A new PAPI system — paid in part by a fundraiser in the local pilot community — was commissioned Nov. 14 at Minute Man Air Field (6B6) in Stow, Mass.
The PAPI System was the top priority in a 2008 pilot survey of safety needs at 6B6, according to pilots. Unable to afford the PAPI system solo, the airport began a capital campaign to raise the $8,000 project cost from airport supporters this summer. In a clear demonstration of broad community support for this small GA airport 30 miles outside Boston, area residents have donated nearly $7,000 so far. Members of EAA Chapter 196 contributed $3,400 to the project, raised from burger sales at area aviation events. Key technical labor was donated by Airport Commissioners Bob Glorioso and Jim Baum, who were involved in every step of the process from evaluating different PAPI purchase options to performing electrical connections and final flight testing.
“The PAPI project is a wonderful example of the community spirit at Minute Man and a major element in our Safety Improvement Program, which includes recent tree clearing to FAA Part 77 specs and installation of obstruction lights, now underway,” said Don McPherson, airport owner/ manager.
For more information: MinuteManAirField.com or 987-897-3933.
