Richland, Washington – The Port of Benton has announced a collaborative effort with the local chapter of the Ninety-Nines, an international organization dedicated to women pilots, to revitalize the Richland Airport’s 80-foot compass rose. This distinctive, large-scale painted compass serves a critical function, allowing pilots to accurately calibrate their instruments during flight operations.
The Ninety-Nines have a long-standing tradition of enhancing airport facilities, focusing on the marking of airspaces with vital navigational symbols. Aileen Coverdell, a member of the local chapter, highlighted the significance of their contributions:
“The Mid-Columbia Chapter of the Ninety-Nines carries on the tradition and fulfills the need for air markings by volunteering our time to paint the airport names, compass rose symbols and other identifications on airports,” said Coverdell.
Coverdell also noted that this initiative marks their inaugural project at the Richland Airport, following similar endeavors in Lind and Davenport. The group anticipates the participation of up to 15 volunteers who will dedicate their time to this community-oriented project.
The surveying phase for the compass rose renovation is scheduled to commence on Monday, May 19, with the painting activities set to start on May 23. The Ninety-Nines expect that the entire project will require approximately 150 volunteer hours.
For additional details regarding the initiative, interested individuals can visit the Port of Benton website.
