By Chris Nugent
Some of you may have noticed a NOTAM for Superior Municipal Airport (E81) indicating that the airport was closed for glider training operations. It turns out that Fairfax O’Riley and the team at Aerial Engagement in Scottsdale have formed a sister company, Superior Soaring, to bring glider operations to E81. While the objective is to bring a commercial glider operation to the area, they will also work to bring educational programs to Superior to introduce students to the world of aviation through their non-profit partner Fledgling Youth.
The Superior Soaring operation will be slightly different in that they will use winch tow techniques to launch gliders. This type of glider launch method is very common in Europe versus the aerotow launch that is used here in the States. They have acquired a brand-new Skylaunch winch from the UK and several Schweizer gliders, including two SGS 2-33 trainers, for use in their operation. The 2-33’s have been restored by K&L Soaring and they are immaculate!
I had a chance to visit E81 while the team from Superior Soaring were doing their winch operation training and area familiarization with the 2-33’s. While E81 can be a bit of a challenge in terms of the local terrain, the runway offers a great location for glider operations. Frank Gomez, Chief Instructor for Superior Soaring, was kind enough to take me for a ride in a 2-33 while I was there – my first winch tow experience. It’s quite a ride compared to an aero tow launch! You can see some launch videos on the Town of Superior Facebook page.
The town of Superior has been very supportive and is working with Superior Soaring on long term plans to put a hangar and other infrastructure at the airport to support the operation. However, it will be some time before these plans can be finalized as the airport will need to have access to water for fire suppression. An option is to tap into a water pipeline project planned for the nearby Boyce Thompson Arboretum planned for completion in 2024.
In the meantime, Superior Soaring is in the process of finalizing plans and schedules for operating at Superior. So, if you if you have a glider rating or are interested in getting a glider add-on keep an eye on the APA Facebook page and newsletter for updates!
One final note, please be sure to check the NOTAMS for E81 if you are planning to use the airport or do any flying in the Superior area to avoid potential conflicts with glider operations.