Why did the past host airports tell PRA do not come back? Anyone know? I was not into gyroplanes back then and probably for the same reason but just curious.
Abid,
That was certainly before my time too.
However, I can't imagine an airport that would want such an event.
Wauchula is an exception, with a very nice layout.
Same thing we have at Mentone.
Where else would they allow allow spectators in relative close proximity to the runway?
Allow spectators on the ramp area looking at the machines?
Have a "Bean Box" for flight demonstrations right in front of the crowd?
Allow flying competitions?
Would they allow rows of campers to spend the better part of the week right on site?
Would they allow use of their hangars for night storage of the gyros?
Would they want everyone using the bathrooms / showers in the FBO?
Mentone and the PRA have all that and encourage the more the better!
I was not part of the PRA when the airport was bought... That does sound like a shifty deal at best. I can see how it could have rubbed many wrong.
But that is past (along with those who made the deal....)
The facilities and grounds at Mentone are a dream come true for our members and our sport!
Those who are suggesting that the convention be moved around the US each year have surely not considered the logistics of doing such.
Are those suggesting such going to volunteer to handle all these logistics each year? Certainly not.
I feel fortunate that Mentone is only a 10 hour drive from Minnesota!
Everything else is about 24 hours for me.
Bensen days is awesome! El Mirage is awesome!
Why wouldn't we want to keep what I consider the best facility of all, alive and well in the mid-west?!?
We could then have awesome gyro events all across the US!
All Mentone needs is a fresh runway. That is it. Then it will be available for current and new gyro pilots for many, many years to come!
I simply can't see how this in not a "no-brainer" for every gyro pilot out there!
Denis
www.every.org
