Aviation history was made recently when Georgia pilot Michael Price broke the Alabama glider altitude record. Taking off from Barwick-LaFayette Airport in Georgia, Price soared to an impressive 15,659 feet, relying solely on natural wind currents known as “Mountain Wave.”
The achievement not only sets a new milestone for glider pilots in Alabama but also highlights the potential of Barwick-LaFayette Airport as a go-to location for future glider record attempts.
How the Record Was Achieved
Price’s record-setting flight was made possible by the unique geographical features surrounding LaFayette. The region’s mountainous terrain creates favorable wind patterns during winter.
“LaFayette is perfectly positioned just east of a major ridge,” Price explained. “Strong northwest winter winds hit the ridge, flow upward, and create a phenomenon called Mountain Wave. Gliders can use this rising air to climb higher, even without an engine.”
Using these natural conditions, Price guided his glider to its record altitude before returning safely to the Barwick-LaFayette Airport.
“This was the first glider record set from Barwick-LaFayette,” Price said. “Now that we can predict the Mountain Wave using modern forecasts, we’re likely to see more attempts at breaking records in the future.”
Barwick-LaFayette Airport: A Unique Facility for Pilots
Owned by the city of LaFayette, the Barwick-LaFayette Airport is becoming a favorite destination for pilots. The facility averages 6,000 to 6,500 takeoffs or landings annually—around 17 a day—and supports a variety of aircraft, from small business jets and helicopters to gliders.
Airport manager Vernon Barnett highlighted some of the features that make Barwick-LaFayette stand out. “It’s less congested than many other airports, which is ideal for pilots who want to practice or train. Plus, the surrounding mountains and forests offer a unique flying experience.”
The airport operates as a non-controlled facility, meaning it doesn’t have air traffic control services. Instead, pilots communicate with one another through a system called Common Traffic Advisory Frequency (CTAF). Pilots must announce their aircraft type, call letters, and intentions to ensure safe operations.
“A lot of training pilots use our airport because of its open environment and fewer restrictions,” Barnett added.
Recent Upgrades to the Airport
In 2023, Barwick-LaFayette Airport underwent a $9.3 million renovation funded by the Georgia Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, and 5% contributions from the city.
The upgrades included:
Resurfacing and re-marking the runway.
Installing modern lighting for better visibility.
Adding a fueling station and an updated weather station.
The improvements have made the airport more accessible and safer for pilots, further cementing its reputation as a hub for aviation enthusiasts.
Community Engagement
Barwick-LaFayette Airport is more than just a facility for pilots; it’s a local attraction. According to Barnett, residents often visit the airport parking lot to watch planes take off and land. Schools also organize field trips to teach children about aviation, sparking interest in flying at an early age.
“The airport is a great resource for our community,” Barnett said. “It’s not just about aviation—it’s about inspiring the next generation and offering something unique to the area.”
Looking Ahead: A Destination for Glider Records
Price’s achievement has put Barwick-LaFayette Airport on the map for glider pilots seeking to break records. With the proven effectiveness of the Mountain Wave and the airport’s upgraded facilities, more pilots are expected to attempt altitude records in the coming years.
“This is just the beginning,” Price said. “Barwick-LaFayette has shown it can support these kinds of flights, and I’m excited to see what other pilots can achieve here.”
Conclusion
Michael Price’s record-breaking flight is a testament to the power of nature and human skill. By harnessing the Mountain Wave, he not only set a new glider altitude record for Alabama but also demonstrated the potential of Barwick-LaFayette Airport as a premier location for aviation milestones.
As the airport continues to attract pilots and visitors, it stands as a symbol of innovation, community pride, and the boundless possibilities of flight.
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