SOMERSET AIRPORT HAS FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR OF THE YEAR

On May 15th a capacity crowd filled the hangar at Somerset Airport to see Bridgewater Resident, Byron Hamby receive the 2007 Certified Flight Instructor of the Year award from the FAA Allentown Flight Standards District Office (FSDO). Mr. Hamby's award was part of a full evening which included a Pilot's Flight Safety Seminar and renowned aviation author Jack Elliot was on hand to autograph copies of his new book, "Adventures in Flying".

Mr. Hamby is a flight instructor with Somerset Air Service, the flight school at Somerset Airport, George Walker Field in Bedminster. Bill Vanartsdalen and Ernie Scardeccio of the FAA made the presentation in front of more than hundred twenty pilots. Mr. Hamby was cited for his outstanding knowledge, exceptional professionalism and his ability to inspire his students. He has mentored many local pilots toward gaining their private pilot license, commercial license, instrument rating and flight instructor ratings as a part of the flight school at Somerset Airport. Many in the crowd were current and former students of Mr. Hamby. In accepting the award, Mr. Hamby said, "Just like it takes a village to raise a child; it takes an airport (community) to make a pilot".

The Safety Seminar included a video presentation on Aeronautical Decision Making, Flight Planning and Weather Analysis. Many pilots attend who attended, also participated in the Federal Aviation Administrations "Wings" Safety Program to further their flight knowledge and education.

Also, author and columnist Jack Elliot was honored by having his photograph added to Somerset Airport's "Wall of Fame" as a life-long supporter of local aviation and Somerset Airport George Walker Field.

The Safety Seminar was sponsored by the Penn/Jersey Chapter of the 99s (International Organization of Women Pilots) and Somerset Air Service, the owner/operator of Somerset Airport in Bedminster Township.