Fly-ND Quarterly - Summer 2022

2023-2023 BOARD MEMBERS

The official publication of the North Dakota Aviation Association

FLY-ND Quarterly Editorial Committee

Nicolette Russell, Editor (editor@fly-nd.com)

Chris Brown, Leisha Lunnie, Mike McHugh, Zach Peterson, Maria Romanick

Send Address Changes To: admin@fly-nd.com

FLY-ND Quarterly, P.O. Box 5020, Bismarck, ND 58502-5020

The Quarterly is published four times a year (winter, spring, summer and fall).

Advertising Inquiries: editor@fly-nd.com

Advertising deadline is the 1st of the preceding month.

Cover photo by Jeremy Skalicky – see page 20.

NORTH DA KO TA A VIATION ASSOCIATION

Justin Weninger – Board Chair Air Fleet Capital

Darren Hall – Past Chair Fargo Jet Center

Tanner Overland – Vice Chair

Jeremy Sobolik – Secretary/Treasurer Fargo Jet Center

Jake Werner – Board Member Experimental Aircraft Association

Ron Lundquist – Board Member

Ray Brooks – Board Member State of ND - Pilot

ND Aeronautics Commission

Kyle Wanner, Director Mike McHugh, Aviation Education Coordinator

NDAA Executive Director Staiger Consulting Group admin@fly-nd.com

Summertime: those idyllic, warm-weather months of the year, filled with boating, barbecues, and bonfires. And let’s not forget all the fly-ins and airshows! I hope you were able to get your family and friends back out to the airport for some summer fun. And if you haven’t yet, don’t worry! There’s still upcoming events you won’t want to miss, such as the Fly-ND Summerfest on August 19, 2022. It is being held in Williston (XWA) and includes a sporting clay shoot, a golf event, and a social where you can connect with the greater North Dakota aviation community. And proceeds of the event go towards raising money to provide aviation scholarships for young members of the community! You can find more event details in this issue of the Quarterly, along with summer flying tips, stunning airshow photos, and North Dakota aviation updates. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and don’t forget to share your love of aviation with a friend!

Wishing you clear skies and unlimited visibility, Nicolette

Statements of fact and opinion are the responsibility of authors alone and do not imply an opinion on the part of officers and members of NDAA, or FLY-ND Quarterly staff. If you’ve received more than one copy of this newsletter, please share it with a friend.

Justin Weninger, Chairman North Dakota Aviation Association chairman@fly-nd.com

Summer Flying

A warm hello to all of you once again. I hope this issue of the Fly-ND Quarterly finds you doing well! Summer is clearly upon us, with the toasty temperatures, afternoon thunderstorms are often popping up, and the Fourth of July fireworks are behind us by a few weeks. Summer flying can be a lot of fun, with unique challenges like avoiding thunderstorms. However, one important point I’ve learned during summer flying is to remember your passenger’s comfort!

A few years back, I had to make a day trip out to Billings, MT, and back. A friend decided to join me for the day. The flight out that morning was fairly routine, with one deviation for weather, then direct to Billings. That afternoon when it was time to depart back to Bismarck, the temperature had climbed to about 95 degrees. We jumped in the airplane and I got it started up. I started reviewing the taxi diagram, getting ATIS, getting my clearance, plugging everything into the GPS and Autopilot and was finally ready to start taxiing. I looked over at my friend, and the sweat was running down him like a hose. I didn’t even notice how warm it was in the

cabin, as I was consumed with getting everything ready. He surely noticed how warm it was! In my focus on getting ready, I didn’t think about taxiing out a bit and turning so the sun wasn’t coming straight into the cabin from the windscreen. Later as we climbed to our cruising altitude of 7,000 feet, the air was still quite warm and bumpy. I requested and was granted a climb up to 11,000 feet where we found smooth and cool air. My friend finally mentioned how warm it was earlier, and that this altitude was much better.

Another evening in early July, my family and I were on our way back from another trip to Grand Forks, ND, for a Red Pepper supper. The evening had turned to night, as we passed somewhere around Carrington, ND. Suddenly, I heard a commotion from the kids in the back seat. They had spotted fireworks a ways off. Being on a VFR flight, I decided to give the passengers some enjoyment and turned toward the fireworks. We flew a couple of circles over the small-town fireworks display, and enjoyed a view not seen by many.

Enjoy your summer flying and remember to make your flight enjoyable for your passengers!

PIGEONS AND EAGLES

Sporting Clay Shoot at Painted Woods Sporting Range, Lunch and Golf Event at The Links of ND, followed by a Social and Steak dinner at Overland Aviation with an Airshow Performer Meet and Greet.

August

Agenda

Thursday August 18, 2022

Hotel check in - Holiday Inn Express

NDAA Summerfest Group Rate - $99+ tax, 30 rooms reserved

Friday August 19, 2022

7:15 am Shuttle pickup at Holiday Inn Express

8:00-10:15 am Clay Shooting at Painted Woods Sporting Range

10:30-11:15 am Shuttle to The Links of North Dakota

11:30 am-1:15 pm Lunch: AAND Meeting at The Links of ND

1:30-4:30 pm

9 Hole Golf Tournament at the Links of ND

5:00 pm Shuttle to Overland Aviation

5:30-8:00 pm Overland Aviation XWA: Steak Dinner & Airshow Performer Meet and Greet

8:00 pm Shuttle to Holiday Inn Express

Saturday August 20, 2022

10:00 am - 2:00 pm Williston Air Show

BRING YOUR TENT - Camping on the airport!

Fly-in the night before and pilots can camp in a tent under the wing of their airplane. Or there’s a room block also available at the Holiday Inn Express.

Learn

Participant registration $99/per person or $350 for a team of 4!

August 20 • 2nd Annual Williston Airshow

Enjoy local food vendors and family-friendly activities before taking your eyes to the sky with world-renowned airshow performers!

Thanks to this years’ sponsor!

Thank You to Our Readers

I grabbed my Starbucks coffee and found a quiet, sunny corner of the airport which overlooked the runway, ramp, and taxiway. I found myself simply mesmerized, watching all the people that make every single flight happen.

It was almost like a well-choreographed production and rightfully so; there are so many people working together to make things go and work smoothly and safely. My genuine appreciation for the individuals in this carefully crafted production was deepened even further. This immediately reminded me of the goal of the North Dakota Aviation Association and how we too are trying to convey and bring together all components of aviation. Our overall mission is one of serving aviation professionals, by providing a forum for the exchange of information, ideas, and experience among their peers across aviation professionals, and enthusiasts across the state; all the different areas work together, strengthening our entire community of aviation.

This recognition comes at a time in our world where the headlines indicate that we could all use a little dose of community connection and coming together to produce exceptional results. Let’s be that for our members and for this industry!

NDAA Executive Director ’

s Note

By The Staiger Consulting Group

On behalf of the Executive Director team, I want to thank all of you readers, volunteers, members, board of directors, and aviation enthusiasts for your role in helping to make this organization a success. I cannot stress how you too can make a difference in the organization.

Here’s some ways to get involved and make a difference:

• Summerfest in Williston – August 19, 2022, followed by the Williston Air Show on August 20.

• Career Expo – October 6, 2022, at the Fargo Air Museum

• Fly-ND Conference – March 5-7, 2023, at the Ramkota Hotel in Bismarck

Each one of you is part of something bigger, and your role is noted and worthy of recognition. I know we are trying new things and stretching our wings, while making great progress for the industry and having a lasting impact on the future of aviation in the state.

Stacy & Mike Krumwiede

Director

Flight Plan Adjustments

Many challenges within the aviation industry have presented themselves over the last few months. Most of the vocalized concerns that we have heard within both the public and private sectors are tied to rising project and operational costs, as well as continued difficulties in hiring and retaining a qualified workforce. These impacts are being felt throughout the airline industry, General Aviation, and airport construction sectors.

The airline industry has come a long way, since the beginning stages of COVID-19 led to a 95% drop in passenger traffic in April of 2020. Now, many of our commercial airports are within reach of a full recovery in pre-pandemic passenger demand; however, new challenges have emerged. The airlines are currently citing inability to add additional flights into the system, due to the pilot and staff shortages that are currently plaguing the industry. Additionally, increased operational costs are resulting in higher fares for the traveling public. These new realities present headwinds for retaining and attracting new air service opportunities, which hurts the overall health of an industry that is now coping with rising break-even costs. In order to once again see sustainable passenger growth above pre-pandemic levels, additional flights or larger aircraft with additional seats will need to be added into North Dakota’s system. Furthermore, systematic workforce needs must be addressed and energy costs will need to improve and stabilize.

General Aviation activity throughout the country has also been greatly impacted by both the rising costs of fuel and the current prices of purchasing or upgrading aircraft. In conversations with aircraft operators, I have heard many concerns regarding fuel prices and the large role that those rising costs have had on their flight decisions.

The airport construction sector has also been experiencing inflationary and supply chain issues, which have substantially driven up costs. These challenges have been taking a toll on infrastructure projects as decision makers throughout the country are postponing projects, scaling back others, and reprioritizing needs. Specifically, airport project costs throughout the state of North Dakota have recently averaged 17% higher than expected, when comparisons are made to pre-bid engineering estimates. Contractors have also vocalized concerns regarding the unknown future prices of materials and the escalating energy costs that are being experienced. Acquiring new snow removal and

aircraft rescue and fire fighting equipment has also become increasingly difficult, as most airport deliveries are currently projected to be out 18-24 months.

A robust national energy policy, strong efforts to contain inflationary pressures, a reduction of regulatory burdens, and a lowering of barriers to entry for the workforce, are all areas that would have immediate and positive impacts for the aviation industry. These issues are being continually discussed at the national level and will need to be addressed as soon as possible, to alleviate the concerns that many of us within the industry have been vocalizing.

Fortunately, good pre-planning was able to position most of our airport projects in North Dakota to be bid early in the construction season. This allowed for a greater opportunity to receive competitive prices and provided more time for contractors to secure supplies. The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission is also currently in a financially sound position, which has allowed airports to secure state grants to help fill in funding gaps where appropriate. These efforts have resulted in the ability for most of our high priority airport projects that were planned in the upcoming construction season to be able to proceed. Our office will continue to engage with airport management and community leaders to readjust and plan for 2023 and beyond.

Overall, North Dakota has done a tremendous job over the years to maintain, develop, and enhance our airport system which now allows us to help address the current challenges from a position of strength. Our priority is to work to ensure that a positive business environment exists so that the aviation industry can grow and prosper to the direct benefit of our communities and to the flying public.

When we fly, we can’t direct the wind, but we can reroute our flight plan and adjust the aircraft controls. Challenging moments help to bring people together while also creating opportunities for positive changes to occur. I encourage all of us to positively build up our communities and to work towards making decisions that will improve the standard of living for current and future generations.

If you have any concerns or ideas to help improve and grow aviation within your community, we would love to hear from you. I also hope that you and your family are able to enjoy the summer weather and discover opportunities to create exciting new memories in the field of aviation.

Wishing you smooth flying, Kyle

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Buying Tickets Supports Aviation in ND

Proceeds from this contest will provide financial assistance to high school juniors, seniors or recent GED recipients who plan to pursue advanced education in the field of aviation. Students planning to attend postsecondary education in the areas of Professional Pilot, Aviation Maintenance, Aviation Engineering, Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Airport/Aviation Management, Atmospheric Sciences, Air Traffic Control, or other aviation related fields.... plus, you might wine a pontoon (that’s pretty awesome)!

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• Commander low back reclining drivers chair with self-leveling arms

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• Fusion RA-670 Stereo with a USB input and charge

North Dakota Aeronautics Commission 701-328-9650 | mmchugh@nd.gov

Educating the Educators

It is a common misconception that teachers don’t do any work during the summer. While they do have time to relax and are not going into school daily, teachers are still busy planning lessons for the next school year. In addition, many teachers take advantage of professional development opportunities. This summer, the North Dakota Aviation Association (NDAA) and the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission (NDAC) partnered with the University of North Dakota – Aerospace (UND) to host several aviation focused professional development opportunities. Funding for these opportunities was provided by a workforce development grant awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

I am very excited to share that we had nearly 50 educators from around the region attend these two-day courses. It was very exciting to see teachers from all over North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota wanting to learn more about our industry. We also had teachers

from a variety of backgrounds, including elementary, middle school, and high school teaching a variety of subjects. It was a great audience who came with energy, ready to learn. Our first two classes were offered in Grand Forks, ND and Fargo, ND. Teachers attending these courses participated in a variety of tours, highlighting aviation in North Dakota. The hands-on learning included a variety of simulations at UND as well as tours of Cirrus manufacturing, the Grand Forks Airport operations and firefighting, the Grand forks Air Force Base and CBP, UND maintenance, and Northrup Grumman. Moving a little further south, we visited the Kindred Airport, West Fargo Airport (including an aerial application demonstration) and a variety of businesses around the Fargo Airport. Teachers left with knowledge of opportunities available for their students right here in North Dakota. I think every location we toured indicated they need employees, and we hope these teachers will share the career opportunities with their students.

Mike McHugh, Aviation Education Coordinator

After the initial week of professional development opportunities, more courses were offered at a variety of locations around the region. These courses focused on integrating aviation education into current educational environments. A full day was dedicated to unmanned aircraft and a second day highlighted the curriculum available for manned and unmanned aviation.

Our hope is that the educators in attendance will be able to bring the material back to their schools and either integrate aviation into their current

coursework or provide additional aviation opportunities through aviation classes or extracurriculars, such as drone racing clubs. We hope that by teachers exposing students to the opportunities available in the industry, we will see less pressure on the workforce in the future. We know this will take time.

I would like to thank everyone who opened up their facility to these teachers and shared their passion for the industry. There are really too many people and businesses to mention.

Your time is greatly appreciated!

Teachers left with knowledge of opportunities available for their students right here in North Dakota.

Aeronautics Commission Awards $8.5 Million for Airport Infrastructure Grants

By Kyle Wanner, Executive Director

The North Dakota Aeronautics Commission recently finalized approximately $8.5 million in state airport infrastructure grant allocations. In total, 165 individual projects have received grant awards at 68 different publicuse airports throughout the state.

$5 million of the grant allocations have been provided through funding that was made available through the Federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). The state legislature allocated the funds to the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission during the 2021 special legislative session to assist with the costs of maintaining and updating the state’s airport infrastructure. The remainder of the grant allocations are made possible from the Aeronautics Commission’s Special Fund where the primary revenue source is derived from state tax collections on aviation fuel and aircraft sales. These state grants will assist in the leveraging of federal funds for high priority airport projects within North Dakota, while at the same time ensuring that our statewide aviation system is being maintained and enhanced.

Provided on this page is a listing of each of the public airports that received a state grant allocation, along with a description of one of their funded projects. A full listing of the airport grants and dollar amounts can also be found in the news section on the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission website.

Congratulations to each of the communities on their grant awards!

Commercial Airport Grant Awards: Bismarck. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Drainage & Wildlife Hazard Improvements

Devils Lake Pavement Maintenance

Dickinson Acquire Snow Removal Equipment

Fargo Cargo Apron Expansion

Grand Forks ....... Reconstruct Rwy 9L/27R & 17R/35L Intersection

Jamestown Design of Primary Runway Electrical Rehabilitation

Minot Drainage & Wildlife Hazard Improvements

Williston Design for De-Icing Containment Improvements

General Aviation Grant Awards:

Ashley Instrument Approach Development

Beach Primary Runway, Taxiway, & Apron Rehabilitation

Bottineau Upgrade Fuel System

Bowbells Purchase Runway Edge Markets

Bowman ......................... Construct Community Hangar

Cando Design for Airfield Lighting Rehabilitation

Carrington Primary Runway and Taxiway Rehabilitation

Casselton Acquire Snow Removal Equipment

Cavalier ..................... Acquire Snow Removal Equipment

Crosby ...... Primary Runway and Lighting System Reconstruction

Drayton Pavement Maintenance

Edgeley Pavement Maintenance

Ellendale Acquire Mowing Equipment

Fessenden Purchase Airport Maintenance Trailer

Fort Yates. .

Pavement Maintenance

Garrison Pavement Maintenance

Glen Ullin Primary Runway, Taxiway, & Apron Rehabilitation

Grafton Pavement Maintenance

Gwinner ............................Access Road Rehabilitation

Hazelton Acquire Mowing Equipment

Hazen Replace AWOS Sensor

Hettinger Pavement Maintenance

Hillsboro Design for Apron Rehabilitation

Kenmare ...................... Design for Partial Parallel Taxiway

Killdeer Construct Public Terminal Building

Lakota Design for Airfield Pavement Rehabilitation

LaMoure Pavement Maintenance

Langdon Construct AWOS Maintenance Road

Leeds ................ Design for Airfield Pavement Rehabilitation

Linton Pavement Maintenance

Lisbon Construct Apron Expansion

Maddock Install Airfield Lighting System

Mandan ............................... Pavement Maintenance

Mayville Pavement Maintenance

Milnor Runway Grading

Mohall Acquire Snow Removal Equipment

Mott Pavement Maintenance

Napoleon ............................... Relocate Access Road

New Rockford Pavement Maintenance

New Town Pavement Maintenance

Northwood Replace Rotating Beacon

Oakes ............................. LED Lighting Improvements

Page .................................. Pavement Maintenance

Park River Design for Lighting Rehabilitation

Parshall Pavement Maintenance

Pembina Pavement Maintenance

Rolette ................................ Pavement Maintenance

Rolla Pavement Maintenance

Rugby Acquire Snow Removal Equipment

Stanley Pavement Maintenance

St. Thomas Pavement Maintenance

Tioga .................................. Pavement Maintenance

Valley City Acquire Snow Removal Equipment

Wahpeton Upgrade Ramp Lighting

Washburn Construct New Taxiway

Watford City .................. Acquire Snow Removal Equipment

West Fargo Pavement Maintenance

Westhope Pavement Maintenance

Wishek Pavement Maintenance

North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame Centenarians

Two of our North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame (HOF) inductees recently celebrated over 100 years of life. Both are WWII veterans, who have pursued a lifelong passion for aviation. Please join us in wishing our HOF centenarians a happy birthday!

Birthday: June 14, 1921

Age: 101

Birthday: July 12, 1922

Age: 100

The North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame was established to honor those who have made major achievements in aviation, in North Dakota. Since 1997, 47 aviators have been inducted. Hall of Fame inductees must have the following attributes:

• Major achievements in aviation in North Dakota

• Significant contributions to the development of others in aviation in North Dakota.

• Special service to the state of North Dakota in aviation activities.

• Activities that bring credit to North Dakota aviation, either nationally or internationally.

• Significant contributions to the local community or the state of North Dakota that are not related to aviation (i.e.; service clubs, church related, political activities, etc).

Do you have someone you would like to nominate for the North Dakota Aviation Hall of Fame? Visit www.fly-nd.com for more information. The deadline to submit a new nomination to the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission office is September 30, 2022.

Leland Brand

Earnest “Hod” Hutson

Photo courtesy of the Grand Forks Herald

Photo courtesy of the InForum

Adam Dillin, Airport Planner North Dakota Aeronautics Commission 701-328-9650 | adillin@nd.gov

The Importance of Airfield Sign Maintenance

Airfield signs are a common sight at most public airports across the country. With just a quick glance, they supply helpful information ranging from an aircraft’s location on the field to directions of aviation services, and communication frequencies to critical safety instructions. Since many Fly-ND

Quarterly readers are pilots and very familiar with signage, we can skip the dive down the rabbit hole of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) design standards, but for the benefit of airport operators I would like to highlight some of the common sign-related issues I encounter as an airport inspector.

Lack of Hold Short Signs: Perhaps the most important sign on the airfield is the Mandatory Holding Position Sign, commonly known as the “hold short” sign. This bright red sign is frequently installed in conjunction with surface painted holding position markings to stop aircraft before they enter runways, and therefore help to prevent dangerous incursions. For airport projects that receive FAA funding, the installation of compliant signage is mandatory. Airports that are ineligible for FAA funding are not required to install signage, but it’s recommended and encouraged that every airport voluntarily install signs whenever possible to prevent accidents and foster safety.

Deterioration: It’s a fact of life that everything ages and wears out, and signs are no exception. Sunlight gradually bleaches inscriptions and backgrounds, turning cherry red and lemon yellow into white. Plastic becomes brittle and scratched, metal panels and frames are dented, and once brilliantly reflective coatings turn dull. If one of your airfield’s signs becomes damaged, faded, non-reflective, or unreadable, it needs to be replaced. Just remember that messages that span multiple panels in the same fixture need to have all their panels replaced at the same time, to avoid distracting color mismatches.

Frangible Bases: FAA standards require that objects located in runway safety areas, including signs, must be constructed with frangible couplings to allow them to snap off easily, should an aircraft accidentally strike them. When installed, couplings must be no higher than just three inches above the surrounding grade. Frost heave is commonplace at these northerly latitudes and signs may slowly creep upward and out of the ground, pushing couplings outside tolerances and increasing the risk of damage to aircraft. Signs experiencing frost heave need to be reseated back to grade.

Erosion: Water and wind gradually wear away the soil around signs and expose their bases. When it comes to concrete bases, this can create dangerous projections and surface variations, which can cause aircraft to lose control should they hit it during an emergency. Airports should make sure to regularly check for and fill in areas of erosion.

Divider Colors: Internally-lit signs are constructed of plastic message panels, separated by narrow dividers. These dividers are required to be the same color as the panels to prevent disrupting the legend. For example, placing a black divider in the middle of a multi-panel yellow direction sign would break up the sign’s message and potentially confuse pilots.

Light Failure: Unsurprisingly, hold short signs that are internally-lit must have their lights working to be considered in service. If a hold short sign becomes unlit or badly damaged, a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) should be issued for safety and the sign repaired as soon as feasible.

FAA guidelines regarding the design, installation, and maintenance of airfield signs can be found by visiting www.faa.gov and searching for Advisory Circulars 150/5300-13B, 150/5340-18G, 150/5340-30J, 150/5345-44K, and 150/5340-26C.

Jim Lawler Scholarship Fund

To contribute to the Jim Lawler Memorial Scholarship Fund, visit: www.fly-nd.com/donate. The scholarship will be awarded to a student pursuing an airport management degree.

North Dakota Military Aviator Spotlight

Military aviation is an important part of our state’s aviation community. In this spotlight, we highlight some of our local military aviators, who represent North Dakota around the world, and share their stories with you. We thank them for their dedicated service to our country and community.

Our spotlight in this issue features William Mitchell (Mitch) McCoy, a First Sergeant (1SG) in the North Dakota Army National Guard.

Q: What is your hometown?

My hometown is a little hard to describe. I was born in Fort Lauderdale, FL, but moved to Texas when I was eight and Vermont when I was 16. Most of my family are in Austin, TX, still, so I basically claim Austin as where I am from. That being said, I moved to Bismarck, ND, in 2008 from Arizona and have lived here for 14 years, longer than anywhere else in my life. North Dakota has been great and I love Bismarck.

Q: What is your job title? What does your work include?

In the NDARNG, I serve as the First Sergeant for C Company 2-285th Assault Helicopter Battalion. As first Sergeant I am the senior enlisted leader for the company which has about 75 Soldiers, 10 UH-60M Blackhawk helicopters, three tanker refuel trucks, and many other support vehicles and support equipment. My job includes planning and conducting training to ensure our unit is ready to respond to any civil emergency, and perform any combat mission anywhere in the world that the Army may send us. I am also the senior Standardization Flight Instructor for all the crew chiefs. Basically, I train and conduct flight evaluations for all of our crew chiefs and flight instructors.

Some of the missions we train and execute include fire fighting, in which we use 600 gallon buckets slung beneath the helicopter to douse flames on forest and grassland fires. This spring, we used them to extinguish flames at a train

derailment up near Burlington, ND. Another mission we execute is sling loading supplies and equipment beneath the helicopter. This spring we helped save a dam up near cavalier by placing 2000 pound sandbags to stop eroding water. Every year, we conduct aerial gunnery training, where we fire the M240H machine gun from the helicopter windows. I serve as the Master Door Gunner and Aerial Gunnery Standardization Instructor. This is a combat mission where we provide direct fire to protect the helicopter and support troops in contact on the ground.

A crew chief is not a pilot, but we are crew members responsible for assisting the crew in all manner of activities to include radio operations, navigation assistance, passenger and equipment loading, emergency procedures, airspace surveillance and so forth. We also conduct all manner of maintenance and helicopter inspections.

I am an FAA certified A&P mechanic and work full time as a federal civilian for the Army Aviation Support Facility (AASF) at the Bismarck airport. My civilian job title is Quality Assurance Chief. Basically, I inspect all the UH-60 maintenance and ensure historical records are kept on all the aircraft and equipment. I also ensure programs such as oil analysis, shop safety, aircraft weight and balance are all kept to standard to ensure a safe flying and maintenance program.

Q: What inspired you to join the military?

At 19 years old I wanted to do something with my life that was bigger than the small horse farm I lived on in Vermont. I wasn’t ready for college and wanted to see the world and I loved aviation. My father and grandfather had been pilots their whole life. My grandfather flew during World War II and in the Berlin Airlift. They had devoted most of their lives to flying. Joining the military seemed like the best way to serve and get to be around airplanes. I never really thought I would be a helicopter guy, but I quickly learned to love fixing and flying helicopters.

Q:

How many years of service do you have?

I have served 20 years in the military. I joined the United States Marine Corp at 19 years old, where I served as a CH53E crew chief and mechanic, and Weapons and Tactics Crew Chief Instructor. While in the USMC, I deployed twice to SE Asia aboard the USS Belleau Wood with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit.

I joined the NDARNG in 2008 and was assigned to C CO 2-285th AHB, where I’ve served in multiple roles and positions, UH-60 mechanic, UH-60 crew chief, Technical Inspector, Flight Instructor, readiness NCO, Squad leader, Platoon Sergeant, and First Sergeant. With the Guard I have deployed three times to Iraq in 2009-10, to Kosovo in 201314, and Washington DC in 2020-21. I’ve participated in flood duty in 2009 and 2011. I have fought fires at the University of Mary in 2015 and at the DAPL protests, when a large grass fire was started and flooding at the dam in Cavalier this spring. I’ve worked on Oh-58 Kiowas, UH60 A/L/M Blackhawks, and UH-72 Lakotas. Overall, I’ve accumulated more than 2,000 flight hours, with over 700 of those hours utilizing Night Vision Goggles (NVG).

Between the Marines and the National Guard, I had an eight year break in service where I went to college in Arizona and eventually started working for MD Helicopters in AZ building and maintaining all models of MD Helicopters. Primarily, I worked on MD 500 and 600 series single engine with tail rotor and no tail rotor (NOTAR) systems. When I moved to North Dakota, I worked at Executive Air Taxi Corporation fixing and maintaining all manner of fixed wing

aircraft and their Bell 407, which now operates at Trinity Hospital in Minot. While there. I attended the factory Bell 407 maintenance course in Fort Worth, TX.

Q: What has been the most rewarding part of your job/time in the military?

Working with and training soldiers. Watching them develop their leadership skills and become professionals at their chosen career fields.

Q: What advice do you have for anyone interested in military aviation?

DO IT. Give me a call and come take a look at our facility. Not many people in North Dakota get to work on and fly helicopters in and around our beautiful state. Aviation can be an expensive field to get into, but the military will pay for your maintenance and/or pilot training. There is no better aviation training program in the world than those offered by our US military services. I generally encourage the young men and women I speak to to join the National Guard. We offer a career where you can define your own path and do whatever it is you want to do, based on your own merit. If being a pilot isn’t what you want, you can be a mechanic, an avionic mechanic, or engine mechanic. If piloting or maintenance isn’t what you want, you can be a flight operations specialist, a petroleum supply specialist, vehicle maintainer, aviation life support technician, and so on. There are so many areas where you can learn a valuable skill, develop lifelong friends, serve your state and nation, and build a career with a pretty good retirement.

North Dakota Aviation Association Scholarship Non-Endowment Fund

A non-endowed scholarship fund that can provide one-time scholarships for North Dakota students needs your help!

Our Goal is $10,000 by the October 6 Career Expo!

Can you help!?

You can indicate where you would like your gift to go toward a scholarship in a specific area:

• Professional Pilot

• Aviation Engineering

• Airport Management

• Air Traffic Control

$10,000

• Aviation Maintenance

• Unmanned Aircraft Systems

• Atmospheric Science

• Space Studies

If you would like to make a gift to an endowed aviation scholarship, please click on the Donate button for the "ND Aviation Endowment Scholarship Fund.”

Summer Flying Tips

What a gorgeous beginning to summer! I recently took an early morning flight up the Missouri River and was in awe of the beauty that was present in North Dakota. I cannot remember a spring where the greens were greener, the prairies more lush, and the river in contrasting colors. It was truly one of those flights that is etched into my memory. Spring got off to a trying start with late and heavy snows, cool temperatures, and high winds, all not lending itself to leisure flying. The last couple of weeks have turned around and we have had beautiful mornings, calm evenings, and last night another shot of moisture to feed the green of the hills. What a great time to be an aviator in central North Dakota! This leads us into summer and the season of unstable air, which can produce severe thunderstorms, high winds, hail, and an occasional tornado. There are many factors that contribute to this severe weather. Early in the season, most of the terrain is the same color, whether it be the tan of early spring or the green of a wet spring. As summer progresses, there are contrasting colors on the earth’s surface that create uneven heating of the atmosphere, and that causes midday and afternoon lifting action. In turn, this causes rough air, which makes for uncomfortable flying conditions. Add a moisture source, such as a trough that can become the avenue to feed a system with moisture from either the ocean or the Gulf, and you start to have a recipe for isolated rain

By Bob Simmers

and thunderstorms. The greater the temperature differences and the higher the moisture content, the greater the risk of severe weather. Then add the conversion of a cold front and a warm front and you may experience some of the most violent weather.

So, what have I learned about flying and summer weather in my over 50 years as an aviator? Here are a few things:

1. It is better to be on the ground wishing you were up there rather than being up there wishing you were on the ground.

2. Early morning and evening are the best times to fly.

3. Thunderstorms are usually isolated and can easily be circumnavigated. Rough air is usually below the first layer of clouds.

4. Do not fly under towering cumulus clouds.

5. Give thunderstorms a wide area of respect (minimum of 25 miles.) Even then, you may get hailed on. Be aware of microbursts and stay clear of suspected areas.

6. If you see a roller cloud, do a 180, land and let it pass over.

7. Stay VMC when embedded thunderstorms are forecast. Summer can also be a great time to fly the prairie if you follow the above advice. But always remember that Mother Nature has a mind of her own. She is not always predictable, but she does provide you with signs to which you need to pay attention! Happy flying!

SPOTTED ON THE RAMP

A 2004 Murphy Moose on floats, just back from a summer flying expedition.

Mike McHugh Appointed to State Education Board

State School Superintendent

Kirsten Baesler recently announced that Mike McHugh will be joining the North Dakota Board of Public School Education, which provides guidance and oversight for the state’s K-12 system. McHugh, of Mandan, is the Aviation Education Coordinator for the state Aeronautics Commission, a certified career and technical education teacher, and a former aviation instructor in the Bismarck public schools. McHugh will represent Adams, Billings, Bowman, Dunn, Golden Valley, Grant, Hettinger, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sioux, Slope, and Stark counties.

The Board of Public School Education has seven members: the state superintendent of public instruction, who is the board’s executive secretary, and six members who are appointed by the governor to represent groups of counties and serve six-year terms. The Board of Public School Education appointees also are members of the state Board of Career and Technical Education (CTE), which oversees North Dakota’s state CTE department. They also are in charge of the North Dakota K-12 Education Coordination Council, which reviews state education programs and encourages collaboration among agencies and interest groups.

“This is exciting news for the aviation community, as Mike’s representation on this board will help to advocate for aviation education and STEM efforts throughout North Dakota,” stated Kyle Wanner, Executive Director of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “As workforce shortage issues need to be addressed within aeronautics and other critical industries, we need strong leadership to advocate and implement strong education programs and opportunities for our youth. Congratulations, Mike!”

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My History of the Civil Air Patrol

By Jeremy Skalicky

The history of the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is a long and storied one. From conception, to ocean patrols, submarine hunters, radio communications, training cadets, cyberspace security, and search and rescue, CAP has an interesting history. The one thing that has remained constant through the decades is the dedication and volunteerism of its members.

I know that statistics can be a little boring, but here are a few interesting ones:

1. CAP operates one of the largest single engine aircraft fleets in the world.

2. We do approximately 90% of the inland search and rescue in the US.

3. CAP saved 130 lives in 2020.

4. We provide FEMA-level emergency response.

5. We transport time-sensitive medical supplies.

6. CAP provides highly specialized aerial imaging, intercept training and radio communications support. These are just a few things that the Civil Air Patrol does for its country, state, and local programs.

Locally, we have flown photo missions for the flood in 2011, conducted Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), lost aircraft, and missing person searches. We have transported Covid-19 tests and supplies, participated in hurricane reconnaissance missions, and honored our fallen by supporting the Wreath Across America program. We work closely with, and for, FEMA, law enforcement, emergency services, and the Minot Air Force Base.

There is a common misconception that you have to be a pilot or in the military to join CAP. This is simply not true. We are a volunteer, non-profit organization that is chartered by Congress and supported by the U.S. Air Force. We have achieved Total Force and First Responder status. We accept people 12 years old and up, from varying backgrounds and occupations. If you have a skill or a wish to serve your community, the Civil Air Patrol can find a place for you.

Now for my history with the CAP

My name is Jeremy Skalicky, I am the current CAP Squadron Commander for the Minot area. We are known as the Magic City Composite Squadron, which means that we have senior members and cadets together. Honestly, I joined CAP to find a way to get

some flight training and flying time. However, I have learned and done so much more.

I was a volunteer sheriff’s deputy for Ward County, when I had an opportunity to receive some training at a conference in Jamestown, ND. While at the conference, I signed up for my sessions and was most of the way through the conference, when I noticed a scheduled class for ground search techniques that was put on by a member of the North Dakota Wing of the Civil Air Patrol. I had heard of the Civil Air Patrol, but never really knew what it was all about. Being a new pilot, it piqued my interest, so I changed my scheduled class to attend the search training.

The class was put on by Col. William Kay, who showed us the skills and techniques of searching for clues that would lead to locating our target. After the class had finished, I decided to ask him what CAP was, and if there was a need for a person like me. I told him that I had recently received my private pilot’s license and was looking for a way to maintain my flight currency, receive some training, and help my community. I was intrigued and excited by his response. Col Kay proceeded to tell me all the opportunities that CAP had available for me. I expressed my interest and went about my business. I couldn’t have been more excited.

Col. Kay had flown from Minot to Jamestown for the conference and I had driven. By the time I had driven home hours later, I had a message waiting for me. Col. Kay had started the process for me to join the Civil Air Patrol before

I had even returned home. I wasted no time in completing the requirements, joining, and taking full advantage of the program. I advanced my pilot training and worked my way through the mission pilot requirements, learning to fly different aircraft and avionics packages.

After a few years, our squadron commander was relocating and had to step down. He was looking for a person to assume command. I timidly raised my hand and expressed my interest. A few months later, with a seemingly daunting task ahead of me, I assumed command of the Magic City Composite Squadron. In my time with CAP, I received my ham radio license, became Mission Radio Operator and achieved full Mission Pilot capabilities, I have learned so much and received so much gratification in my time with CAP. Our unit has undergone many changes, suffered some setbacks, and had its numbers dwindle. With the onset of Covid-19, our membership and our leadership have been tested to the limit. With everything that has happened in the world and to our group, I am proud to say that we have cultivated a good group of core members that are dedicated to the success and promotion of CAP. I am happy to see that it looks like the tide is turning and our future is looking brighter as we get back to what we do best. I highly recommend contacting your local Civil Air Patrol and starting your adventure today.

Interested in learning more about the North Dakota Civil Air Patrol Wing? Visit www.ndwg.cap.gov/about/north-dakota-wing-unit.

A Visit to the Enderlin Airport

Twenty-four sixth grade students were able to visit the Enderlin Airport on May 5, 2022. This event is planned with the Enderlin Airport Authority and the Administration of the Enderlin area school as part of the sixth-grade curriculum in aviation. While at the airport, the students learn how an airplane flies, the functional controls and surface of an airplane, the four forces of flight, magnetic compass and weather, and more. Thanks to the many people that help to give these 24 students a taste of aviation.

From concept and quality design to full-service installation and follow-up support, we’ll partner with you for the best bi-fold and hydraulic doors to meet your needs. We offer customized solutions for new and existing buildings and unmatched customer service, so you’ll find the door is always open

The Fargo Airsho 2021

Beachcraft Staggerwing in Yellow

A Snapshot of Summer Aviation

Microjet

Blue Angels Crossing Pass Viper Demo Team

Gerry’s RV4

Beachcraft Staggerwing in Red

A 1924 Fairchild

Stars on a sunny day, blue angels crossing the sun

The last thing a Zero pilot sees F4U

The Fargo Airsho and the Gerry Beck Memorial gathering of planes 2021. Photos courtesy of Gordon Court.

Testing Opportunities For Aspiring Pilots

TrainND Northwest is now providing testing opportunities for aspiring pilots in Williston, ND.

Officials with the facility announced that they will offer FAA Airman Knowledge Testing, which is necessary for pilots to be certified. They say having this test in northwest North Dakota eliminates barriers such as travel and makes it easier for those interested in aviation to join the field.

“This is about creating an ecosystem here in the Williston area that enables interested individuals to be able to do what they need to do to become a part of that industry. If we can’t create that pipeline here, then ultimately that shortage just continues here regionally,” said Kenley Nebeker, Regional Director for TrainND Northwest.

Testing is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9-5. The test costs $175 per attempt.

Reprinted with permission of KFYR TV and Michael Smith.

Simulator

Thank you!

Aeronautics Commissioner Cindy Schreiber-Beck has announced that she will not be seeking reappointment for her position on the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. Cindy was originally appointed as an Aeronautics Commissioner in 1997 and has served in this position for the past 25 years. Cindy has been a tireless advocate for aviation throughout the years, both as an Aeronautics Commissioner and also at our capitol as a state legislator.

We want to thank Cindy for all of her leadership and efforts throughout the years in assisting the state with developing a strong, efficient, and safe aviation transportation system!

Cindy was provided with a service award at the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission’s annual state grant meeting held in Bismarck on June 16th.

(L-R): Kyle Wanner, Director and Cindy Schreiber-Beck, Commissioner

Do you remember your first time in an airplane? Do you remember the thrill the first time you flew solo? Do you remember the people along the way that supported your dream to fly?

Help the students of today (and tomorrow) experience that same thrill by donating to one of the scholarship funds at FLY-ND.com. Scholarships support ND students pursuing post-secondary education and a career in the field of aviation including

 Professional Pilot

 Aviation Maintenance

 Aviation Engineering

 Unmanned Aircraft Systems

 Airport Management

 Atmospheric Sciences

 Space Studies Support

Watford City Municipal Airport runway dedication

The Watford City Municipal Airport held a runway dedication ceremony event on July 16th for their new 6,550 ft long concrete runway. Additionally, the project also included a new parallel taxiway, connecting taxiways, airfield lighting, navigation aids (NAVAIDs), an automated weather observation system (AWOS) relocation, and a new electrical vault. This exciting upgrade will greatly enhance air service and business opportunities within Western North Dakota and is a product of over a decade of planning and collaboration between local, state, and federal partners.

The Fly North Dakota Airports Passport Program is a fun reason for pilots to get out and fly while supporting aviation in North Dakota at the same time. Grab your passport book and start collecting your stamps. Go to www.nd.gov/ndaero or call 701-328-9650 for more information!

AOPA Offers Free Memberships!

For more information, call AOPA at 1-800-USA-AOPA

AOPA AV8RS Youth Membership (ages 13-18): www.aopa.org/joinav8rs

Military Membership: www.aopa.org/military2 6-Month Student Pilot Trial Membership: ft.aopa.org/free1

For more information, call AOPA at 1-800-USA-AOPA.

AOPA offers complimentary memberships in the following categories. Take advantage of these special offers – or tell your kids, students and military buddies.

AOPA AV8RS Youth Membership (ages 13-18): www.aopa.org/joinav8rs

Military Membership: www.aopa.org/military2

6-Month Student Pilot Trial Membership: ft.aopa.org/free1

Picture from left to right: Ariston Johnson (WCMAA Member), Steve Reeves (WCMAA Member), Lange White (WCMAA Vice Chairman), Shane Steiner (KLJ), Jeff Kummer (WCMAA Past Chairman), Kent Norbeck (WCMAA Immediate Past Chairman), Kyle Wanner (NDAC), Miles Bullock (KLJ), Luke Taylor (WCMAA Airport Manager).

2nd Place at the 2022 National Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference

Members of the 2022 SAFECON UND Flying Team are Matthew Cleveland (Sycamore, Ill.), Nathaniel Dietz (Chatfield, Minn.), Ryan Fitzgerald (Albuquerque, N.M.), Bailey Harris (Bemidji, Minn.), Caroline Kelley (Lakeville, Minn.), Max Langerud (Worthington, Minn.), Blake Nahin (Los Angeles, Calif.), Cobi Pimental (Kailua, Hawaii), Aaron Schwartz (Buffalo Grove, Minn.), Jebadiah Sussenbach (Edina, Minn.), Joe Taylor (New Prague, Minn.), Mikayla Weiss (Grand Forks, N.D.), Carson Wells (Bristol, Ind.). and Cole Yokoyama (Kaneohe, Hawaii).

The University of North Dakota Flying Team took second place overall at the 2022 National Safety and Flight Evaluation Conference (SAFECON) contest – the first inperson event since UND’s championship run in 2019.

This year’s meet was hosted by The Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio. At SAFECON, UND has placed first or second 32 times in the past 38 years and took home a number of top marks in 2022. The Flying Team has a similar record of excellence at the regional level, including a first-place finish in October at Minnesota State University, Mankato.

The team took first place in the ground-based events at Columbus, based on total points, and had first-place finishes in four separate events.

“The team did amazingly well,” said Lewis Liang, longtime head coach and winner of multiple Coach of the Year awards at previous national SAFECON meets. “Our goal was to win nationals, but we had a strong showing in many events with many individuals doing exactly what we trained so hard to do.”

Liang added that of UND’s 14 students that competed at 2022 SAFECON, only two had previously been to a nationallevel event. The exceptional performance from all members of the team was a testament to the character of the team, its leadership and captains, as well as the coaching staff’s dedication, Liang said.

“They did a great job handling a competition of that caliber,” he remarked.

Top marks for UND pilots

Joe Taylor, co-captain of UND’s Flying Team, earned the distinction of Top Pilot as the top scorer among hundreds of competitors.

The team also earned the Judges Trophy for the 2022 competition.

Both the winner of the competition, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Prescott, and UND scored more than 500 total points this year, which was thought to be an unobtainable goal only a short time ago, according to Liang. Embry-Riddle ended the week with 592 to UND’s 536. By comparison, the third-place team scored 272.

Full results for the week-long competition can be found on the National Intercollegiate Flying Association website.

“The Odegard School is extremely proud of how well our UND Flying Team performed at SAFECON, and how hard they worked during the entire school year to compete at the highest level,” said Elizabeth Bjerke, associate dean of the John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences. “It used to be unheard of to score over 500 points at the national competition, and to score 536 is truly remarkable.”

‘Battle of two heavyweights’

Established by NIFA, SAFECON regional and national competitions test pilots in comprehensive fashion. From penand-paper navigation to powerless landing accuracy, the event’s 12 contests bring all flight skills to bear.

“This was a young team that acted and performed like a veteran group of competitors,” said Ryan Guthridge, assistant coach. “They represented the University of North Dakota with an extremely high level of pride and honor. This year’s competition was a battle of two heavyweights, both scoring a record total of team points. While we won ground events and the Judges Trophy, we narrowly fell short in earning the National Championship.”

Last year, the national competition was held virtually –featuring only ground-based events that could be judged from a distance. In 2020, the event was cancelled outright due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Liang credited NIFA and event organizers for doing everything possible to bring the event “back to normal” as much as possible in 2022.

The fact that the event was back in full swing this year gave Liang and his team motivation to work hard and put as much energy as possible into doing well in their events. “It’s one of those things where they’ll put in the effort for the carrot, which in this case is going to nationals and competing against nearly 30 schools and more than 400 of their peers,”

Liang remarked.

And the benefits of returning to the national stage go farther than bragging rights, Liang added. The camaraderie and potential for networking is something invaluable for UND’s pilots, as they’re meeting and competing against people with whom they’ll work side-by-side once they’re in the aviation industry. It’s an aspect that’s sorely missed in remote competition, and everyone feels the impact, Liang said.

Also, for the students, taking home titles such as “Top Pilot” and “#1 in Navigation,” are big points on resumes. People in the industry know what it takes to achieve those accolades, Liang said, and it serves pilots well to be recognized at the NIFA level.

“Earning 500 points used to be like the four-minute mile: people thought it couldn’t be done,” said Liang. “Now that it’s been broken, we’ve had to raise the bar. I’m extremely proud of this team, who did exactly what they needed to do to succeed.”

At 11 years old, Aidan Lally was more excited about the plane rides than he was about the scenery when he and his family visited Cozumel, Mexico, in 2012.

He recorded the takeoffs and landings from his window seat. Time spent waiting in the terminal was equally a chance to watch the airport work its magic, guiding pilots and passengers wherever they needed to go.

Then on the return flight, young Aidan met a kindred spirit: a United Airlines captain, who welcomed Aidan and his parents into the cockpit of the Boeing airliner.

At that moment, the captain, too, spotted in Aidan the soul of a fellow aviator. Who else would ask, as young Aidan did, a question as sophisticated as, “Where did you go to earn your airline transport pilot certificate?”

That’s when Capt. Jill Kost gave the young man the answer that would change his life.

“The University of North Dakota,” Kost replied. Flash forward to April of this year, which is when the next chapter of this unique story of inspiration and mentorship begins. That’s when Kost returned to her alma mater, UND.

There she met young Aidan Lally again – except that Lally is not quite as young anymore, given that he’s now a senior in UND’s Commercial Aviation program, having chosen UND expressly because of that chance encounter with Capt. Kost 10 years ago.

“Seeing her again made me realize how a journey can be influenced by incredible people like Capt. Kost,” Lally said. “This has all been about inspiration, because people like her are the reason I fly.

“What inspires me is the thought and potential to give back to others, to be that person who’s able to say ‘congratulations’ to someone when they’ve earned something, or similarly inspire.”

Capt. Kost was equally moved. Earlier, Lally had emailed her about his choice to undergo pilot training at UND, and how their short interaction in Cozumel had changed his trajectory in the years since. And despite her hundreds of flights and thousands of chance meetings with others since that day in 2012, Kost knew exactly who had reached out when Lally’s email appeared in her inbox.

“I remember opening the email, and it literally made me cry,” she said.

Today, Kost vividly remembers her encounter with the Lally family in Cozumel.

“I saw them coming up the stairs and I knew exactly what I needed to do,” she recalled.

This photo of a young Aidan was taken by none other than Capt. Kost, during their brief yet impactful meeting in Cozumel, in 2012. Image courtesy of Aidan Lally.

‘You took me in’

Somewhere, on a hard drive, Lally – now 21 – still has the window-seat footage from those flights to and from Cozumel.

“I can send you that footage if you need it,” Lally laughed. “I always enjoyed flying. A lot of times, it was just as fun as the vacation.”

With his face pressed up against the window of the terminal, Lally watched his family’s flight roll up to the gate

UND commercial aviation senior Aidan Lally (right) stands with United Airlines Captain Jill Kost, a 1990 UND graduate. During a vacation to Cozumel, Mexico, with his family in 2012, Lally met Kost and received some advice that changed his life. This spring, ten years after the two met, they were able to reunite on campus.

Photo by Arjun Jagada, UND Aviation.

at Cozumel International Airport. To no one in his family’s surprise, Lally knew exactly what he was looking at: a Boeing 737-800.

“Cozumel was an interesting airport, because it was just air stairs there,” Lally recalled. “There weren’t any jet bridges, at least during the time we were there.”

So, Lally and his parents got to watch the flight’s crew do a

walk-around of the 737. Seeing Kost as one of the two pilots, Lally’s mother remarked how wonderful it was to have a female captain on their flight.

Then when they were boarding, Lally’s mother waved to Kost and said that her son wanted to be a pilot. From there, they received an invitation to the flight deck.

“You came out and took me in, and I remember sitting in your seat,” Lally said to Kost. “And we had a talk.”

While her first officer went about the checklist, Kost gave Lally a brief but realistic look at what it’s like to be a pilot. They talked about the pre-flight communications coming over the radio, how she personally prepared for takeoff in the 737 and how Lally could take steps to make his aviation dreams come true.

So when Kost told him she’d trained at the University of North Dakota’s John D. Odegard School of Aerospace Sciences, it resonated with the 11-year-old.

“As a kid, it really had an impact on me because I knew there were so many decisions that had to be made in training to be a pilot,” Lally said. “We talked for a little longer, took a picture, and she told me to stop by at the end of the flight to pick up her business card.”

AIR RACE CLASSIC 2023

This photo of a young Aidan was taken by none other than Capt. Kost, during their brief yet impactful meeting in Cozumel, in 2012. Image courtesy of Aidan Lally.

Souvenirs of adventures past

Years later, as Lally packed his bags to move across the country from Olympia, Wash., to Grand Forks to pursue his passion, he cleaned out the drawers of his desk.

Among the strewn-about trinkets and papers – souvenirs of adventures past – Lally found Kost’s business card. And his mother, it turned out, remembered the meeting with Kost just as well as he did.

“I said to her, ‘I wonder if she’s still at United,’ because when I looked at the card, I realized that Capt. Kost was the reason why I was going to UND and already earned my private pilot’s license,” Lally said.

His mother encouraged him to send an email, even if it meant potentially getting an automatic “undelivered” message if the address no longer existed.

To both Lally and Kost’s delight, the message went through.

It was Kost’s kindness and altruism ten years ago that cemented Lally’s desire to become a pilot. He continues to be inspired by his experiences, as well as the potential to give back to others in the same way throughout his career.

Photo by Arjun Jagada, UND Aviation.

Reconnecting with an old friend

Beyond the information and guidance that Kost offered Lally in his youth, the experience was so powerful because of the altruism and kindness that Kost showed, Lally said.

It was a special moment: having someone in uniform, in the cockpit, tell him that he could be an airline pilot, too.

“That’s what made it all super memorable to me, and even more powerful when I rediscovered that business card,” Lally said. “I’m thankful for sending that email, and especially thankful that she responded, because otherwise this never would have come full-circle.”

And by that, Lally is referring to the fact that Kost made a special trip to UND this spring with staff from United Airlines’ Aviate Program – the airline’s pilot career pathway program. Members of United Airlines regularly make visits to college campuses to recruit, and Kost has taken part in other aspects

It was Kost’s kindness and altruism ten years ago that cemented Lally’s desire to become a pilot. He continues to be inspired by his experiences, as well as the potential to give back to others in the same way throughout his career.

of it in the past, such as volunteering as a mentor for pilots enrolled in the program.

Though a 1990 graduate of UND, Kost has rarely had chances to return to her old flying grounds. Today, she lives in the Florida Keys with her husband, who’s also a pilot and UND graduate.

“This is the first time I’ve gone to a campus for this sort of visit, and it was really exciting and fun to visit with students and answer their questions,” Kost said. “I know exactly where they are in their education, so it was a great opportunity to talk to them and connect.”

But, ultimately, Kost’s return to campus represented a chance to reunite with Lally – to smile at how far he’s come in his journey, as he’s already a senior in UND’s commercial aviation program. Lally said he worked with UND’s connections within the Aviate Program to bring Kost to campus.

Lally wasn’t sure what to expect when he was walking into Robin Hall to meet her. They had kept in touch over the past few years, but only by email. Soon enough, though, it all felt like reconnecting with an old friend, he said.

Summer Camp Experience

The Sanford AirMed helicopter landed on the campus of Bismarck State College on June 14 as a part of the BSC MedAdventure Camp. The BSC MedAdventure campers had the opportunity to explore this emergency service and meet the medical professionals who save lives every day. BSC’s MedAdventure Camp offered kids ages 8-12 a chance to experience a wide variety of health careers and learn about how these careers connect to wellness, science, skills, and knowledge! Over the 3-day experience, each day featured a different topic-from muscles and bones to the brain and nervous system and included hands-on activities.

Photo by Arjun Jagada, UND Aviation.

North Dakota Airports Receive $1.9 Million from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Subcommittee on Transportation and Infrastructure, announced today the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) awarded a total of $1,865,085 in funding from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

“Today’s funding from the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is another win for our state. These dollars will specifically aid projects to improve North Dakota’s airports,” said Senator Cramer

The funding will be used to repair runways, rehabilitate hangars, reconstruct taxiways, and modernize airport infrastructure.

At its recent grand opening, the Mission Network & Operations Center (MNOC) was described as integral to Vantis and the entire system’s success. Why is the MNOC so crucial to Vantis and the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) that fly on it?

Powering Vantis Through New MNOC

At its recent grand opening, the Mission Network & Operations Center (MNOC) was described as integral to Vantis and the entire system’s success. Why is the MNOC so crucial to Vantis and the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) that fly on it?

It’s everything. The MNOC provides both the brains of the system, but also its heartbeat that keeps beyond-visualline-of-sight (BVLOS) flights successfully operating, with capabilities to reach the entire state of North Dakota and beyond.

The team is also seeing the health monitoring of all of the other system components. Is there a solid internet connection? Do we have all of system components online? Are the radios transmitting properly hundreds of miles away? Are they receiving the proper internet signals and are they responding?

Operators check for radar accurately picking up targets, and to make sure the test target is always “in sight.” Monitoring all of the critical real-time activities establishes credibility and reliability with the FAA, with whom Vantis works closely. The system provides situational awareness for UAS to see and avoid other aircraft. If an emergency situation occurs or is imminent, Vantis operators can notify the appropriate air traffic control.

The MNOC currently has eight workstations to house operators, command missions, collect data or a variety of roles simultaneously. As traffic increases, the ability to facilitate more personnel will be scalable, allowing expansion of services for a larger region.

In the UAS Epicenter

The control center is made of displays and workstations that are monitoring real-time activities of Vantis.

Inside the MNOC

The MNOC, which is housed at GrandSky at Grand Forks Air Force Base, is the name for the building as a whole, but the heart of the operations is the control center. The core functionality of the MNOC is in that one room, where it monitors the critical infrastructure.

The control center is made of displays and workstations that are monitoring real-time activities of Vantis. Operators are seeing real-time deployed operations - the actual flight tracks, flight paths and plans - taking place right now in western North Dakota.

Being where it is, the MNOC benefits from the confluence of many UAS operations and the community in general. North Dakota is already known for being an epicenter of UAS activity, and now Vantis is helping that industry grow and thrive.

Another benefit of its Grand Forks location is being able to utilize the state’s high-speed fiber network, Stagenet, which connects public utilities, education, law enforcement and emergency services throughout North Dakota. One of Vantis’ strengths is taking advantage of the infrastructure and investment already made by the state in reliable, hightech solutions.

Data from command and control (C2) and surveillance reach the MNOC through Stagenet, with system integrator Thales providing cloud-based components so it can be remotely monitored as well. While an individual UAS is flying, the Vantis team has the ability to continuously monitor every vital component of a flight operation, not just the aircraft itself.

That means if a radar is down, they have the ability to restrict flight activity in that sector. Or if the C2 link is down, they will restrict aircraft from flying on that radio, keeping them in an airspace covered by the Vantis system. Without that backbone monitoring, the BVLOS operator could be flying into a hazardous situation without even knowing it.

At the MNOC’s integration lab, operators can use a climatecontrolled environment to integrate new technologies onto their aircraft and test them against a baseline system.

Testing at the Integration Lab

While the command center is the MNOC’s most visible function, it has another critical component located right next door. At the MNOC’s integration lab, operators can use a climate-controlled environment to integrate new technologies onto their aircraft and test them against a baseline system.

This is the spot to try out a new technology on the aircraft, either changing the hardware or software of the UAS. The Northern Plains UAS Test Site, which administers Vantis, has long been a testing ground for UAS. The MNOC now provides a well-suited facility to get the crucial data to improve one’s aircraft and operations.

Opening the MNOC represents the next step in BVLOS flight for North Dakota UAS operators. Its coordination keeps the entire Vantis system moving forward.

Reprinted with permission from Vantis.

us, it’s not just a job. We believe in going above and beyond for clients, and our full-service aviation team is solely focused on aviation—it’s what we’re passionate about.

Destination: Williston Basin International Airport (XWA) Exploring North Dakota Airports

Looking

The annual Fly-ND Summerfest is taking place on August 19, 2022, at the Williston Basin International Airport (XWA.) Check out some fun places to visit in Williston, ND, also known as Boomtown! The North Dakota airport passport stamp can be found at Overland Aviation; please ask at the desk.

Here are a few local attractions to explore:

Frontier Museum

• This museum includes a rural church, restored Great Northern Depot, general store and country schoolhouse.

• Open Memorial Day through Labor Day and by appointment.

• www.thefrontiermuseum.org or (701) 580-2415.

Eagle Ridge Golf Club

• An 18-hole course and Mulligan’s restaurant tucked beside the natural beauty of Spring Lake Park. 6401 3rd Ave E, Williston, ND 58801

• Open daily from 7am-10pm.

• www.golfateagleridge.com or (701)572-6500.

If you work up an appetite or need some caffeine while exploring Williston, here are a few recommendations:

Hula Firegrill

Enjoy some delicious authentic Hawaiian food at a family owned business.

Hours: Open daily from 11am-9pm.

Address: 23 Main St, Williston, ND 58801 Website: www.hulasfiregrill.com

Daily Addiction Coffeehouse

A homey coffee shop with a relaxing atmosphere.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 7am-5pm, Saturday, 9am-4pm

Address: 307 Main St, Williston, ND 58801 For more information, call (701) 572-2600.

See you in Williston for the NDAA Summerfest 2022!

Please visit these locations’ websites or call to confirm hours and availability.

Do you have a favorite attraction to explore or a dining recommendation at your North Dakota airport to share with our readers? Submit your discoveries to editor@fly-nd.com.

What NDAA Membership Level Fits You?

NDAA Membership Benefits

All Member Types of the organization will have the opportunity to participate in and benefit from the following items:

• Fly-ND Quarterly subscription

• Network with other aviation enthusiasts and industry partners,

• Invest in the future of Aviation in ND

• Opportunity for committee involvement – Conference, Advocacy, Strategic Planning, etc.

• Advocacy and lobbying efforts which benefit the aviation industry

• “Regional Voice” through representation on other boards and other advocacy

• Collaborate with other member groups

• Help student members to fuel aviation for tomorrow

• Protect aviation in North Dakota

• Communicate concerns or issues to the board and organization

• Information focus on website, jobs, blogs, advertising, etc.

• Stay informed on aviation – related issues through regular communication

• Participate in NDAA events and functions

Individual Member category is intended for those with personal or employment interest in the aviation profession or industry and who support the purpose of NDAA.

• Member discounts from participating business partners

• Member discounts from participating North Dakota aviation museums

• IA renewals through ND PAMA at the Fly-ND Annual Conference

• Ability to vote at the NDAA annual meeting to elect officers, update bylaws, and vote on large issues and run for office and/or board position

Organizational Member category is intended for agencies and non-profit groups whose mission serves the aviation professions, industries, and supports the purpose of NDAA.

• Special Priority at the Fly-ND Annual Conference (Including hosting training opportunities, discounted booths, meeting rooms, and award recognition)

• Representation and link on the NDAA Fly-ND website

• Assistance with distribution of your organization’s information and dues processing

• Organization member websites and logos are advertised on NDAA website and at the Fly-ND Conference

• Ability to submit articles for the Fly-ND Quarterly regarding organizational updates

• Allied Member category is intended for firms, companies, and consultants who are actively engaged in providing products and/or services to aviation professions, and companies who support the purpose of NDAA. Allied members do not have voting rights.

• Listed in Fly-ND Quarterly and website as an Allied Member

• Certificate of Membership

• Opportunity for collaborative involvement in aerospace advocacy

• Network with the aviation community as well as participate in the Career Expo & other NDAA functions

• Advertise open job opportunities

Student Member category is intended for individuals enrolled in an institution of higher learning who have a keen interest in aviation and support the purpose of NDAA. Student Members are not entitled to vote or hold a board position.

• Explore all facets of aviation

• Eligible for scholarships

• Professional development credits

• Member discounts from participating North Dakota aviation museums

• Complimentary attendance at the annual conference

• Networking opportunities

• Mentorship & training

• Career advancement through job boards

Matt Hovdenes flew his spray plane from Casselton, North Dakota, to Moorhead, Minnesota, on Monday, June 6, 2022, to visit with Agweek.

Erratic weather, inflationary prices and changing regulations have altered the calendar for crop spraying in 2022.

“We have a lot of different versions of wet,” said Matt Hovdenes, owner of Right Way Ag, who flies out of the Casselton, North Dakota, airport west of Fargo.

Matt Hovdenes operates Right Way Ag, an aerial application service, out of Casselton, North Dakota. Evan Girtz / Agweek

His own home base area in the Red River Valley, crops went in late but are sitting in pretty good shape, but to the north and west “there are areas where nothing has happened,” Hovdenes said on Monday, June 6.

In south-central Minnesota, John Thisius farms and runs Thisius Flying Service. Planting was late there, too, but emergence, for the most part, has been good.

But windy weather has hindered some applications and even damaged some soybean fields, forcing a few farmers to replant.

“Some planting was still going on yesterday,” Thisius, who farms at Wells, Minnesota, near Albert Lea, said Tuesday, June 7.

Thisius said strong winds have meant blowing dirt has damaged some soybeans, and some farmers have gone back into plant a second time right over the top of the first planting.

Farmers with late-planted soybeans are up against a June 12 cutoff date to use dicamba, under spraying regulations updated this year in Minnesota.

In Minnesota, there can be no dicamba applications made south of Interstate 94 after June 12. For those north of I-94,

Like planting, aerial spraying has been thrown off schedule

By Jeff Beach, Agweek

Rain, wind, changing regulations and the lure of high commodity prices all have an effect on aerial applicators during the 2022 growing season. Jeff Beach, Agweek

there’s no dicamba spraying after June 30.

“It’s going to be difficult to get that dicamba put on,” Thisius said, noting that 20 miles to the south, farmers in Iowa have until June 20 to use dicamba.

New regulations also mean chlorpyrifos is no longer available.

Gary Jerger is just north of I-94 near Moorhead, Minnesota. He said farmers there are sitting pretty well but you don’t have to go far to the southeast to find farmers more heavily impacted by wet fields and a couple rounds of severe storms in May.

Even so, “I’m at least a month behind,” said Jerger, who runs Ag Spray, Inc. and is in his 48th year as an aerial applicator.

Across the Red River in North Dakota, Hovdenes has been busier, putting out some cover crop to protect sugarbeets from the wind and some preemergence herbicides.

Gary Jerger’s plane was still in its hangar on June 6, 2022, east of Moorhead, Minnesota. Jerger said he was a month behind schedule. Jeff Beach / Agweek

Randy Melvin, near Buffalo, North Dakota, has used Right Way Ag this spring to apply fertilizer and herbicide to some rye that he grows for his own cover crop seed.

“There was no way we were getting a ground rig in that ground,” Melvin said as he was planting navy beans on Tuesday, June 7.

Progress is very scattered in North Dakota.

“We have wheat that went in fairly early and we have wheat that just went in the ground two days ago,” Hovdenes said Monday, June 6. “So a lot of the applications are going to be spread out, mismatched this year. It won’t be all at once like it has been in the past.”

He said farmers are pretty determined to get a crop in where that’s possible to take advantage of high commodity prices. But he expects some prevented planting acres that may still need weed control.

“I would rather spray fungicide on a customer’s growing crop that they’re going to make revenue off of than go out and keep weeds out of a prevented plant field,” Hovdenes said.

Thisius said some farmers who may be on the fence about whether or not to use a fungicide on corn are pulling the trigger this year to make sure they maximize yields to take advantage of the high prices.

But like fertilizer, chemical herbicides and pesticides have shot up in price.

Hovdenes said prices for some products have more than doubled and others can’t be found because of supply chain issues.

“Some guys are changing some of their agronomic practices because of the pricing,” Hovdenes said. Reprinted with permission from Agweek.

Matt Hovdenes climbs into his plane on Monday, June 6, near Moorhead, Minnesota. Hovdenes runs an aerial application service called Right Way Ag in Casselton, North Dakota. Evan Girtz / Agweek

Summer FUN

Hello! My name is Ryan Thayer and I am the Executive Director/CEO of the Fargo Air Museum (FAM). I have been part of aviation since birth, received my solo license at 16, and my private pilot’s license at 18 from the University of North Dakota, as well as an Entrepreneurship Degree. I have always been passionate about aviation and business and am thrilled to be able to pursue both of my passions at the Fargo Air Museum.

This summer has been very busy and exciting, with plenty of fun aviation activities in North Dakota. With the summer heat and bugs, there are a few things you can do to help keep your plane looking good and your flights safe. With all the bugs in North Dakota, it is important to keep your aircraft clean by removing bugs after each flight, especially the windscreen. Bugs and other contaminants can affect your aerodynamics and visibility the next time you fly, as well as being hard on your paint/clear coat. Consider some of the new products coming out to assist with repelling bugs and making cleaning easier, like professionally installed ceramic coatings.

In addition to bugs, summer heat and humidity can drastically affect our aircraft. Make sure you are keeping track of the density altitude during these hot, humid summer days. Take offs at gross weight with high heat and humidity could add a significant amount of runway length needed for take off. Also, make sure you are planning for more time to climb and a reduction in power, especially in the smaller training aircraft like Warriors and 152/172’s, with lower power numbers to begin with.

Overall, it has been a full summer of flying and aviation events! We look forward to seeing you in the air, at the Museum, or at some of our local fly in events!

The Fargo Air Museum is planning to attend more fly-in’s this summer, host a Warbird fly in this fall with Young Eagles flights, and our Celebrity Dinner and Auction Fundraiser in September.

I am very thankful for all our sponsors, donors, friends, staff, our Board of Directors and the community. We could not have a special place like the Fargo Air Museum without your support! So on behalf of myself and staff at the Fargo Air Museum thank you and include a stop at the Fargo Air Museum this summer.

Tailwheel Endorsements |

Seaplane Ratings

The first picture is of Dick Springer›s (Honorary Board Member at the Fargo Air Museum) T-6 Texan. The second picture is of Kelly Perhus› (Board Member at the Fargo Air Museum) T-6 Harvard (Yellow T-6). The third picture is of Tim McPherson›s (Honorary Board Member of the Fargo Air Museum) P-51 Boomer. And lastly, I also included our Sponsorship Packet for our Fall Celebrity Dinner and Auction Fundraiser. Feel free to use as much of it as you would like. We appreciate all your support!!

North Dakota Aviation Association

P.O. Box 5020

Bismarck, ND 58502-5020

CALENDAR of EVENTS

August 2022

Stanley Fly-In — Aug 06

08D Stanley, ND

Sweepstakes Drawing — Aug 13

Dakota Territory Air Museum, Minot, ND

Tioga Drone Camp for Kids — Aug 13-14

Tioga Community Center, Tioga, ND

NDAA Summerfest — Aug 19-20

XWA Williston, ND • Bring your tent – Camping on the Airport!

2022 Williston Airshow — Aug 20

Williston Basin Intl Airport (XWA)

Williston Airshow takes place on August 20th!

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

FORWARDING SERVICE REQUESTED

Check out the online calendar for details on these events: aero.nd.gov/events

September 2022

Bismarck Fly-in & Drive-in Pancake Breakfast — Sept 11

KBIS Bismarck, ND

Women and Wine — Sept 14

Dakota Territory Air Museum, Minot, ND

Harvey Fly-In — Sept 24

Harvey, ND (5H4) Fly-In Pancake Breakfast & Airplane Auction Breakfast at 8 amAircraft Related Items Sell at 10 am by ZBS Auctioneers

October 2022

NDAA Career Expo – Oct 6, Fargo Air Museum

Props & Hops - Oct 6 Mandan Regional Airport

- Lawler Field (Y19)

Night at the Museum Hangar Dance

Oct 22 – Dakota Territory Air Museum Minot