Now is the time to stick up for general aviation. Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty has several seats to fill on the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), a body that has not had strong GA representation for quite some time. The MAC runs Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport (MSP) and six GA reliever airports (Airlake, Anoka County-- Blaine, Crystal, Flying Cloud, Lake Elmo, and St. Paul Downtown Holman Field) in the area. The governor appoints commission members to four- year terms, and they serve on a volunteer basis. A few AOPA members with strong credentials have already applied. Please let the governor know that there are applicants with solid GA experience and good business backgrounds. The next chance for appointments to this important state commission may not come for another four years. Contact the governor by phone 651/296-3391; fax 651/296-2089; or by e-mail. For more information on candidates of whom AOPA is aware, contact AOPA Airport Support Network Director Stacy Platone Swigart.
March 30, 2007