This is one of a continuing series of profiles featuring members of the Texas Aviation Advisory Committee. The six members are appointed by the Texas Transportation Commission for six-year terms and assist the Texas Department of Transportation with its aviation development programs. Committee members also work with the legislature on various aviation issues. Members must have at least five years of experience in the field of aviation and a strong interest in supporting Texas’ general aviation program.
In this issue, we profile Committee Member Joe Crawford.
To things motivate Joe Crawford the most … business and flying. Crawford was 16 when he took his first solo flight. I ” was a natural thing for him in 1973 because his father owned and flew various airplanes for the family business.
Today, as president and co-owner of Abilene Aero, located at Abilene Regional Airport, Joe is able to keep his passions in a tidy package. ‘We do everything related to flying: fuel, charter operations, sales, parts, avionics and maintenance,” he says. “Flying was a passion that turned into a hobby and, luckily, into my livelihood.”
After graduating from Baylor with a business degree, Crawford managed the West Texas tire stores for his family. It was 1988 when he was approached by Abilene Aero. “They knew I had a passion for flying, so, being co-owner was a perfect fit.” In addition, he owned and operated a big-box restaurant in Abilene until 2007. He also owns a car wash in town.
All the while, Crawford has grown Abilene Aero. Along the way, he had time to pass along his passion for flying to his son.
Two years ago, Patrick Crawford soloed at age 16, just like his father before him.
“It’s a little harrowing as your only son takes off for the first time,” Crawford remembers. “It’s a proud moment, but I have to admit, there is certainly some apprehension.”
Patrick Crawford is attending Baylor in the fall. His area of study?
Business.
Wingtips: How important is aviation to you?
Crawford: Obviously general aviation is my profession, so it is very important to me. I have grown up flying and then actually became involved in the business in 1988. Being able to jump in an airplane in the morning, fly across the state to attend an all-day meeting and be home by dinner is why general aviation is important to me. It provides an avenue for me to conduct business and spend more quality time with my family.
Wingtips: What was your motivation in accepting the appointment on the Texas Aviation Advisory Committee?
Crawford: I enjoy the work that TxDOT Aviation does in working with local airports in Texas on improvements with state and federal funds. The airport system in Texas today is in tremendous shape with the improvements accomplished in the last few years at the airports which do not offer airline service. It is important for the state to have well-maintained airports strategically located in the rural areas of the state.
Wingtips: Was there a memorable experience that you can share that has occurred during your term?
Crawford: I have enjoyed getting to know the board members and staff of TxDOT Aviation. They are true professionals. My favorite memory is when the board got together and presented then-Chairman Jim Schwertner with a leather aviator jacket. He is such a dedicated, long-time pilot and supporter of general aviation for the state.
Wingtips: What are the biggest challenges you see for general aviation going forward?
Crawford: We have the largest challenge in years with the current economic situation, which has affected general aircraft manufacturers and service providers. This is the most serious threat our industry has faced over the years. Regulations such as cap and trade and FAA funding are also serious challenges to our industry. We must all make the best of what we have as the upturn will be slow in coming. Also, security issues with the TSA at airports and on aircraft continue to challenge the general aviation community.
Wingtips: What would you like the public to know about general aviation in Texas and why non-pilots should care about it?
Crawford: Texas is a very large state, and general aviation provides a lot of jobs and services to the citizens of Texas. Many do not understand the sheer size of Texas. Flying from Abilene to Laredo is approximately the same distance as Abilene to Kansas City. General aviation allows business and pleasure fliers to fly to many airports not currently offering airline service. From rural crop spraying to air ambulance, from hauling Federal Reserve checks to criminal aerial surveillance, general aviation is there for the citizens of Texas.
