Three Clinics. One Mission. Elevate Your Flying.
This Fall, the New Mexico Pilots Association (NMPA), in partnership with the NM Aviation Division, invites pilots from across the Southwest to take part in a trilogy of premier flight clinics—each one designed to sharpen skills, deepen safety knowledge, and awaken the joy of flying in New Mexico’s dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re building backcountry proficiency, mastering mountain winds, or refining your short field finesse, these events are the gold standard for pilot development in the Land of Enchantment.
✦ August 9 – STOL Clinic | Carrizozo Airport (F37)
Where precision meets performance.
Think you know short field technique? Think again. At Carrizozo, you’ll revisit the fundamentals of Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) with experienced instructors and fellow aviators. The morning kicks off with burritos and coffee at 8 AM, followed by a focused ground school, and then live pattern work—complete with estimated performance feedback (if volunteers are available). FAA techniques only—no cowboy antics. This isn’t a contest—it’s your chance to get sharper, safer, and more capable. Space is limited to 9 aircraft. Register now at NMPilots.org, and don’t forget your POH homework!
✦ September 26–28 – Mountain Flying Clinic | Santa Fe Airport (KSAF)
Elevate your mindset. Expand your envelope.
Join us in Santa Fe for NMPA’s signature Mountain Flying Familiarization Clinic—one of the Southwest’s most respected aviation safety events. Learn how to handle high density altitude, terrain-driven weather, and the nuanced decisions required in mountain flying. Optional dual cross-country flights offer hands-on experience in your own aircraft, led by seasoned CFIs with deep knowledge of our local ranges. Pre-work is required. Class size is limited. Registration closes September 12—don’t miss your chance to train where the mountains make pilots.
✦ October 11–12 – Backcountry Clinic | Magdalena Airstrip (N29)
Welcome to the wild.
The Gila is calling. This two-day clinic immerses pilots in the high-altitude, dirt-strip challenges of New Mexico’s backcountry. Saturday begins with classroom instruction and soft-field/STOL drills at Magdalena. On Sunday, fly a Round Robin to several rugged U.S. Forest Service airstrips with elevations near 8,000 feet and density altitudes exceeding 10,000 feet. This is real-world training in real backcountry conditions. Ground school is $50, with full participation at $150. Bring your own aircraft (10-hour minimum in type) and come prepared. This is the kind of flying that makes legends—and safer pilots.
One State. Three Clinics. Endless Horizons.
Individually, each clinic is a masterclass in its domain. But taken together, they form a powerhouse of pilot development uniquely tailored to the challenges and beauty of New Mexico airspace. Whether you’re a student pilot or a seasoned aviator, these clinics offer a rare opportunity to grow your airmanship, expand your confidence, and join a community of pilots committed to excellence.
Register now at NMPilots.org — and come fly the Gold Standard.