One of the greatest challenges for pilots is conveying to nonpilots the joy and emotion received from piloting an airplane. Most pilots who have seen the film One Six Right agree that the high-definition documentary with its spectacular images and soaring musical score carries the message better than any other medium.
Now, nonpilots across the country have the opportunity to view this film through their local PBS stations. One Six Right producer and director Brian Terwilliger reports that the film has been shown in 15 television markets since PBS released it to its affiliates in April. The affiliates are free to show the film as frequently as they wish over the next 21 months.
As AOPA Pilot columnist Barry Schiff wrote in the June 2005 issue, “ One Six Right is more than a documentary about an airport. It is a love story about aviation, and I doubt there are many pilots who will see this film and not shed a tear of joy and one of sadness. Does the movie preach to the choir? How many not involved in aviation will see this film? The breadth of its exposure, I think, is up to us, those with the greatest interest in the survival of GA. Know people who speak negatively about airports or want to limit their operations? Be certain they see this movie. It will help them understand the importance of and need for general aviation. One Six Right can help ensure that future pilots will have a place to land.”
Finally, the PBS project brings One Six Right to the masses, said Terwilliger.
The film debuted in private showings in 2005 and later on DVD. Since then, the project has taken on a life of its own, Terwilliger explained, becoming a metaphor for the general aviation experience.
Pilots can contact their local PBS affiliate to ask that it broadcast the film. See the PBS Web site for information on finding your local affiliate.
Thomas B Haines
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