Aviation can be a difficult topic for those not involved directly to understand, let alone explain, and aviation groups frequently correct often-understandable errors that appear in the mainstream media. But there are also plenty of instances where regular reporters do the research and gain the understanding necessary to transmit accurate, compelling stories about aviation to the masses. AOPA annually recognizes those efforts with the Max Karant Awards in honor of the longtime editor of AOPA Pilot. TV reporter Jennifer Manley, Dave Hirschman of the Atlanta Constitution-Journal and David Hasemyer of the San Diego Union-Tribune were this year’s winners.
Manley won for her television account of her first lesson, demonstrating how simple the basic flight maneuvers are and stressing the emphasis on safety during training. Hirschmann recounted a cross-country adventure with his mother in an RV-10 and Hasemyer was honored for his investigative work on the construction of a condo building in San Diego that exceeded FAA and local government height restrictions.
