Events: For the young—and young at heart
Triple Tree to host Young Aviators Fly-In
Recognizing those who help others
The fifth annual Endeavor Awards will be held May 12 at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. A gala that honors the work of volunteer pilots on humanitarian flights, the awards are presented by Angel Flight West, which originated the event.
In addition to recognizing the volunteer pilots who fly the missions—providing access to medical care, transporting veterans, rescuing animals, mapping environmental areas, and assisting in disaster relief—the awards also honor two aviation luminaries with the “Inspiration Award.” To be honored this year are Bill Ayer, former CEO of Alaska Air Group; and Dale Klapmeier, CEO of Cirrus Aircraft.
Volunteer pilots are nominated and voted on by the Endeavor Awards committee and are announced that evening. A black-tie-optional event, the Endeavor Awards take place under the space shuttle Endeavour, which hangs from the expansive science center ceiling above the invited guests. AOPA is a sponsor of the event.
College student Cayla McLeod and commercial pilot Ryan Hunt are launching “the young people’s Oshkosh” June 8 through 10 at the sprawling Triple Tree Aerodrome in South Carolina, known for its putting-green-perfect 7,000-foot-long grass strip. McLeod, a tailwheel private pilot who earned her certificate in January, plans to make the first-ever Young Aviators Fly-In a low-cost, fun event with options that keep visitors occupied and engaged.
The University of West Georgia communications major said the fly-in will be “for young aviators and presented by young aviators,” but all are welcome.
The private airfield in the rolling foothills of the Appalachian Mountains attracts aviators who fly a variety of aircraft—from warbirds to remote-control airplanes. It is the place to experience outdoor camping with most of the creature comforts of home. “We’re hoping to have a movie night, swimming in the pond, and fishing. I’m not an RC person, so I don’t know anything about it, but the folks at Triple Tree are the experts,” McLeod said, “and we plan to teach kids how to solo an RC airplane.”
Attendees can purchase a continental breakfast, and food trucks will be on site throughout the weekend. Other plans include free camping, with access to the field’s wood-paneled restrooms with showers, and a lot of camaraderie. A wooden gazebo and pavilion on site are ideal gathering spots for judging others’ landings to Runway 3/21.
McLeod invited “dozens of colleges” with aviation programs and received commitments from many, including Auburn University, Middle Georgia State University, Middle Tennessee State University, and Averett University in Virginia. Aviation workshop subjects, panel discussions, and safety seminars will be tailored to improve younger pilots’ decision making and will be presented in an engaging environment.
“It may be called the Young Aviators Fly-In, but everyone is welcome to attend, and we need help from seasoned aviators as well.” With coaching from the Triple Tree aviators and others, McLeod says the gathering will be a safe and successful event.
Email [email protected]
Web: www.tripletreeaerodrome.com/youngaviatorsflyin.php
Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome celebrates 60 years
On May 19, the Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome will celebrate its diamond jubilee, honoring the early years of aviation. Located in New York's Hudson River Valley, the aerodrome is home to an amazing collection of aircraft from the pioneer era to the golden age of aviation. From Curtiss biplanes to a Fokker triplane, a Hanriot to a Tiger Moth, the living history museum flies and showcases more than 60 different aircraft. The aerodrome opens for the season May 1. The jubilee celebration of its 60 years will feature demonstrations, flying acts, and an evening gala.
