Sun 'n Fun spectators flock to AOPA tent, Commander

Sun 'n Fun spectators flock to AOPA tent, Commander

AOPA's Commander Countdown 2005 Sweepstakes grand prize - a Commander 112A - has been attracting a steady stream of spectators at Sun 'n Fun. One of the main attention-getters on the aircraft is its propeller painted by American Propeller's unique propeller paint application process called Designer Prop.

Even though most of the work on the Commander goes on at factories behind closed doors, spectators at Sun 'n Fun had the rare opportunity to watch some of the detail work done first hand. Paul Howes of Moody Aero Graphics added the AOPA Sweepstakes Commander Countdown decal to the aircraft's fuselage Tuesday morning.

Groups also are gathering around Chelton's FlightLogic 3-D Synthetic Vision EFIS display in the AOPA tent to watch a computer demonstration of how the technology works. ( View a short video of the FlightLogic panel in action.) The Chelton FlightLogic EFIS is only one of the many exciting features on N112WN. AOPA Pilot staff members are at the aircraft to provide the inside scoop on the Commander's restoration progress.

But that's not all there is at the AOPA tent. The association has a mini version of its Frederick headquarters staff set up to answer all of your questions. Whether its membership renewal, insurance quotes, credit card applications, or questions about AOPA products and services, it's all available in the tent - an area that one visitor commented was one of the most "high-tech" displays at the event.

MBNA is accepting credit card applications and handing out free AOPA T-shirts to each person who completes an application. The AOPA Insurance Agency is providing quotes, and AOPA staff members are providing interactive demonstrations of AOPA's Real-Time Flight Planner and the AOPA Online Safety Center.

Those who stop by the tent can enter daily drawings. Prizes include an AOPA umbrella, blanket, clock, sweatshirt, AOPA day bag, and duffel bag.

For complete Sun 'n Fun coverage, see our Sun 'n Fun news page.

April 12, 2005