Gem State Wire

The Idaho Aeronautics Safety Stand Down recently gathered over 200 pilots and aviation enthusiasts at the Riverside Hotel in Garden City. The event, held on March 8, was organized by the Idaho Division of Aeronautics to focus on safety for light-aircraft pilots.

Participants had the opportunity to hear from key speakers and groups specializing in aviation safety and education. This year's program included classes on risk assessment for different types of flying, preparation for the busy flying season, and an analysis of recent aviation accidents by a leading general aviation safety expert. The event also marked the announcement of a new nationwide safety "pause" program aimed at reducing accident rates.

Tim Steffen, Aero’s event organizer and chief pilot, emphasized the importance of networking among pilots to build a strong safety culture. "Getting this many pilots together in one room also leads to important networking that helps build an awesome safety culture," he said.

Aero Administrator Tom Mahoney praised Tim Steffen's efforts in organizing the event. “Tim keeps improving the event every time,” Mahoney stated. He highlighted the inclusion of national-level experts and a real-time search-and-rescue session as significant additions this year.

Mike Ginter, Senior Vice President of the Air Safety Institute, expressed his admiration for Steffen's search-and-rescue session and invited him to present at an upcoming major aviation event in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.

The Idaho Division of Aeronautics is dedicated to fostering aeronautical development within Idaho. It manages state-owned airports, assists with grants for airport maintenance and construction, aids communities with zoning decisions near airports, promotes aviation safety, inspires careers in aviation among youth, and coordinates search-and-rescue operations.