Aviation Exploring Post 107 recently sponsored the first Mid-Jersey Spot Landing contest. Open to all pilots of Central New Jersey Airports, the event drew contestants from Solberg-Hunterdon, Central Jersey, Lincoln Park and Somerset Airports. Contestants ranged from 17-year-old, newly minted pilots to pilots with years of experience.
The winner, Kyle Coulson, is a sophomore at Raritan Valley Community College who earned his private pilot certificate at Solberg Airport in Readington after earning his glider rating at the Philadelphia Flying Club at 16. His landing was 2 feet from the target line. Kyle plans to continue his flight training and transfer to Kean College next year.
Contest rules were based on nationwide competitions in the National InterCollegiate Flying Association (NIFA). Pilots fly standard pattern aiming at a line within a 300-foot box on the runway. Final approach and last minute manipulations are restricted, making accuracy landings a greater challenge, organizers said. Both single and light twin-engine aircraft participated.
All contestants, their families and supporters enjoyed a cookout with food donated by the Colalillo Family Shop Rites.
Aviation Exploring is a co-ed organization, drawing from Somerset, Hunterdon and Morris Counties, devoted to helping teens pursue their aviation vocation and avocation dreams. This post began in 1996 and has alumni working and enjoying all facets of aviation: pilots, engineers, maintenance, education and management. Aviation Explorers visit manufacturers, research and maintenance facilities, museums, air shows and Air Venture. Students ages 14 – 20 are eligible for membership; early teens can attend meetings and outings with a parent.
Contact the post’s sponsor organization, Somerset Air Service, Inc. for more information at 908-722-2444.
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