Cockpit Close-Up at Falcon Field Brings Aviation to the Community
Cockpit Close-Up is a free monthly event, held from 8:00–10:00 a.m. on the first Saturday of each month, at the Falcon Field Airport Terminal Building in Mesa. Cockpit Close-Up connects the local community with general aviation in a hands-on, welcoming way.
A Hands-On Aviation Experience
During the event, visitors had the opportunity to get up close with a variety of aircraft, talk directly with local pilots, and learn more about aviation careers, flight training, and aircraft ownership. These events continue to be a valuable resource for families, students, and anyone curious about aviation in the East Valley.
Falcon Field Airport’s Cockpit Close-Up series has become a consistent way to educate and inspire the public while highlighting the vibrant aviation community based on the field.
Desert Wings Featured During the May Event
The May Cockpit Close-Up featured Desert Wings Flight School, giving attendees a closer look at the school’s aircraft fleet and the passion behind its flight training programs.
Falcon Field Airport recently sat down with Rick Ryall, owner of Desert Wings Flight School, to talk about his background in aviation and his vision for the future. Highlights from that conversation included:
Desert Wings Aircraft Fleet
- Two Piper Archer II aircraft
- One Piper Seneca II
- One Piper Pathfinder
Future Fleet Plans
Rick shared plans to add a tailwheel aircraft to the fleet, allowing Desert Wings to offer spin training and tailwheel endorsements, further expanding advanced training opportunities.
What Sparked the Passion for Aviation
Rick’s journey into aviation began with childhood visits to airshows with his father and was later shaped through mentorship in the Aviation Explorer Program, which helped guide his life-long passion for flight training.
Looking Ahead
Future goals for Desert Wings include adding more Piper Archer II and Piper Seneca II aircraft, as well as additional tailwheel airplanes to support specialized pilot training.
Read Falcon Field Airport’s Close-Up with Desert Wings Flight School here.
Supporting Community Aviation at Falcon Field
Events like Cockpit Close-Up showcase the strength of Falcon Field Airport’s aviation community and provide meaningful opportunities for public engagement. We’re proud to support and participate in initiatives that introduce more people to the exciting world of general aviation.
For more information about Cockpit Close-Up and other airport events, visit the Falcon Field Airport website.
For questions about Cockpit Close-Up, Falcon Field Airport can be reached at 480-644-2450.
Explore Desert Wings Flight Schools training programs, fleet and expert instructor team or book a tour to meet us and explore your personalized training options at Falcon Field Mesa Az.