AE S RONAUTIC

Spring 2011 Serving Idaho’s Aviation Community for over 60 Years Vol 57, Issue 2 The Amazing Rescue of Fango 45

By: William C. Miller, with Frederic M. Wilson and Michael P. McGrath

On 8 April 1982, the following crew conversation takes place inside FANGO 43, an Idaho Air National Guard (ANG) RF-4C flying a twilight low-level radar mission over eastern Oregon: 43 PILOT: “Ground speed set at 480.” 43 Weapons Systems Officer (WSO): “Okay, turn right to two- zero-three.” 43 PILOT: “Steady two-zero-three.” 43 WSO: “Okay, come one-half left and hold that.” 43 PILOT: “Rawj.” 43 WSO: “Clear your clock. After we Idaho Air National Guard RF-4Cs. Photo courtesy of Bill Miller. hack, turn left two-zero-three and hold that ‘till we cross the target. 43 PILOT: “Mike, that’s Fred, and over there to join up? He really Ready, ready—Hack!” he’s in big trouble! We’re needs our help.” 43 PILOT: “My clock’s runnin’; I’m abandoning this low-level, and I’m SLC: “FANGO 43, squawk ident. turning to two-zero-three…okay; headin’ over that way right now; Radar contact, 105 west of Boise.” steady on!” coming to a two-two-zero heading.” 43: “Roger. He’s probably heading 43 WSO: “We’ll cross the target at toward Boise; should be around fifty-two seconds. Then climb FANGO 43 was about 20 miles east 250 knots.” straight ahead to 7,300 feet, switch of FANGO 45, and their new SLC: “Okay FANGO 43, I’ve got a to TAO, make a 45-degree-bank southwesterly heading would quickly 4300 squawk in that vicinity, left turn to one-eight-five.” put them close to FANGO 45, who bearing two-zero-zero for 21.” 43 PILOT: “Okay …. There’s forty- indeed needed help. They radioed Salt 43: “Okay, that should be him; five seconds ….” Lake Center (SLC) for radar assistance thanks. When we join up, we’ll 43 WSO: “The IR’s comin’ on. We in locating the distressed FANGO 45 keep you advised.” should be over the target right and to aid in a rapid join up. now…Okay, now start your climb 43: “Salt Lake Center, FANGO 43; FANGO 45 had also been flying a to 7,300 feet and switch to …” 100 northwest of Boise.” low-level mission, traveling at 480 knots (RADIO CALL ON DISTRESS SLC: “FANGO 43, Salt Lake, go groundspeed in a low-level training CHANNEL) “MAYDAY, MAYDAY, ahead.” corridor and had taken a 20-pound MAYDAY! FANGO 45, MAYDAY, 43: “We just heard a Mayday from Tundra Swan in their left windscreen, MAYDAY. 150 MILES WEST OF FANGO 45, he’s about 150 west BOISE HAS A BIRD STRIKE. of Boise; reported a bird strike. See Fango 45 MAYDAY, MAYDAY, MAYDAY!” Can you see him and vector us Continued on page 14 INSIDE

Airport System Plan ...... 2 Radio Chatter ...... 4 Color of Aviation...... 10 Training ...... 3 Barefoot Bandit ...... 6 Calendar of Events...... 12 Airport System Plan Gains National Honor By: ITD Transporter Staff The Recognition of Idaho’s Airport airport System Plan, completed in 2010, system plan reached new heights recently when it was funded earned a national award from the by a Federal American Council of Engineering Aviation Companies (ACEC). The plan that will Administra- guide future investments in Idaho’s tion grant airport system, received ACEC’s 2011 and was Engineering Excellence Award in completed national competition – the “Academy by Awards” of the engineering industry. consultant Wilbur The National Recognition Award is Smith Director Brian Ness and Aeronautics’ Bill Statham a “prestigious distinction for projects Associates. accept ACEC award for ITD. that demonstrate exceptional achieve- Aeronautics project manager Bill annual economic impact of $2.9 billion ment in engineering.” ITD was formally Statham began working with consultants on the state’s economy. recognized during a program and dinner in 2008 to develop the study, which April 1st in Washington, D.C. also included T-O Engineers, HDR and Idaho’s ACEC chapter selected the ES Engineering. airport system plan for one of its annual awards in 2011. The honor was formally The Rudder Flutter is published by the Idaho Division of Aeronautics, Office of Safety and Education. Articles The goal of the plan was to “provide presented at the 2011 Engineering appearing in this publication are the opinion of the a blueprint to ensure that Idaho’s future Excellence Awards luncheon at Boise writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Staff, the Administrator, or the Department. All system of airports meets the state’s needs in April. reasonable attempts are made to ensure the accuracy as viewed at a macro or top-down of the articles contained herein. The Rudder Flutter is published quarterly. All articles must be submitted to perspective,” according to the executive this office for review. summary. “This approach allows each airport’s role in the system, its Idaho Transportation Department demand for Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter aviation, and its Director Brian Ness infrastructure to be Administrator John “JV” DeThomas evaluated in this Aeronautics Advisory Board larger context.” Chairman Rodger Sorensen Members Chip Kemper, Scott Patrick, According to Dan Scott, and Mark Sweeney the comprehensive Division of Aeronautics study, 75 Idaho 3483 Rickenbacker St., Boise, ID 83705 airports are located Website: http://www.itd.idaho.gov, Ph: 208.334.8775 within a 30-minute Rudder Flutter Editor: Frank Lester drive of 89 percent Email: [email protected] of the state’s Assistant Editors: Tammy Schoen population. It also Email: [email protected]; Laura indicates that Adams, Email: [email protected] Graphic Design: Pauline Davis Idaho’s airport Email: [email protected] system is a significant contributor to the state’s economy, accounting for approximately 23,000 jobs, with an annual payroll of about $718.5 million. Airports have an estimated

Page 2 Rudder Flutter Training Made to Order By: Aka Evans that I would soon The story of boy meets plane is an be overwhelmed if old one. The sequel is boy meets flight he didn’t intercede. instructor, which can have either a “This is your pleasant ending or a sad one. Although airspeed indicator, the outcome depends largely on the pilot, your altimeter is in reality, the instructor plays a dramatic here, RPM is here, role in the future enjoyment and the and I’ll monitor safety of both pilot and public below. engine temps and pressures until you Paul Leadabrand of Stick and Rudder are familiar with the Aviation is the sequel with the pleasant layout,” he said. ending, the one to call when you need The arrangement to learn the characteristics of the Kitfox. worked well and I I know, because I bought a Kitfox and understood the asked Paul to show me the ropes. What basics. Kitfox Super Sport - Photo courtesy of Aka Evans. he showed me was a treasure box of capabilities, and a simple line of thinking Because I already held a tail dragger Turning toward an airstrip, Paul again for staying safe and having fun. endorsement, my training would focus took the controls and demonstrated the on safe handling of the aircraft during landing approach with a simple set of Unfortunately, when I called Paul, I takeoff and landing. We moved onto the linear instructions, “We’re shooting for hadn’t visited his website and didn’t active runway while Paul handled the 65 mph in the descent with the power have a clue about what his company radio. Paul made the initial takeoff and at idle. We use power to adjust the offered other than Kitfox-specific turned us toward the practice area. He descent and the round out in the final training. It soon became clear that one then gave me the airplane and said, “Play phase of the flare.” I was really enjoying of the features of his training schedule with it.” My timid movements probably myself. I was learning, and I was flying. is … your schedule: What do you want gave him the impression that I was and when do you want it? When I told intimidated by the shiny new airplane The Kitfox is not the plane I learned him about my “short window,” he and the video-arcade cockpit display. in. The flight characteristics and overall answered with a time frame that would Giving me a series of instructions, he performance were so different that it work for both of us. His specific goal encouraged me to get to “know” the seemed almost foreign. In spite of the was getting me checked out so I could airplane, and then I started to have fun. learning curve, Paul made me feel like fly my plane. His cockpit manners gave me great a pilot, relieving my tension at flying a confidence and I couldn’t have enjoyed truly high performance airplane. Let’s When I flew in to Boise, Paul had the instruction more. face it, power to weight ratio is not an already arranged for my hotel and unfathomable concept to understand, provided me ground transportation. It was time to get to work, so we and the Kitfox has a lot of power for After about an hour of gentle probing headed for a wide canyon to practice a its weight. conversation about my experience (70 technique designed to teach ground hours in a J-3 cub), we drove to his reference and altitude control. “Stay My first takeoff was exciting as I hangar and climbed into his pristine, above the canyon rim and fly the middle allowed a wing to come up during the made-to-order Series 7 Kitfox Super so you can get used to controlling speed ground roll, flying the craft on one Sport. The bright yellow and black paint and altitude,” Paul said. As we flew up wheel. As I rotated, I added some left scheme gave the plane a lively look just the canyon, I got a first-hand look at rudder, further enhancing my already sitting on the ramp; I felt a tingle of the Kitfox’s responsiveness. Although I tarnished technique…you probably had excitement begin to course through my am inexperienced, I am not new; but to be there, but…it was exciting! new-aviator veins. when Paul asked me to turn around in Although Paul didn’t take the controls, the canyon I asked him to repeat his uttering the dreaded “my airplane,” he His assessment of my experience request. I had heard him correctly. We chuckled while explaining the takeoff allowed him to begin at my level of executed a tight, but fairly coordinated maneuver in a more Kitfox-like manner. understanding and tailor the course turn in a radius that surprised me, and Completing a few touch and goes, he material for my specific requirements. without even approaching the airplane’s soon discovered that there would be Although I was impatient to get into the design limits or the canyon walls. I felt some interesting challenges ahead. air, he had to be sure that his starting like Luke Skywalker. With some practice, point and my starting point matched. I bet I could do it tighter and with no He introduced me to the Dynon Skyview altitude loss or gain...well…says me. See Training glass cockpit. The display was Continued on page 18 information-rich, and it was easy to see Spring 2011 Page 3 Radio Chatter By: Frank Lester Safety/Education Coordinator Garden Valley Restroom and Three Idaho Shower Project Airstrips No Longer Ground Restricted breaking on the project to Cayuse construct Creek, Wilson restrooms and Bar and Lower showers at Loon, listed on Garden Valley FAA charts as took place on “Restricted” for decades, will soon have April 1st. The their “R”s kicked. At the urging of the project is being Idaho Airstrip Network and Idaho coordinated Division of Aeronautics, the owners of through the Idaho the airstrips successfully applied to the Aviation Foundation for the new Garden Valley restrooms and showers. FAA for normal, public-use designations Foundation (IAF), to reflect their actual usage. Neither the IAA and Aeronautics. Donations are on “Airstrips.” That will take you to the U.S. Forest Service, owner of Cayuse being accepted through the IAF. Idaho Airstrip Network’s (IAN) listing Creek and Wilson Bar, nor Idaho Fish Volunteers from the local aviation of most public-use airstrips. and Game, owner of Lower Loon, have community and local contractors are been requiring permission to land on donating their time and resources Click on the airstrip you plan to these strips. toward the project. Weather permitting, visit and you will find a Google map of the building should be open in June. your destination along with information Once the airstrips are officially open on nearby airstrips, an airport diagram to the public without restrictions, the Nampa Runway Closure from the Idaho Division of Aeronautics Idaho Division of Aeronautics will make Airport/Facilities Directory, photographs, periodic inspections. As soon as the I recently spoke with Colleen a list of any known events planned for first inspections are completed this Hartnett, Airport Manager for Nampa the airstrip, a short narrative about the spring and paper work submitted to (MAN), about the upcoming runway area, and “Pilot Reports.” the FAA, the “R” designation will be closures. This is the latest word (as of removed from future sectional and April 20th): the runway will be closed “The Pilot Report feature is World Aeronautical Charts, and the September 10-14, 17-21, and 24-28. potentially the most useful feature of airports will appear in the FAA’s The runway will close at 7:00 PM on the site, particularly for those who are Northwest Airport/Facility Directory. the first day and reopen at 7:00 AM on already familiar with the airstrips,” said the last day; i.e. close at 7:00 PM on IAN Coordinator Larry Taylor. Pilots New Caretakers at Johnson Creek 9/10 and reopen at 7:00 AM on 9/14. who find any problems during a visit There is also the possibility of additional to one of these airstrips can then go to Gary McElheney, Aeronautics night closures between 8:00 PM to 6:00 the IAA web site upon returning home, Airport Manager, has selected Dave and AM to install edge drains along the click on “Airstrips” and then on “Pilot Cornelia Shotwell as the new Johnson runway. As of this writing, no decision Report,” and easily email a report of Creek caretakers. “They are very has been made as to whether the their findings. The emails will go to qualified. Dave, who owned a installations will be conducted separately Taylor, and to Gary McElheney and construction company in Twin Falls for or in conjunction with the scheduled Mark Lessor at the Idaho Division of over 25 years, is a pilot and owns two runway closures. In any case, CHECK Aeronautics. They will evaluate the planes,” Gary said. Dave and Cornelia NOTAMS THOROUGHLY BEFORE report and immediately post the also managed the Whitewater Ranch FLIGHT AND WHEN AIRBORNE! appropriate Pilot Report on that airstrip’s on the main Salmon River for three page for everyone to see. They will then years. As managers, they performed Pilot Reports Wanted notify the airstrip owner of any problem. major repairs, ground maintenance, Examples might be, “Wind sock maintained the airstrip as well as Planning to fly into one of Idaho’s missing,” or, “Large rodent holes in tie domestic chores and interacting with backcountry airstrips? Check them out down area,” or even, “Tree down on guests. Gary added that they have first by going to the Idaho Aviation approach end.” charming personalities and will be a Association’s (IAA) web site, nice addition to both Johnson Creek www.idahoaviation.com and clicking and the Aeronautics team. See Radio Chatter Continued on page 5

Page 4 Rudder Flutter 6th, the Air-A-Fair Radio Chatter will begin at 9:00 Continued from page 4 AM and continue to 3:00 PM. Local performers Greg Poe and Mark Peterson “Clearly, this has the potential of are scheduled to increasing the safety at our airstrips,” participate. The said Taylor. “The key to success is for event is part of a pilots to know about it and then use it.” great weekend of activities including Another drop-down choice under the Valley County “Airstrips” is “Airstrip Maintenance.” Fair and Rodeo. Pilots can quickly send in their There will be tons of observations of an airstrip’s overall fun for the entire condition, which will help the IAN family. Don’t miss coordinator work with airstrip owners this enjoyable family to arrange for maintenance. weekend in Cascade. The web site is a work in progress. For more Not all of the airstrips have the information, please contact Ronda Regional Airport. The meetings usually photographs and information yet, but Sandmeyer at 208-869-6647 or at cover a couple of topics of interest with all are wired for pilot reports. [email protected]. a guest speaker. The next meeting will be May 11, which may be the last for John W. Reeder Memorial at Pocatello Aviation Group the summer. For more information, Twin Falls contact Mike Marquette at 339-0663. Mike Marquette a local pilot and On June 4th, 2011, Reeder Flying flight instructor recently established the EAA Chapter Honors Former Flight Service will dedicate the John W. Pocatello Aviation Group (PAG) for Instructor Reeder Memorial at the Magic Valley anyone interested in aviation —pilots, Regional Airport in Twin Falls, Idaho. control tower operators, mechanics, The Lewiston Chapter of the They will be planting a tree in John’s students or anyone enthusiastic about Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) honor. A local Eagle Scout is building flying. honored former flight instructor Arlene a bench that will be installed along Caldwell when the chapter established with a concrete patio. John, who passed “The PAG is for anyone who has an a scholarship fund in her name to help away unexpectedly on March 2, 2010, aviation interest, people with a curiosity area flight students earn their FAA pilot’s was a highly respected member of the or just someone who likes computer license. aviation and professional community. flight simulations,” he said. “They are He was loved by all who knew him. more than welcome to join us ... I intend Arlene, who grew up in the to keep it very informal, no officers or Craigmont area and learned to fly at The public is invited to attend the dues at this point.” the Lewiston airport, had a relatively dedication. A pancake breakfast short, but very successful, flying career, sponsored by Reeder Flying Service Mike earned a teaching degree at eventually qualifying in the Boeing 747. and Happy Landing restaurant will run Idaho State University in 1970, but soon At the time of her passing, Arlene was from 8:00 AM to Noon with the discovered that teaching would not working as a flight instructor at Stout ceremony taking place at 10:00 AM. provide the income he needed and he Flying Service. The cost of the breakfast is $3.99 per eventually left the profession, spending person. Those flying in will be given a 31 years working for UPS. Around 1985, Members of Arlene’s family and free ticket. he learned to fly and began working former workmates made significant toward his instructor certificate, contributions to the scholarship fund For more information, please call simultaneously pursuing his love of in memory of her dedication to flying 208-733-5920 or Happy Landing at teaching and flying. and her willingness to help others. In 208-736-3710. recognition of their generosity, the fund As for the PAG, Mike is hoping the will be known as the EAA-Arlene Cascade Air Show club will be a place for members to share Caldwell Scholarship Program and will their knowledge with others while be administered by Lewiston EAA The Valley County Convention building camaraderie among aviation Chapter 328. and Visitor Bureau presents: “Cascade fanciers in the area. Air-A-Fair,” August 5-6, 2011. On Friday the 5th, performers will fly in Currently, the club has 25-30 and practice, followed that evening by members, meetings are the second a dinner and band. On Saturday the Wednesday of the month at the Pocatello

Spring 2011 Page 5 Memories and the Barefoot Bandit Editor: Most of us remember Colton Harris- plane. I hadn’t. He said my hangar door Moore, otherwise known as the “Barefoot was open and that my plane was gone. Bandit,” as being accused of evading law enforcement agencies for two years, stealing I asked him to please call 911 and said cars, boats, and airplanes during a daring that I was on my way. multi-national theft spree that carried him from the west coast and Canada to the The airport where I hangar my plane Bahamas. Harris-Moore, 20, was captured in the Bahamas where he crash-landed an is located in Bonners Ferry, Boundary aircraft he allegedly stole in Indiana. In an County, Idaho at the top of the Idaho unfortunate twist of fate, Bonners Ferry pilot panhandle. It’s a wonderful, friendly Pat Gardiner experienced first-hand the place nestled between the scenic Barefoot Bandits’ destructive adventure. Kanitsku and Selkirk mountains, Photos are courtesy of Pat Gardiner overlooking the Kootenai River. in a clear cut. However, no one was found By: Pat Gardiner in the plane. He couldn’t tell me much about its condition because it was dark I took my first flight in the summer and the scene had been secured. of 1956 at the National City Airport, located in the southern part of San When I finally began to receive Diego County. Since then I have had reports on Saturday of the plane’s many exciting experiences in flying, but condition, it didn’t sound good. The this is one for the books. This was the crash site was littered with stumps and first time I had ever heard of the My emotions ran the gamut from thick brush. The 90 feet of skid marks “Barefoot Bandit.” surreal to abject anger to total disbelief. gave an estimate of approximately 6 to “Why me?” I thought to myself. 7 G’s on landing. The air bag had He broke into my hangar the first deployed. The landing gear was ripped time on Sunday, September 27, 2009, My wife and I had picked up our off; the prop, engine, wings and tail new Cessna T182T in Independence were all severely damaged. The entire Kansas; a sturdy plane with a new frame assumed the appearance of an Garmin G1000 panel. What a treat! But accordion. The more I heard, the more now it was gone, and we had no idea it became painfully clear that it would who had stolen it. The sheriff had several never fly again, a sad end to my once theories such as drug smugglers or proud plane. terrorists, but it wasn’t until the next day that the story began to unfold. There Unfortunately, this can happen to had been break-ins to hangars in any of us regardless of how cautious we Creston, British Columbia, just north are. The damage and misery this of Boundary County, several days before individual has caused by his theft of at several days before he flew off with my where someone attempted to steal a least 5 planes, more than 80 burglaries, plane. I got a call shortly thereafter on Cessna 182, failing only because of a and various other felonies will hopefully a Monday afternoon. The police were dead battery. The thief took some of the see relief when he is brought to justice. at the hangar when I arrived. I was owner’s belongings and stole a car, His trial is currently scheduled for July relieved that only minor damage had abandoning it at the border where he 11, 2011. been done to the plane. He had smashed walked to Porthill. He then stole another According to an April 9, 2011, AP article, the hangar entry door and tried car and drove it to Bonners Ferry, Harris-Moore’s attorney, John Henry Browne unsuccessfully to force open the airplane abandoning the second car near the has stated that a plea deal is in the works, baggage door with something, maybe airport. which could involve donating any movie- or a screwdriver. He eventually entered book-deal profits to repaying victims. through the passenger door, but oddly Many agencies were searching for Although Browne would not discuss how much prison time his client is looking at, he only took a Leatherman tool. Convinced the plane: Homeland Security because had previously said that he could receive that nothing else was missing, we closed of the terrorism potential, FBI, Federal from 4-12 years, if convicted. According to the door to the hangar. Later that Marshal, Border Patrol together with local the article, Harris-Moore appeared in Seattle afternoon I installed a padlock bolted law enforcement were all looking, but before U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones on April 8, with his attorneys and the Assistant through the door to secure it until the without success. Eventually the plane U.S. Attorney, Darwin Roberts. Although new door arrived. was found late Thursday evening, coordinating state and federal charges for 17 October 1, near Granite Falls, different jurisdictions is a major hurdle, they Early in the morning on September Washington. The local sheriff called and told the judge that progress has been made 29th, I received another call from my told me that a local logger had notified and a deal could be reached as early as the end of May. – Editor friend, Rich, asking if I had moved my them of an airplane he had found crashed

Page 6 Rudder Flutter Good Job, Joe MONITOR GUARD FREQUENCY By: Gy Hall just another day 121.5! around the 1800- Joe, your instructor Nicholas (Nick foot, slightly dog- If you hear a distress signal or radio call: Grachanin, Clearwater Valley Aero legged dirt strip that Club) informs me that you soloed in had become my Note your altitude, location and time the 172 today. Let me offer you my flying home. Even and congratulations. the dip that ran through the middle To honor your achievement I dug of the strip and the PASS IT ON…IMMEDIATELY!!! out my old log books and looked at the trees on each end • ATC or FSS unadorned, cryptic writing that leaves seemed normal. In out so much of what was important to my 10th hour of • FSS: 800-WXBRIEF (800-992-7433) me that day in my life as a 23-year-old instruction, cruising • Idaho State Communications (800-632-8000) grad student, studying Sociology at the through the stalls • Local FBO University of Missouri in Kansas City. and turns around a I’d made a loan against my $2.56 wage point, I was reveling • Local County Sheriff working part-time for the Federal in the awareness Bureau of Prisons, convinced that if I that I was no longer didn’t take out a loan and dedicate it afraid to look through the rattling side next seven seconds I had the biggest to learning how to fly, I might never window of the Champ at the dizzying surprise in my short flying career. The achieve my life-long dream. Thankfully heights. That even in the middle of a plane literally LEAPED into the air, I was smart enough to recognize my 720-degree turn, searching for that relieved of the weight which it had been opportunity when I saw that the owner elusive “whomp” that told me I had carrying and I sailed like a kite up and of Hillside Airport, south of KC, was successfully intersected my own wake, up and up and up, exhilarated and advertising 40 hours of flight time, 20 flying felt very much like home. ecstatic with the feeling of being the dual and 20 solo, for $450. only one in control; being ONE with The flight routine that day was this wonderful, noisy, machine, which My solo happened on a bright day equally comfortable, flying to the small so willingly cooperated with me to in May, 1966. I had no idea what my pasture located two miles west where produce magic. Before I knew it, I was instructor had in store for me as I we were introduced to off-field landings WAY above pattern altitude, brought watched him climb aboard and set his and emergency procedures. We made a back to reality by the urgent need to 250 pounds in the rear seat of the 1946 couple of landings and practiced a couple arrange things so that I could land Aeronca 7AC. With 10 hours under my of engine failures on takeoff, neatly safely, back where my instructor stood, belt, I was feeling comfortable as we sailing over the barbed wire fence, then now just a tiny speck against the green progressed through the challenge- to the right and just between two huge Missouri grass. He must have been response of the hand-start procedure: trees where the next clear field lay. It happy with my landing because he “Mags off?” – “Mags off!”…followed was a safe place to put the aircraft down waved me up again when I taxied back by pulling the prop through a few times; with only a few cows to avoid. Spring to pick him up. I went around two more then, “Contact” -- was still in the air, the wind was light times before he climbed on board and “Contact!!!”…listening for the double from the north, the engine purred said, “Good job. Let’s go home.” click as my instructor moved the contentedly, and the hooked cork-wire magneto switch; then, “Throttle?” – float in the forward mounted fuel tank Your flying experiences and mine “Cracked!”, “Brakes?” – indicated that we still had six gallons of have been very different, but still similar “Set!”…verifying, as he had taught me, fuel. My confidence in my flying abilities in many ways. You waited longer in life that they were actually set by pulling was on the rise. Then, on the next landing than me to take the leap. The planes and pushing in a back-and-forth motion my instructor had me taxi back to the we soloed are generationally distant. on the prop to see if the aircraft would takeoff end of the pasture, unfastened The times, the security issues, the move. Setting my hands on the prop and his seat belt, leaned forward and said, encroaching controlled airspace, glass adjusting my stance, I would then give “Ok, it’s all yours. Go get ‘em.” And cockpits and the marvels of GPS, even the 65-hp Continental engine a steady, before I could respond, he had deftly the need for radios, all combine to strong downward pull, careful to move maneuvered his bulk out the door. I was make my own history an ancient, long my hands out of the path of the prop. all alone. I didn’t even have time to get forgotten time. Much of my early flying, Instantly the Continental coughs to life, nervous. some trips measuring in days and and the prop becomes a whirling disc handfuls of miles, was without radios right in front of me. I remember thinking, “Well, if he thinks I am ready, I must be!” And so I See Joe All routine, nothing was unusual; pushed the throttle forward and in the Continued on page 16

Spring 2011 Page 7 Welcome to the Ponderosa Aero Club By: Gail Frasier, Club Manager Ponderosa Aero Club (PAC) has been leaseback aircraft and over 150 instrument instruction in an IFR, GPS- providing exceptional flight training members. The aircraft have varied from equipped aircraft. Aside from training, and aircraft rental to its members in a Super Cub to a Diamond DA40 with members can schedule aircraft for the Boise since 1974. A group of dreamers a glass cockpit. Despite the fact that $100 hamburger or for a 200-MPH with a vision of sharing flying expenses many leaseback aircraft have come and business flight. and experiences decided to start a flying gone over the years, others have club at a small airport on the Boise River remained, including a C-172 that has The feeling that you are family is called Strawberry Glen. One of those been with the Club since 1986. very strong among Club members, and members was Pat Peterson, who today Countless Boise pilots have had their together they schedule many fun is a member of the Idaho Aviation Hall first solo flight in N7728G! activities, including fly-ins, an annual of Fame. BBQ and plane wash party in the Ponderosa has had thousands of summer, and an annual dinner party in After laying the foundation, this members over the years including some the winter. The Club adopted the Warm young upstart group began to gather notables such as Cecil Andrus, Pete Springs Airport many years ago and more members and aircraft, and after Cenarrusa, and Greg Poe. Since the every July they hold a camping/work outgrowing their small community on beginning, the Club has taught future party with backcountry flights for the the Boise River, decided to move the military pilots, backcountry pilots, kids and breakfast for all. operation to the bustling city of Boise. Forest Service pilots, corporate pilots The Club moved its offices several times and countless airline pilots, not to The generosity of the members has before settling in the old Executive mention all of the fly-for-fun and allowed the Club to acquire many Terminal where the Club would remain business pilots that are the backbone resources, reference materials and a PC- for the next twenty years. When that of the Club. There has always been a ATD simulator for member use. terminal was taken over by Jackson Jet group of dedicated flight instructors at Center, PAC moved two buildings to PAC, some who have moved on to other Safety has always been #1 at the east where it resides today. At times, careers, but many who have stayed on Ponderosa, and 37 years later, it proudly the Club has had as many as 14 to teach the next generation of pilots. boasts a safety record second to none. The Club provides members with the Today, the support and guidance necessary for Club has nine newer pilots to have the mentors they well-maintained need to become safe pilots, and to assure and well- aircraft owners that their aircraft will equipped aircraft, be operated only by those with good about 110 active skills, sound judgment, and respect for members, and their aircraft. The mission of Ponderosa four very that was created by Pat Peterson in those experienced early days exists to this day: a group of instructors, who happy pilots sharing great aircraft, the provide excellent best training, and good times! training whether it is flying in the For more information about the Ponderosa Idaho Aero Club, visit www.ponderosaaero.org. – Editor backcountry or

Leather Seats Are Our Specialty

Boise, Idaho Tel (208) 465-5035

Page 8 Rudder Flutter Aero Mark and IAA Host Idaho Aviation Trade Show Aero Mark of Idaho Falls has teamed up with the Idaho Aviation Association (IAA) to host the 1st annual Idaho Aviation Trade Show, May 20 and 21, 2011. The event, intended as a kick off to the flying season, also provides the IAA an opportunity to hold its annual meeting in a new venue. “Growing our membership is a major goal this year,” said Doug Cully, IAA Membership Committee. “When Aero Mark offered to host our meeting and organize a trade show at the same time, it seemed like a win-win situation.” The annual IAA meeting is set for Saturday, May 21.

Tickets to the trade show are $30, but are free to IAA members including lunch on Saturday. If you are not a member of the IAA, you can join for $30. IAA members are automatically entered into the drawing for one of two iPads to be given away at the event.

The challenge of putting on a spring aviation trade show is weather. The 30,000 square foot Aero Mark XL hangar solves that problem. “After building the big hangar, we realized it would be a great venue for an aviation trade show,” stated Bob Hoff, Owner of Aero Mark. “Idaho is such a gem for backcountry pilots from all over the country, it seemed like a good idea to have an event in the state to kick off the backcountry flying season safely with seminars, speakers and general information sharing,” he continued. “The XL hangar makes it possible to host vendors, planes, and seminars indoors without worrying about wind or weather.”

Featured seminars include two Mountain/Canyon Flying seminars by Lori MacNichol (WINGs credit), a discussion about the state of the Idaho backcountry, an overview of national aviation access issues by the Recreational Saturday night. The Saturday evening IAA. “It doesn’t hurt that there is a free Aviation Foundation, safety seminars, dinner is $30 for everyone. Mountain Flying seminar and a chance and general hangar flying. There will to win an iPad.” be a wide variety of aviation stuff “For me, the big draw is the including cool planes to checkout, war opportunity to sharpen my thinking, to Vendors, IAA members and non- stories about B-17s and air combat do some hangar flying with friends, and members may register for the Idaho support in Afghanistan. Social events to get ready for the summer flying Aviation Tradeshow include a no-host bar Friday and a sit- season,” said Mike Hart, event co- at www.idahoaviation.com. Vendors may down dinner with no-host bar on organizer and District 6 Director for the also register for the event through Aero Mark at [email protected].

Spring 2011 Page 9 The Color of Aviation: Greg Poe – Sharing a Dream

By: Frank Lester Greg has been Safety/Education Coordinator chosen for several nationally televised As Greg puts it, he is an example air show freestyle of how a country boy from Idaho has competitions, reached the sky and beyond through placing 2nd in the hard work and dedication to a dream. World Free Style Driven by his passion for flying and the Sport Flying tragic loss of his son, he uses his world- Championships in class skills to not only entertain and 1999 and 3rd in the awe thousands of spectators around the World Aerobatic world, but also to encourage young Federation contest people to focus on their dreams and in 2000. He has find their passions. been featured in such television A native of Boise, he began his flying programs as career at an early age and earned his Modern Marvels, pilot’s license while still a teenager, Ripley’s Believe it or flying out of the old Strawberry Glen Not, The Discovery Channel, CBS news, became distant and detached. Addicted airport alongside the Boise River. His FOX sports, CNN, and ESPN. In 2010, to heroin, he struggled to escape the flight instructor introduced him to he was featured as “G-Force” on Stan grasp of this powerful drug. In the end, aerobatics early on and it quickly turned Lee’s “Superhumans,” a series on the in spite of the efforts of both Ryan and into a passion that continues to this History Channel about incredible his family, the addiction proved too day. talents. strong, and Ryan lost his battle, leaving us at the much-too-young age of twenty. His flying career has been a varied Greg’s life has been impacted by the one: from towing gliders and aerial tragic loss of his son, Ryan, to heroin Devastated by this terrible loss, Greg banner advertisements to float plane addiction. In Ryan’s memory, he now was faced with a decision not flying, Greg considers himself one of visits schools and youth groups the fortunate few who have been with his “Elevate Your Life” granted the privilege of a life in the air! program discussing the Greg’s love of aerobatics led him to incredible opportunities aviation enter competitions around the country, has afforded him; telling his eventually leading to his first air show story as a reminder to young performance in 1992. Shortly after, he people of the importance of became a full-time air show pilot and making the right choices and a mainstay on the circuit, performing following their dreams. in 15 to 25 air show events each year. Ryan Poe was born on March 18, 1982, in Boise. A spirited young man who religiously collected baseball cards as a youngster, he spent countless uncommon to the children he now hours with his dad playing catch in the reaches out to in his presentations. He backyard, backpacking into Idaho’s could choose to succumb to the rugged backcountry, or fishing at a hopelessness of despair or, in Ryan’s remote lake or stream. He was also memory, talk to the children about the bright, known affectionately as the difficult decisions they will face, and family’s walking encyclopedia. He loved the importance of following their dreams to fly hoping one day to become a pilot, and finding a passion to pursue. but as a teenager, Ryan began to change. His grades fell, his enthusiasm for sports See Greg Poe Ryan Poe on his 13th Birthday. and other activities disappeared; he Continued on page 11

Page 10 Rudder Flutter Greg Poe Continued frompage 10 Caldwell Air Show Continuing the tradition begun last year, the 2011 Celebration of Flight will excite your senses on Saturday, June 25th. Air show performers, static displays of military aircraft and vehicles, classic cars and motorcycles, and a host of other attractions will awe and entertain young and old alike.

Caldwell’s Celebration of Flight Air Show is a one-day, bringing the Treasure Valley together at Ryan was no different than any family event highlighting all the living the Caldwell airport on a summer day other normal, exciting young person. color and breathtaking excitement of to see and share in the splendor, heritage He lived in an average town, seemingly multi-dimensional high energy and adventure of flight! We are fortunate far away from the horrible influences aerobatics. The Air show is all about to have the support of the Idaho Air that we often pass off as “big city” National Guard and Army National problems. The sad truth is: no place is Guard from Gowen Field in Boise. On immune to these evils, and we all have display will be National Guard ground a responsibility to protect our children. vehicles and helicopters. Fixed-wing aircraft, private and commercial aircraft, Greg chose the latter and vintage WWII-, Korean- and Vietnam- established the Ryan J. Poe Foundation era aircraft, experimental and special to encourage other youngsters like Ryan kit aircraft will also be on display. Don’t to focus on their dreams and discover miss this thrilling demonstration of skill, their passions in life. He emphasizes spirit, and American prowess. that the best defense is knowledge and the realization that the good things in For more information on this their lives far outweigh the bad. They are in control of their destiny and exciting event, go to happiness. Their future is a choice, and www.celebrationofflightidaho.com. with good guidance and fearless determination, they will have a chance to reach their dreams.

“Elevate Your Life” is the vehicle Greg employs to spread his message. An accomplished public speaker, he uses the one-hour program to target middle-school students. In 2010, Greg reached out to more than 10,000 students and is on track to exceed that number in 2011. Working with school administrators, he sponsors an essay contest offering rides in his air show aircraft and his A-36 Bonanza to the is within their grasp. As we are proud their logos and pictures. If you would like top two finishers. to call Greg one of our own, so would more information about the Ryan J. Poe Foundation or would like donate to help Ryan be proud of his father. Carry on Greg in his effort to fight drugs and spread This positive message is a tribute Greg, your color is true. a positive message to our children, please to Ryan’s memory. It is Greg’s desire as visit www.ryanjpoe.org or a parent and teacher to inspire our We extend our sincere appreciation to Greg www.gregpoe.com. – Editor Poe Airshows and Greg Gibson, Public children to achieve what they may Relations for Greg Poe, for their assistance believe as impossible, but what in reality with this article and permitting us to use

Spring 2011 Page 11 Calendar of Events MAY JUNE (continued)

14 Flying Companion Seminar, Idaho Ninety-Nines. 8 am 25 Celebration of Flight Air Show, Caldwell Airport, gates to 4:30 pm, Idaho Division of Aeronautics. $45 pre-registration. Sherry open at 9 am with flying at 11:00 am, www.celebrationofflightidaho.com Kandle, 208-841-1421, [email protected], Beth Shannon, 208-880-5084, [email protected] 25 Boundary County Airport, EAA chapter 757 Pancake Breakfast. 8 am - 10:30 am, www.northernair.biz 19 Safe Pilot Meeting, Avcenter Hangar, Nampa Airport (MAN), 7:00 PM, Light Sport Aircraft with Cammie Patch – Idaho Division of 25 “Experience Flight” Pocatello Airport Appreciation Day (PIH), Aeronautics, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or [email protected] 9 am to 3 pm 20-21 Aviation Tradeshow and Annual IAA Convention, 28-7/1 McCall Mountain/Canyon Flying Seminars Idaho Falls airport. Vendor booths, show planes, speakers, safety Basic Course, www.mountaincanyonflying.com seminars, dinner and more! Aero Mark, 208-524-1202 or [email protected] 28-7/2 Delta Force, Johnson Creek (3U2) – Jim Robertson, 21 Safe Pilot Meeting, Idaho Aviation Tradeshow and Conference, 817-821-3940 10 am - Noon, Hangar B - Light Sport Aircraft with Cammie Patch, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or [email protected] JULY

21 Fun in the Grass Fly-In and Breakfast, 7-10 Woman Wise Airmanship Adventure, Smiley Creek Carey Airport (U65) – www.idahoaviation.com Airport. $125/person. 25-35 aircraft, Christina Chapman, 208-634-9855 or [email protected] 26 Safe Pilot Meeting, Coeur d'Alene, Jerry Rose’s Hangar, 7 PM, Light Sport Aircraft with Cammie Patch, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or 8-10 C-180/185 Fly-in, Garden Valley, 50 aircraft/60 people, [email protected] Jim Davies, 208-859-5537 28 Boundary County Airport, EAA chapter 757, Huckleberry 8-10 QBs Fly-In, Johnson Creek, 25 aircraft/30 people, Pancake Breakfast. 8 am - 10:30 am, www.northernair.biz Mark Kadrich, 408-313-6263

JUNE 9 Grand Opening and Fly-in, Gooding, Kit John, [email protected] 4 John Reeder Memorial Dedication and Breakfast, Twin Falls Airport (TWF), 8 am - Noon, 208-733-5920 or 208-736-3710 14-15 Teacher Aviation Workshop, Bird Aviation Museum, Sandpoint (SZT). Idaho Division of Aeronautics, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 11 Jerome County Airport Annual Fly-in and Community or [email protected] Appreciation Day. 7 am to Noon. Breakfast hosted by local Search & Rescue, Bonnie Dietrick, [email protected] 15 Rudder Flutter Articles Due for Next Issue 11 Graham Work Party, IAA, Jerry Terlisner, 208-859-7969, 16 St Maries (S72) Fly-in Breakfast Fundraiser from [email protected], www.idahoaviation.com 8 am - 11 am. Exhibits, videos and door prizes. Breakfast is $6 per person. Support the Junior Civil Air patrol. 100LL available. Tina-Marie Schultz, 14-17 McCall Mountain/Canyon Flying Seminars 208-773-8522 or [email protected] Basic Course, www.mountaincanyonflying.com 22-24 Idaho 2011 Air Fair, Lewiston, CAF B-17 & B-25 WWII Bombers, 15-19 Super Cub Fly-In, Johnson Creek (3U2), 120 Aircraft/200 EAA 328 Hangar Open House on Sat., Camping. Wes Rash, 208-883-4337 people,– Dave Kirsten, 209-333-1100 23-24 T Craft Aero Club Fly-In, 6 aircraft/30 people, Jim Hudson 18-19 IAA Annual Father’s Day Fly-In Breakfast, Garden Valley (U88), 30 aircraft/70 people, Rich Speed, [email protected] 25-26 Teacher Aviation Workshop, Idaho Falls (IDA). Sponsored www.idahoaviation.com by Aeronautics, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or [email protected] 19-20 Annual Father’s Day Fly-In, Smiley Creek (U87), 28-29 Teacher Aviation Workshop, Caldwell Airport (EUL). 30 aircraft, Gary Thietten, 208-774-6288 or [email protected] Sponsored of Aeronautics, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 20-22 ACE Academy, Idaho Division of Aeronautics, Boise 30 Boundary County Airport, EAA chapter 757 Pancake Breakfast. Tammy (208)-334-8776 or [email protected] 8 am - 10:30 am, www.northernair.biz 24-26 Backcountry.org, Johnson Creek (3U2), 40 aircraft/50 people, Calendar of Events Bryan Painter, 916-622-2593, www.backcountry.org Continued on page 13

Page 12 Rudder Flutter 800 666- IFLY (4359) www.bwhiteinsurance.com 32 Years Nationwide, Insuring Tail Draggers to Jets • Airport Hangars and FBO’s Rotor Wing • Experimentals We support the Idaho Aviation Association and will find you the BEST rates.

On Final at Soldiers Bar

Calendar of Events Continued from page 12 SEPTEMBER

AUGUST 10 MAF Fund Raiser, Garden Valley airport, 100 people. Linda, 208-498-0767 4 Montana Antique Airplane Association Annual Fly In, Three Forks, MT (9S5). Tim Linn, 406-451-5897 10 Kamiah (S73) Fly-in Breakfast. $5, 9 am - 1 pm. Free breakfast ticket to each pilot flying in! Spot landing, flour bombing, Young Eagles. 5-6 Cascade Air-A-Fair, Cascade Airport. 9 am - 3 pm. 100LL available. Ron Funnemark, [email protected] Ronda Sandmeyer, 208-869-6647 or [email protected] 10-14 NAMPA AIRPORT (MAN) RUNWAY CLOSURE: 5-7 180/185 Fly-in, Johnson Creek Airport, 70 aircraft/150 people, 9/10 @ 7:00 pm to 9/14 @7:00 pm, CHECK NOTAMS Al Hewitt, 206-714-1420 17-21 NAMPA AIRPORT (MAN) RUNWAY CLOSURE: 12-13 IAA Annual Fly-In, Cavanaugh Bay Airport, 30 Aircraft/50 people, 9/17 @ 7:00 pm to 9/21 @7:00 pm, CHECK NOTAMS Russ Vawther, 208-602-5840 or 775-848-5243 21 Safe Pilot Meeting, Sandpoint (SZT), Division of Aeronautics, 13 Wings over Idaho, Sandpoint Airport (SZT), EAA Fly-in Breakfast, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or [email protected] Jan Lee, [email protected] 22 Safe Pilot Meeting, Lewiston (LWS), Division of Aeronautics, 20 Pancake Feed and Fly-Inn, Coeur d'Alene Airport. 7:00 am to Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or [email protected] 10:30 am. Sponsored by Coeur d'Alene Airport Association. Linda Polley, 208-640-8283 or [email protected] 24-28 NAMPA AIRPORT (MAN) RUNWAY CLOSURE: 9/24 @ 7:00 pm to 9/28 @7:00 pm, CHECK NOTAMS 27 Boundary County Airport, EAA chapter 757 Pancake Breakfast. 8:00 am - 10:30 am, www.northernair.biz 24 Boundary County Airport, EAA chapter 757 Pancake Breakfast. 8:00 am - 10:30 am, www.northernair.biz Email your event information to [email protected] for inclusion in the 28 Safe Pilot Meeting, Twin Falls (TWF), Division of Aeronautics, Rudder Flutter and the Aeronautics website. Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or [email protected]

Spring 2011 Page 13 visual on a beacon; our 1:30 Mountain Home AFB. Wilson agreed, Fango 45 position about 8 miles.” and from that moment, his central task Continued from page 1 SLC: “Roger, FANGO 43 that should was to fly good formation on FANGO be the other FANGO.” 43. shattering it, and incapacitating pilot 43: “Thanks Salt Lake, we’re joining FANGO 43 to FANGO 45: “Here’s Capt. Greg Engelbreit. The rear-seat up on him now and we’ll advise if the plan, Fred, as we’ve briefed crewmember, WSO Lt. Fred Wilson we need any more help.” before: we’ll bring you in for a was now in control of the aircraft. The 43 WSO: “Let’s try to raise Fred on straight-in approach-end arrestment RF-4C had only partial rear-seat the radio, I’m switching us over at Mountain Home. We’ll have controls—stick, rudders, throttles, to Guard (243.0 MHz)…… okay, everything coordinated and it will speed brakes – only limited capability now see if he can hear us.” be all set up. You just hang with us for lowering the landing gear and like you’re now doing. You okay stopping the aircraft, and limited FANGO 43 executed a rapid join with our plan?” visibility to land. Relying on his training, up and visually confirmed Engelbreit’s 45: “I’m with you Bill.” even in his blinded, injured, and condition: slouched forward and his 43: “Okay then, we’ll take it nice and semiconscious state, Engelbreit had chin on his chest. Major damage to his easy. You just keep flyin’ that good properly configured FANGO 45 for ejection seat linkages and parachute position you’ve got and we’ll bring landing—extending landing gear, flaps, container rendered his ejection system you in. In the event your hook and arresting hook. Although Wilson’s unusable. They contacted Wilson and doesn’t catch the cable, I’ll gradually problems were lessened by Engelbreit’s learned that he had limited visibility advance the power, you stay with actions, he still faced numerous and through his blood-smeared canopy. me, and we’ll make a go-around, severe problems due to an incapacitated Forward visibility was nonexistent due and come back around for another pilot, air blasting into the cockpit at to windblast and windshield/canopy try. Nice and easy; no sudden nearly 250 knots, and no forward obscuration, but Wilson had enough moves. All right?” visibility due to windscreen damage lateral visibility to maintain formation 45: “Roger.” and blood and bird parts covering the with FANGO 43. FANGO 43’s crew canopy. To make matters worse, knew immediately what they must do twilight was gathering and the landing and instructed Wilson to fly formation See Fango 45 destination was still 20 minutes away. on them through a landing and Continued on page 15 43: “Salt Lake, FANGO 43’s got a approach-end cable arrestment at

Page 14 Rudder Flutter Fango 45 Continued from page 14

FANGO 43 contacted their squadron Supervisor of Flying (SOF) at Boise, explained their plan, and requested he contact Mt. Home’s SOF to brief him on their plan and its complications. As FANGO flight neared Mt. Home, they contacted Approach Control and requested a “single- frequency approach,” a separate radio frequency exclusively for their use. The squadron SOF continued to monitor FANGO flight’s radio transmissions, and supplied further information about Fango 45 WSO, Lt. Fred Wilson, looks out through the destroyed left-side canopy. the nature of the emergency to the Mt. keep an eye on him; I’m not the end of the challenges. Rescue Home SOF. By this time, the flight is concentratin’ on this approach; from the stopped aircraft was further 20 miles southwest of the base, and the speed’s now set on 185.” hindered because engine shutdown was lights are now visible. 43 WSO: “Roger that, he’s holding unavailable to Wilson from the back 43 PILOT: “Fred’s hanging in there good.” seat, requiring someone to gain access just great. Anything we’ve APPROACH CONTROL: “FANGO to the front cockpit to stop the engines. forgotten?” 43, cleared to land, the emergency None other than the Mountain Home 43 WSO: “No, we’ve gone through equipment is standing by.” AFB Wing Commander was on scene to all the normal and emergency 43: “Rawj; gear down; Fred check take on the task. Climbing onto the left checklists, and we’re all set. I sure three green.” intake and reaching into the front cockpit hope he stays in there, it’s getting 45: “FANGO 45; gear down.” to shutdown the engines was the Wing pretty dark out here.” 43: “FANGO 45, you’re lookin’ good.” Commander, Col. Coleman, assisted by 43 PILOT: “Yeah, you’re right. I’ll TSgt. Gardner, who held Coleman by put nav lights on ‘dim-steady’.” As the formation arrives over the his belt, steadying him atop his 43: “How ya doin’, Fred?” threshold, formation position, speed, precarious perch. With the engines 45: “I’m okay”. alignment and descent are perfect for a shutdown and extrication complete, 43: “Okay, relax if you can! We’ll fly touchdown 500 feet before the arresting Engelbreit was then taken immediately a long straight-in approach to cable. Touchdown occurs right on target to the Mt. Home hospital and later Three-Zero and it will work out and the noses of the two aircraft drop transported to St. Alphonsus Hospital fine.” to the runway just as their wheels roll in Boise. over the cable. Immediately the FANGO The flight has proceeded at 220 43 crew sees FANGO 45 quickly This recovery of an aircraft and crew knots with landing gear down and turns decelerating, sliding back, signaling a definitely saved Engelbreit’s life. Wilson onto a left base leg for Runway 30 as good arrestment. had the option of ejecting himself safely the evening light fades into darkness. 43 PILOT: “Beautiful! Man what a from the damaged aircraft, but such an The weather is perfect. FANGO 43’s sight!” ejection would have been fatal for crew continues discussing the “what- 43 WSO: “Yeah, he’s caught the Engelbreit. All four ANG crewmembers ifs” and reviewing their procedures. The cable.” were decorated for their exemplary flying single-frequency approach has eased 43: “Okay, Fred; you’re on your own! skill demonstrated during the rescue. Wilson’s workload by eliminating Approach, FANGO 43 is touch frequency changes and distracting radio and go, request clearance back to The rescue was an unqualified chatter that could break his and his Boise at seven thousand.” success. After several months Engelbreit flight lead’s concentration. Approach 45: “Thanks for your help, guys!” began recovering from his injuries, later Control turns them to a ten-mile final APPROACH CONTROL: “FANGO regaining partial use of his left shoulder, and the flight rolls out on the ILS. 43, climb to seven thousand, but unfortunately insufficient to regain FANGO 43 requests “radar monitoring” squawk 4415, contact Boise flying status. Sadly, Engelbreit of their ILS approach without further Approach on 269.4.” succumbed fifteen years later to Cruzfeld- radio calls needed except for a landing 43: “Roger, seven thousand, and Boise Jacob Disease. The crewmembers of clearance. on 269.4. Great work Fred.” FANGO 43, pilot William C. Miller and 43: “Okay Fred, you’re lookin’ good; 43 PILOT: Man, I’m exhausted! WSO Michael McGrath, and FANGO we’re all lined up. Just hang in 43 WSO: Me too; I hope they’re okay. 45 WSO Fred Wilson have all retired there and we’ll have you down.” from the Idaho Air National Guard and 45: “Okay.” Although executed perfectly, the live in Boise. 43 PILOT: “Everything’s set, Mike, successful approach-end arrestment was Spring 2011 Page 15 Joe Continued from page 7 and strictly by pilotage. My first radio experience came hours after my solo, along with batteries and starters, Venturi tubes, erratic artificial horizons and temperamental directional gyros. But the truth is, it all seemed so darned normal. I didn’t realize I was in the middle of a bubble, a unique, wonderful, privileged experience that would pass by so quickly and that so few people would experience. Looking back -- and thank you for the opportunity-- I can honor my own history and acknowledge that I have been one very, very, very lucky dude. And so are you, Joe; I know that, never having met you. I also have the feeling that you are especially wise in your choice of instructors. But you never know, maybe he chose you. And, by the way, don’t misplace your log book. Be sure to note the smallest details in it as you go forward. It is for you, not the FAA, that you are recording your personal flight through time, and some day you might be given the perfect excuse to go back and enjoy it. All the best! ~ Gy

Gy is a relief pilot for Wings Over Kauai, flying tours around the island in a Cessna 172 and a Gippsland G-8 Air Van. Earning his Private ticket in 1966, he has owned numerous airplanes from Luscombes to Mooneys and once even partnered in a Bell 47 H Model. He flew mail, freight and bank checks before moving to Maui, reluctantly giving up his Stearman in the process.

Teacher Aviation Workshops July 14-15 - Sandpoint (Bird Aviation Museum) July 25-26 - Idaho Falls July 28-29 - Caldwell For more information: www.itd.idaho.gov/aero or [email protected]

Page 16 Rudder Flutter Spring 2011 Page 17 Training maximize glide distance and minimize landing roll. His teaching technique Continued from page 3 was superb and his prioritization of my needs was right on target. The Because my training window was instruction qualified for my Biennial short, we didn’t waste time. We took Flight Review and meets the breaks for lunch and quit when I was requirements of most insurance on overload or just “plane” tired. Paul companies requiring specific training. quickly discovered my left foot tendency Paul teaches much more than the Kitfox and considered the possibility that I checkout and uses only the most had developed a “braking habit” related modern tools and training. If my to driving a clutch-equipped truck. He experience with Stick and Rudder also considered the possibility of my Aviation is any indication of the quality “rudder dancing” on takeoff as a and professionalism in his company, he holdover from my Cub training. In both can look forward to much more cases, the problem was carefully and business from me, and anyone I meet tactfully weeded out. who wants to be a better pilot.

As part of the purchase of a Kitfox SLSA airplane, Kitfox LLC offers up to 7 hours of training, 5 hours of flight instruction and 2 hours of ground instruction, with Stick and Rudder Aviation. The priority after the sale is clearly “to service the fleet.” I have a long way to go before I am It was the service-oriented posture of a “good” pilot. But I am a safer pilot the Kitfox team and a fellow Kitfox than I would have ever become without owner’s recommendation of Stick & Paul’s instruction. I can confidently and Rudder Aviation that brought me to competently operate my plane in and Boise in the first place. around my home field and in the country where I live and fly. The next Before the training sessions were time I begin to think that pleasant completed, I was making textbook take- endings aren’t in the cards, I’ll remember offs and landings most of the time and the lessons and the instructor at Stick survivable, student-like landings the & Rudder Aviation. rest of the time. I had come a very long way in a very short period. We had You can learn more about Paul and made 70 approaches at 12 different Stick and Rudder Aviation at www.stick- airstrips in 10 hours. We did it in rudder.com. everything from calm winds to 90- degree crosswinds. Paul introduced me Pictures are courtesy of Aka Evans. to short strips that fit the profile of my home field. He took me to uphill, downhill, narrow, and humped airstrips. If it looked like a landing strip, I landed there. He taught me emergency techniques and performance tactics to Spring 2011 Page 19 Register or renew online: www.itd.idaho.gov, click Aeronautics, then ADAM

Spring 2011