The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is the world leader in recreational aviation. With an international membership of 170,000, EAA brings together aviation enthusiasts, pilots and aircraft owners who are dedicated to the continued growth of aviation, the preservation of its history, aviation safety, and a commitment to aviation's future.
EAA is for both pilots and non-pilots who are interested in the dynamic world of flight. The organization, founded in 1953, offers activities for the entire family on the local, regional and national levels. EAA also offers support programs for those who are building and restoring aircraft.
EAA programs, activities and events are known throughout the world for supporting aviation safety and promoting personal enjoyment and responsibility within an aviation lifestyle. These efforts are made possible through massive volunteer involvement in support of the organization that includes over 1000 chapters.
An EAA Chapter is comprised of 10 or more EAA members who live in the same area. EAA’s growing Chapter network promotes aviation activities at the local "grass roots" level. Over 1000 EAA Chapters worldwide sponsor more than 10,000 aviation activities each year. EAA Chapters mean flying, friendship, and fun! Get involved! Join or start a local EAA Chapter!
EAA Chapter 49 was started in Palmdale, California in 1959. The oldest letter on record is dated April 13th, 1959, and at that time there were 23 members. The first President is unknown but Mr. Ernie Fillinger was the first Vice President. He was associated with such people as Amelia Earhart and Wiley Post and worked for Lockheed, Douglas, Glenn L. Martin and others. By 1962, members had 2 homebuilt aircraft flying and 2 homebuilt aircraft under construction.
Our first Chapter 49 Installation Dinner was held January 11th, 1964 with Mr. Manley O. Dibble, from the FAA Tower Operations, as guest speaker. The topic was about control towers, and how airspace was being used as it was getting to be a serious matter (still is!).
Our Chapter was incorporated in California on September 4, 1965 by members Millard Cox, Richard Murphy, Donald Martin, Lyle E. Fleming and Richard C. Eldredge.
By 1969, we had 42 members and 30 airplanes under construction or flying and this increased to 70 members and 93 airplanes by 1976. Currently we have 70 members with several projects and numerous flying aircraft.
Dick Rutan's Berkut was the first member's flight of 2009... Friday the 13th of February ;-)
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