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By Paul Chasko

According to local aviator Tom Riemer, on October 12 Finleyville Airport was formally certified for instrument landings. This capability will allow aircraft that are fitted with the proper instrumentation to land at Finleyville Airport in inclement weather that would prevent a visual approach. In the past, the airport was only accessible via a visual approach.

Tom Riemer’s Cessna RG, ready for takeoff.

The system relies on communication from an approaching aircraft with the GPS (Global Positioning Satellite) system to accurately display the aircraft’s position as the pilot is approaching runway 14 of Finleyville Airport. To obtain this certification, the runway and approaches were very accurately surveyed using GPS positioning.

Mr. Riemer, who was the driving force to upgrade the airport to instrument-capable landings, had the honor of being the first to use the system, and he couldn’t be happier with the added capability for instrument-equipped aircraft. His Cessna Cutlass RG is equipped with the required instrument package. Mr. Riemer commented, “It’s taken about 2 ½ years fighting for this capability and there were many hurdles to overcome. We’re grateful to everyone who has helped to add this capability. It enhances safety for the immediate area including Finleyville and Union Township.”

Mr. Riemer further added that emergency aircraft such as STAT MediVac helicopters can now land at Finleyville Airport for emergency pickups – even when hampered by poor visibility. Finleyville Airport is a privately-owned public airport. As such, any aircraft can land at Finleyville Airport. The new instrument capability will provide a safe landing-capability for bad-weather emergency landings.

Mr. Riemer is a former board chairman for Finleyville Airport and an avid proponent of small aircraft aviation. He actively promotes aircraft safety and youth interest in aviation.

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