The Aroostook Aero Club
IN THE CITY
Long before I was airport director at PQI, I remember an aviation buddy talking about the good old days when Presque Isle had its own flying club. The club introduced many in the area to a life-long love affair with flying. It also gave many seasoned pilots the opportunity to fulfill their passion for flying by providing an aircraft at an affordable rate. It afforded those interested in aviation the opportunity to be part of a fantastic group of aviators with a great camaraderie. The club hosted safety seminars, fly-ins and other aviation-related events each year.
I am pleased to say those happy days are here again with the formation of the Aroostook Aero Club.
The Aroostook Aero Club has only been in existence a few months but already they are flying high. In that short time they have gained access to a Cessna 172 which is one of the most popular general aviation aircraft in the world. They have lined up flight instructors for those wishing to learn to fly or needing a check ride. They have their own clubhouse which is attached to the hangar that houses the Cessna 172. They have hosted a safety seminar and put on an open house.
There are various types of membership sure to meet your particular need. The full membership allows for rental of the club aircraft at discounted rates. You also get reduced rates on fuel.
Always wanted to fly? It is easier than you might think. You need to accomplish the following: pass an FAA physical, complete ground training, pass an FAA knowledge test, complete at least 40 hours of flight training and pass an FAA flight test. It need not take a long time either. I myself soloed after seven hours of flight instruction. Once you solo you are free to fly the airplane alone. However, you are required to receive further instruction to gain your private pilot license beyond just taking off, flying around the pattern and landing. The entire process took me only five months. Some complete the process even sooner. There is even an associate membership for those who want to be part of this great group but don’t intend to fly.
So now you’re interested and want to know more? You can pick up a brochure at the general aviation terminal. The terminal is open seven days a week (M-F 5:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Sat-Sun 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m.). The Aroostook Aero Club is also on Facebook. You can reach a club representative at 762-0456 or by emailing AroostookAeroClub@maine.rr.com.
Scott Wardwell is airport director for the city of Presque Isle’s Northern Maine Regional Airport. He can be reached at 764-2550 or via email at scottw@flypresqueisle.com.
