Out of a hangar at the Waunakee Airport, aviation enthusiasts are constructing a plane and inspiring young people to pursue careers in flying.
Neil Robinson of the Experimental Aircraft Association spoke about the EAA and local Chapter 93, particularly, which has “landed” at the Waunakee Airport.
EAA was founded in 1953 by veterans who collaborated on building airplanes. It has 2,000 chapters worldwide, Neil said. The Dane County chapter was founded in 1957.
In addition to building planes, its members host a Young Eagles program, with about three programs per year when members take teenagers flying.
The EAA Chapter 93 originally met at the Blackhawk Airport, then moved to the airport at Cottage Grove, but for the past few years have not had a headquarters.
Since purchasing the hangar at the Waunakee airport last year, that’s been the home base, but the members continue to meet at other area airports.
The missions are to foster aircraft home building and also inspire future pilots.
“Getting people involved in aviation is key to the future of aviation in the United States,” Neil said, but added for many young people, the cost to get a pilot’s license is out of reach.
EAA offers grants for teenagers who want to learn to fly and a scholarship program that could result in a pilot’s license. The organization has sponsored 12 youths and 11 have passed their check rides; one is still working toward that goal.
EAA Chapter 93 has also established a build project at the airport, ordering kits for parts of planes. The group has ordered the tail for a Sonex aircraft and plans to purchase more sections gradually.
The cost to build an airplane without the engine or instruments is about $55,000 using the kits, but altogether, it can range from $100,000 to over $200,000. Neil added that one EAA member in Iola built an aircraft without a kit for under $6,000. Bill Rewey, a member of the Waunakee Airport and EAA Hall of Famer, who is now deceased, built five Pietenpol aircraft.
“We’re very excited about our new home at the Waunakee Airport,” Neil said, adding the members are working to engage local high school students and are working with the high school aviation club.
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Other News
Phil Willems from the fundraising committee reported on the club’s proceeds from Wauktoberfest. The club received $920.14 in electronic tips and $4,000 in cash. One fifth of all proceeds goes to the Rotary Club, about $10,000.
Coming Up
Feb. 6-7: Rotarians will meet at Chets Car Care to package supplies for Honduras.
March 28: Easter Bunny Drive-Thru at Ripp Park
April 17: Tri-Con Convention
April 17: Chips & Chips Fundraiser
Trivia Tuesdays at Octopi and Thursdays at Waun-A-Bowl
Greeters: Jan. 22, David Rupp and Phil Willems; Jan. 29, Amy Wilcox and Paul Knutson; Feb. 5, Tracy Greiber; Feb. 12, Jen Tasker and Phil Willems.
To sign up to greet or to find out when you are greeting, visit:
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/805054CAAAA2CA7F85-44320149-2023#/
