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Gear Up: Taking a Hill Country Spin

Clay Ellis Photography
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The author's trip to Llano, Texas, for Cooper's famous barbecue led to an unexpected encounter with a large gathering of meticulously restored warbirds at the local airport.
  • These vintage aircraft, flown by enthusiasts from across the region, had converged for a formation clinic and, notably, to also enjoy Llano's renowned barbecue.
  • "Llano Larry," the airport's FBO manager, passionately articulated the significant economic and community value the small airport brings to the town, advocating for local support for general aviation.
  • The experience highlighted the vibrant spirit of general aviation, the dedication to flying and restoring vintage aircraft, and the unique role small airports play as hubs for community and passion.
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The guy on the phone was a little vague about the availability of a crew car. “We got some T-6s coming in” was the only explanation forthcoming. Undeterred, we set off; there wasn’t much to lose. We were in a Cessna 210 and we were in Texas. By we I mean friends Rob and Kathy (it is their 210) and my wife, Cathy, and me. By Texas I mean we were flying from their home on a 3,000-foot strip near Kerrville. By 3,000 feet I mean I don’t think it is anywhere near that length. It is 2,000 feet above sea level, however.

Our destination was Llano, Texas, some 47 nautical miles to the northeast. Our purpose was to eat barbecue at Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, a world famous emporium that you could only find in Texas. What lay in store, none of us could have predicted.

Dick Karl

Dick Karl is a cancer surgeon who appreciates the beauty and science involved in both surgery and flying. Dick’s monthly Gear Up celebrates the human side of flying. He writes about his enthusiasm for both the machines and the people who fly and maintain them.

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