FLYING GROUP SELECTS OKLAHOMA FOR NATIONAL FLY-IN
Recently Judy Birchler, representing “Ladies Love Taildraggers” spotted Oklahoma’s beautiful Lake Murray State Park Airport (1F1) and considered it for their national fly-in. Victor Bird, Director of Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission contacted the group in a welcoming tone. In his position, he is aware that as of 2013, Oklahoma includes aviation in its recreation laws, thanks in large part to the efforts of Oklahoma pilot and Recreational Aviation Foundation member Mike Sisemore.
The RAF has hard-working volunteers in nearly every state to inform and work with all levels of land managers and government officials to further appreciation of recreational aviation, including its economic benefits, and introducing newcomers to beautiful places to love and care for. Oftentimes, officials are simply not aware of the safety record of general aviation, nor of the high standards pilots must maintain to enjoy flying.
RAF Oklahoma State Liaison Steve Thompson says, “daily, the RAF works to educate and inform these folks. The RAF has a ‘work together’ attitude, and often we partner with other aviation organizations. Our volunteers are great resources. Having someone local, on the ground, making personal contact can quickly resolve any issue that arises and even make an improvement.” For example, RAF’s Oklahoma delegates are exploring the possibility of partnering with the State in order to maintain and keep certain airfields open for safe public use. In the case of Lake Murray, it was determined it did not have adequate parking, so “Ladies Love Taildraggers” is considering other beautiful Oklahoma venues.
We wish the “Ladies Love “Taildraggers” every success. It’s obvious they are most welcome throughout Oklahoma.
The Recreational Aviation Foundation is a public 501(c)3 non-profit organization formed to “preserve, maintain and create public use recreational and backcountry airstrips nationwide,” 1711 W. College, Bozeman, MT 59715, www.theraf.org
Submitted on October 15, 2014.