March 19, 2018
Media Advisory – Newest SIU Aviation Plane Expected To Arrive Tuesday
Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s nationally ranked aviation program is expecting the arrival of the first of three Piper Arrow general aviation flight trainer planes on March 20.
Reporters, photographers and news crews are invited to attend the arrival at Southern Illinois Airport.
Arrival expected 9 a.m. Tuesday, weather permitting
The plane is expected to arrive at 9 a.m. Weather conditions, however, may prompt the plane to arrive late tonight. In that case, there will be a media availability at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the airport, located at 556 North Airport Rd. in Murphysboro.
New planes to replace old models
Purchased with funds from student flight fees, the three planes will replace five older Cessna 172 and 182 retractable gear planes from the 1970s and early 1980s that are now in the 36-plane fleet. Maintenance costs and the importance of modern technology for students to train with were among the reasons for the purchase. These are the first planes the university has bought since they purchased five in December 2011.
New planes to replace old models
The plane’s technology include avionics glass cockpits, auto pilot and an adjustable pitch propeller, and are built specifically to train students in the complex requirements for commercial and certified flight instructor certificates.
Two more Piper Arrow aircraft will be picked up within the next few weeks.
For more information
Aviation students and faculty will be available for interviews.
For more information, contact Michael Burgener, interim chair, aviation management and flight, at 618/536-3371.