The Future of Purdue Airport’s Commercial Flight Service and the History Behind Purdue Aviation
Digest
This episode of This is Purdue focuses on the return of commercial flights to Purdue University Airport, highlighting the university's rich history in aviation. Adam Baxmeier, director of the airport, and Rob Winecoop, vice president of auxiliary services, discuss the importance of the airport and the factors that led to the return of commercial flights after 20 years. They emphasize the convenience and cost-effectiveness of flying in and out of Purdue, benefiting both the university and the greater Lafayette community. Tom Carney, professor emeritus and former head of the Department of Aviation Technology, shares insights into Purdue's aviation excellence, highlighting the unique programs and facilities that have made Purdue a leader in aviation education. The episode also features a behind-the-scenes look at a Purdue flight simulator, showcasing the high-fidelity training experiences available to students. The episode concludes with a discussion about the future of Purdue University Airport, including the construction of a new terminal named after Amelia Earhart, and the airport's role in fostering community and economic development.
Outlines
Introduction
This Chapter introduces the hosts and the topic of the episode: the return of commercial flights to Purdue University Airport and the university's renowned history in aviation.
The Return of Commercial Flights
This Chapter delves into the reasons behind the return of commercial flights to Purdue University Airport after 20 years. Adam Baxmeier and Rob Winecoop discuss the growth of Purdue and the greater Lafayette community, making the airport a viable option for travel. They highlight the convenience and cost-effectiveness of flying in and out of Purdue, benefiting both the university and local residents.
Purdue Fly Strategic Initiative
This Chapter explores the broader impact of the airport's expansion and the Purdue Fly Strategic Initiative. Adam and Rob discuss how the initiative contributes to attracting top talent, fostering community, and enhancing economic development. They also share their vision for the future of the airport, including attracting other airlines and expanding services.
The New Amelia Earhart Terminal
This Chapter focuses on the construction of a new terminal at Purdue University Airport, named after Amelia Earhart. Adam and Rob discuss the features of the new terminal and its importance in accommodating larger aircraft and enhancing the user experience. They also share their excitement about the future of the airport and its role in Purdue's aviation legacy.
Adam Baxmeier's Perspective
This Chapter features Adam Baxmeier, a proud Purdue alum, sharing his experience returning to his alma mater and leading the airport. He discusses the significance of the airport's expansion and its alignment with Purdue's overall growth and vision. He also reflects on the airport's history and its importance to the community.
Industry Trends and Best Practices
This Chapter explores how the reintroduction of commercial flights aligns with industry trends and best practices in airport management. Adam discusses the competitive nature of the aviation industry and the unique position Purdue holds in seeing growth while other airports are focused on maintaining existing services. He also highlights the collaborative spirit of the community in supporting the airport's development.
Rob Winecoop's Perspective
This Chapter features Rob Winecoop, vice president of auxiliary services, discussing how the Purdue Fly initiative aligns with the broader goals and visions of Purdue's operations. He highlights the university's commitment to student engagement and partnerships with private companies. He also shares his insights into the impact of the airport's expansion on the university's overall landscape.
The Largest Classroom on Campus
This Chapter focuses on the unique nature of Purdue University Airport as the largest classroom on campus. Rob and Adam discuss the airport's role in providing hands-on training for students in the School of Aviation Technology. They also highlight the airport's diverse activity, including research, cargo operations, and commercial flights.
Purdue's Aviation Legacy
This Chapter features Tom Carney, professor emeritus and former head of the Department of Aviation Technology, sharing his insights into Purdue's rich history in aviation education. He discusses the evolution of the department, highlighting key milestones and achievements, including the establishment of Purdue Airlines and the adoption of advanced flight simulators. He also emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and the unique programs offered at Purdue.
Keywords
Purdue University Airport
The airport located in West Lafayette, Indiana, serving Purdue University and the surrounding community. It offers commercial flights, general aviation services, and training facilities for students in the School of Aviation Technology.
Purdue University
A public land-grant research university located in West Lafayette, Indiana. Known for its strong academic programs, particularly in engineering, technology, and agriculture. It has a rich history in aviation, dating back to the 1930s, and is home to the School of Aviation and Transportation Technology.
Amelia Earhart
An American aviator, author, and lecturer who became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932. She was also an instructor and advisor in careers for women at Purdue University from 1935 to 1937. The new terminal at Purdue University Airport is named after her.
Commercial Flights
Scheduled air services that transport passengers between different cities or countries. The return of commercial flights to Purdue University Airport after 20 years is a significant development for the university and the community.
Aviation Education
The study and training of aviation-related subjects, including flight operations, aircraft maintenance, air traffic control, and aviation management. Purdue University is renowned for its aviation education programs, offering a range of degrees and certificates.
Flight Simulator
A device that simulates the experience of flying an aircraft. Flight simulators are used for training pilots, conducting research, and developing new technologies. Purdue University has a state-of-the-art flight simulator center, providing students with hands-on training in a controlled environment.
Purdue Fly Strategic Initiative
A university-wide initiative focused on enhancing Purdue's aviation capabilities and leveraging the airport's potential for growth and development. It aims to attract top talent, foster community, and drive economic development.
Greater Lafayette Community
The region surrounding Purdue University, including the cities of Lafayette and West Lafayette, Indiana. The airport's expansion and the return of commercial flights are expected to benefit the entire community.
School of Aviation and Transportation Technology
A school within Purdue University that offers a range of aviation-related programs, including aeronautical engineering technology, aviation management, professional flight, and unmanned aerial systems (UAS). It is known for its hands-on training and state-of-the-art facilities.
Q&A
Why did Purdue University decide to bring back commercial flights to its airport after 20 years?
The decision was driven by the significant growth of Purdue University and the greater Lafayette community, making the airport a viable option for travel. The airport's return is expected to benefit both the university and local residents by providing convenient and cost-effective travel options.
What are some of the key advantages of flying in and out of Purdue University Airport?
The airport offers ease and convenience, with shorter lines and parking fees compared to larger airports. It also provides flexibility with multiple flights per day, allowing travelers to connect to various destinations without long waits. Additionally, the airport offers free baggage for the first two bags, saving travelers money.
How does the Purdue Fly Strategic Initiative contribute to the university's overall goals?
The initiative aims to attract top talent, foster community, and enhance economic development. By expanding the airport and attracting more airlines, Purdue hopes to create a more accessible and attractive environment for students, faculty, researchers, and corporations.
What are some of the unique features of Purdue University Airport?
The airport is the largest classroom on campus, providing hands-on training for students in the School of Aviation Technology. It is also the second busiest airport in Indiana, with a high volume of takeoffs and landings. The airport's diverse activity includes research, cargo operations, and commercial flights, making it a unique and dynamic place.
What makes Purdue's aviation education programs so special?
Purdue's aviation programs are known for their depth of curriculum, extensive laboratories, and high-quality students. The university has a long history of aviation excellence, dating back to the 1950s, and has consistently invested in its programs and facilities. The programs also emphasize experiential learning, with students having access to state-of-the-art flight simulators and real-world flying experiences.
How has Purdue's aviation work and research impacted the industry?
Purdue's aviation programs have produced highly qualified graduates who are valued in the industry. The university's research in areas such as alternative fuels and human factors has also contributed to advancements in aviation safety and sustainability. Purdue's graduates and research have helped shape the industry and make it better.
What are some of Tom Carney's favorite memories from his time at Purdue?
Tom shares stories of flying with Purdue presidents, including Dr. Bearing, Jimmy Carter, and the Dalai Lama. He also highlights the importance of the university's aviation programs in providing students with unique opportunities and experiences.
What is Tom Carney's next giant leap?
After a long and fulfilling career at Purdue, Tom is looking forward to spending more time with his family and enjoying his retirement. He is also excited to continue contributing to the aviation industry through his work with the Aviation Accreditation Board International.
What are Adam Baxmeier and Rob Winecoop most excited about for the opening day of the airport?
Both Adam and Rob are excited to see the first commercial flight take off and witness the positive impact it will have on the community. They are also looking forward to the airport's continued growth and development, attracting more airlines and expanding services.
What makes Purdue University a special place for Adam Baxmeier and Rob Winecoop?
Both Adam and Rob highlight the university's culture of innovation, collaboration, and persistence. They appreciate the opportunity to be creative, take risks, and learn from their experiences. They also emphasize the importance of community and the strong support they have received from the greater Lafayette community.
Show Notes
In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re discussing the return of commercial flights to the Purdue University Airport and highlighting the university’s renowned history in aviation.
Listen as Adam Baxmeyer (BS aviation administration ’02; MPA ’22, Purdue Global), director of the Purdue University Airport, and Rob Wynkoop, vice president of Auxiliary Services, share the importance of the Purdue Airport building upon the university’s nearly 100-year legacy in aviation excellence.
After 20 years commercial flights are returning to the Purdue University Airport, connecting West Lafayette and Chicago. Find out how the Purdue University Airport offers more convenient and cost-effective travel options for the Greater Lafayette community.
Plus, you’ll learn more about the largest classroom on campus — the Purdue Airport — as Tom Carney (AAS general aviation ’70; BS professional flight technology ’71; MS aviation climatology ’77; PhD atmospheric sciences and meteorology ’84), professor emeritus and former head of the Department of Aviation Technology, delves into the history of why Purdue has one of the strongest aviation programs in the country.
“There's no other place I could have flown the former president, Jimmy Carter, or the Dalai Lama or the first and last astronauts to walk on the moon than at Purdue University,” Tom says.
We also take you behind the scenes with Tom in Purdue’s Hawker 900XP full-motion simulator. This level D flight simulator — the highest level available — imitates all the aircraft systems that are accessible in the cockpit. You don’t want to miss this special episode!
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