Manager outlines Aviation Day, History on Wheels event, EAA chapter revival and seasonal hires

Grosse Ile Airport Commerce Park Manager Janelle briefed the commission on upcoming community events, outreach and seasonal staffing.

Janelle said the airport will host Aviation Day for elementary students with activity stations run by local pilots and volunteers; the manager scheduled first-grade visits for the morning session described in the meeting and third-grade visits on May 5 (manager-provided schedule). She said about 50 students attend per class and that static displays and flight-simulator demonstrations will be staged between Hangar 1 and Hangar 2.

Janelle also outlined the History on Wheels event planned for July 26 with a rain date of July 27. She said the commission is partnering with the Michigan Flight Museum (formerly Yankee Air) for that event and that museum volunteers will coordinate ticketing for a Huey helicopter flight experience. Commissioners highlighted the event’s fundraising connection to the NASGI memorial efforts and asked that historic groups be recognized in event negotiations.

The manager reported the local Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) chapter has been reactivated; initial meetings are planned in early May and the first meeting will be held in the commission’s boardroom. Janelle said the chapter is in early stages and will include high school and private pilots as volunteers and mentors.

Finally, Janelle said the airport advertised two seasonal maintenance positions for applicants 18 and older to help with mowing and seasonal tasks; she said interviews are underway and the positions may already be filled but she will keep the posting open.

These items were presented as informational during the manager’s report and did not require a commission vote.