A replica of the Santa Clara glider was recently installed in Crownair Aviation’s 35-foot high lobby.
The original Santa Clara glider was designed by John J Montgomery with two wings spanning over 25’ each and its replica is on loan from the San Diego Air & Space Museum.
Crownair Aviation is located at San Diego’s Executive airport (KMYF), formerly named Montgomery Field after the glider’s designer.
The original glider was constructed in 1905 by Montgomery and piloted by Daniel Maloney.
The glider was lifted by a hot air balloon to a height of 4,000 ft and released to glide up to 13 minutes before reaching the ground.
John J Montgomery is credited with being one of the pioneers in controlled flight.
While the glider is a nod to the rich history of aviation in San Diego, the new Crownair facility provides a first class FBO experience.
Pilots and passengers will enjoy seeing the glider in the new facilities located with easy access to La Jolla, Del Mar, UTC, beaches and downtown San Diego.
The FBO has easy ramp access, a pilot’s lounge with shower and private sleep rooms, a crew car, conference room and fresh bean-to-cup brewed cappuccino and coffee.