Should You Get a Passport to Fly in Massachusetts?

March 2017 - Northampton Aeronautics, home to the EAA/IMC Club in Northampton, Massachusetts, came up with a creative program to promote activity in general aviation: Fly the Bay State Challenge. The challenge is an exceptional opportunity for pilots, aviation enthusiasts, and the general public to experience the unique value of each of the state’s public-use airports.

Participants will challenge themselves to achieve a goal, expand their aviation knowledge, and improve their flying skills. The challenge also benefits local airports when members visit and use their facilities.

Getting started is easy! Pick up your very own Fly the Bay State Challenge passport in the Northampton (7B2) FBO, then start flying! Each time you visit a Massachusetts airport, whether you fly or drive there, get your passport stamped. Each stamp gets you closer to completing a level of participation — bronze, silver, gold, and platinum — as well as great prizes!

Platinum-level award winners Richard Dupee, Sherry Grobstein, and Pete Dooley from Falmouth 5B6 started the challenge at the same time. After seeing the number of stamps Grobstein and Dupee had accumulated, Dooley decided to up his pace. He informed the duo that he had flown to all the airports west of the CT River in one day, which then inspired them to up the pace!

So whether you’re a pilot, a passenger, or just enjoy flying, pick up your Fly the Bay State Challenge passport and enjoy all that Massachusetts airports have to offer!

For more information, check out the Fly the Bay State Challenge website.