The Rain Did Not Diminish The Enthusiasm of the 1000s Who Braved 'The Flood'

To those of us who braved the puddles and mini-rivers that covered the Frederick Airport his past weekend, there was a surprising amount to see and do. The dedication of the staff and membership of the AOPA proved themselves well during an event that managed to to survive hours of pouring rain without dampening the enthusiasm of the thousands who made their way to the 2003 AOPA Fly-In.

Repeat after me... stroke, stroke, stroke....

Uncle Rod Wows 'Em

Wherever he goes, flight instructor, aero-evangelist and aviation humorist Rod Machado wows 'em. Rod gave several talks that boasted SRO crowds, lots of laughs and some great insights into getting more out of aviation, safely, while enjoying the process even more along the way. FMI: www.rodmachado.com

Phil Works The Crowds "Without A Net"

AOPA Prez Phil Boyer hosted huge crowds for a no-holds barred, "state of the airspace" talk that was long on hard facts and reality and devoid of BS. Phil got up close and personal over issues such as the Washington ADIZ, Meigs Field, the TSA and the FAA. It made for an engaging hour. What was very obvious was the immense pressure and responsibility the AOPA staff feels in trying to deal with the issues that affect us all. Phil's discussions about working with the TSA were particularly intriguing.

Shelter From The Rain, Time for Education

Just a small look at the crowds that took advantage of the seminar tent to seek shelter from the incessant and rain and get the straight skinny from a great selection of speakers. particularly well attended and enlightening was Phil Boyer's presentation... pretty much done off the cuff and with little of the usual AOPA flash. Phil was open, somewhat confrontational about GA's most pressing issues, didn't duck a single question, and took no prisoners.

Klyde Learns to Tread Water...

Klyde Morris creator Wes Oleszewski showed off a number of his wares at the AOPA Fly-In and reported surprisingly good business and very professional treatment from AOPA as a vendor. Wes had a great time meeting up with those of you who read him twice a week here on ANN and showing off some of the goodies he has available for his fans. Wes also does, by the way, a nifty series of CDs on various space subjects, especially a number of NASA manned space programs... highly recommended. FMI: www.klydemorris.com

OMF Gathering Speed

The "IFR Certified" appellation on this demo OMF-160 Symphony impressed many who were nearly ready to resort to snorkels in getting around the flooded ramp in front of AOPA HQ. The little Symphony is getting delivered, slow but sure, and gaining market share in an industry that's populated by a few good offerings and more than it's share of flaky ones. Seemingly weathering its previous legal woes, the two place Symphony appears to be maturing nicely... and will soon be followed by both a diesel powered two seater as well as a much-anticipated four place version. ANN is looking to do an updated flight test, shortly. FMI: www.omf-aircraft.com

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