RENO, NV (KRNV & Mynews4.com) - Time is running out for the Reno Air Races to obtain a special events permit to hold the National Championship Air Races at Stead Airport. Today, the Reno Air Races Committee held an important meeting for the fate of one of the biggest events northern Nevada has to offer.
"A lot of work has been going into this. We're trying to come up with the best plan possible for our community and for safety as well," said Reno-Tahoe International spokesperson Brian Kulpin. The Reno Air Races Committee announced recommendations to that will now go to the full Airport Authority.
The committee recommended a one year permit, instead of a five year permit that had previously been suggested. "We're looking at taking it one day at a time so one year works just as well," said RARA Director Mike Houghton.
The committee recommended RARA obtain insurance coverage of 100 million from an insurance carrier rate A+ or better. Rara will have to obtain an FAA waiver, which would allow background checks and flight authorization. And, compliance with preliminary NTSB recommendations made last month.
"We are going to work thought the myriad of issues and come to a mutually accepted safety agreement between NTSB and RARA," said Houghton. Houghton said the biggest hurdle right now, is getting the insurance plan in place. "That's what we're working on right now is putting together the last few elements of different companies who will commit to different percentages of the total requirement."
"I know everyones on pins and needles right now. The best thing I can say is we're moving forward, we're going to make it."
Recommendations will now go to the Reno Airport Authority next week. They are the ones who will approve or deny a special events permit.
