San Juan Pilots Association

Date Set for 2012 Friday Harbor Fly-In

2012-02-02T14:21:00.000-08:00

Airport Manager, Dave Ryan, has announced Saturday, July 21 for this year's Friday Harbor Airport Fly-In and Open House. The date was announced at today's organizational meeting at the airport. Similar to last year's event, the Fly-In hours are 10a-3p.Below is a video of last year's Fly-In.

Friday Harbor, WA Fly-In 2011 from Fred Schumacher on Vimeo.

Westwind to Host iPad Forum Sat, 2/4

2012-01-30T11:30:00.001-08:00

"IPad Forum - From Paper to Electronic"
Topic: Going from paper to electronic - how the IPad can provide powerful information in flight.
On Saturday, February 4, 2012 at 10:30 AM
Location:
Westwind Aviation
740 Airport Circle Drive

Friday Harbor, WA 98250

Friday Harbor Airport Power Outage Jan 24

2012-01-23T15:28:00.000-08:00

OPALCO has announced that a power outage to the airport area will be scheduled from about 2-4pm the afternoon of Jan 24. Airport mgr, Dave Ryan says that power to the gates will be off, with the exception of the gate near the tower. The terminal and airport lighting are on generators, but the AWOS will probably be off. Pilots needing weather can call Dave at 378.4724 or his cell at 317.8674.

KFHR Airport announces Master Plan Meeting

2012-01-21T11:56:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, January the 26th at 10:00 a.m. The Port of Friday Harbor will hold a public meeting to discuss the Airport Master Plan Update at the Friday Harbor Yacht Club. This is a preliminary discussion only to discuss aviation forecasts, airport properties inventory, regulatory requirements and alternative growth strategies. We will be talking about future hangar development, the taxiway re-alignment project and how it affects tie-down areas as well as property acquisition and land use. In addition, there will be a discussion on Obstructions in and around the airport with results from the latest aerial and land-based surveys. All are welcome and encouraged to attend. This is your airport and we value your input. Please pass along to your fellow airport users.

David M. Ryan, Airport Manager
Friday Harbor Airport
P.O. Box 889
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-4724
daver@portfridayharbor.org

Friday Harbor Airport Reopens

2012-01-19T07:47:00.001-08:00

Friday Harbor Airport is open as of 07:15 hrs, Thursday, January 19th. The runway has been plowed to 65’. Use caution for patchy snow and ice. Vehicle braking action estimated at “fair to poor” for most of the runway. Taxiway “A” has been plowed full width. Use caution for patchy snow and ice. Some of the other taxiways have been plowed, but still have snow and ice covering them. We will be continuing with snow removal operations throughout the day, but with the continued cold temperatures very little is melting and we expect to have slick areas throughout the airport. Please pass this information along to those in your group. If you have any questions please call me.

Dave Ryan
360.378.4724

Friday Harbor Airport Closure Update - 5pm Wed

2012-01-18T17:00:00.000-08:00

Friday Harbor airport staff has plowed the runway, the main taxiway and the taxiway to Island Air. We will be keeping the airport closed to all but emergency traffic. This is because all surfaces are very slick with braking action from poor to nil. We have plowed a space in front of the tower for helicopter landing in the event of a medevac. We will be back at 7:00 am Thursday to assess the situation. Please call me if you have any questions.

Dave Ryan
360.317.8674

KFHR Temporary Airport Closure

2012-01-18T11:02:00.001-08:00

Effective at 09:45 this morning, I elected to close Friday HarborAirport for safety reasons. Continued snowfall, poor visibility andaccumulations of snow on all surfaces have made air operations unsafe.We will be here monitoring the situation and as conditions improve,will begin trying to clear emergency medical services routes first,followed by other surfaces. If you have any questions please call.Regards,DaveDavid M. Ryan, Airport ManagerFriday Harbor AirportP.O. Box 889Friday Harbor, WA 98250(360) 378-4724

Westwind Aviation Seminar - Jan 21

2012-01-07T17:41:00.001-08:00

"IPad Forum - From Paper to Electronic"
Topic: Going from paper to electronic - how the IPad can provide powerful information in flight.
On Saturday, January 21, 2012 at 10:30 AM
Location:
Westwind Aviation
740 Airport Circle Drive

Friday Harbor, WA 98250
Select Number:
NM0142077

Description:
This forum will explore the different resources available to you with the use of an IPad in the cockpit. Pros and cons of different applications and uses will be discussed. Flight planning, filing, airport database, VFR and IFR charts and more are presented to you in an electronic format, increasing your situational awareness in flight. Learn more about the new world of electronic information available to you as a pilot when using the IPad.

For more information and to register, go to http://www.faasafety.gov/SPANS/event_details.aspx?eid=42077 or call Westwind at 378-6991.

A Great 2011 SJPA Christmas Party

2011-12-12T15:24:00.000-08:00

The winter's premier event featured nationally recognized broadcaster, aviator and author (and SJPA member) John Nance. His presentation, "Flying In the Face of Ignorance, why the Public Doesn't Understand G.A." was greatly appreciated by everyone.

In the words of SJPA President, Mike Taylor, "It was a great event with good food, good friendship and a very interesting program. A special thanks to Lainey and her team for pulling all the details together and creating another fun event!!"

Thanks also to VP, Bob Tauscher, who provided several dozen great photos. Click on the slide show above, cleverly titled, "2011 Christmas Party Slide Show".

Bob Nichols Goes West

2011-11-20T08:51:00.001-08:00

San Juan Island lost a great aviation pioneer last month, with the passing of Bob Nichols. Recognized as a featured pilot at the San Juan Air Museum, Bob touched many lives during his many years on San Juan Island.

A large number of them recognized him at a memorial on November 17. The attached photos are provided by Bill Waxman. There were many memories, followed with a fly-by, with one plane going West.

For a slide show of all the photos, click on the Bob Nichols Memorial page above.

Friday Harbor Airport Construction Update

2011-10-23T12:42:00.000-07:00

Progress on the Vault and Gates project continues with quite a lot of work accomplished since my last report. Crews have placed the conduit and pull boxes in preparation for tying in to the existing lighting circuit, set the new electrical vault building on its pad, replaced all vehicle gates, replaced all gate controllers and some card readers, set the concrete pads for the new Airport Circle Drive streetlights and have wiring in place for all gates and lights. Unfortunately, we’ve run into some difficulty with some of the card readers and keypads not being compatible with the cards that are issued. We’re working with the contractors and engineers to resolve this problem, but it may require changing some related hardware and software which will take some time. In the meantime, we are working to make sure all the gates are operational. (some that had card readers may have a keypad. The code is the same as the other codes around the airport). If you run into problems please call me and we’ll make sure you have access to the airport.

Next week we will be paving the sidewalk around the new vault building, removing the temporary gravel at the gates and replacing it with asphalt, repairing the asphalt at the helipad gate, continuing with card reader and controller replacement and site clean-up.

We also received some news that the emergency lighting generator is on backorder and may not be delivered until December. We are working through these difficulties and are confident the end result will be worthwhile. I appreciate your patience during this construction and ask for your continued patience as we move forward. As always, if you have any questions or concerns please call me.

Regards,

Dave

David M. Ryan,
Airport ManagerFriday Harbor Airport
P.O. Box 889
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-4724
daver@portfridayharbor.org

You Can't Fool Mother Nature

2011-10-09T18:25:00.000-07:00

When SJPA member Darryl Swenson escaped San Juan Island, in favor of Fiji, he forgot that rain is not just for us. He sends this photo to us today.

The Ultimate Night Flight

2011-10-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

This is a time-lapse video from the International Space Station. As aviators we only get to feel this sensation of speed when turning final while qualifying in a new, larger and faster aircraft.

Friday Harbor Airport Construction Update - Sept 30

2011-10-01T11:28:00.001-07:00

Hello Everyone,Over the past week construction has progressed at Friday Harbor Airport with the completion of Gate# 5 and near completion of Gate # 2. Contractors have poured footings and stem walls for the vault and are ready to pour the slab for the vault building and generator. They will begin working on Gate# 3 (next to Ernie’s Café) next week and will pour concrete at the vault site and at Gate #3. We expect this gate to be out of service for approximately one week. Contractors have also been busy removing rust and refurbishing the pedestrian gates throughout the airport. They will begin installing new keypads and card readers soon. Contractors will be working on Gate#4 (next to Aeronautical Services and Island Air) the following week. We do not expect any movement area closures for the next week. We anticipate the contractor receiving the pull boxes for the airfield lighting circuit next week and will plan on our long-awaited closure the night of October 10th or 11th (weather permitting). I’ll keep you advised of any changes as they arise. As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please call me. (Note:) I will be out of town the 1st through the 8th. Please direct any inquiries to Stuart Hansen 360-298-2467. Thank you for your patience! Regards,Dave David M. Ryan, Airport ManagerFriday Harbor AirportP.O. Box 889Friday Harbor, WA 98250(360) 378-4724

2011-09-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

SJPA member Andy Mazzarella shot this over his left shoulder on his departure from Roche Harbor this (9/13/11) morning. It shows the usual "Roche is open" morning, when everywhere else is in the soup. He was on his way to BFI for a low IFR approach.

September Potluck - Featuring Denny Martel

2011-09-09T07:46:00.000-07:00

We've all known SJPA member Denny for a long time, but few have had the chance to hear about his incredible aviation experiences.

Denny points out one of the many places in Alaska he has flown. Each has a good story.

Twilight Landing at LAX

2011-08-31T07:41:00.001-07:00

Friday Harbor Fly-In 2011

2011-08-21T09:51:00.001-07:00

Fly-In 2011 Combined, a set on Flickr.

Photos from Bob Tauscher, Tom Schramm, Dave Cable and Fred Schumacher

Dodie's BBQ 2011

2011-08-14T08:28:00.001-07:00

Dodie's BBQ 2011, a set on Flickr.

The first photos of another big SJPA BBQ at Dodie Gann's Hangar. Everyone enjoyed CAVU weather and a great lunch.

This year's John Volk Memorial Scholarship Fund Auction netted more than $4,000! Thanks to everyone who participated.

First Video - Friday Harbor Airport Fly-In and Open House

2011-07-28T09:42:00.000-07:00

An unqualified success, the show not only attracted thousands of spectators, but some rare aircraft, as well. Click below for some video.

http://youtu.be/AaSEUehCS0U

UFOs Meet At Friday Harbor

2011-07-28T09:38:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 22, about three-dozen of the more than 900 United Flying Octogenarians met for lunch and stories at Ernie's Restaurant at Friday Harbor Airport.

Click the link below for a brief slide show.

http://www.flickr.com//photos/48060845@N03/sets/72157627177284869/show/

Bob Jamieson Flies his Hatz

2011-06-07T09:50:00.000-07:00

After 25 years of work, the Hatz flies. And SJPA member Bob Jamieson fabricated every part on the airplane, except the Lycoming O-360 and prop.

Bob and airplane above, Monday 6/6 near Ernie's, where the restaurant overflowed with area pilots to honor his achievement. It was organized by George Mulligan, who brought a couple of sheet cakes for the well-wishers. There's no more perfect pilot event. Sunshine, an airplane and free cake.

Island Air's Will Hamilton snapped the above and below, as Bob began his taxi for the first flight. Below, N311FH lifts off runway 34 into a perfect summer evening.

Bob says it's not done yet. He has some finishing touches, and has to fly mandated FAA hours before he can put all of us (one at a time) in the front seat.

Very Nice Beaver Video

2011-05-28T18:14:00.000-07:00

Hangar Flying at the May Luncheon

2011-05-27T20:30:00.000-07:00

The conversation spanned decades, as SJPA members flew the tables at the San Juan Golf and Country Club on Friday 5/27.

Charlie Lindenberg remembered flying the Tri-Pacer with the starter button on the floor and the brakes actuated by a Johnson Bar under the panel.

John Kalbert gave us an update on the construction of his second home built, a Zenith. Recalling his story in a recent SJPA Monthly Newsletter, he reaffirmed that airplane building is a winter sport, best done in a heated garage. After this summer, he expects to complete the project this winter.

Darryl Swenson was in town with his Flight Design CTLS (reported in the April Newsletter).

Don and BJ Craddock were there. BJ remembered being in charge of locating area airports with restaurants, for SJPA fly-outs. She said that there were usually 15 or so in the greater Puget Sound. Now, we are down to about 4 or 5. It's all the more reason to make sure we get the "hamburgers" from those who are there for us.

Andy's Pretty Good Day

2011-05-27T11:22:00.000-07:00

The A-26 is less well known than, say, the B17, but remains one of WWII's hottest (may I say "sexiest") flying machines. SJPA member Andy Mazzarella recently got some cockpit time in the one pictured below. And, in keeping with the high standards of a San Juan Pilot, he is shown supporting the arts.

If you'd like to learn to fly the A-26, watch this video.

http://www.zenoswarbirdvideos.com/A-26.html

May 21 is Learn To Fly Day in Friday Harbor

2011-05-12T10:32:00.000-07:00

Westwind Aviation will celebrate International Learn to Fly Day with a Learn to Fly Event May 21, 11a-3p at Friday Harbor Airport.

You can join owner Dan DeShon and staff for a tour of the facility and aircraft, including the only twin-engine charter aircraft in the San Juan Islands.

Also featured will be flying lessons and a 30-minute presentation on What it Takes to Fly, at noon and 2p. Refreshments will be served and part of the event will be a drawing for two free introductory flight lessons.

For more information, please call Westwind Aviation at 360.378.6991, or visit their website here.

Video of the Day - B17 & B25 in HD. Watch it full-screen

2011-04-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

H5 – WWII Bombers over Arizona Landscape from H5 Productions on Vimeo.

San Juan Pilots Earn Gold at FlightSafety

2011-04-06T18:02:00.001-07:00

While many SJPA members were seeking warmer climes this past winter, an intrepid trio of local aviators completed their annual journey to frigid Kansas to train at the FlightSafety International Learning Center in Wichita. Like the characters of Oz, Jim Gruneisen, Jackie Hamilton, and Bob Jamieson were off to see the Wizard of aviation safety where he told them the best safety device in any aircraft is a well trained pilot. FlightSafety is the world’s premier professional aviation training company and operates the world’s largest fleet of advanced full motion flight simulators. Although there’s no place like the San Juan’s, perhaps the only reason to travel to Kansas in the middle of winter would be the experience of training in a $25 million dollar simulator. It turns out our local trio are the only pilots from Washington State that regularly train at the Wichita center, and this time the Wizard awarded them the FlightSafety International Gold Standard signifying they were the best of the best. Congratulations to Jim, Jackie, and Bob.

New San Juan Pilots Member - Darryl Swensen

2011-04-06T17:48:00.000-07:00

I am a fair-weather VFR pilot. I have flown mostly rented Cessna 172s out of Boeing Field in Seattle. I have been flying as a private pilot since 1997.

About six months ago, I bought a Flight Design CTLS. It is a two-seater, light sport aircraft with a Rotax engine. It cruises at about 120 knots while consuming only 5 gallons an hour. It has about a thousand mile range as long as you are willing to glide into your destination airport. It is built in The Ukraine, and the final assembly was performed in Las Vegas. A safety feature that I like is a ballistic parachute that drops the entire airplane - like the Cirrus. I keep my airplane in a hangar in Boeing Field.

I live in Seattle and my wife and I recently bought a second home in Friday Harbor. It is a second home for now, but moving up to the island permanently is a topic of discussion between me and my wife. It is located in town at 480 Nelson St. We are both retired so we plan to spend lots of time there. I have had a checkered career path with stints in commercial real estate and construction, computer security, and investment management. I have been retired for about twelve years.

My flying has been mostly confined to the West Coast. I can claim some international flying experience because I have flown twice in Australia. Once around the Australian outback and on another occasion I flew around Western Australia. I enjoy aerial photography - though strictly as an amateur.

I was born and raised in San Jose California, and I moved to Seattle in 1981.

The Truth About Basic Flight Training

2011-03-28T06:56:00.000-07:00

Dr. Malcolm Heath is this year’s Featured Pilot at the San Juan Aviation Museum

2011-03-17T11:35:00.000-07:00

Presentation Set for March 27, 2pm, at the Roy Franklin Terminal, Friday Harbor Airport

On D-Day, June 6, 1944, more than 1,600 American gliders launched from Chartres, France to

land at Normandy. According to a 1978 edition of the Journal of the San Juan Islands, parachute

infantry surgeon Dr. Malcolm Heath rode in on the only surviving glider of a group of four. At that

moment he likely imagined his death just a few minutes from landing, instead of decades later on

San Juan Island.

Assuming his survival, he probably imagined a civilian life stateside, with a comfortable practice,

out of harms way. In reality, his landing at Normandy would be challenged in intensity by night

flights to Bellingham, beach landings and house calls by boat, in all kinds of weather.

The Port of Friday Harbor, San Juan Pilots Association, as well as friends and patients will gather

March 27 to recognize Dr Heath’s contribution to The San Juan Islands.

Dr. Heath’s post-war practice began in Boston. But, by 1949 he was living on San Juan Island

and was its only doctor. He learned to fly, bought an airplane and a boat and put cars in

Bellingham and Orcas, as well as Friday Harbor.

And, for more than 30-years he was the medical system for the San Juan Islands, caring for all

the families and all the visitors. He took calls at home at night, and visited patients dressed in a

tie and jacket. He took the occasional fishing trip, but painted his boat pink, so that he could be

found, if needed.

He delivered all the babies, escorted the hard cases to Bellingham, sutured the cuts, and calmed

the families.

Teresa (Nash) DeGraaf reached out for some remembrances of Dr. Heath.

Sally Myser Wadhams’ mother, Mary, was his Medical Transcriptionist in the 1960s. Listening to

Dr. Heath’s recorded dictations, her fingers flew on the Medical Center’s electric typewriter.

Norma Smithrud saw Dr. Heath from the time she was in the 4th grade. When she grew up, he

took care of her children. Her memories include a nighttime emergency call, complete with jacket

and tie. And the time, with his hand on her shoulder he said, “Your family has been through so

much.”

Al “H” wrote that Dr. Heath was, “A friend and damn fine Doctor. Saved my life when I had

malaria.”

Nancy (Nash) Hanson remembers Dr. Heath saving her father John from a bleeding ulcer,

accompanying him on a night flight to Bellingham. John lived a decade longer, saw three of his

children married, and became a grandfather eight times over.

John Patz worked for Dr. Heath as a Physician’s Assistant and called him a “Marcus Welby” type.

He described calling a sick-at-home Dr. Heath for help with a patient with a bad laceration. Heath

was there in 45 minutes, wearing a shirt and tie, spent 20 minutes on the laceration. Then, just

said, “That was a bad one,” and went home.

Dr. Heath attempted delivery of Joyce Buffum’s 4 children. Number 4 arrived during a strong

windstorm. Unable to fly, Dr. Heath delivered the last child via the telephone at a church, guiding

the nurse through the process.

Lynnette Guard remembered the birth of son, Frankie. “He stopped by my home (on his way

home) and as he looked out the window he say, “You can’t have the baby tonight, Lynette – It’s

foggy!”

Margaret Mortenson worked as a pharmacist in Friday Harbor. “I worked with Dr. Heath for a

month or more without ever seeing him in person. I began to visualize him from his voice, a

Southerner tinged with an English accent. One day a tall, athletic man with the demeanor of a

person who had just jumped out of an airplane and repacked his chute right there in a grassy field

strode into the drug store. Selma Stoney touched my sleeve and said, “That is Dr. Heath.” He

didn’t look any more like the man in my imagination that Princess Grace resembled Dr. Martin

Luther King.”

Dr. Paul Chiles worked for Dr. Heath in the mid 1970’s. He remembers seeing the first patient at

the new clinic. It was a lady with a broken hand. He installed the cast during the inauguration

ceremony.

Dr. Heath started the first EMT Training Program in 1974, and after his second retirement in

1980, he helped build the fire station at Hanna Heights.

Frank and Sandra Brame lived near him and had the pleasure of spending time at his home often

in the 1980s.

There are big-city medical specialists who might say that a doctor who chooses to have a family

practice out on a tiny island at the remote edge of Northwest America must be in the witness

protection program. The hours are long, the weather at times cruel, and the finances aren’t

rewarding. But, those doctors work, retire and die without Dr. Heath’s legacy.

To three decades of Islanders, he was the doctor. There are San Juan Islanders today who

might not have been born but for Dr. Heath’s saving a parent’s life.

Dr. Heath’s exhibit will serve as a memory for people who knew him, and an education for those

who weren’t so fortunate. The display will remain in place for a year, beginning March 27th. The

unveiling reception at 2:00 pm is free and everyone is encouraged to attend.

A Celebration of Roy Franklin's Life

2011-02-27T14:38:00.000-08:00

Pioneer Aviator Roy Franklin was remembered Saturday, February 26th at the Island Air Hangar in Friday Harbor. Click on the tab above called Roy Franklin Memorial Photos for a complete slide show.

Bill Waxman forwards this description and photo:

Presided over by Archie Brooks, who gave a scripture reading and moderated the speakers, the memorial for Roy Vincent Franklin, at the Friday Harbor Airport, built by him, lasted about three and a half hours.

Aviation pioneer Franklin's offspring gave their recollections of their father and life with him, and then grandchildren and finally students, employees and simply loving friend spoke as well.

The memorial was less a religious event than it was truly a celebration of the life of a colorful man who obviously deeply loved this community and its inhabitants. A groundbreaking starter of private passenger and freight delivery by air, Franklin remains almost a legendary figure in the hearts and minds of those who knew him and will be so for those who did not, as well.

Roy V. Franklin was born May 1, 1924 into a hard working family who, living on a farm typical of its day, without running water or even electrical power of any kind. He grew into a strong young man with "...hands of steel..." from milking the dairy cows on the from and doing the myriad jobs a youngster does in a farm setting.

Later he joined the U.S. Navy, where he became a youthful Ensign during WWII, flying in a Fighter-Bomber Squadron of carrier-based Corsairs.

Throughout his life he remained a strict disciplinarian, and was stubborn to a fault. He had a vision which became the Friday Harbor Airport through his dedication and efforts, because of an abiding faith that some things were too important to ignore, among which were air transport to sick or injured islanders to the nearest hospital when necessary.

Roy still touches the lives of every man, woman or child who has been flown from the island by helicopter or fixed wing in an emergency through his perseverance in finished his task of building an airport from which it all could happen.

As a finale to the event of his memorial, Jackie Hamilton, Chris Marsden and Jesse Lofquist performed a ceremonial "flyby" of the airport to honor Roy Franklin and his surviving family.

The Franklin family wish to thank the Pilots Association members, Jackie and Will Hamilton, John Geyman and Mark Schwinge for "all they have done". Their hope for the patriarch, Roy was expressed thus from a poem by aircraft mechanic and pilot Frank Gunneman:

"Dad....May you find your pathway to the stars."

Roy Franklin's Service Announced

2011-02-15T09:15:00.000-08:00

It's at 1pm, Saturday, Feb 26 at Island Air's Hangar (Friday Harbor Airport). Since a large crowd is forecast, they will need some help with things like chairs, tables, etc. If you can help, just let Bob Brunkow know. bbrunkow@icomcanada.com.

Roy Franklin: A Life of Service to Aviation and the Community

2011-02-04T14:00:00.000-08:00

The following was written by Dr. John Geyman, on the passing of his, and our, friend Roy Franklin. No one could have said it better.

The San Juan Islands have lost a hero in the passing of Roy Franklin. He was a legend in his own time and his death leaves a gaping hole in our aviation and island community.

But look at what he accomplished over his life of dedicated service, despite all the obstacles, as recounted in his excellent book Island Bush Pilot! From flying Hellcats and Corsairs off jeep carriers in World War II to establishing scheduled air service connecting the San Juan Islands to the mainland in 1947, and to carving out our present airport from the woods in 1960. Flying night and day in all kinds of weather for emergency medical flights in the years before navigational aids. And all that with a perfect safety record over more than 30 years of scheduled air service. So many Islanders owe their health, and sometimes their lives, to his courage, skill and carefully calculated judgments about whether or not and how to fly. He is the reason that we have such a good airport and aviation community today.

Roy was his own man. He was used to running his own life, even in death. In his later years, he was hobbled by increasing joint pain and difficulty in getting around. I understand and respect his way of flying on to the next chapter.

Roy, you have left behind an inspiring and legendary life of service to others. We are the fortunate benefactors of all you have done. You have earned a rest. I hope you are soaring with eagles over these very islands that you served so well. Goodbye and thank you for being you.

We Have Lost Roy Franklin

2011-02-04T07:49:00.000-08:00

Before there was an airport on San Juan Island, Roy was flying residents off-island from a muddy cow pasture. He built Friday Harbor Airport, whose passenger terminal bears his name. He taught and inspired countless aviators. And now he joins the legions of quiet contributors to whom we owe so much.

Click on the Roy Franklin Slide Show button up on the top right, for a slide show of Roy, and feel free to send us more.

Roy and Margaret Ann Franklin had four children;

Steve, Nancy, Susan and Ken.

Cards can be addressed to
Ken and Suzanne Franklin, 3497 San Juan Valley Road, F.H. 98250.

Ode to the Joy of Flight

2011-01-21T08:03:00.000-08:00

Bob Brunkow forwards this beautiful piece of video. As I watch the fighters weave through the clouds, I wonder when they'll pop out to see a 182 droning along at 12 o'clock and 1/4 mile, with the pilot's head down reading his GPS manual.

Cat 3 Landing - And You Are There!

2011-01-07T11:45:00.000-08:00

Here's a great video, shot in Brussels, with 200m vis, forwarded by Ray Bigler. Here's what it looks like from the flight deck. It begs the question, "Once the plane is in the hangar, how do you see well enough to drive home?"

A Little Christmas Poem, compliments of June Stewart

2010-12-31T09:56:00.001-08:00

'Twas the night before Christmas, and out on the ramp, Not an airplane was stirring, not even a Champ.
The aircraft were fastened to tie downs with care,
In hopes that come morning, they all would be there.

The fuel trucks were nestled, all snug in their spots, With gusts from two-forty at 39 knots.
I slumped at the fuel desk, now finally caught up,
And settled down comfortably, resting my butt.

When the radio lit up with noise and with chatter, I turned up the scanner to see what was the matter.
A voice clearly heard over static and snow,
Called for clearance to land at the airport below.

He barked his transmission so lively and quick, I'd have sworn that the call sign he used was "St. Nick."
I ran to the panel to turn up the lights,
The better to welcome this magical flight.

He called his position, no room for denial, "St. Nicholas One, turning left onto final."
And what to my wondering eyes should appear,
But a Ratan-built sleigh, with eight Rotax Reindeer!

With vectors to final, down the glideslope he came, As he passed the fixes, he called them by name:
"Now Ringo! Now Tolga! Now Trini and Bacun!
On Comet! On Cupid!" What pills was he taking?

While controllers were sitting and scratching their heads, They phoned to my office, and I heard it with dread,
The message they left was both urgent and dour:
"When Santa pulls in, have him please call the tower."

He landed like silk, with the sled runners sparking, Then I heard "Left at Charlie," and "Taxi to parking."
He slowed to a taxi, turned off of three-oh
And stopped on the ramp with a "Ho, ho-ho-ho..."

He stepped out of the sleigh, but before he could talk, I ran out to meet him with my best set of chocks.
His red helmet and goggles were covered with frost
And his beard was all blackened from Reindeer exhaust.

His breath smelled like peppermint, gone slightly stale, And he puffed on a pipe (but he didn't inhale).
His cheeks were all rosy and jiggled like jelly,
His boots were as black as a crop duster's belly.

He was chubby and plump, in his suit of bright red,
And he asked me to "fill it, with hundred low-lead."
He came dashing in from the snow-covered pump,
I knew he was anxious for draining the sump.

I spoke not a word, but went straight to my work,
And I filled up the sleigh, but I spilled like a jerk.
He came out of the restroom, and sighed in relief,
Then he picked up a phone for a Flight Service brief.

And I thought as he silently scribed in his log, These reindeer could land in an eighth-mile fog.
He completed his pre-flight, from the front to the rear,
Then he put on his headset, and I heard him yell, "Clear!"

And laying a finger on his push-to-talk, He called up the tower for clearance and squawk.
"Take taxiway Charlie, the southbound direction,
Turn right three-two-zero at pilot's discretion."

He sped down the runway, the best of the best, "Your traffic's a Grumman, inbound from the west."
Then I heard him proclaim, as he climbed thru the night,
"Merry Christmas to all! I have traffic in sight."

World’s Oldest Flight Instructor

2010-11-28T17:45:00.000-08:00

Contributed by Will Hamilton:

Former SJPA-member Lenny Thorell and current SJPA-member Jackie Hamilton recently completed a FAA Flight Instructor’s Refresher Clinic at KBFI. Lenny, a native of Sweden who just turned 90, is probably the world’s oldest instrument flight instructor. Lenny traveled from Europe to join his dear friend Jackie at the course, as she decided to renew her CFII after innumerable requests for her to do so from SJPA members, the FAA, and members of the San Juan community. Jackie and her family have been associated with Lenny for almost all of their respective flying careers.

In the early 1940’s, Lenny was in charge of instrument flight instruction for American Export Airlines which later merged with Pan Am. During 1942-43, he trained more than 90 former Flying Tiger pilots for their air transport ratings. After a distinguished commercial flying career, he retired from Pan Am where he and Jackie’s late father, Bill Sargeson, were both clipper captains. Jackie’s mother, Lucia, who was also with Pan Am, had previously worked with Lenny as a flight scheduler at American Export.

Lenny, a recipient of the Wright Brothers Master Aviator Award, just received a special commendation from the German government on the occasion of his 90^th birthday where he flew the entire 14 months of the Berlin Airlift helping to save the lives of over 2 million people. Lenny told Jackie he looks forward to attending the next refresher course with her 2 years hence.

November 19 - First Winterlike Morning

2010-11-20T09:19:00.000-08:00

Roche Harbor wakes up to some white stuff on the grass. The temp is 32 and the wind is blowing briskly from the East.

SJPA at AOPA

2010-11-15T14:06:00.000-08:00

A photo op from the 2010 AOPA Summit in Long Beach, CA. Always popular aviation speaker and humorist, Rod Machado with SJPA President Bob Brunkow and SJPA member Hugh Robertson.

New FAA Safety Briefing Focuses on Handling Abnormal Situations

2010-11-05T09:11:00.000-07:00

Now available online, the November/December 2010 issue of FAA Safety Briefing <http://www.faa.gov/news/safety_briefing/> focuses on a subject fundamental to pilot safety: how to handle abnormal and emergency situations. The issue stresses the delicate art of planning for the unplanned and outlines several tools and resources pilots can draw upon to handle emergencies.

Articles provide tips on unusual attitude recovery, partial-power takeoffs, and knowing what to do when your aircraft’s electrical system fails. The article in the “Hot Spots” section highlights the work FAA has been doing to identify the leading causes of GA fatal accidents. For Aviation Maintenance Technicians, the article in the “Nuts, Bolts, and Electrons” section explains the Service Difficulty Reporting System and encourages AMTs to use it.

Produced by the FAA Safety Briefing editors,http://www.faa.gov/news/safety_briefing/ <http://www.faa.gov/news/safety_briefing/>
Address questions or comments to: SafetyBriefing@faa.gov <mailto:SafetyBriefing@faa.gov> .

Follow us on Twitter @FAASafetyBrief or http://www.twitter.com/FAASafetyBrief <http://www.twitter.com/FAASafetyBrief> .

FAA Seminar in Bellingham

2010-11-03T09:05:00.001-07:00

"3 Strikes You're Out!!!"
Topic: How do your personal minimums affect your aeronautical decision making?
On Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 6:30 PM
Location:
Whatcom Educational Credit Union
511 E Holly Street

Bellingham, WA 98225

Select Number:
NM0134949

Description:
Aeronautical Decision Making (ADM) is the leading cause of aircraft accidents. Rick Luke, a local Designated Pilot Examiner, will give you some tips and techniques he has gained during his flying career and during his pilot evaluation flights. Come learn from Rick Luke as he guides you through some of the tools that can help you make good decisions on your next flight.

To view further details and registration information for this seminar, click here.

FAA Seminar at Westwind - Tuesday Nov 2

2010-10-25T06:41:00.000-07:00

"Flying Near the Canadian Border? What Customs & Border Protection Want Pilots to Know"
Topic: Flying near Canada? Ever had an unexpected wingman? Find out who it might be!
On Tuesday, November 2, 2010 at 6:30 PM
Location:
Westwind Aviation / Friday Harbor Airport

For more details and registration: http://www.faasafety.gov/SPANS/event_details.aspx?eid=34923

Storm Warning for Sat/Sun 10/23-24

2010-10-23T08:24:00.000-07:00

As of Saturday Morning, here's what's being forecast.

Batten Down the Hatches for a Wild Weather Weekend

2010-10-22T15:22:00.000-07:00

Tom Schramm alerts us to the discussion on Cliff Maas's blog http://cliffmass.blogspot.com/

Below is one of the images from his site, showing a pretty wild display of isobars, valid Sunday afternoon. Click on the graphic for a full-size image.

Regardless of your weekend plans, you might want to go to Cliff's site for a briefing.

Planned Modifications to Seattle Class B Airspace

2010-10-21T10:45:00.000-07:00

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will hold three informal airspace meetings regarding a plan to modify the Seattle Class B airspace area. The purpose of the meetings is to solicit aeronautical comments on the proposal’s effect on the planned action (FAA Order 7400.2). The meeting dates and locations are scheduled as follows:

1. December 9, 2010 - Everett, WA 

2. December 14, 2010 - Burien, WA 

3. December 16, 2010 - Auburn, WA

The changes are expected to make the Class B airspace area fully support the procedures for the current operations. The chart depicting the planned Seattle Class B Airspace area design is included to assist in the preparation of comments prior to the meeting. The current Class B chart is included for comparison. To view these charts (zoom "+" for legibility) and for meeting address, time, agenda, and procedures see the attachment link below.

https://www.faasafety.gov/files/notices/2010/Oct/SEA_ClassB_mtg_docs.pdf

Boeing ILS 13 Right to Change Next Month

2010-10-21T10:33:00.000-07:00

The Boeing Field (BFI) ILS 13R Approach is changing! Scheduled for publication on November 18, 2010 the new procedure changes the initial Missed Approach Altitude (climb to altitude) from 2000 feet MSL to at or below 1500 feet MSL. The Public Comment period is closed and the graphic attached with this notice will likely be the approach plate that is published for this procedure. Review new charts for possible changes.   ATC wants you to be informed about the proposed new changes and they urge pilots to closely examine all approach plates prior to commencing the approach, regardless of how many times you have flown the ILS 13R approach at BFI in the past.

While on the BFI ILS 13R approach and after intercepting the glide slope, it is possible that a pilot could execute a missed approach and instead of climbing, they would have to descend to the initial missed approach altitude. If the decision to execute the missed approach occurred above 1500 feet MSL, you would have to continue to DESCEND during the missed approach procedure to cross OCEZE/I-BFI 3.90 DME at or below 1500 feet MSL. After you crossed OCEZE you would then continue your climb to 6,400 feet MSL and hold at BLAKO. This is the published Missed Approach Procedure, you may receive a different missed approach clearance from ATC.  This crossing restriction is due to the close proximity of SeaTac International Airport (SEA) and the ability to maintain traffic separation with Boeing Field traffic.

For further information contact:  Holly A. Delay Air Traffic Manager, Boeing ATCT Columbia District, Western Area Terminal Operations holly.delay@faa.gov 206-658-6401   Boeing Field (BFI) 13R ILS Graphic: https://www.faasafety.gov/files/notices/2010/Oct/BFI_ILS_13R_PROCEDURE_GRAPHIC_ILS.pdf

San Juan Pilots October Potluck features John Nance and recognizes Frank Brame

2010-10-13T10:33:00.000-07:00

Our newest member, and new island resident John Nance spoke to the crowd at the Mullis Fire Station. John brings more than 13,000 flying hours and a wealth of speaking, writing and broadcasting. His talent, normally reserved for large speaking engagements and national television, was very much appreciated by the small group of intrepid Island flyers. John recently bought the Roche Harbor house owned by SJPA members Hank and Joan Hill.

SJPA President, Bob Brunkow, presented a plaque to one of the group's longest-term members, Frank Brame. Frank, a former president and currently an emeritus member of the board was recognized for his many years of help to the organization. To the best of our information, among is many aviation achievements, Frank still holds a sailplane record for time aloft.

Friday Harbor Airport Runway Closure - Oct 12

2010-10-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Nighttime temperatures kept the painting crew from getting much accomplished last night, so we have issued a NOTAM closing the runway again tonight Tuesday, October 12 from 8:00 pm local until 6:00 am local (hopefully the temps will warm up a little today to allow completion of the runway portion tonight). During the day crews will be cleaning overspray from hangars, striping taxiway and taxilane lines and touching up missed area with fog seal and crack seal. There may be some wet patches here and there on the aprons so please use caution. There may also be some temporary taxiway/taxilane closures as we work our way around the airport, but these shouldn’t last more than an hour or so. We appreciate your patience during this construction. Please call me if you have any questions or concerns.

Regards,

Dave

David M. Ryan, Airport Manager
Friday Harbor Airport
P.O. Box 889
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-4724
daver@portfridayharbor.org

NOTAM - Friday Harbor Airport Closure TONIGHT

2010-10-10T15:27:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Friday Harbor Airport Runway 16/34 will close at 8:00 pm local on Monday night and remain closed until 06:00 Tuesday morning. This NOTAM is subject to change/ extend to the following evening depending on weather and contractor progress. As always, please call with any questions, comments or concerns.

Regards,

Dave

David M. Ryan, Airport Manager
Friday Harbor Airport
P.O. Box 889
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-4724
daver@portfridayharbor.org

Area NOTAM for Oct 7-8

2010-10-07T07:31:00.001-07:00

VIP NOTAM - Seattle/Tacoma, WA
Notice Number: NOTC2592

October 7-8, 2010
Seattle/Tacoma, WA
3 NMR- 3000 AGL

Specific instructions and restrictions are available at http://tfr.faa.gov once the NOTAM has been issued.

*Depicted TFR data may not be a complete listing. Pilots should not use the information on this website for flight planning purposes. For the latest information, call your local Flight Service Station at 1-800-WX-BRIEF.

NOTAM - Friday Harbor Airport Closure Oct 11

2010-10-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Final painting, clean-up and other punch list items will begin October 11th (Monday) and run until complete. This will require a night closure of the runway. We have TENTATIVELY scheduled the closure for Monday night, Oct 11, at 8:00 pm until 6:00 am on October 12th (Tuesday). As we all know, good weather this time of year is sporadic at best. There is a strong possibility that this date may have to be moved until Tuesday night or Wednesday night depending on the forecast. I wish I could tell you with certainty, but painting requires dry conditions and temperatures above 50 degrees. Please bear with us as we complete the final stage of this construction. As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please call me or send an e-mail. Thanks again for your patience.

David M. Ryan, Airport Manager
Friday Harbor Airport
P.O. Box 889
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-4724
daver@portfridayharbor.org

Area 51 Lore - Is it True?

2010-10-05T14:00:00.001-07:00

You've all heard of the Air Force's ultra-high-security, super-secret base in Nevada, known simply as "Area 51?"

Well, late one afternoon, the Air Force folks out at Area 51 were very surprised to see a Cessna landing at their "secret" base. They immediately impounded the aircraft and hauled the pilot into an interrogation room.

The pilot's story was that he took off from Vegas, got lost, and spotted the Base just as he was about to run out of fuel. The Air Force started a full FBI background check on the pilot and held him overnight during the investigation.

By the next day, they were finally convinced that the pilot really was lost and wasn't a spy. They gassed up his airplane, gave him a terrifying "you-did-not-see-a-base" briefing, complete with threats of spending the rest of his life in prison, told him Vegas was that-a-way on such-and-such a heading, and sent him on his way.

The next day, to the total disbelief of the Air Force, the same Cessna showed up again. Once again, the MP's surrounded the plane. . .only this time there were two people in the plane.

The same pilot jumped out and said, "Do anything you want to me, but my wife is in the plane and you have to tell her where I was last night."

NOTAM - Friday Harbor Airport Open

2010-09-10T07:10:00.000-07:00

Dear Airport Tenants, Customers and Friends,

Crack sealing, asphalt repairs and fog sealing is complete on the runway and taxiway “Alpha”. It looks great! We re-opened at 6:00 am this morning. Construction crews will continue to fog seal near hangars and perform clean-up and striping through Saturday, so please use caution for personnel and equipment on and around the airport. There may be some areas that will require a few more hours to dry especially those around the south hangars and leeward hangars. I’d like to remind everyone that we are required to wait 30 days for the coating to “cure” before final painting and striping can be accomplished. This will require a couple of nice sunny days and probably a one night only closure around the second week in October. Thank you so much for patience during this project. Your airport is a jewel and this maintenance helps keep Friday Harbor Airport in top shape! As always, if you have any questions, please contact me.

Regards,

Dave

David M. Ryan, Airport Manager
Friday Harbor Airport
P.O. Box 889
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-4724
daver@portfridayharbor.org

NOTAM - Friday Harbor Airport Closure

2010-09-06T10:54:00.000-07:00

Dear Airport Tenants, Commercial Operators and Friends,

This is to advise you that Friday Harbor Airport Runway 16/34 will be closed as planned beginning Tuesday night, September 7th at 8:00 pm local time through Friday morning at 6:00 am local time. (the south 1,400’ of taxiway “A” will be closed at 10:00 am Tuesday morning as planned for full-depth repair). As you know the weather is marginal, but there are no guarantees that next week will be any better. Contractors will focus on completing the runway work first. With any luck this will be accomplished. If the forecast changes on Tuesday or Wednesday and calls for an increased chance of rain, we will make a decision as to whether to continue or to re-schedule. We will notify you as soon as possible via e-mail. Please feel free to call me with any questions you may have (360-378-4724).

Dave Ryan

NOTAM - Seal Coating at Roche Harbor Airport

2010-09-01T09:56:00.001-07:00

Dear Pilots…

Weather permitting, we will be seal coating a few key spots on the runway tomorrow, Thursday the 2nd starting at noon.

Thanks for your patience.

Sincerely,

Anita Blaine
For Roche Harbor Airfield

NOTAM - Bellingham Airport Closed Sept 1 through September 22

2010-09-01T08:04:00.001-07:00

September 1, 2010 through September 22, 2010; Runway 16-34 will be closed beginning September 1, 2010 at 0001 hours to September 22, 2010 at 0005 hours.

Skagit Airport Receives Funding - Defers Runway Work to 2011

2010-08-19T09:31:00.000-07:00

Good news!! The FAA has informed us that funding has been approved for the Skagit Regional Airport Runway 10-28 Rehabilitation Project. However, the bad news is that it will be too late in the season to proceed with the runway work this year as the rains will be upon us before the project could be completed. We will be working with our engineer and contractor to put together a project schedule plan to start the runway work in late spring or early summer of next year. We will disseminate our proposed closures schedule information in advance.
Robert Nord Airport Supervisor/Project Manager
Port of Skagit County

Old Fashioned Hangar Dance This Saturday at FHR!

2010-08-16T07:52:00.000-07:00

To the San Juan Pilots Association,

You are all cordially invited to the 2nd best event this Summer, our first ever Hangar Dance. It will be the 21st of August at 6:30 PM in the Crossley Hangar (Westwind Office) next to Ernie's Cafe at the Friday Harbor Airport. This will be a POTLUCK event and it is BYOB (bring your own wine,beer etc). The 40's/50's era music will be provided by the 16 member "One More Time Band".

We are being joined by the Vintage Mooney Association and members of the EAA Chapter 1411. All Aviators are invited. Please join us and have a great time. This will be a very special event that you do not want to miss. Be sure to get your military uniforms out of the closet and those 40's style clothes and enjoy the evening. Please bring a dish to share. See you there.

James Crossley
406 360 7271

Dodie's BBQ at Friday Harbor Airport is Today at Noon!

2010-08-14T06:48:00.000-07:00

Cynthia Hubbard is heading up this year's event, and is setting up the new SJPA BBQ with beef, salmon and garden burgers as well as salad and plenty of cold drinks. Meanwhile, the silent auction to benefit the John Volk Memorial Scholarship fund will have 60 items for bidding.

Just bring your family and chairs for everyone.

If you'd like to help set up or tear down, we'll be there by 10 this morning.

See you there!

Change in Closure Dates for Friday Harbor Airport

2010-08-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

Due to concern over closure dates from our commercial operators, Friday Harbor Airport is revising the runway closure schedule as follows: Runway 16/34 will be closed from Tuesday, September 7 at 8:00 pm until Friday morning, September 10 at 6:00 am weather permitting. If weather conditions preclude closing during this time, runway 16/34 will be closed Monday, September 13 at 8:00pm until Thursday, September 16 at 6:00 am. If weather conditions preclude this closing, the runway will be closed at the contractor’s discretion at a date to be announced. There is a 30 day interval between the fog seal and final painting. Both require warm dry days to apply. Postponement of this closure may result in additional closure dates. Thank you for your understanding. If you have any questions, comments or concerns, please call me at the airport office 360-378-4724.

David M. Ryan, Airport Manager
Friday Harbor Airport
P.O. Box 889
Friday Harbor, WA 98250
(360) 378-4724
daver@portfridayharbor.org

Fly Thee Not Into That Good Night

2010-07-27T18:35:00.000-07:00

Hark! What be that sound? Either the wings of a thousand bats from the devil's own cave, or the run-up of a 206 who would depart 25 at the Harbor of Roche. The good citizens whose writings appear below, pray thee no overflight of the Shakespeare performances. Indeed, the thespians whose performances depend upon the exact dialogue of the Bard, will be thought not worthy at the utterance of, "What the hell was that?"

Dear Pilots… Please see note below for outdoor theatre performances this summer at Roche. Runway 25 is preferable for landing & 7 for takeoff if possible. If taking off on 25, please climb out & get up as soon as possible & avoid flying over the outdoor theatre at the times & days mentioned below. The theatre is located on the hill in the woods just above the new vacant lots for sale on the hill above the Resort. Any questions, please call us at 360-378-3500 or email at rocheharborairfield@centurytel.net

Thank you in advance for your cooperation!

Anita
For Roche Harbor Airfield

From: Helen Machin-Smith [mailto:stageleft@centurytel.net]
Sent: Friday, July 23, 2010 11:29 AM
To: Roche Harbor Airfield
Subject: Island Stage Left's Shakepseare

Hello,

          It's that time of year again! Would you be kind enough to alert pilots to the fact that we are playing from July 29 - Aug 22nd from Thursdays through Sundays from 8:15 to 10: 30 (2 hrs 15 mins per night) and ask them to avoid flying over during those times?

                      Thanks so much,

                                              Helen

Video - Friday Harbor Fly In 2010

2010-07-27T06:40:00.000-07:00

Friday Harbor Airport Fly In a Huge Success

2010-07-25T12:55:00.000-07:00

Beginning with 300 breakfasts served, to benefit the Friday Harbor EAA chapter, to the volunteer post-event, featuring (among others) Dan DeShon and Dave Ryan in a band called, "Noise Complaint", it was an unqualified success.

More information and photos are coming, but we've posted a small slide show on the tab above, called Friday Harbor Fly In Photos. More photos in a slide show by Bob Tauscher. Just click on the Bob Tauscher Photos tab.

Dave Ryan, Stuart Hansen and Brian McGlynn put on a great show. They were backed up by a small army of volunteers.

BJ Brandli has posted a story and photos at http://www.islandguardian.com/archives/00003374.html

The Two Bobs - And you were there! (New Photos Added)

2010-07-14T10:09:00.000-07:00

Lori Miller sent 8 new photos. They've been added to the slide show.

Last Saturday, 80 of us enjoyed burgers, dogs, salads, pies, cakes, etc. and conversation at the big green hangar on Cessna Ave at Roche. Click the tab above (Two Bobs ..... 2010) for a short slide show. And, if you have any photos, email them to be added.

Have You Been to the Flying Heritage Museum?

2010-06-26T09:59:00.000-07:00

SJPA Board Member Frank Brame brought us info on Paul Allen's Flying Heritage Museum at Paine Field in Everett. For a link to its web site, click here. The museum contains vintage aircraft from a Curtiss Jenny to a P-51 and 17 others from the US, Germany, England, Japan and Eastern Europe.

In addition to seeing these aircraft, we can enjoy regular "Fly Days", where a few planes are rolled out from noon to one, and fired up. The next few dates are 7/10, and 24, as well as 8/7 and 28.

FCC Seeks to ban 121.5 ELTs

2010-06-22T07:51:00.000-07:00

In a document released on June 15th, the FCC (not FAA) has determined that 121.5 ELTs should neither be manufactured, sold or used, effective within 60 days. Considering that the FAA requires a working ELT on all aircraft, the logistics of such a move (both financial and physical) could end up grounding a couple of hundred thousand airplanes.

Every organization that ends with an "A" is on full alert. For more info read the following, AOPA article.

Possible Runway Work at Roche Harbor Airport Friday 6/11

2010-06-10T17:03:00.001-07:00

There is a good chance, weather permitting, that we will be doing some work on the runway tomorrow Friday the 11th. The guys will be on foot watching for aircraft & will move off of the runway when necessary.

Thank you!

Anita Blaine
For Roche Harbor Airfield, Inc.

FAA Proposes Removal of Orcas Class E Airspace

2010-06-03T14:20:00.000-07:00

This would reverse the application of new controlled airspace, which was created last year coincident with the new instrument approach. The full text is at the link below:

http://edocket.access.gpo.gov/2010/pdf/2010-12879.pdf

Bounty Hunters to search for Colton Harris-Moore

2010-06-02T11:52:00.000-07:00

Video for a Rainy Day

2010-06-01T08:11:00.000-07:00

Given the vigorous Spring weather system bearing down on the coast, here's something to do. We've posted a link to the 42-minute film, "Sky Dance". (See tab above). Shot in France, the film features great aviation shots and really crappy acting and story line. So, you may want to just turn the sound down and enjoy the images.

Use the selection on the bottom right of the picture to select full-screen.

Westwind Aviation to Host Learn to Fly Day this Saturday

2010-05-12T07:50:00.000-07:00

This Saturday, May 15, 10 am- 3 pm, Friday Harbor Airport

Learn to Fly Day is designed to raise interest in flying and encourage pilots to get individuals involved in aviation. Open House at Westwind Aviation includes special presentation at 10:30 am "What you need to know about learning to fly", aircraft displays, drawings provided by Cessna -first prize $10,000 flight training credit; second prize $5,000 flight training credit, free simulator demo and special prices on Introductory and Scenic Flights.

Aircraft to view (including a glass cockpit Cessna 400). Westwind Aviation at the Friday Harbor Airport.

A Few Good Pilots Needed in Bellingham May 15th

2010-04-30T17:29:00.000-07:00

I realize this is very short notice, but I am writing to see if any of our pilot members would be available and interested in coming to Bellingham on May 15th to give some local Girl Scouts (Brownies and Juniors) a flight in their airplane? The girl scouts have planned an aerospace day at KBLI to include a visit to the Heritage Flight Museum, the control tower, and they were planning on getting Young Eagle flights. This will qualify them for a merit badge. But due to some scheduling issues, I wasn’t able to get a commitment from the local EAA, and now I am trying to recruit pilots to fill in.

I plan on flying some of them so I think we really only need two maybe three other pilots and planes. I can be reached on my cell phone at (360) 510-1139 or at work (360) 685-4221 for the specific details.

Sincerely,

Jeffrey A. Lustick
SJPA Member

Westwind Aviation to Host Free Seminar THIS Thursday

2010-04-27T15:06:00.000-07:00

Flight Physiology Seminar- Thursday, April 29 at 6:30-7:30 pm
Have you ever flown around for a bit and realized you had a headache? How about landed and had a terrible ear ache or painful sinus pressure? Ever noticed a weird smell from your pal sitting next to you as you climb through 8,000 feet? Wanna know why? Gus Toulatos has experienced all these, and more! Come listen to him explain why your body does some of the things it does while flying an aircraft, how your eyes can betray you, and how even with oxygen you might not be safe to fly.
This is a free seminar. Please call 378-6991 to let us know you will be attending.

Washington Legislature Passes Funding Bill Without Aircraft Tax

2010-04-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

In case you haven't heard yet, the new funding bill has passed with a number of new revenue enhancements, not including additional taxing for Washington's General Aviation fleet.

The last proposal would have cost owners of single engine aircraft $338 annually, as a new excise tax. A schedule proposed even higher fees for multi-engine and turbine aircraft.

But, being pilots, we always look for the granite lining in any beautiful cloud. What we have not discussed is the new 28-cents per 6-pack tax on beer! While we may have saved the $338 on excise tax, we will have lost it all if we consume a mere 1,207 six-packs per year. So, if you're a square-jawed, steely-eyed aviator who regularly consumes 3 1/3 six-packs daily, there's your $338.

The tax-dodge here, however, is that it is not levied on "craft" beers. So, remember, the next time you're enjoying a frosty glass of Geoduck Stout, you are indeed beating the tax man.

PS - If you'd like to thank the same legislator you wrote to earlier, pick the Washington State Legislature choice to the left of this page, under Links You Can Use.

Amazing Video - Eagle in Dogfight with RC Plane at Whidbey

2010-04-09T09:34:00.000-07:00

Replica Stinson Model-O Takes First Flight

2010-04-07T08:01:00.000-07:00

UPDATE:

The Associated Press

KALAMA, Wash. —

A small airplane with fuel tank problems made an emergency landing on Interstate 5 near Kalama in southwest Washington Saturday.

The Oregonian reports nobody was injured in the incident. Pilot Jeffery Edward Paulson of Portland landed the small plane on the shoulder of I-5 around 10:30 a.m. One of the wings extended onto the right lane, but traffic was light when the plane landed.

The 57-year-old pilot was flying a Stinson Model O aircraft, a replica of a 1933-vintage aircraft. He reported problems switching between fuel tanks before making the landing.

Once on the ground, Paulson manually switched the fuel tank, and State Patrol troopers rerouted traffic for Paulson to use the highway to take off again.

This is the feel-good video of the day for anyone who likes airplanes. Click the tab above for the full video.

March 27, 2010 — This is the first flight of our Stinson Model-O replica project. The flight took place on March 24th, 2010. The project was built by Evergreen Aviation Services in Scappoose OR. The airplane was built off a few photographs of an original taken during original manufacture. There are no plans or original airplanes in existence today.

April AOPA Magazine Features San Juan Island

2010-04-01T14:13:00.000-07:00

AOPA Magazine's Managing Editor, Julie Summers Walker, visited the Island last summer and wrote a nice article called, "Postcards: Friday Harbor, Any Day of the Week." (page 69). It's also on a computer near you at AOPA Online.

Julie is planning another trip to San Juan Island this summer and hopes to be here for the Friday Harbor Fly-In and Open House on July 24.

Bob Nichols Honored at San Juan Aviation Museum - Saturday March 24th

2010-03-28T11:23:00.000-07:00

In a very well attended presentation, members of the community, the Port of Friday Harbor and San Juan Pilots Assn. honored pioneer aviator, Bob Nichols. More than a hundred friends and former students gathered to recall Bob's great contribution to aviation on San Juan Island and Western Washington.

Click on the separate tab above for a complete slide show, with photos thanks to Bob Tauscher.

Here's a nice photo from Bob Brunkow with (L-R) Roy Franklin, Bob Nichols, Terry Holt and Gene Vanderputte.

Flying American Airlines in 1933

2010-03-24T17:31:00.000-07:00

The Washington Aviation Coalition Opposes ESSB 6143 to Include the Airplane Excise Tax

2010-03-21T18:46:00.000-07:00

This weekend the Senate passed its version of the budget. The Senate version does not include an Airplane Excise Tax. The Senate bill was sent back to the House for their consideration.

Unfortunately, the House has amended the Senate Bill (ESSB 6143) to include an Airplane Excise Tax. This new proposal removes the .5% rate and replaces it with a flat rate schedule. The schedule differentiates between aircraft manufactured before January 1, 1970 and those that are newer. For some aircraft owners, it is worse than the original .5% excise tax.

Manufactured on or before December 31, 1970:	Manufactured after December 31, 1970:
Single engine fixed wing - $100 Small multi-engine fixed wing - $130 Large multi-engine fixed wing - $160 Turboprop multi-engine fixed wing - $6,750 Helicopter - $150 Sailplane - $40 Lighter than air - $40 Home built - $40	Single engine fixed wing - $338 Small multi-engine fixed wing - $439 Large multi-engine fixed wing - $540 Turboprop multi-engine fixed wing - $6,750 Helicopter - $338 Sailplane - $135 Lighter than air - $135 Home built – $135
Turbojet multi-engine fixed wing aircraft w/Maximum Certificated Takeoff Weight: Up to 19,999 pounds - $13,500 20,000 to 24,999 pounds - $18,000 25,000 to 44,999 pounds - $22,500 45,000 to 84,999 pounds - $33,750 85,000 and over - $45,000

The legislature is actively working this weekend and, more than likely, legislation of this nature is likely to continue to be approved this weekend. We urge all members to contact their Senators and the Governor and send them the following message:

· We appreciate the Senate's continuing wisdom in NOT including an aircraft tax in its revenue proposal.

· We are adamantly opposed to any proposal from the House that would drive aircraft, jobs, and revenue out of the state. This shows no understanding of the aviation industry, its current contributions to the state's economy, or how this level of taxation will affect our airports, our pilots, and the aviation business infrastructure that supports us.

· We seriously offered to assist the House to the best of our abilities in its economic hard times. Our offer was categorically rejected. With that in mind, we have no alternative but to ask the Senate to firmly reject an aircraft tax this session.

Any communications MUST remain polite and respectful. Remember, many of the senators on both sides of the aisle have been our friends to date. It is not necessary to go into any detail or reiterate all the original points have been made. However, we need to send Olympia this message immediately. It is possible that the Senate could consider the House proposal this weekend or on Monday.

Legislative Hotline: 1-800-562-6000

Call Governor Chris Gregoire 360-902-4111 or E-Mail : http://www.governor.wa.gov/contact/

Member organizations of the Washington Aviation Coalition are:

Washington Pilots Association, San Juan Pilots Association, Washington Aviation Association, NW War Bird Chapters, Washington Search and Rescue Association, Washington Airport Management Association, Pacific Northwest Business Aviation Association, Washington Seaplane Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Northwest Recreational Flying Association, National Business Aviation Association

Urgent NOTAM Orcas Airspace

2010-03-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

UPDATE - NOTAM CANCELLED

EASTSOUND, Wash. -- Deputies with search dogs are scouring the rugged west side of Orcas Island in a new search for the teen fugitive Colton Harris-Moore, the San Juan County Sheriff's Office says.

Searchers on the ground began their hunt for the teen at 1:15 a.m., using dogs from San Juan and Whatcom counties, the sheriff's office said.

Air space is closed over the west side of the island, up to 4,000 ft.

Date :    March 18, 2010 at 1534 UTC
Location :    ORCAS ISLAND, Washington near WHATCOM VORTAC (HUH)
Beginning Date and Time :    Effective Immediately
Ending Date and Time :    Until further notice
Reason for NOTAM :    TO PROVIDE A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR SEARCH AND RESCUE
Type :    Hazards
Replaced NOTAM(s) :    N/A
Pilots May Contact :    SEATTLE (ZSE) Center, 253-351-3520

Airspace Definition:
Center:     On the WHATCOM VORTAC (HUH) 204 degree radial at 23.2 nautical miles. (Latitude: 48º40'06"N, Longitude: 122º59'16"W)
Radius:     2 nautical miles
Altitude:     From the surface up to and including 4000 feet MSL
Effective Date(s):
From March 18, 2010 at 1534 UTC
Until further notice

No pilots may operate an aircraft in the areas covered by this NOTAM (except as described).

NOTAM Roche Harbor for Wednesday 3/17

2010-03-17T07:48:00.001-07:00

Update - Mike Carlson and crew will be onsite 3/17 and should finish by day's end.

Beginning 8 a.m. on Mon, 3/15, there will workers on the runway to sweep
and deal with mold.

Please be alert for them.

Sincerely,

Anita
Roche Harbor Airfield, Inc.

Click here to see the Roche Harbor Airport Webcam. You should be able to see any activity on the runway.

First Ever - Friday Harbor Fly-In

2010-03-16T15:41:00.000-07:00

Scheduled for late July, Friday Harbor Airport Manager Dave Ryan reports that the Port of Friday Harbor Board and Management ok'd the plan at the last regular Port meeting.

A first organizational meeting was held last Sunday and preliminary plans were talked about for when, what and how. One thing for certain is that the event will require a ton of volunteer support from the San Juan Pilots Assn. If you think about all the Fly-Ins you've attended, picture yourself in one of the roles and email Dave Ryan daver@portfridayharbor.org.

Jeff Lustick Reports Termination of Olympic TFR

2010-03-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

In an email to SJPA President Bob Brunkow, Jeff wrote:

The Olympic TFR was cut short and officially ended effective midnight 13 March 2010 with little or no fanfare. I called the FAA and the Seattle FSS today and confirmed this.

The original ending date was scheduled to be 25 March and some of the older NOTAMS showing that date are still on the FAA's website and elsewhere. All day Sunday, KBLI tower ATIS was still advising that the TFRs were in effect and it was still showing on my Garmin 396. But as of Monday evening, both the tower and my GPS didn't mention the TFR.

Here is the NOTAM which tacitly announces the revised ending date.

http://tfr.faa.gov/save_pages/detail_0_8881.html

Be it remembered that in the original TFR notices, it did say the times and dates were subject to change. Nice to see they meant it.

Jeffrey A. Lustick, Esq.

Aviation Law Attorney

THE LUSTICK LAW FIRM

222 Grand Avenue, Suite "A"

Bellingham, WA 98225

(360) 685-4221 - Office

www.Lustick.com

Below is the "Phrase that pays" from the notice.

			Seattle, Washington
Beginning Date and Time :			Effective Immediately
Ending Date and Time :			March 13, 2010 at 0759 UTC
Reason for NOTAM :			Temporary flight restrictions for Special Security Reasons
Type :			Security
Replaced NOTAM(s) :			0/8731: Due to change in times

Washington tax hike down to the wire

2010-03-11T10:26:00.000-08:00

Here's the latest update from Meg at General Aviation News,

posted last night. Today is the last day of general session,

but stand by for a special.

Posted by Meg Godlewski · March 10, 2010

Pilots in Washington State are making a final push to persuade lawmakers not to enact a proposed aircraft excise tax.

The proposed tax, which is part of Senate Bill 6143, would levy an annual excise tax of 0.5% based on the value of aircraft manufactured after Dec. 31, 1970. Aircraft manufactured before that date will be assessed an annual fee, with lawmakers proposing to double the current fee. Estimates are that the proposed tax hike could lead to an increase of 1,400% or more, according to opponents.

Upon hearing that the legislation was in the works, pilot groups in the Evergreen State launched an education campaign to persuade lawmakers to drop the bill. Realizing it was necessary to present a united front, aviation groups joined forces to create the Washington Aviation Coalition, which sent e-mail reminders to pilots urging them to express their opposition to the tax to their elected officials.

The coalition “is made up of some pretty heavy hitters,” according to Bruce Hinds, director of the Washington Seaplane Pilots Association. “That opens up their resources, such as lobbyists, to help the little guys like us.”

Besides the state’s Seaplane Pilots Association, the coalition includes the Washington Pilots Association, the San Juan Pilots Association, the Washington Aviation Association, Northwest War Bird Chapters, the Washington Search and Rescue Association, Washington Airport Management Association, the Pacific Northwest Business Aviation Association, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association, Northwest Recreational Flying Association, and the National Business Aviation Association.

“It’s a much bigger picture than a simple tax on aircraft owners,” Hinds said, noting that a few weeks ago when the coalition was in Olympia, the state’s capital, to speak before lawmakers, one of the speakers was a representative from Alaska Airlines.

“They realized that even though they are exempt, they would be affected because of the severe impact to their vendors,” he said. “Those businesses also serve GA, so if they suffer, their costs go up and they move out of state or they go out of business.”

In its e-mail campaign, the coalition warned pilots that the annual tax “could represent an increase of 1,400% or more over previous aircraft registration fees.”

“It is vitally important that you let your state senator know you want the aircraft excise tax increase removed from the bill,” the e-mail continued. “Some legislators erroneously feel this bill will have little effect on the Washington general aviation community, and that all aircraft owners are wealthy. Tell them the truth!”

Hundreds of pilots have responded, contacting their elected representatives, pointing out that aviation in the state is already heavily taxed, so adding more expense may make some people quit flying altogether.

The legislative session ends March 11.

Aviation Excise Tax Update, as of March 9.

2010-03-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

As of last night, it was out of the Senate bill and in the House bill. We just got this message from State Senator and aviator Cheryl Pflug.

Dear fellow pilots,

While we were successful in keeping the aircraft tax increase out of the Senate tax bill, the House added it back in last night. We will not be able to rest on this until the Legislature adjourns with a balanced budget.

Sincerely,
Cheryl

Cheryl Pflug
State Senator, 5th Legislative District

Bob Nichols Next Honoree at the San Juan Aviation Museum

2010-03-06T10:45:00.000-08:00

In a ceremony scheduled for March 27, at Friday Harbor Airport, Bob Nichols becomes the third aviation pioneer to be recognized. The others were Roy Franklin and Marty Stewart.

In her recommendation letter, Carol Marston wrote, "Bob Nichols deserves to be given strong consideration for a position of honor on the pilot’s wall because he brought “flying” to the everyday person. He took many non pilots under his wing, gave them confidence and taught them to fly. I certainly never believed I could, or would, pilot an airplane yet with Bob’s guidance I did just that. So did Sandy Perkins, Linda Browne, Jean Thomas, Richard Lawson, Denny Martel, Snookie Lowe…just to name a few.

Some were natural flyers, some were not, yet Bob gave us all the encouragement and confidence to believe we could fly someday. Prior to Bob, flying seemed liked an exclusive club, mostly for men with exceptional mechanical skills and plenty of money. Bob brought it down to the street level and for that I will always be grateful. I believe very strongly that he brought the little person (especially women) into the realm of flying, garnering lots of “downtown” support for the airport at a time when lots of support was needed to keep the airport open. Nichols was always a person you could count on to get you there, whether it was an emergency flight, a sightseeing flight or a scheduled flight. In addition to introducing so many of us to flying he worked tirelessly for our community in many volunteer capacities."

Below is a short slideshow. We'll add pictures as we get them. If you have some to contribute, just email to freds@rockisland.com.

Roche Harbor Airport Notam

2010-03-04T21:01:00.000-08:00

Bob Miller reports that there's a barge replacing pilings at the fuel dock at Roche, for the next couple of weeks. That means a crane that's about 125 ft AGL, just to the right of the final approach to rwy 07.

That shouldn't be a problem for a normal glide path or take-off but in case of something unusual, it's an FYI.

Click here to see a current live webcam image of the crane's position.

The Washington Aviation Coalition Opposes House Bill 3176/ Senate Bill 6873

2010-02-27T10:11:00.000-08:00

The Washington Aviation Coalition, made up of the leadership of a number of the state's major aviation organizations, including the San Juan Pilots Assn, has assembled a new list of talking points, and is asking interested parties to recontact their legislators to make their feelings known. Again, here's the legislature's web site.

http://apps.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder/

Open it, click on your area and the senate and representatives' contact information will be there.

HB 3176 / SB 6873 - It's not what you think it is. This Bill creates unintended consequences for small aviation business owners who support Washington's aircraft fleet. The companies will lose jobs that support our state's cherished aviation heritage.

This tax will impact jobs! This tax will severely impact the financial viability of small aviation companies around the state, including:

Over 116 Service and Repair Shops, who provide 2,515 jobs.
75 Fixed Base Operators, who provide 1,850 jobs.
25 Flight Schools, operating 181 aircraft. The State has 3,146 Certified Flight Instructors.

20,440 Certified Pilots in the State depend on the services of many small business operators to ensure the aviation system in the State remains viable.

There are over 178,000 Aviation jobs that provide family wage careers in Washington State.

The industry has seen a 50% decrease in flight operations already, due to the current recession. This proposed tax increase is exactly opposite of what the aviation industry needs to recover, and will have an immediate and adverse effect on the small business owners in the State.

The Washington Aviation Coalition opposes HB 3176 / SB 6873 and instead, requests that the Legislature help nurture the aviation industry back to health, and grow aviation related jobs in Washington State.

Thank you!

Rep Jeff Morris Speaks Out in Opposition to Aircraft Excise Tax

2010-02-25T21:54:00.000-08:00

In a Tele Town Hall tonight, Rep Jeff Morris went on record to the following question:

Eugene from Lopez Island: question about commuting by airplane

I have a concern about this proposed tax on aircraft. Living on Lopez Island and trying to rely on the ferry system, during the summer you can't rely on it due to the huge influx of tourists. Our only means is a private boat or a private airplane. If this tax goes through, it is going to force me to pay a transportation tax on my personal transportation.

Rep. Morris: I'm very aware of how dependent the islands are on aircraft to get around. I've been voicing my opposition to that part of the revenue package. I grew up on Loomis Island myself. People look at aircraft and boats as luxury items when in fact its just how you get around. So I've opposed that part of the revenue package. There's an effort to stratify it and make a difference between somebody who has a small private airplane versus a private jet.

If it wasn't for people like you who often give me a lift when the ferry schedule isn't good, I wouldn't get to a lot of my meetings on time.

AIRCRAFT OWNERSHIP - MYTHS VERSUS FACTS

2010-01-20T19:49:00.000-08:00

MYTH #1 - Aircraft Are Luxury Items

Aircraft are motor vehicles, in the same regard as automobiles and trucks. A great many are operated by Washington businesses, and the majority of the 8,100 Washington-based aircraft are older, single-engine airplanes, owned by individuals or shared partnerships, and have a value that is at or below the price of a new car or truck.

More importantly, they provide air transportation to every community and privately owned airport in Washington. Only Seattle, Spokane, Tri-Cities, Wenatchee and Yakima are served by airlines. The remainder of the 138 public-use airports depend on general aviation.

Washington is home to 59 charter flight companies, 116 repair stations, and 24 flight schools operating 181 aircraft serving more than 2,000 students and providing 360 jobs. In addition, there are 64 fixed-base operators in the state. General aviation schools provide nearly all the training for future airline pilots, unlike in decades past when they were largely trained by the military.

MYTH #2 - Aircraft are undertaxed.

A combination of six direct state and federal taxes make general aviation one of the most heavily taxed activities in the state.

1. Business & Occupation Tax

2. Sales or Use Tax

3. Washington State Registration Fee

4. Washington State Aviation Fuel Tax.

5. State Sales Tax on aviation fuel, including the fuel tax; aviation is the only form of transportation wherein the sales tax applies to fuel with no refund available to the user.

6. Federal Fuel Tax of 19.4 cents per gallon.

MYTH #3 - Lack of excise tax on aircraft is a 'loophole'.

General aviation already pays an additional fuel tax, from which air carriers are exempt.

Washington is already the most expensive state in the Northwest to base aircraft. Using the example of a 1980 Cessna 206, based in Seattle, here are the facts:

Annual Registration - WA $65, OR $55, MT $75, ID $36
Aviation Fuel Tax - 0 WA 11 cents, OR 9 cents, MT 4 cents, ID 7 cents
Sales Tax - WA 9.5%, OR None, MT None, ID 6%

MYTH #4 - Anyone rich enough to own an airplane is rich enough to pay the tax.

In our current economic downturn, there are many aircraft owners who cannot afford to own the airplane they have. Hangars are full of infrequently flown aircraft and airports which formerly had multi-year hangar waitlists now have empty hangars.

Aircraft sales have plummeted. The General Aviation Manufacturers Assn reports new aircraft sales dropped 24% from 2008 to 2009. Used aircraft are almost impossible to sell, and with owners financial situations in peril, a great many owner has the aircraft in “maintenance-mode”, flying minimally.

There is some unknowable percent of owners to whom our economic woes don’t matter. Another section is a group of owners who fly for business and whose margins are razor-thin. Then is the category of those discussed above, reduced to being stewards of a motor vehicle which does not tolerate inattention, and soon begins a deadly corrosion cycle.

If an additional tax were levied on all but the very wealthy, it would be a “deal-breaker” for many aircraft owners and aviation businesses. As in the housing real estate market, the large number of aircraft financially “underwater” might be given up for repossession by lenders.

MYTH #5 - Airports are supported by general tax revenues.

Only a very minor portion of airport expenses are paid for by general tax revenues. Some small airports receive limited local tax support, while larger airports are self-supporting. Public airports generate most of their support through user and landing fees, and ground, hangar and building rentals.

Washington’s Aeronautics Account got Federal Funds in the amount of $2.15 million in the 2007-2009 biennium. In the same period, $4.962 million was received from aircraft taxes, registrations, and license fees. This revenue is used in support of Washington aviation by WSDOT Aviation, including 138 public use airports in the state.

About $250,000 of aircraft registration revenues is deposited into the state’s General Fund.

And finally … Consider the hourly operating cost of just state taxes alone in aircraft operation. Using the same example airplane, a 1980 Cessna 206, averaging 100 hours/year, with a fuel consumption of 15 gallons/hour at $5.00 per gallon, and a purchase price of $150,000.

Amortizing the purchase over 5 years, the annual sales/use tax is $2,850.

The fuel tax is $165. The fuel sales tax is $712.

Sales tax on maintenance of $2,000 is $190, and a registration fee of $65.

That’s a total of $3,982 in annual state taxes, which converts to a cost per hour flown of $39.82.

If a 1% excise tax replaced the registration fee, the total would become $5,418, increasing the hourly cost by 36%, or $54.18 per hour flown.