What Could Be More 'GA' Than A Cub On Floats?
One of the more serene locales close to the annual insanity of the Oshkosh EAA Fly-In is the nearby Seaplane base... where all manner of water-borne aircraft get to play in the waters of lake Winnebago. Hidden between Reinke and McClarin Creeks, in an inviting cove off the shores of Lake Winnebago, exists the EAA AirVenture Seaplane Base. Established as the center for all water-based aviation attendees in 1973, the base continues to be one of the most popular havens from the bustle of Wittman Field.
Among the most idyllic of the birds alighting on the lake is none other than THE stereotypical GA aircraft... the legendary Piper Cub... on floats, of course. ANN caught up with the owner of such a vision, Lake Crystal, MN, Mayor Pat McKinzie who also teaches aviation at the Minnesota State University-Mankato. His 1945 Piper Cub sits on a pair of EDO 1320 floats built in 1946. McKinzie has been coming to Oshkosh to give rides since 1998 and he admits that he never sees more seaplanes (at one time) than he does at Oshkosh each year.
The Seaplane Pilots Association (SPA) provides the leading voice for seaplane enthusiasts since its beginnings in 1971. With over 8,000 members, SPA serves to represent the interests, technical support, and advocacy for seaplane pilots and aficionados around the world. The Seaplane Pilots Association’s primary dedication is to support the preservation and heritage of water flying. Since 9/11, the access to public waterways has been dramatically impacted due to the increasing security measures enacted across the United States.
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