If there's anything that captures my attention instantly it's news about Corvairs and/or aircraft. The former because I once owned a pair of Corvair Corsas (though not at the same time) and the latter because I learned to fly while in my mid-50's and consider that one of my finest (though worthless) accomplishments. Which is a roundabout way of helping to publicize a unique Corvair meet at New York's Old Rhinebeck Aerodrome on July 12, organised by the New Jersey Association of Corvair enthusiasts. Old Rhinebeck, famous for its "flying museum" of classic and antique aircraft, will allow a limited number of Corvair-powered aircraft to land and/or fly-by for the meeting. The club believes, quite rightly, that this may be the first event linking both Corvairs and aircraft fitted with Chevrolet's flat-six.

Why were Corvair (also VW and Porsche) engines chosen for aircraft engine mods? Because they were air-cooled, reliable, boxer-types available for considerably less cash than the similar Lycomings and Continentals that powered (and still do) most light aircraft. Unfortunately GM, VW, and Porsche failed to offer technical support so what was a brief trend became history almost before it happened. Still, it would be fun to hear the Corvair-powered planes and then watch them taxi next to the earthbound air-cooled Chevys. Having visited Old Rhinebeck aerodrome a few years after my Corvair adventures I can assure you that the in-flight displays by WW1 aircraft are worth the price of admission. If you'd like to attend with or without a Corvair, or perform a fly-in, contact the club at scrubbr@ix.netcom.com.