An unusual sort of aircraft is housed at the Beach airport. A Flight Star II, or "Annie" is an experimental aircraft and is owned by Chuck Stalnaker. Stalnaker received his certificate for flying such an aircraft before purchasing the machine.
The previous owner had just finished building it, and was making the maiden flight when the aircraft was wrecked. The owner was not seriously injured, and decided to sell it rather than repair it himself.
Stalnaker purchased the aircraft, going to Muscatine, Iowa to buy it, then went to Oshkosh, Wis., and was able to receive an FAA certified repair and inspections certificate, and a sign - off so that he would be to make repairs on it himself.
Although he's flown other aircraft, this was the only one Stalnaker is certified in flying, taking a year to complete the lessons.
The Flight Star has dual stick controls, rather than yokes, a dual set of rutters, a Honda aircraft engine, dual carbs, and dual ignition.
Stalnaker would like to form an experimental aircraft chapter at the Beach airport, especially to further interest in flying among students. The EEA, Experimental Aircraft Association has a program called the "Young Eagles" where students from ages approximately 11 to 15 can join.
"Beach has an excellent airport and facilities," says Stalnaker. "And a program such as the EEA has would serve to enhance what's already here."
Copyright 2012 SmallTownPapers, Inc. All Rights ReservedSmallTownPapers, Inc.Copyright 2012 Golden Valley News
