BSU Aviation attends

"Day at Marlboro Airport"

By BSU CFI Mike Albertian

On August 28, Bridgewater State University played a role in celebrating in Marlboro, Massachusetts' 350^th anniversary by displaying Bridgewater's Aviation Program at Marlboro Airport's Air Show. It was a fantastic day for Bridgewater State University, for Marlboro Airport, and for the general public.

 As Marlboro's 350^th Anniversary approached, airport owner Robert (Bob) Stetson decided to host an open house/air show as part of the festivities. Bob is a fan of "in-state, State Universities", specifically those promoting aviation. Bridgewater was a perfect fit. Mr. Stetson met with BSU's Chief Flight Instructor, Mr. Loren Herren and the two decided BSU would play a role at the open house and air show. Much work and planning went into holding such a spectacular event, and Bridgewater State University was honored to be part of it. Bridgewater.

Bridgewater State University flight instructors, Amanda Meader and Mike Albertian, both 2009 BSU graduates, represented BSU at an information booth handing out flyers about the BSU Flight School and answering the public's questions.  They handled the queries easily, and thoroughly enjoyed informing one and all about the program at BSU. Many people had no idea there was a flight school at BSU!

Previously, Meader and Albertian had had the opportunity to fly in to Marlboro with the Chief pilot and gain confidence controlling the aircraft at the low speeds required to land in Marlboro. Marlboro airport is unique, in that its runway is short....very short! To add to the fun, there are obstacles on either end of the 1,549' long x 45' wide runway. At the southeast end there's a home, followed shortly thereafter by a road. The northwest side poses more challenging obstacles in the form of 75' trees only 200' from runway centerline. Only a very well trained pilot would choose to fly in and out of Marlboro. The training Meader and Albertian had came in very useful on the day of the air show. Landing and taking off proved to be a piece of cake. Challenging, nerve-wracking (at times), but very rewarding and most of all, fun.

The majority of newly-certified private pilots are not trained to handle an aircraft the way necessary to touch down safely at an airport like Marlboro. There is fear and apprehension when a pilot has to fly an aircraft on the border line of "having control effectiveness" versus “NOT having control effectiveness". The good news is, if you are trained well, and are 'one' with the airplane you will be greatly rewarded when flying in and out of small airports such as Marlboro.

 The Airshow was not just about Bridgewater though. Other important participants were a gorgeous red bi-plane and a helicopter taking eager aviation enthusiasts for brief flights. There were also miniature antique cars racing up and down the runway. One highlight of the day was a skydiver who jumped from 10,000’ with the American Flag trailing behind him against a crystal blue sky all while the National Anthem was playing.

      However the biggest highlight of the Airshow was its special guests. Renowned aviation pioneer Mary Feik flew in especially for the show. She is one of "Aviations 100 Most Influential Women". At a time when men dominated the cockpits of military aircraft Feik logged more than 5,000 hours as a B-29 flight engineer, engineering observer and pilot in fighter, attack, bomber, cargo, and training aircraft. Feik also used her expertise to design high-performance and jet fighter pilot transition trainers and aircraft maintenance trainers. The pilot training manuals and technical engineering reports she authored were distributed throughout the armed forces.

Mary was terrific to talk to. She is 89 years old and still fits into her 1941 flight suit! Beyond that she still flies all over the world! She had amazing tales to tell as she shared her love of all things aviation. She is truly a remarkable woman. 

Another amazing person was the aforementioned Bob Stetson.  He was incredibly friendly and beyond knowledgeable. Stetson recommended that all Bridgewater students be trained to such standards that would allow them to take off and land at airports with similar features like the ones found at Marlboro. This was agreed upon. Effective immediately, all students participating in a flight program at Bridgewater will be able to successfully operate an aircraft in and out of short fields.

     All in all it was a great day, one which will not be forgotten. It was a tremendous opportunity to showcase Bridgewater State's Aviation Program, to meet icons in the field and to share a love of flying and to encourage the pilots of tomorrow.