Lunch Bunch: A Time for Old Friends and Airplanes

Group gathers to recall past exploits and shared wisdom.

Martha Lunken

Friday, May 29, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

From the author’s years with the FAA to two decades as a Douglas DC-3 specialist, the stories unfold easily. [Credit: Adobe Stock]

Key Takeaways:

A recurring "lunch bunch" of experienced, older pilots meets to share aviation stories and wisdom, expressing concern over the absence of new, young pilots to absorb their knowledge.
The author recounts their journey as an FAA air carrier inspector, becoming a DC-3 specialist, and shares memorable experiences flying the DC-3 and the unique Carvair aircraft.
These gatherings are cherished opportunities for pilots to reminisce about their flying careers, the aircraft they flew, and the people and experiences that shaped their lives in aviation.

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Our wednesday lunch bunch met as usual at one of our favorite restaurants near the airport. I realize that’s probably not an earthshaking event because it likely happens with pilots all over the country.

A friend in Southern California tells me the same thing occurs on Fridays at the Camarillo Airport (KCMA) restaurant. (Note: If you want to meet Barry Schiff, KCMA is the place to go. Just be prepared to buy his lunch!)