The Sippican Historical Society’s 2015 lecture series continues on March 26 with the topic, Airlines in America: Past, Present & Future – A Pilot’s Perspective. This interactive lecture by pilot Ric Teves will explore the exciting evolution of the airline industry in America. Just over a century ago, on January 1, 1914, the world’s first scheduled commercial airline flight took place in St. Petersburg, Florida. One commercial passenger flew on one commercial flight, across Tampa Bay. By contrast, on January 1, 2014, an estimated eight million people flew on nearly 100,000 flights. The annual global view is staggering. IATA (International Air Transport Association) statistics indicate that more than three billion people flew in 2014, representing roughly 44 percent of the world’s population. The international aviation industry now supports more than 57 million jobs and generates $2.2 trillion in economic activity, including the transport of more than 50 million tons of cargo each year. What does America’s piece in this puzzle look like, how did this evolution take place in our country, and what does it portend for the future?
The presentation, to be held at the Marion Music Hall (164 Front Street) at 7:00 pm on March 26, is offered free to the public, with no reservations required. Ample parking is available across the street at Island Wharf. A certified flight instructor since 2003, Mr. Teves has worked in general and corporate aviation and, most recently, as a First Officer for a regional carrier. His presentation represents more than 10 years of research on the domestic airline industry. For more information, contact the Sippican Historical Society at 508-748-1116.