GAINESVILLE, Texas — A new safety program will debut at the 54th annual fly-in for the Texas Chapter of the Antique Airplane Association.
The fly-in will be held Oct. 7-8 at the Gainesville Municipal Airport (KGLE).
The safety program, led by Gary Reeves, will offer free safety classes to pilots on topics ranging from using new technology like iPads and Avidyne avionics to bringing modern safety technology to more pilots, according to organizers.
“Gary Reeves is one of the most popular national speakers for GA safety and will add a huge benefit to our existing program,” said Joel Meanor, Fly-In Chairman at Texas Chapter AAA.
Safer Pilots and Bigger Crowds
Organizers hope that adding a safety education component will help pilots who fly in, as well as attract a larger group of general aviation pilots to the event.
The Texas Chapter of AAA is committed to “Keep the Antiques Flying” and that means safety is an important component, officials said.
“Antique airplanes are an important part of our heritage,” said Lee Truitt, President, The Texas Chapter AAA. “Having a national expert in safety at our event will make a big difference for the GA community.”
Reeves is a 6,000-hour ATP and Master CFI, CFII, MEI. He is the 2016 FAA Instructor of the year for the Western Pacific Region, as well as a lead rep for the FAA Safety Team. He is best known for his national public speaking and volunteer efforts with PilotSafety.org, is a volunteer group that provides free and low-cost safety programs nationwide.