Discover Aviation 2022

COPA 149 had a beautiful day for our annual Discover Aviation flights on Saturday, August 20, 2022, introducing over 80 eager young flyers to the joys of slipping the surly bonds of Earth, to borrow a phrase. After a hiatus of two years, volunteers arrived early at Hangar #4 at the Niagara Central Dorothy Rungeling Airport to set up the registration desk, sitting areas for flyers and parents/guardians and static displays. Air cadets and volunteers set up informational displays in the Air Cadet Hall next door in Hangar #3.

Parents and prospective aviators were welcomed by COPA 149 volunteers at the registration desk, given flight numbers and then directed to "ground school" where other volunteers had real aircraft available to explain basic flight theory and operation of aircraft, as well as offering a photo op sitting at the controls of a vintage ERCO Ercoupe. After ground instruction, groups of flyers were escorted to the waiting aircraft.

Volunteer pilots, all members of COPA Flight #149 as well as COPA National, donated their airplanes and flying skills to this popular event, ranging from a classic 1947 Stinson 108-2 to a venerable Piper Apache twin whimsically named Double Trouble. More than 80 junior aviators enjoyed an exciting twenty-minute flight over Pelham, Wainfleet, Port Colborne and Welland, the four communities that operate the airport. The flyers were primarily from the local communities, although a few made the trek from farther afield to take advantage of this excellent opportunity. On returning to terra firma, each aviator received a certificate of flight and posed for pictures.

Ground arrangements were organized by COPA Flight #149 volunteers who welcomed the flyers with their parents/guardians, ensured that the required forms were completed prior to flying, matched riders to pilots and planes and offered snacks and drinks for returning aviators, as well as answering questions about the airport and general aviation. Although a few neophyte riders showed some initial nervousness, no participant was observed exiting an airplane sporting anything other than a broad smile.

More pictures and further information are posted on the COPA Flight #149 Facebook page: Canadian Owners and Pilots Association 149. You can follow this page to learn more about COPA 149 and its activities.

Commercial photographer Wendy Teal has graciously made her pictures of the Discover Aviation event available.