The Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) is a growing and diverse national organization of members with a wide range of aviation interests and backgrounds. Founded in 1953 by a group of individuals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, who were interested in building their own airplanes, EAA expanded its mission of growing participation in aviation to include antiques, classics, warbirds, aerobatic aircraft, ultralights, helicopters, and contemporary manufactured aircraft.
Chapter 1097
Our local EAA Chapter 1097, founded circa 1995 here in Bethlehem, Connecticut, is one of the many nationwide chapters that comprise the world renowned Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) headquartered in Oshkosh, Wisconsin.
In addition, we are fortunate to be based at our Chapter President, Tom Whelan’s private resctricted, airport CT01. Its well groomed 1,400 foot grass runway offers our member pilots an authentic grassroots flying experience.
Aviation Spoken Here!
Our chapter is involved in a wide variety of aviation-related pursuits including chapter meetings held the 1st Saturday of each month, aircraft restoration projects, kit construction projects, and Young Eagles events for our area’s aspiring youth whom dream of flight. We also enjoy occasional “meet-ups” at other regional airfields.
Our membership is a unique blend of professional and private pilots, aeronautical engineers, A&P as well as IA rated mechanics and aviation enthusiasts of all ages.
We invite you to contact us via email at our contact us link if you are interested in attending one of our regularly scheduled chapter meetings. We welcome your participation and also encourage you yo further explore the EAA through their national website here.
Where Are We Located?
Our chapter meetings are held at Whelan Farms Airport (CTO1), Bethlehem, CT.
249 Hard Hill Road North Bethlehem, CT 06751
Google Maps and Driving Directions
Please note flying in CT01 requires the prior permission of the airport owner and Chapter President Tom Whalen.