July Gathering
For two decades, the Sport Pilot certificate has proved not just a worthy goal, but a stepping stone to higher ratings. The recent adoption of the new Sport Pilot 2.0 rules (otherwise known as MOSAIC) gives flight instructors an excellent opportunity for updating their curricula.
In this FAA Safety Team WINGS seminar, a flight school founder and FAA designated pilot examiner explores new approaches to improving both safety and student completion rates through integrated flight training.
CFIs, please invite your flight school colleagues and student pilots.
August 2026 Flyout
More details and RSVP here:
https://partiful.com/e/b8QC5tffpVaOQj7Sh51P
August Gathering
Dave Watson is a longtime IAC aerobatic competitor, judge, instructor, and Sport Aerobatics contributor, known for flying everything from a Super Decathlon to Unlimited competition in an MX2 and for his leadership in Northern California aerobatics.
Join us as Dave discusses upset recovery and life in the aerobatic world!
BBQ with Oakland Flyers
Our activities this month are a Saturday double-feature:
A BBQ hosted by Oakland Flyers and Open Hangars hosted by EAA members!
Events: Oakland Flyers BBQ and EAA Open Hangars
When: SATURDAY, 6/13
10am - Noon Open Hangars
11am - 3pm BBQ
Where: Oakland Flyers - 8135 Earhart Rd, Oakland, CA 94621
PLEASE RSVP (Yes or No) BY SATURDAY, 6/6 - whether you will attend or not.
Note: These activities replace the usual monthly gathering at the Museum. There will be NO GATHERING on the 3rd Thursday.
We hope to see you on Saturday, 6/13!
May 2026 Flyout
More details and RSVP here:
https://partiful.com/e/wkE4eS6Ge1c3Fm09edCL?c=ecoBDHAc
April Gathering
Our April Gathering features a practical discussion about FAA checkrides with two local experts: Mike Healey, Designated Pilot Examiner, and Doug Harding, Aviation Safety Inspector, both from the Oakland FSDO (Flight Standards District Office). Mike and Doug will share aspects of preparing for and performing on a checkride, including common errors and failure points. Bring your curiosity and questions!
March Gathering
“Badass BFRs” by Pat Carpenter. Learn about Biennial Flight Reviews and how to get the most out of them with one of our very own CFIs and owner of East Bay Flight.
Open Cockpit Day at the Oakland Aviation Museum
View the museum's aircraft up close, including an A-3 Skywarrior, A-4 Skyhawk, A-6 Intruder, A-7 Corsair, Harrier Jump-Jet, T-39 Saberliner, P-51 Mustang (¾ scale), Cessna 0-2 Skymaster and a Mig-15. For additional fees you can tour the Solent Flying Boat featured in the movie Raiders of the Lost Ark or fly a fighter jet simulator. Note: GROUPON blackout day.
When: Sunday, 3/15, 11am to 4pm
Where: Oakland Aviation Museum - 8252 Earhart Rd.
Activities: Aircraft, color guard, live band, refreshments, model trains & HAM radios.
Admission: $18, Senior (60+) $15, Teen/Student/Vet $13, Kid (5-12) $10, 4 & under free.
February Gathering
The Bay Area’s BT-13 Valiant: A WWII Legend Still Flying
Prepare to meet an obscure legend from the days of World War Two. Eclipsed in the minds of many by the hot performance of the AT-6 Texan or the classic romantic lines of the PT-17 Kaydet, the BT-13 is an aviation training icon that has largely been lost to history for the sin of being too good at its job. Nicknamed the Valiant, it was the platform of choice for the second phase of the military’s three phase flight training program that “taught the basics” to almost every aviator that the US graduated between late 1941 thru late 1944. You just might be surprised how many memorable American military pilots are Valiant alumni.
Livermore based BT-13 pilot Alex Esguerra will introduce you to the aircraft and its mission, as well as share some memorable Valiant-specific stories. Additionally, he will also talk specifically about S/N 41-21218, the Bay Area’s own BT-13 which he flies.
Holiday Potluck hosted by OAM
Doors: 5 pm
End: 8 pm
Join a potluck hosted by OAM for it’s members at the OAK aviation community.
Please bring a dish and/or drink to share! Light appetizers and refreshments provided.
Note: This is a Museum event and replaces EAA Ch. 1686’s monthly Gathering.