AOPA rededicates First Flight pilot facility

Ten years after dedicating a pilot facility at North Carolina’s First Flight Airport (KFFA) in the name of AOPA members, it was rededicated Aug. 19 by AOPA Vice President of the Pilot Information Center Woody Cahall.

In 2001, leading up to the Centennial of Flight, AOPA, like other aviation associations, was looking for an opportunity to leave a legacy. “There were lots of things discussed on what we could do,” he recalled. “We wanted it to be lasting and represent AOPA members.”

“AOPA worked with the National Park Service and other organizations to make the building a reality,” said Cahall. “Pilots at KFFA now have a place out of the weather to do flight planning and relax before visiting” Kill Devil Hills, where the Wright Brothers made their historic flight.

The facility is open every day of the year, and offers amenities for visitors, plus a fantastic view of the monument, said Cahall.

“It is an honor to do this on National Aviation Day,” said Barclay Trimble, superintendent of the National Park Service’s Outer Banks Group. “This building would not be here without the support of AOPA. It’s an amenity that has been used by numerous people,” he said. “We look forward to many more years of partnership.”