Civlian pilots learn about Grissom

Published Nov. 6, 2006
By Senior Airman Ben Mota
434th ARW Public Affairs

GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind. -- It's not usual for aircraft to land and takeoff from Grissom's runway. However, in October military aircrews in air refueling, fighter and cargo aircraft planes were not the only aviators coming and going here.

More than 100 people traveling in 49 privately owned planes came to the base to participate in a "civilian fly-in" to promote flying safety and to help civilian pilots who fly in the region.

"The purpose of the fly-in is to promote flying safety between civilian pilots and flying units at Grissom," said Capt. Gloria Hatcher, one of the planners of the event.

Activities included tours of the KC-135R Stratotanker and F-16 Falcon aircraft, safety briefings, and a presentation by the Federal Aviation Administration.

"Midair collision avoidance is the main focus of our program," said Captain Hatcher, a KC-135R pilot with Grissom's 434th Air Refueling Wing. "We plan to exchange techniques to avoid midair collision and inform them of our normal flight paths. Informing the public of Grissom's flying activities creates a safe flying environment."

Sandwiched in between the briefings were snacks and lunch for all of the visitors. They also got the chance to visit the Festival of Flight at the Grissom Air Museum to see displays from Air Force Reserve Command's 434th ARW. (AFRC News Service)