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:

The author regularly meets with a group of veteran pilots who share aviation stories and wisdom, expressing concern over the absence of new, young pilots to pass on their experiences to.
The article details the author's personal journey to becoming an FAA DC-3 specialist for two decades, recounting his training and memorable experiences, including flying the unique Carvair aircraft.
These gatherings are cherished for the camaraderie and the opportunity to reflect on their past flying careers, the aircraft they piloted, and the people they met along the way.

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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!)