Build Reports Archives - HAWK Aviators

February 9, 2025February 9, 2025

Cherokee Inspection Tear-Down

Guided by IA/A& P Jerry Friedman, HAWK Team Prepares the Cherokee for Inspection Courtesy & Copyright HAWKaviators, Erik Cornelison, Photographer — Guided by IA/A& P Jerry Friedman, HAWK Team Prepares the Cherokee for Inspection
Courtesy & Copyright HAWKaviators, Erik Cornelison, Photographer

This week at HAWK Aviators, our young aviation enthusiasts got hands-on experience with one of our aircrafts, the Piper Cherokee. Under the supervision of Jerry, our very experienced A&P, A/I (and electrical engineer), the kids embarked on the exciting project of starting the annual inspection. They learned the intricacies of aircraft maintenance, from checking the engine’s health to ensuring all electrical systems are in top condition. This real-world experience not only deepens their understanding of aircraft mechanics but also ignites their passion for aviation, all while under the watchful eye of a true professional. Stay tuned for more updates as our young aviators continue in the learning journey.

HAWK Team Preparing the Cherokee for Inspection Courtesy & Copyright HAWKaviators, Erik Cornelison, Photographer — HAWK Team Preparing the Cherokee for Inspection
Courtesy & Copyright HAWKaviators, Erik Cornelison, Photographer

Removing Cowling Courtesy & Copyright HAWKaviators, Erik Cornelison, Photographer — Removing Cowling
Courtesy & Copyright HAWKaviators, Erik Cornelison, Photographer

January 16, 2025January 16, 2025

HAWK All Members Meeting – February 15, 2025, at 12:00PM Noon

HAWK Aviators www.hawkaviators.org — HAWK Aviators
www.hawkaviators.org

Dear HAWK Members,

I am writing to cordially invite you to our upcoming annual ALL Members Meeting, scheduled for Saturday February 15, 2025, at 12:00PM noon. This is an important meeting, as we will be addressing several key items:

Election of Officers: We will hold elections for officers. Current officers are eligible for reelection, and we encourage members interested in leadership roles to consider running for a position.
Presentation on Current and Future Events: We will share detailed plans for upcoming events, which will include our annual Oshkosh Air Venture trip, community outreach programs and educational sessions. Your input during this session is invaluable as we shape our activities for the year ahead.
Discussion on Fleet Upgrade: A significant agenda item will be the discussion on replacing our current Piper Cherokee. We will present several key items and considerations for this upgrade, aiming to enhance our capabilities, continue our training program, maintenance program and safety standards.
Financial Review: We will also discuss our financial status, including a review of the past year’s expenditures, current financial health, and projections for the coming year. This is your opportunity to understand our financial strategies and contribute to our fiscal planning.

The meeting will commence at 12:00PM and is expected to conclude by 1:00PM. Please be punctual to ensure we can address all points on the agenda:
Location:
Mack Mesa Airport – HAWK Hanger
1048 R Road, Mack CO 81525

Agenda:
Welcome and Opening Remarks
Officer Elections
Future Events Presentation
Piper Cherokee Replacement Discussion
Financial Review
Open Forum for Member Input
Closing Remarks

Any questions, you may contact any board member or President Bruce Erickson at 19702503629.
Your participation is crucial, and we look forward to your contributions to our organization’s future.

Yours very truly,

HAWK Secretary Erik Cornelison 1-970-250-4228

December 20, 2024

Matthew Jeffers Gets His Private Pilot Airplane Certificate

Here is Matthew Jeffers getting his Private pilot airplane license
Courtesy & Copyright Bruce Erickson

December 7, 2024December 8, 2024

Hot Air Balloon Introduction

On our latest educational outing, the HAWK Youth Aviation Group introduced our young members to the world of hot air ballooning, expanding their knowledge beyond fixed-wing aircraft, motor gliders and FAA ground school and flight training.

Under the guidance of our experienced mentors, the youth participants were actively involved in:

Laying out the Balloon: The team carefully spread the balloon on the ground, preparing for inflation.
Inspection: each member learned how to inspect the balloon for safety, identifying key components and checking for any potential issues.
Safety Education: We covered essential safety aspects of ballooning, including crewing responsibilities and emergency procedures.
Cold Inflation: The group practiced cold inflating the balloon, followed by detailed inspection of the parachute top, ensuring it was correctly installed and operational.
Turning Vents: Instructions on how to manage the turning vents were given, teaching control over the balloon descent and landing procedures.
Inflation and Burner Operation: With the balloon fully inflated, several kids had the opportunity to operate the hot air balloon burner under strict supervision, experiencing firsthand the mechanics of balloon operation.

Parents and adult volunteers were integral to the success of the day, assisting with the inflation process and providing additional guidance.

This event not only served as a practical introduction to hot air ballooning but also reinforced the importance of teamwork, safety, and hands-on-learning with aviation.

According to Google, the average annual salary of a hot air balloon pilot in 2024 is $130,000.
Hot Air Balloon Introduction