Aviators in Idaho have had severalyears to get used to sharing the skieswith the blossoming wind turbineindustry. Pilots typically become awareof turbine farms through local newsreports, updates in the Rudder Flutter,or by noticing a new obstruction symbolon a just-purchased sectional chart. Thesheer size of the turbines and thenumbers that comprise an average windfarm make them reasonably easy toavoid in VFR conditions.

The Division of Aeronautics hasrecently been made aware of a hazardthat precedes the construction of the400 to 500 foot high turbines.Proponents of wind farms evaluate

Meteorological Test Towers– the Invisible Threat

Winter 2010 Vol 56, Issue 1

See Invisible ThreatContinued on page 9

Serving Idaho’s Aviation Community for over 60 Years

I N S I D EBob Hoff ............................2

ELTs and PSTs ................ 6

Color of Aviation ............. 8

Centennial of Flight ........10

Calendar of Events ...........12

Twin Falls Airport ............16

particular sites for wind energygeneration potential by installing“meteorological test towers.” Thesestructures typically remain at a site fora full year, gathering wind speed,direction, temperature, and otherinformation. The collected data thenallows a landowner and turbinecompany to make an educated decisionregarding the potential of a specific site.

Meteorological test towers have twocharacteristics that make them a threatto aircraft legitimately operating below200 feet AGL (i.e. aerial applicators,fire fighting aircraft, game survey flights,and predator control). One is theirphysical size. Though they reach thesame height as the more plentiful cellphone towers, they are slimmer in

AERONA U T I C S

By: Mark Lessor,Aviation Technician

diameter, rarely exceeding 36” at thebase. If not marked, they are difficultto spot depending on light conditions

For someone whose roots are firmlyplanted in eastern Idaho soil, Bob Hoffhas spent a lot of time in the clouds.

A 50-year veteran of flying, Hoff washonored in January for his contributionsto ITD’s Aeronautics Advisory Board andhis commitment to aviation in Idaho.He joined the advisory board in 1995,but after 14 years, Hoff decided to stepdown and hand the controls to ChipKemper, of Rigby.

To say flying is a family passiondoesn’t do justice to the lineage of pilotsthat share the Hoff name: Bob’s father,

Page 2 Rudder Flutter

The Rudder Flutter is published by the Idaho Divisionof Aeronautics, Office of Safety and Education. Articlesappearing in this publication are the opinion of thewriter and do not necessarily represent the views ofthe Staff, the Administrator, or the Department. Allreasonable attempts are made to ensure the accuracyof the articles contained herein. The Rudder Flutter ispublished quarterly. All articles should be submittedto this office for review.

Idaho Transportation DepartmentGovernor C.L. “Butch” Otter

Director Brian NessAeronautics Admin. John “JV” DeThomas

Aeronautics Advisory BoardChairman Rodger Sorensen

Members Chip Kemper, Scott Patrick,Dan Scott, and Mark Sweeney

Division of Aeronautics3483 Rickenbacker St., Boise, ID 83705

Website: http://www.itd.idaho.gov, Ph: 208.334.8775Rudder Flutter Editor: Frank Lester

Email: frank.lester@itd.idaho.govAssistant Editor: Tammy Schoen

Email: tammy.schoen@itd.idaho.govGraphic Design: Pauline Davis

Email: pauline.davis@itd.idaho.gov

Flying is a family affair for retiringAeronautics Board member Bob Hoff

Chairman Manning, Aeronautics Administrator JV DeThomas,Jane Hoff, Bob Hoff, Aeronautics Board Chairman Rodger Sorensen,

ITD Board Member Lee Gagner. Photo by Steve Grant

Mark, earnedhis pilot’slicense in1938 at theage of 46, asdid hismother,Onita, in1948.BrothersJames, Dickand John areall pilots, as issister, Marilyn.His wife, Jane,earned herpilot’s license20 years ago.Son, James,keeps thethree-generationtradition alive as a licensed pilot.

Who’s left? Well, there are twogranddaughters, one of whom is 13 andwaiting in the wings, one grandson andanother on the way.

Jane, who had been involved inaviation since saying “I do” at the altardecided to join the rest of the familyaviation tradition in 1990. “I finally bitthe bullet,” she admits. Although capablebehind the controls, she prefers to serveas Bob’s co-pilot on most of their flights.

If pressed, Bob could provide mostof his family members with a plane andcreate his own Air Force. He has beencollecting vintage airplanes “since beforesome of them even became vintage,” heexplains.

Most of his collection resides eitherwithin the expanse of his new 30,000-square-foot hangar at the Idaho FallsAirport or on the family’s Century Farm.It includes a 1939 Beechcraft“Staggerwing,” purchased nearly fourdecades ago. The high-performanceaircraft with a unique wing design seats

By: ITD Transporter Staff

five, cruises at about 190 miles per hourand has a range of about 1,400 miles.The remainder of his collection includes:

• A 1941 Stearman• A 1948 Beechcraft, Twin Beech• His parents’ Cessna 120• A 1953 Cessna 180• Two 2007 Huskies (Aviat) planes,

and along with a partner…• A Douglas A4 Skyhawk

“All of my aircraft have flown andcould fly again,” Bob reportedly toldRodger Sorensen, chairman of theAeronautics Advisory Board.

Beechcraft Staggerwing

See Bob HoffContinued on page 3

Winter 2010 Page 3

Well, we completed most of theambitious projects planned for 2009.We finished the Compass Rose at theIdaho Falls Airport/Fanning Field backin September. Weather proved to beour largest obstacle to completing theproject, which had begun in 2008.

A Flying Companion Seminar washeld in November at the AvCenterhangar in Idaho Falls. The participants,speakers and food were all fantastic.

Thank you to Dennis Partridge, KathleenO’Brien-Powell, Terry Ross, Lisa Pierson,and John Bakken for generouslydonating their time and knowledge, andmaking the event so successful.Hopefully through the efforts of our finepresenters we have ensured that therewill be fewer “white knuckled” flyingcompanions in the air.

Future plans include: setting morepavers at Howe International, our annual

Victor winter weekend in February,refreshing the Compass Rose atPocatello, and helping the IdahoChapter of the 99s with the NorthwestSection Meeting in the fall of 2010.

For more information about theEastern Idaho 99s and how to join ourgroup’s fun flying activities, contactSandy Storhok at sstorhok@gmail.comor Sandi Bills at billslpc@msn.com

By: Sandi Bills

“That means he hasn’t crashed veryoften,” said Transportation boardmember Lee Gagner, who summarizedHoff’s aviation history during hisretirement ceremony.

Hoff’s roots run deep in easternIdaho soil. His great-grandfatherpurchased land and began farming nearIdaho Falls in 1903. The diversifiedoperation produces potatoes, wheat,alfalfa and peas. It was designated aCentury Farm in 2003 in recognitionof 100 years of continuous farming inthe same family. Oldest son James nowoperates the farm.

Bob branched out of the farmingbusiness in 1984 when he establishedAero Mark Inc., an aviation businessthat later became a Fixed Base Operator(FBO) for the Idaho Falls Airport. Hoffalso sold Aviat Husky airplanes that arewell suited for backcountry flying andwildlife inventories.

He completed construction of a30,000-square-foot FBO hangar abouta year ago and recently opened anattached 12,000-square-foot lobby andoffice area. He rents hangar space andcontinues to serve large “transient” jetaircraft and private general aviation.The facility is Idaho’s largest FBO hangar.

Hoff’s service extends beyondaircraft and flying. He has served on theBonneville County Planning and ZoningCommission (nine years and one aschairman), the Idaho Farm Bureau, theIdaho Falls Museum board, and anumber of other Bonneville Countycommittees and boards. Hoff alsocontinues as a member of theStaggerwing Museum Board (nowBeechcraft Heritage Museum).

During his tenure on theAeronautics Board, Hoff developed asincere appreciation for the role aviationand airports play in Idaho’s economy.

“I’ve always said there’s an analogybetween airports and communities. Theygo hand-in-hand. If you have a thrivingairport, you have a thriving community,”he insists. “The first and last view thatinvestors have of Idaho is often fromthe air.”

“Idaho is ‘very unique’ because ofits extensive network of state-operatedbackcountry airstrips,” Hoff said. OnlyAlaska compares in terms of aviationrelated to tourism and recreation.

“We have the crown jewel in thatbox,” he says. “We’ve been very luckyin that virtually every (gubernatorial)administration has recognized theuniqueness of our airstrips and airports.We have to work all the time to keepthat up.”

“JV (DeThomas, AeronauticsDivision Administrator) and his staffare doing a great job. We’re pointed inthe right direction and are flying at thesame RPM.”

Bob HoffContinued from page 2

Eastern Idaho 99s

2009 Highlights and Plans for 2010

Page 4 Rudder Flutter

the crash and subsequent rescue atSimonds last summer. One commentin the article drew several questionsand comments from Idaho pilots aboutAeronautics’ alleged response duringthis incident. I would like to quote aparagraph from the response I submittedto AOPA that specifically addresses thoseconcerns:

“…I have received commentsabout our willingness, or apparent

Radio ChatterBy: Frank LesterSafety/Education Coordinator

February AOPAPilot Article,“Saved by aSatellite”

An articleappeared inFebruary’s editionof the AOPAPilot, recounting

See Radio ChatterContinued on page 5

lack thereof, toassist in the rescueeffort at Simonds.It is essentially truethat the Division ofAeronautics“performs onlysearches, notrescues.” True, butoversimplified. Thedistinction is notthe result ofbureaucraticinaction or apathy,but is directed bystatute. Aeronauticsis responsible forcoordinating theaerial search formissing andoverdue aircraftwithin Idaho. Thecounty sheriff isresponsible forcoordinating allground searchesincluding therescue or recoveryof those involved inan aircraft accident.However, bothagencies work inconcert regardlessof statutory

Changes to Camping at MooseCreek Airstrip

According to the Forest Service,falling trees damaged by naturally-occurring root disease and stem decayhave created a hazard in the currentcamping area at Moose Creek Airstrip.As a result, beginning this MemorialDay weekend, campers will beencouraged to use a different, saferlocation. The new location, unofficiallynick-named the “Triangle,” is located inthe stand of Ponderosa Pine betweenthe west ends of the two runways. Thisstand of pine is relatively young, open,shady, and flat with suitable places offthe runways for aircraft parking.

The two outhouses currentlylocated in the old camp area will be

responsibility and depend heavilyon a network of volunteers toconduct SAR operations.Aeronautics specializes inorganizing searches for missing oroverdue aircraft. Any attempt bythe division to conduct groundrescue or recovery would quitepossibly delay the response frommore qualified ground SARorganizations.”

If you receive any notice of amissing or overdue aircraft, regardlessof method, and aren’t sure who tocontact, call Idaho StateCommunications (800-632-8000 or208-846-7600) and tell them you wishto report a missing or overdue aircraft.Aeronautics will be contacted and wewill ensure that the proper authoritiesare notified.

Moose CreekUSFS Airport

Moose CreekUSFS Airport

Winter 2010 Page 5

The entire article may be viewed at:http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/PositionAndHoldChangeExpectedSoon_2018301.html

Conflicts at Wilson Bar

Stan Siewert brought the followingto my attention some time ago. Welooked into the situation but have foundlittle recourse except to advise the ForestService of this conflict since it is theirairstrip. However, I offer his commentsto alert those pilots flying into WilsonBar from fall to spring.

A C182 pilot, already on theairport when I arrived, reported thata 4-wheeler showed up on therunway while he was on landingrollout. The west gate, which limitsmotorized traffic to Mackay Bar andwas closed in early September, wasnow open (in October). There were4-wheelers and occasional 4x4trucks using the runway to moveup and down the river canyon. Thisnon-airplane traffic makes inspectionof the airstrip prior to landing veryimportant. It is imperative to scannot only the runway but also thenearby trails, since the runway couldbe clear during a flyover, but thenbe occupied by the time you are on

Radio ChatterContinued from page 4

removed and two new outhouses willbe installed in the “Triangle.” The fivepicnic tables and fire rings in the oldcamp area will be removed, and thearea will be naturalized. The existingbulletin board and registration box willbe relocated as well. Five new folding,portable picnic tables and portable firepans will be available on loan from theMoose Creek Ranger Station for use inthe new camp area. Five sturdy andcampfire-friendly portable fire pans willbe placed in the Triangle for visitor use.However, visitors to the camping areaare also encouraged to bring their ownportable picnic table.

The objective, according to theForest Service, is to provide visitorswith an enjoyable, safe campingexperience while protecting theWilderness character and continuingto serve as a portal for Wilderness-dependent activities.

Joe Hudson, Moose Creek DistrictRanger, has asked for your cooperation.Although the old camp area will notofficially be closed, Ranger Hudson hasrequested that campers give the newarea a try and discontinue using theold area. As the summer seasonprogresses, use of the new area will beclosely monitored. Feedback is welcomethrough either comment cards locatedon the bulletin board, or by visitingwith staff at the Ranger Station.

A copy of the full report can beviewed at: http://www.fs.fed.us/r1r4/spf/fhp/publications/bystate/R1Pub08-08Moose_cr_Haz_Tree_Eval.pdf

You can also contact Joe Hudson,Moose Creek District Ranger, orSuzanne Cable, Wilderness ProgramManager at 208-926-4258 for moreinformation.

Change to “Position and Hold”Clearance

According to a January AvWebarticle, the FAA could soon implementa changeover from “position and hold”to “line up and wait,” to conform withinternational phraseology standards. Ifapproved, the new terminology couldbe implemented as soon as this summer.

short final. This is not an easy fieldfor go-arounds. The runway risesto the West and has trees at the end.

A call to the Red River Rangerdistrict confirmed that the west gateis open during the non-permitrafting season, which is generally,fall, winter, and spring. There aren’tany signs at the gate or on theairport warning wheeled traffic oflanding aircraft. Unfortunately, the4-wheeler operators fail to recognizethe danger in which they putthemselves and the landing traffic.

I think that if the runway wasmade less convenient to use as aroad, the wheeled traffic would bemore likely to use the road thatparallels the runway. Obstacles,warning signs, or simply improvingthe adjacent road might go a longway toward keeping the runway clear.

Please heed Stan’s words and payextra attention during these monthswhen landing at Wilson Bar. If enoughof you contact the Forest Service toexpress your concern, maybe somechanges will be made. In the meantime,once that gate is opened, there is littleto prevent wheeled traffic from takingthe shortest distance to the river.

If you hear a distress signal or radio call:Note your altitude, location and time

• ATC or FSS• FSS: 800-WXBRIEF (800-992-7433)• Idaho State Communications (800-632-8000)• Local FBO• Local County Sheriff

MONITOR GUARD FREQUENCY1 2 1 . 5 !

and

PASS IT ON… IMMEDIATEL Y!!!

Page 6 Rudder Flutter

By: Gene Bannister,Aerial Search Coordinator

Over the past year or so,Aeronautics has seen an increase in theuse of Personal Satellite Trackers inaircraft, specifically the SPOT. Ofconcern is the increase in emergencyalerts from these devices, which has ledto some unexpected discoveries aboutthe reality of their use in aviation. Inthe following paragraphs I will describethe use, benefits, and limitations of theSPOT Personal Satellite Tracker.

The SPOT is a hand-held personaltracking beacon that can provideemergency help when needed. Withthe push of a button, you can: advisefriends and family that you are okay;allow others to track your progress; andask for assistance in non-emergencysituations. The SPOT uses GPS satellitesto determine the user’s location. Thedevice’s GPS chip sends its exactcoordinates and a message viacommercial communication satellitesto the user’s designated recipients bytext message, email, or emergencynotification from the EmergencyResponse Center (ERC) in Houston,Texas. The original SPOT has threebuttons identified for emergency andnon-emergency use. Those marked as

HELP and OK Ã areprimarily used for non-life-threateningsituations.

The HELP button,when activated, willnotify your chosenrecipients of the needfor non-emergencyassistance. An examplemight be that you justlanded at JohnsonCreek and the tail-wheel of your SuperCub breaks off on roll

ELTs, Personal Satellite Trackers…and YOU!

out. While a bit distressing, and anevent that would likely require somehelp, this does not warrant calling outemergency services. Activating theHELP button transmits a pre-programmed text message and/or emailthat is linked to Google Maps showingthe user’s exact location. Although youare not able to specify the problem,family or friends would know that asituation has occurred. However, afterdetermining your location, it may provedifficult to communicate with you andsend the required assistance.

As a check-in function, activatingthe OK Ã button will notify your chosenrecipients of your current location, andas with the HELP button, a pre-programmed message is sent via textmessage and/or email with a link toGoogle Maps. When activated, it alsosaves your location as a waypointallowing you to review your route at alater time.

These functions can lend peace-of-mind to family and friends as you windyour way through the backcountry outof range of cell phones and radios. Asan added enhancement, SPOT offers anoptional subscription tracking servicethat will automatically send the user’sGPS location to their SPOT accountevery ten minutes. This allows the user’sprogress to be followed in near real-

Continued from our last issue . . .

See ELTs and PSTsContinued on page 13

time by anyone given access directly totheir account or provided a link inadvance via email.

The third button, 9-1-1, is usedexclusively for life-threatening situationsor other critical emergencies. Whenactivated, the ERC in Houston is alertedand will immediately notify theappropriate emergency responders, andthe user’s primary and secondaryemergency contacts, which the userdesignates through their SPOT webaccount. The unit will continue to sendthe distress signal every five minutesuntil the emergency is cancelled or thebatteries are exhausted. Based on theuser’s geographic location when thesignal is activated, the emergencyresponders notified are: local sheriff,Coast Guard, embassy or consulate. TheERC treats all activations as a realemergency, since they have no way ofknowing otherwise. They will reactaccordingly by notifying all appropriateemergency responders, so it merits somecareful consideration before pressingthat 9-1-1 button. It should be a bonafide emergency and not a mereinconvenience brought on by inadequateplanning.

Winter 2010 Page 7

Page 8 Rudder Flutter

was organized to foster and advancethe general welfare, safety, interests, andactivities of general aviation. This wasby no means a simple desk job. For 25years Ed led GAMA through its mostdifficult times. In the 1970s, fuelrationing and international squabblesover certification began threatening theindustry. That decade was good practicefor the threat to come. During the1980s, the entire GA industry was onits knees due to recession and damaginglitigation. Manufacturers ceasedproduction of light aircraft partly as aresult of onerous product liability suitsinvolving older aircraft, some long outof production. Cessna had stoppedproduction and Piper went bankrupt.General aviation was about to roll overand die.

It was Ed Stimpson, in perhaps hisfinest hour, who successfully lobbiedCongress for relief by placing a limit onmanufacturers’ liability. His effort createdthe General Aviation Revitalization Actof 1994 (GARA), which placed a limitedliability of 18 years from date ofmanufacture for an aircraft. GARAlegislation essentially rescued an

“The most effective advocate theaviation industry ever had”

In 2003, a representative from theNational Business Aviation Associationcame to Boise to help organize a localgroup of pilots and similar aviationparticipants. The reason: to encourageparticipation in local issues affecting theindustry, to network, and to enjoy thecompany of other idealists all trying tomake money in aviation. Thecomplimentary lunch was delicious, butby the time the meeting ended, I hadbeen volunteered by some smart pilotto spearhead the entire effort. Myapparent qualifications? “You’re thebiggest airport bum in Boise,” I wastold.

I asked a pilot friend for help withthis assignment. He replied, “You bettercontact Ed Stimpson.” “Who’s EdStimpson?” I asked, and so began arelationship with one of the finestgentleman I’ve ever met. Ed became myfriend, mentor, and a true example ofprofessionalism. We collaborated onissues, welcomed VIP’s to Idaho, andshared a love of the backcountry. Neverhave I met a man who so thoroughlyand justifiably received such deeprespect from so many others. He hadthe ability to garner the attention of themost influential people in the country.Former Cessna Chairman Russ Meyercalled Ed the most effective advocateour industry ever had. The chance toknow him was a gift to me and to somany Idaho aviators.

Ed was born in Bellingham,Washington, andafter collegegraduation pickedup a unique job:working as a guideat the 1962 SeattleWorld’s Fair. Hisassigned guest wasFAA AdministratorNajeeb Halaby. Edapparently made avery goodimpression becausea few days after hisvisit, Halaby invitedEd to come workfor him at the FAAin Washington D.C.

Ed worked withthe FAA through the1960s, and in 1971was asked to leadthe newly createdGeneral AviationManufacturersAssociation(GAMA). GAMA

By: Mike Pape, AeronauticsChief of Flight Operations

Edward W. StimpsonThe Color of Aviation:

See Edward StimpsonContinued on page 9

Winter 2010 Page 9

See Edward StimpsonContinued on page 14

Invisible ThreatContinued from page 1

and background. Their othercharacteristic is the temporary natureof the installation. They are erected ina matter of days, then a year or eighteenmonths later they can be gone. To date,no accidents have been attributed tothese towers in Idaho, although manypilots have “close-call” stories to relate.

This aviation hazard is unique inthe sense that they are temporary innature and are not currently evaluated

by the State of Idaho or the FAA asobstructions to air navigation. Luckily,these skinny threats to aviators arebound to disappear once the industryhas “built out” all suitable windgeneration locations.

Wyoming, which has had morewind energy development than Idaho,has recently addressed this hazard withnew legislation requiring that thestructures be marked in a way thatmakes them visible during daylighthours from a horizontal distance of2000 feet. Only meteorological testtowers over 50’ high and outside ofcity limits are required to be marked.

The State of Idaho is currentlyconsidering adopting similarrequirements for these test towers.

industry and our way of life. CessnaCEO Russ Meyer was so appreciative ofEd’s efforts that when the Cessna plantcranked up again, he painted ES tailnumbers on the first 100 Skyhawks.

Ed began building roots in Boise in1989 when he was hired as a lobbyistby Morrison Knudsen. Although hisrelationship with MK did not last long,his impact in Boise was remarkable.Many local aviation businesses wererewarded by his impact. WesternAircraft’s Al Hoyt tells a story that atteststo Ed’s unparalleled networking ability.“I commented to Ed how much we’dlike to become a Cessna Service Center,”he said. “In three days Ed had me in theoffice of Cessna CEO Russ Meyer.”Although Hoyt benefited from Ed’sprofessionalism, it was his personalitythat influenced him even more. “Neverin all the years I knew Ed Stimpson didI hear him ever trash talk anyone, hewas just a total diplomat,” said Hoyt.

Ed’s diplomatic skills wererecognized by the world’s most powerfulpoliticians. President Clinton nominatedhim as the United States Ambassadorto the International Civil AviationOrganization (ICAO) in 1999. Clinton’ssuccessor, President George W. Bushseconded the nomination in 2001. At

Edward StimpsonContinued from page 8

Yes, there is a tower in this picture.

In the meantime, pilots conductinglegitimate low-level flights must bemindful that an area they may be familiarwith today, could change tomorrow,with no notice and very little, if any,obvious signs.

Page 10 Rudder Flutter

This year is Idaho’s Centennial ofFlight. The first flight occurred overLewiston on October 13, 1910. Idaho’sCentennial is indeed special to you as apilot. Please help spread awareness tothe citizens of Idaho so we can allappreciate and celebrate this greatmilestone together. You can help byincorporating a bit of aviation historyfrom your local community into anyevent you or your fellow aviationenthusiasts may have on the calendarthis year. The event doesn’t need to belarge or involve lengthy planning. It canbe anything from a picnic or fly-inbreakfast to an air show. Invite yourneighbors, acquaintances, and friends tointroduce them to your passion…aviation. Take the opportunity toreintroduce community members to“their” airport. Whatever you do, enjoyit, and remember when it all started. Photographs courtesy of the Idaho Historical Society

Winter 2010 Page 11

Page 12 Rudder Flutter

Calendar of Events MARCH

19 IA Renewal, Best Western Vista Inn at the Airport, 2645 AirportWay, Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or frank.lester@itd.idaho.gov

27 IAA Big Bar Work Party, Jerry Terlisner, 208-859-7959

APRIL

3 Young Eagles Event, Mountain Home Airport,Mountain Home, ID. Contact: secretary@eaa103.org

15 Rudder Flutter Article Submission deadline.Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or frank.lester@itd.idaho.gov

16-17 Flight Instructor Refresher Clinic, Cambria Suites,2970 W. Elder St. Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or frank.lester@itd.idaho.gov

17 Wings and Wheels Fly-In, Emmett (S78),Steve Burak, 208-861-9055

24 IAA Thomas Creek (2u8) Work Party,Jerry Terlisner, 208-859-7959

25 IRS Bomb Drop/Cookout, 9:00 am, Homedale AirportContact: Top Fun Flyers, Steve Clements, 323-1585

MAY

2 Idaho City Breakfast, 9:00 am, Idaho City AirportContact: Top Fun Flyers, Steve Clements, 323-1585

5-9 McCall Mountain Canyon Flying Seminars, McCall.Spring Canyonlands Flyin' Safari, Lori MacNichol or Rhonda Yost,208-634-1344 or admin@mountaincayonflying.com

8 IAA Deadwood (ID86) Work Party,Jerry Terlisner, 208-859-7959

15 Carey (U65) Fun in the Grass Fly-In & BreakfastSpot landing on arrival - 2nd strip, EAA Young Eagles flights, 7:00 am.

 21-23 Moose Creek Work Party, Moving the campground and

outhouse, Jerry Terlisner, 208-859-7959

22 IAA Graham Work Party (U45),Jerry Terlisner, 208-859-7959

22 Nampa Airport-Fest 2010, Nampa Airport (MAN), Airplanestatic displays, demonstrations and Young Eagles flights. 10 am to 3 pm. Unicom 122.7, Sandy Smith, 208-938-0355 or smithsidaho@msn.com

JUNE

5 Celebration of Flight, Caldwell Airport (EUL), Flight demonstrations,formation flights, aerobatics, skydiving, airplane displays, vendors, somethingfor the entire family! Gates open at 9:00 am. www.celebrationofflight.org

6 Garden Valley Overnighter, 9:00 am, Garden Valley AirportContact: Top Fun Flyers, Steve Clements, 323-1585

10-12 Mountain Flying Clinic, Challis Airport, Challis, Idaho.Contact: 208-879-5728, www.middleforkair.com or mforkair@custertel.net

12 Jerome County Airport Annual Fly-In &Community Appreciation Day. Jerome Airport (JER),7:00 am to Noon, FREE admission. Breakfast hosted by local Search &Rescue. Displays, rides and lots of hangar flying!Bonnie Dietrick, 208-324-9980

16-19 McCall Mountain Canyon Flying Seminars, McCall.Workin' Man's Basic Course. Lori MacNichol or Rhonda Yost,208-634-1344 or admin@mountaincayonflying.com

19-20 IAA General Membership Meeting & BBQ,Garden Valley (U88), Treasure Valley Chapter Breakfast 7 am to 10 am.Jerry Terlisner, 208-859-7959

20 Summer Solstice Flight, 7:00 pmContact: Top Fun Flyers, Steve Clements, 323-1585

21-23 Aviation Career Exploration (ACE) AcademyFor Idaho students grades 9-12 / ages 14-18. For an application contact:Frank Lester, 208-334-8780 or frank.lester@itd.idaho.gov, or TammySchoen, 208-334-8776 or tammy.schoen@itd.idaho.gov.

21-25 McCall Mountain Canyon Flying Seminars, McCall.Middle Fork Lodge Backcountry Excursion. Lori MacNichol or Rhonda Yost,208-634-1344 or admin@mountaincayonflying.com

26 IAA Poker Run, details to be announced.Bruce Parker, 208-321-1323

26 Pocatello Airport Appreciation Day, A Salute to GeneralAviation. 9 am to 3 pm. Displays, Military aircraft, food, plane andhelicopter rides, activities for kids, much, much more! Get the flyer here!208-234-6154, www.iflypocatello.com

29 - McCall Mountain Canyon Flying Seminars, McCall.July 2 Basic Course, Lori MacNichol or Rhonda Yost, 208-634-1344 or

admin@mountaincayonflying.com

Email your event information totammy.schoen@itd.idaho.govfor inclusion in the Rudder Flutterand the Aeronautics website.

Winter 2010 Page 13

As emergency activations increase,the issue of who is responsible forreimbursing the enormous costsgenerated during a search has becomevery real, especially due to abuses ofthis system. As a result, SPOT offers anoptional subscription service calledGEOS Search and Rescue MemberBenefit. This plan, underwritten byLloyds of London, provides limitedsearch cost reimbursement and privaterescue resource coordination as needed.However, keep in mind two thoughts:First, all search costs associated with amissing or overdue aircraft in Idaho areborne by state or federal funds. Second,in spite of the abuses that others mayperpetrate on the system, the costsassociated with search and rescueshould never affect your decision to

“declare an emergency” if a life is indanger.

The safety advantages of this toolare obvious: the ability to communicateproblems or assurances from virtuallyanywhere at any time provides a greatdeal of comfort to both the user andtheir loved ones. It’s important toremember, however, that the SPOT isan interactive tool. The user must beconscious and physically able to pushthe buttons in order to activate thedevice; there is no automatic or passiveemergency activation as there is withan aircraft ELT. This becomes an issuewhen the SPOT is used as an emergencyresponse device in an aircraft. AtAeronautics we have alreadyexperienced situations where SPOTusers in an aircraft were unable toactivate their unit for one reason oranother. In one particular case, the unit,attached to the dash for maximumsatellite reception, departed the aircraftalong with the windshield during acrash. Luckily, the pilot was physicallyable to find his SPOT, but it took himover an hour to activate it. In anothercase, a flight instructor had his SPOTon his person where he could quicklyreach the device.During the crashthe plastic claspsnapped, and theunit ended up onthe floor betweenhis feet.Unfortunately, hehad sustainedsevere injuries andcould not reach it.If it had not beenfor the pilot, whoremained consciousthroughout the

event, the SPOT would not have donehim any good.

Another consideration is that whilethe SPOT can transmit a message, it isnot a two-way communication device.Messages are pre-programmed on theSPOT website, thus they do not offerthe flexibility of a message tailored tothe actual need at the time of the eventor problem. One of the issues we facewith the SPOT is that there isn’t amechanism in place for the ERC to

ELTs and PSTsContinued from page 6

See ELTs and PSTsContinued on page 18

Complete Full Leather Interiors Are Our Specialty

Located on theNampa Municipal AirportTel (208) 465-5035

Second generation SPOT

Page 14 Rudder Flutter

participate in anaward ceremonysponsored byBoeing and theFlight SafetyFoundation.Executives camefrom across thecountry to paytheir respects andoffercongratulations. Itwas an especiallymemorable affairas it was becomingevident that Edmay be losing hisbattle with cancer.After the speechesand accolades, aphone call came infrom WashingtonD.C. It was

Edward StimpsonContinued from page 9

ICAO, Ed was instrumental isrepresenting American interests ininternational aviation issues.

Ed served 20 years on the boardof Embry-Riddle AeronauticalUniversity. He led the “Be a Pilot”program which exposed thousands ofprospective aviators to flight. Ed alsoserved the Flight Safety Foundation aschairman. He was awarded the NBAAAward for Meritorious Service andinducted into the Idaho Aviation Hallof Fame. Additionally, he received theWright Brothers Memorial Trophy, anhonor shared with Charles Lindberg,Jimmy Doolittle and Neil Armstrong.

As impressive as his numerousprofessional accomplishments were, itwas Ed’s genuineness, friendship, andselflessness that won over so many ofus. Ed earned the highest complimentthat can be paid a Harvard man: henever acted like one. Although hegained the respect of hundreds ofprofessionals, Mr. Stimpson couldcreate a sense of close companionshipand sincere interest in everyconversation. While attending theNBAA convention years ago, I brieflybumped into Ed. With over 28,000attendees, all of them more importantthan me, I distinctly remember himsaying; “Mike, I’m really glad I got tosee you here.”

And, oh, how he could make aperson feel important! Oftentimes, Edwould call to ask my opinion about anairport commission issue. He wouldtell me that he just got off the phonewith “Marion” (that is, FAAAdministrator Marion Blakey!) andnow wanted my take on the topic. Ican’t imagine that America’s mostinfluential GA leader really needed myadvice, but his genuineness made mefeel like my opinion mattered as muchas anyone’s. What a motivator.

In November, a number of usgathered at Ed and Dottie’s home to

Deputy FAA Administrator LynneOsmus calling with her congratulations.Ever the gentle diplomat, Ed minimizedthe attention directed toward him.Instead, he asked all of us to look outacross the city to the new Boise air trafficcontrol tower being built. “Lynne,” Edweakly said into the speakerphone,“We’re enjoying a view of this brandnew 24 million dollar tower being built,but it will look a lot better if you decideto fill the TRACON room with our Boisecontrollers.”

Ed’s funeral last November was afitting tribute. FAA administrators,national politicians, and industry giantsattended the service. Cessna CEO RussMeyer told a story about flying to Boiseearlier in the day. Denver Center askedMeyer if he wouldn’t mind landing inCheyenne to pick up a strandedpassenger that had to get to Boise foran important event. Meyeracknowledged and happily made thequick turn in Cheyenne. “There suremust be something importanthappening in Boise today,” commentedDenver Center. “Yes,” acknowledgedMeyer, “There most certainly is.”

Ed and Dottie had an enormousimpact on our community. They helpedfound the City Club of Boise, supported

the YMCA, and helped organize thebuilding of the new Shakespeare FestivalTheatre just east of Boise. I distinctlyremember one of his gentle diplomaticrequests to our friends in the Boise airtraffic control tower. Ed politely askedif ATC could avoid early base leg turnsfor planes landing on runway 28 to avoiddisturbing the patrons at the new theatre.We all complied out of respect for oneof the pillars of Boise and general aviationin America.

So for the pilots who may befollowing me on downwind to Boise’srunway 28, be advised, I will beextending my downwind just a bit outof respect for some nice people. I thinkEd would like that.

Edward an Dottie Stimpson

Teacher

Aviation

Workshops

Teacher

Aviation

Workshops

To be held in Payette, Sandpointand Idaho Falls in July.

For more info go to: www.itd.idaho.gov/aero

Winter 2010 Page 15

Page 16 Rudder Flutter

Joslin Field, Magic ValleyRegional Airport – The City of TwinFalls received two Airport ImprovementProgram Grants in 2009 from the FAAtotaling $2.48 million. Included in thesegrants was $1.6 million to reconstructapproximately 308,000 square feet ofgeneral aviation apron at the airport.Matching funds for the project wereprovided by the City and County ofTwin Falls. Riedesel Engineeringprovided the design and constructionmanagement for the project.

Airport construction projects alwayshave unique challenges. One of thoseencountered at Twin Falls was keepingtenant operations as near normal aspossible. Reeder Flying Serviceexperienced the greatest impact as mostof the reconstruction occurred in frontof their facilities. Special thanks go outto everyone at Reeder for their patienceand support, ensuring the success ofthe project.

Twin Falls Airport Improves GA Transient Ramp

Another challenge was the shortamount of time available forconstruction. Idaho Sand and Gravelhad only forty-five days to complete theproject. However, as construction

Report ItImmediately!!!

Missing or OverdueAircraft???

Missing or OverdueAircraft???

Idaho State Communications800-632-8000 (Available 24/7/365)

Idaho State Communications800-632-8000 (Available 24/7/365)

excellent opportunity to also upgraderamp area lighting. A small lightingproject was incorporated into the effort,providing a benefit that all airport userswill enjoy for many years to come.

Fly Like a Pro!

Brush up your skillsVFR or IFR, IPC’s,

Cessna 172 to King Air 200Single $40/hr

Twin $50 Turbine $75Call 208-466-5432

New Precision Flight ControlsSimulator in Nampa (S67)

progressed, airportstaff soon realizedthat this would be an

Winter 2010 Page 17

32 Years Nationwide, Insuring Tail Draggers to Jets • Airport Hangars and FBO’s Rotor Wing • Experimentals

We support the Idaho Pilots Association and will find you the BEST rates.

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On Final at Soldiers Bar

inform Aeronautics of the type ofactivity associated with the activation;i.e., whether the alert is from a hiker,snowboarder, hunter, bicyclist, or pilot.Obviously then, the ERC wouldn’tknow whether you, the pilot, wereflying in an aircraft or happened to behorseback riding in the mountainswhen you requested emergencyassistance. However, the website doesallow a user to develop multiple profilescovering any activity where the devicemay be carried, whether in the air oron the ground. Prior to engaging in anew event, don’t forget to go on theSPOT website and update your activityprofiles accordingly. If you are flying,be explicit on the flight profile that youare actually in an aircraft. This will helpbring Aeronautics into the search loopsooner than later.

It is worth noting that a secondgeneration SPOT is now available,designed to address some of theissues and limitations of the original.Although it is smaller and hasenhanced performance, it operatesessentially in the same manner asthe original with similar features andlogic.

Finally, above all, let peopleknow what you are up to, whereyou are going, how you plan to getthere, and when you expect to arriveand/or return. Be specific aboutwhen and how you intend to checkin, and then, most importantly,follow through! Finally, tell themwhat to do and who they shouldcontact if they suspect that you aremissing or overdue. Effectivecommunication is priceless.

ELTs and PSTsContinued from page 13

We’re seein’ spots!

Some IdahoCentennial Trivia:1. When and where did the first flight in Idaho occur?

2. What is the date of the official beginning of commercialaviation in the United States?

3. What is the date of the first airmail flight in Idaho?

4. Which major airline was founded in Idaho and whatdate does it celebrate as its founding?

5. Who is the first Idaho woman recorded as a licensedflier?

6. Which Idaho pilot was one of the 13 candidates thatsuccessfully passed the physical in a female astronautresearch program in 1961?

7. Which city had Idaho’s earliest municipal airport?

8. What was the first town to ask formal approval forits proposed airport from the Department of PublicWorks, aeronautics division?

9. Every state had two teachers designated as “Teacherin Space,” who are Idaho’s?”

Look for the answers in the nextissue of the Rudder Flutter.

Coming to Idaho Falls, Boise, andCoeur d’Alene in May.

Photographs courtesy of the Idaho Historical Society

Page 19Winter 2010

Winter 2010

Your Airman Registration Fees support the Search for MISSING & OVERDUE Aircraft & Airmen