Located in almost 600 locations in six countries around the world, we have never been disappointed during any of our stays.

This is how it worked for us. On a cross-country flight, we may not be certain where we would stop for the night (sometimes we would fly until tired; other times weather might force us to land, sooner than expected). Upon landing, in the FBO while the plane was being fueled, I would call an 800 number, explain where we were and ask for a reservation at a local Hilton property. We would then call the hotel, and they would pick us up. The next day, the hotel provided breakfast (free) and a ride back to the airport. Our bill would be zero.

Our annual timeshare maintenance fees run about $6,467, and we get 35 to 40 nights a year on our points at hotels or resorts. The cost of rooms and breakfasts (if we had to pay) would run around $6,700 to $7,800. To calculate precisely over the 15 years of timeshare ownership what we received versus what we paid would be impossible (the 2016 value was almost $215,000, but we did not pay close to that). What we enjoy is the ability and convenience to use the Internet or phone to make any reservations we want at first-class properties, knowing that we will be treated as respected and valued guests, and not have to consider any costs. Now that is convenience!

Over time, we have flown to and vacationed at resorts in Key West, Fla. Jamestown, Va., Palm Springs, Calif., Las Vegas, Nev., Scottsdale, Ariz., in the Rocky Mountains, the southern Blue Ridge Mountains, and dozens of other retreats, around the country. And we realize we can point out how much we spent on acquiring the timeshare and the annual fees. But what would a cottage on the shores of a beautiful lake cost? It would have a multitude of expenses. We see our timeshare in the same light.  

As we said, timeshares are not investments, and we do not plan to sell them. When we pass, our daughters will inherit them. We are traveling less, yet we still can use the points.  One daughter and her family (daughter, husband and their two daughters) from Hawaii, will be spending several weeks on the mainland visiting us and friends and other relatives. For overnight travel stays, we have booked 34 nights using our Hilton Honors points. No one gets a bill.

For us, our timeshares are and have been a worthwhile venture. Other hotel and resort chains offer timeshare options. Your due diligence research can determine if it will benefit you. It works for us.

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pilot, Viet Nam veteran and former university professor, Bob Worthington of Las Cruces, New Mexico, is the author of “Under Fire with ARVN Infantry” (https://mcfarlandbooks.com/product/Under-Fire-with-ARVN-Infantry/), and producer of the 2019 film “Combat Advisor in Vietnam” (www.borderlandsmedia.com). Facebook: Bob Worthington Writer. Website: www.BobWorthingtonWriter.com. Worthington has placed excerpts about combat flying in Vietnam (from his books) on his website. Here is a direct link to those excerpts: www.BobWorthingtonWriter.com/combat-flying-in-vietnam/. Every couple of months he will add another excerpt.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this column is the expressed opinion of the author only, and readers are advised to seek the advice of their personal flight instructor, mechanic, attorney and others, and refer to the Federal Aviation Regulations, FAA Aeronautical Information Manual and instructional materials before attempting any procedures or following any advice discussed herein.

Anita Elliott Worthington
1938-2021

It is with great sadness to report that contributing editor, Anita Elliott Worthington, passed away on July 14, 2021, from multiple health issues.

Anita was born in Washington, D.C. on September 3, 1938, and graduated from Marjorie Webster Junior College with an English degree, earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah in 1973, and a Master of Business Administration from Trinity University in 1980. Anita and her husband, Bob, founded Worthington and Worthington Management Consultants, with Anita as president, and she began her professional writing career.   

Traveling was one of Anita’s and Bob’s shared passions, and together they flew their aircraft to four countries and landed in every state except Hawaii. Her experience in aviation led her to create and write a column, “The Right Seat,” for a national aviation magazine.

Anita requested that any memorial contributions be made in her honor to Mesilla Valley Hospice, 299 Montana Ave., Las Cruces, NM 88005 or www.mvhospice.org.

Posted in August/September 2021, Columns, Columns, Columns, The Left Seat | Tagged , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

A Prepurchase Inspection Can Be An Annual Inspection, But It’s Usually Not That Thorough

Posted on July 23, 2021 by mwflyer

by Pete Schoeninger
Copyright 2021. All rights reserved!
Published in Midwest Flyer Magazine August/September 2021 online issue

Therefore, Buyers Need To Be Realistic If Their Mechanic Misses Something.

Q: What’s the latest on the used airplane market?

A: From what I see and hear, the market continues strong as we come out of the Covid mess.  I think the reasons for a strong market have some parallels to the strong market for used cars. It is my opinion that a good used Cessna (or Piper, or Beech, or Cirrus) will probably continue to be a good investment unless our whole economy goes south.

More specifically, older Cessna 172s (1956 to mid-1970s) have jumped in value roughly $10 grand in the last several months. I suspect what happened is that the buyer who was looking for a $50K late 1970s C 172 found those prices had jumped, so those buyers began grabbing older ones, driving up their price as well. Other changes, according to the Summer 2021 edition of the Aircraft Bluebook (www.aircraftbluebook.com), include late model V 35B Bonanzas jumping in value $10 grand or so, the same with older Cessna 206s, and older Cirrus aircraft.

Q: I have heard that some aircraft mechanics will no longer do a prepurchase inspection? Is this true, and if so, why?

A: Yes, true. There is no legal definition of a prepurchase inspection. Some mechanics may feel (sometimes correctly) that a prospective buyer is looking for a complete review of the prospective purchase by paying only for a couple hours of inspection time. If, after the airplane is purchased, significant hidden problems or paperwork issues are found that were not discovered during a brief prepurchase inspection, the new owner may hold the mechanic responsible. In other words, the reward of a few hours of revenue may not be worth the risk – or hassle – of missing an item or two.

Q: I have noticed my recently acquired Skyhawk wants to turn a bit to the right on landing roll and while taxiing. Could my main wheels be out of alignment?

A: Possibly, but unlikely. In my experience, the very simple cause is that one tire has lower air pressure than the other. Service your two main tires to the same recommended air pressure and see what happens.

You can do a primitive tire alignment test yourself in 5 minutes, or a better test in 30 minutes, as follows, if your wheel pants are off: Put the tab of a tape measure in the center tread of the front of the tire and measure the distance to the front of the other main tire. Then do the same for the rear of the tires. You should find the measurement about the same, or possibly showing a little toe in. But if your tires are worn, or lumpy, here is the half-hour test: Clamp a 4 ft straight edge to the brake disc on each side. Then measure the distance just ahead of the wheels, and at the end of the 4 ft straight edges. If you find a significant difference, or correcting tire pressure does not cure your problem, it is time to consult your mechanic.

Q: Everybody knows Beech made a few aerobatic Bonanzas, models E 33C and F 33C about 50 years ago. A friend told me a few of the Sundowners around 1970 were also aerobatic legal. He said you can tell aerobatic versions because of a slightly different paint scheme. Is he right?

A: CAUTION! Paint has no structural properties. I have seen a Sundowner repainted with the aerobatic scheme that was NOT an aerobatic legal airplane! The Pilot’s Operating Handbook should be used to determine aerobatic certification. Beech added an aerobatic kit during construction to some airplanes, but to only a few. Be cautious. 

Q: A friend asked me to take her for a ride over her newly acquired rural property. In doing so, I did a 45-degree bank, and made some slightly steeper banks for wind correction to keep us at about the same distance from her place as we circled. She turned green and almost lost lunch. Is there a better way to view an object on the surface that is less upsetting to a nervous passenger?

A: Yes, a State Patrol pilot told me about a technique he used years ago. He suggested that rather than circle a place, fly just to the left of the main attraction on a straight line, at slightly reduced power. (And don’t forget to stay at least 500 feet over sparsely populated areas, or 1,000 feet over congested areas). Doing so will give your passenger in the right seat a nice view of the place, while your airplane is in level flight. The State Patrol pilot said they used that technique to overfly a suspected crime property. They would only pass over once and keep on the same heading for several miles after passing overhead. Doing so, he felt, lessened the chances that bad guys thought the cops were looking at them.

Q: Hey Pete, I recently became a private pilot. Hooray! Now, I am being solicited to join both EAA and AOPA. Should I?

A: I strongly urge you to join at least one pilot organization… preferably both. Doing so adds your name to the clout these organizations carry when they lobby for reasonable changes and improvements from the Feds, if for no other reason. Both organizations also have knowledgeable staffs who can answer a myriad of aviation-related questions.

Q: My Cessna 172B needs its engine (Continental 145 hp) replaced and I am looking for ideas. My engine has 2400 hours since overhaul and over 5000 hours total time. It has the original cylinders on it. Now, one cylinder is shot and the other five are marginal. Clearly, it is past time for an overhaul or engine replacement. I would love to install a new 180 hp Lycoming but am concerned with even asking what that would cost. Do you have any ideas and rough cost estimates for a 180 hp conversion, or even just the cost of overhauling my present engine? I only fly about 75 hours a year, all for pleasure.

A: Overhauling your present engine with six new cylinder assemblies, and many other parts, including new hoses, baffles, accessories, and probably overhauling your propeller, will cost you roughly $25 – $30,000. Installing in a new Lycoming 180 hp engine with a new prop as well is going to cost you at least $60,000. If you are flying only 75 hours a year, putting $30K or $60K is a lot of money to sink into an airplane. At 75 hours per year, your engine will “time out” (12 years is recommended overhaul period for both engines you are considering) before it uses up its expected 2,000 or so hours. If you aren’t going to use up the full value of either engine choice, you might want to consider a used engine at half the price of overhauling your worn-out engine, if you can find one from a reputable seller. Be sure to include your mechanic in this search.

Q: I have been gifted a 1969 Cessna 172 from my recently deceased uncle. I am a pilot and have flown it a few times. Overall, the airplane is in good shape, but all the avionics are completely outdated, and I suspect even illegal to use. I will only use the airplane for simple VFR flying. What’s your guess on costs to install a basic VFR setup?

A: I spoke with Bruce Botterman, owner of NewView Technologies in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Bruce estimated perhaps $8,500 for a basic transponder with ADS-B, a com unit, and a simple GPS receiver.

Q: With fall just around the corner, any precautions or suggestions?

A: Fall is my favorite time of the year. Lots of clear, cool weather. Watch out for ground fog forming as temps drop quickly as darkness arrives. If you are not current for night flying, remember darkness approaches about a few minutes earlier every day. Each fall, pilots, who are not night current, get stuck flying with passengers after dark. Don’t be one of them! It’s not legal, and it’s not safe!

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pete Schoeninger is a 40-year general aviation veteran, starting out as a line technician as a teenager, advancing through the ranks to become the co-owner and manager of a fixed base operation, and manager of an airport in a major metropolitan community. He welcomes questions and comments via email at PeterSchoeningerLLC@gmail.com.

DISCLAIMER: The information contained in this column is the expressed opinion of the author only, and readers are advised to seek the advice of others, and refer to aircraft owner manuals, manufacturer recommendations, the Federal Aviation Regulations, FAA Aeronautical Information Manual and instructional materials for guidance on aeronautical matters.

Posted in Ask Pete, August/September 2021, Columns, Columns, Columns | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment