Exploring the Dillant-Hopkins Airport: Home of Monadnock Choppers Flight School

Nestled in the scenic hills of southwestern New Hampshire, Dillant-Hopkins Airport (EEN) in Keene is the perfect place for aspiring and seasoned aviators alike. As the home of Monadnock Choppers LLC, this airport offers not only a top-notch learning environment but also a gateway to some of the most beautiful landscapes New England has to offer. Whether you're taking your first discovery flight or pursuing advanced pilot training, Dillant-Hopkins provides the ideal backdrop for a remarkable aviation experience.

A Historic Gateway to the Skies

Established in the 1940s, Dillant-Hopkins Airport has a rich history and remains an active hub for both general aviation and local services. With two runways and a range of modern facilities, EEN is designed to accommodate a variety of aircraft, from small single-engine planes to larger charter aircraft. The airport is owned and operated by the City of Keene, making it an integral part of the community and a point of pride for locals and aviation enthusiasts.

Ideal Learning Environment for Pilots

Dillant-Hopkins is renowned for offering diverse flight conditions, thanks to New England's changing seasons. From the crisp, clear skies of winter to the vibrant autumn views, student pilots gain experience flying in varying weather conditions and enjoying the views of Mount Monadnock, vast forests, and the Connecticut River Valley. The location has easy access to a variety of nearby airports and airspace with different levels of complexity and learning for our student pilots. The airport’s manageable air traffic and supportive community of aviators make it an excellent place for student pilots to develop skills confidently.

Monadnock Choppers Flight School: Take Flight with Us

As part of the Monadnock Choppers Flight School experience, students have access to modern aircraft, experienced instructors, and personalized flight programs. Our team of certified instructors is committed to providing quality instruction to pilots of all levels, from beginners to advanced. We offer training for rotorcraft and fixed-wing aircraft, so whether you're interested in helicopter or airplane training, our program will help you achieve your aviation goals.

In addition to our comprehensive training programs, we provide **discovery flights** that allow newcomers to get a feel for flying firsthand. These introductory flights are a great way to experience the thrill of aviation while enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the Monadnock region.

Full-Service Airport with Amenities

Dillant-Hopkins Airport also boasts a range of amenities to make each visit comfortable. While our students and visitors may be focused on the skies, they can also enjoy well-maintained facilities, convenient parking, and nearby access to Keene’s welcoming community. There are fuel services onsite and our hanger has excellent WiFi and comfortable seating for visitors and pilots. There are two restaurants on the airport, The Dinner Table and Mama McDonough’s Irish Pub, both of which offer excellent food and service for a hungry aviator.

Explore Beyond the Airport

Keene and the surrounding Monadnock region offer plenty for travelers and aviators to explore on the ground, too. With charming downtown shops, scenic trails, and local restaurants, students and visitors can make the most of their time both in the air and on land. Many students find that the region’s natural beauty and vibrant culture add to their overall learning experience.

Your Aviation Adventure Starts Here

Whether you’re pursuing a private pilot’s license, preparing for a career in aviation, or simply looking to experience the magic of flight, Monadnock Choppers LLC at Dillant-Hopkins Airport offers a unique and memorable journey. Join us in Keene and discover why so many aspiring pilots have chosen Dillant-Hopkins as the starting point for their adventures in the sky.

Monadnock Choppers Donates Airplane Discovery Flight to Monadnock Humane Society's Fur Ball Fundraiser

Monadnock Choppers was pleased to donate an exciting Airplane Discovery Flight as part of the 22nd Annual **Monadnock Humane Society (MHS) Hairball Gala**. The Hairball Gala is one of the most anticipated charitable events in the Keene, NH local area, dedicated to raising vital funds to support homeless animals and provide them with food, shelter, and medical care.

The Monadnock Humane Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the well-being of animals through care, shelter, and adoption services in the Monadnock region of New Hampshire. They strive to create a compassionate community where animals are respected and valued. Each year, MHS hosts the Hairball Gala, a festive event that brings together animal lovers to raise funds for the shelter. This year, the Gala was held at the Keene Country Club in their ballroom. The Hairball Gala featured auctions, live entertainment, and community donations, with all proceeds going toward helping MHS provide critical resources like medical care, food, and safe shelter for homeless and neglected animals. The Monadnock community has always come together with businesses generally sponsoring the event and donating auction items, and patrons eagerly buying out tickets. This support helped MHS surpass their fundraising goal with the final amount of $180,000 being raised for the shelter.

The Discovery Flight offered by Monadnock Choppers is an unforgettable experience, giving the lucky winner a chance to step into the pilot's seat and take to the skies under the guidance of a professional flight instructor. It's a unique opportunity to explore the local landscape from the air while getting a hands-on introduction to aviation. By donating this flight, Monadnock Choppers not only helps make the Hairball Fundraiser even more special but also highlights our commitment to supporting local organizations.

Our team members at Monadnock Choppers are avid animal lovers, and all proceeds raised through this discovery flight will go toward the Monadnock Humane Society's mission of improving the lives of animals in need.

Make sure you stay tuned and don’t miss out on next year’s Hairball Gala!

To read more about the gala, please reference the Keene Sentinel article below:

https://www.sentinelsource.com/elf/celebrating-success-for-animals-in-need/article_ff9eb795-49e6-5967-b9d6-a7152b0bcfd9.html

Supporting the Kurn Hattin Organization: Helicopter Golf Ball Drop

We were excited to participate in the Kurn Hattin Golf Tournament on October 4th, 2024 with our signature Helicopter Golf Ball Drop! This yearly tournament is a fantastic event that brings together our community for a great cause.

For those unfamiliar with this event, the Helicopter Golf Ball Drop involves dropping numbered golf balls from a helicopter onto a designated target, area which is generally on the golf course. Participants purchase a golf ball, and the balls are dropped from the sky, creating a fun and exciting way to raise funds. The golf ball that lands closest to the target wins a prize, and the proceeds support the incredible programs at Kurn Hattin Homes, which provides education and care for children in need. The Kurn Hattin Golf Tournament not only raises vital funds for children but also fosters a spirit of generosity among participants. We believe that aviation can make a positive impact, and being part of this event allows us to contribute in a meaningful way.

We were thrilled that this year the golf ball drop could be done with our new Enstrom helicopter! The Enstrom has three seats, and is a very stable platform, making it perfect to fit a whole lot of golf balls and drop them with accuracy on the green. The Kurn Hattin school principal, Amanda Tyrrell, did the honors and released 100 numbered golf balls as students, staff, and supporters watched in anticipation.

At Monadnock Choppers, we are thrilled to be part of such a worthwhile cause!

Pictures courtesy of Kurn Hattin social media on facebook.

Encouraging the Next Generation of aviators at EAA Young Eagles

On October 6th, 2024, Monadnock Choppers had the opportunity to participate in the second EAA Chapter 1314’s Young Eagles Day in 2024. The Experimental Aircraft Association’s (EAA) Young Eagles Program is an initiative designed to introduce young people to the world of aviation. This program has provided free flights to millions of kids across the country since its launch in 1992, helping to spark interest in aviation.

Building on lessons learned from previous events, EAA Chapter 1314 decided to host this Young Eagles event on a Sunday afternoon, offering flight slots from 12 PM to 5 PM. The event was based at their home airport, Dillant-Hopkins Airport in Keene, NH. This timing allowed for a smooth flow of families and created a relaxed environment. The day couldn't have been better, with perfect weather enhancing the experience for all involved.

The event featured a diverse lineup of aircraft, from a gyrocopter to a light sport plane, allowing participants to see various types of aircraft up close. Monadnock Choppers also showcased their new Enstrom helicopter, which attracted a lot of attention. Kids had the chance to explore the aircraft and learn about its features, making the experience more engaging.

Pilots took the young eagles on short flights around the Monadnock region, offering stunning views of the landscape. For many, this was their first time flying, and it was a memorable experience that might inspire them to consider a future in aviation. Feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing newfound interest in aviation. Some even mentioned aspirations to pursue pilot training or explore other aviation-related careers.

Monadnock Choppers’ involvement in the EAA Young Eagles program reflects their commitment to community engagement and fostering interest in aviation. By providing hands-on experiences and insights into aviation, they are helping to cultivate the next generation of aviators. If you’re passionate about aviation, consider getting involved in initiatives like Young Eagles.

Monadnock Choppers’ CFI Earns “Boat” Rating at Goodspeed Seaplanes

At Monadnock Choppers, we’re always pursing more aviation training, and our very own Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Caleb recently took on an exciting new challenge—earning his commercial add-on seaplane rating! He chose to do his training at Goodspeed Seaplanes, a growing company located in East Haddam, Connecticut, that offers top-tier seaplane instruction. We couldn’t be more impressed with Caleb’s experience and the professionalism of the team at Goodspeed.

Goodspeed Seaplanes is a relatively new business that operates a Cessna 172 on floats out of the historic Goodspeed Airport (42B). Caleb was especially impressed by their dedicated and highly skilled instructor, as well as the owner’s commitment to building the business’s reputation and ensuring every student’s success. From the very beginning, this created an environment where students felt confident and supported.

One of the standout aspects of Caleb’s seaplane training was Goodspeed’s strong relationship with a local Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), which helps ensure a smooth and seamless transition from training to the checkride. This kind of connection is invaluable, as it minimizes the typical stress and uncertainty around scheduling checkrides, allowing students to focus fully on their flying.

We’re thrilled that Caleb had such a fantastic experience, and we highly recommend Goodspeed Seaplanes to anyone looking to expand their skills with a seaplane rating. For more details, you can check out their website and see why they’re quickly becoming one of the best places to earn a seaplane rating in the Northeast. You can also review the seaplane add-on requirements and FAA Operations Handbook.

An Aviation Icon: The History of the Aeronca Champ

Today’s blog post is in honor of the the Aeronca Champ, which celebrates it’s 78th year of flying this month. Officially known as the Aeronca 7AC Champion, it is a very iconic aircraft in the history of general aviation. With its roots dating back to the mid-20th century, the Champ has earned a special place in the hearts of pilots and aviation enthusiasts for its simplicity, reliability, and the pure joy of flying it provides. Although newer aircraft provide excellent safety features and capabilities, the Champ takes you back to the first days of general aviation.

The story of the Aeronca Champ begins in the early 1940s, a time when aviation was rapidly evolving, and the demand for affordable, easy-to-fly aircraft was on the rise. Aeronca, a company already well-known for its earlier light aircraft models, set out to create an airplane that would be both accessible to new pilots and enjoyable for seasoned aviators. The result was the Aeronca 7AC Champion, affectionately referred to as the "Champ." First introduced in 1945, the Champ was designed as a tandem-seat, high-wing aircraft with a focus on simplicity and ease of operation. Powered by a Continental A-65 engine producing 65 horsepower, the Champ was not about speed or power—it was about providing a straightforward, forgiving platform for flight training and recreational flying. Many pilots took their first solo flights in a Champ, and for many, the aircraft became synonymous with the joys of learning to fly.

Beyond its role as a trainer, the Aeronca Champ found a place as a recreational aircraft. Its ability to operate out of small, unimproved airstrips made it a favorite among weekend flyers who enjoyed exploring the countryside from the air. The Champ's gentle flight characteristics also made it an excellent choice for low and slow flying, allowing pilots to savor the experience of being in the air. The Aeronca Champ remains a favorite aircraft among aviators today, its simplicity, affordability, and timeless design have ensured its continued relevance in general aviation. The Champ has also seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years for Tailwheel Training, particularly among pilots who value the hands-on, stick-and-rudder flying that aircraft like the Champ offer.

The Aeronca Champ is more than just an airplane; it's a symbol of the golden age of aviation and a testament to the enduring appeal of simple, honest flying. As long as there are pilots who appreciate the beauty of stick-and-rudder flying, the Aeronca Champ will remain a beloved icon in the skies. Our Monadnock Choppers Champ is a fleet favorite, and most golden hours are booked by people looking to take advantage of calm air and gorgeous sunset views.

Happy Birthday Champ!

Read More About the Champ

AOPA - Budget Buy Aeronca Champ

Plane and Pilot Magazine - 7ac Champion

Smoke on the Go - Aeronca Champion

Monadnock Choppers Team Spends Saturday Supporting EAA Chapter 1314’s Young Eagles Event

This past Saturday, the skies over Keene, New Hampshire were busier than normal, as a dedicated group of local pilots volunteered their time and aircraft for the EAA Chapter 1314’s Young Eagles event. Hosted at Keene Dillant-Hopkins Airport, this event marked the first time in a decade that the chapter had organized a Young Eagles event—and Monadnock Choppers was thrilled to be able to provide three aircraft and volunteer pilots to support the event’s success.

The Young Eagles Program, initiated by the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) in 1992, aims to introduce young people aged 8 to 17 to the world of aviation. Through free flights provided by volunteer pilots, the program hopes to inspire the next generation of aviators by giving them a firsthand experience of what it’s like to soar above the clouds.

The day began with cloudy skies but lots of anticipation as families arrived at the Keene airport. The young participants, some nervous but mostly excited, lined up for their chance to experience their flight. For many of the youths, this was their first time flying in general aviation aircraft. The pilots took the time to explain the basics of aviation, showing the young participants how the aircraft worked, and even let them take control for a few moments once airborne. The smiles on the faces of the Young Eagles as they landed, were proof that the day was a resounding success.

Parents and guardians were equally thrilled, expressing their gratitude to the volunteer pilots and the EAA chapter for providing such a unique and inspiring experience. The event not only introduced the youths to the joys of flying but also sparked conversations about future careers in aviation.

Monadnock Choppers was delighted to be able to provide three aircraft and pilots for this event. We provided our two general aviation aircraft trainers - a Cessna Skyhawk and Piper Cherokee- and our high performance and complex Beechcraft Bonanza aircraft. Chief Airplane Instructor, Caleb, piloted the Piper Cherokee and was exceptionally excited to be able to provide one very nervous participant a magical experience. Young Conner started the morning extremely nervous and ended it making gentle banking turns over the Monadnock landscape and landed with a huge smile on his face. Our Owner, Kevin Provost, piloted the Bonanza and gave a brother and sister a stunning flight past Mount Monadnock. Our pilots spent significant time with all the youths and families, and were thrilled to be a part of this event.

As the last plane touched down and the day drew to a close, EAA Chapter 1314 concluded a safe and successful Young Eagles event. The success of this year’s Young Eagles event was a testament to the dedication of the local aviation community. Monadnock Choppers looks forward to volunteering in many more successful Young Eagles events to come!

Honoring an Airman

This week, the Keene Airport community received a last minute request from a family member of a US Air Force retiree who passed away last weekend. This veteran, who dedicated a significant portion of his life to serving our country, was to be honored with a special flyover during his graveside service. Circumstances led to the cancellation of their planned flyover and the family reached out to see if anyone could support last minute.

A flyover is more than just a ceremonial gesture; it is a symbol of respect and honor. It serves as a final salute to a life dedicated to protecting our freedoms. For the family of this retired airman, this gesture is an integral part of their farewell, embodying the respect and gratitude of a nation.

We are proud that the Monadnock Choppers team stepped forward to honor this veteran. Caleb and Jim, two dedicated members of our aviation community, volunteered their time to perform the flyover August 3rd, 2024. Jim piloted his Nanchang CJ-6 and Caleb piloted Jim’s Piper Warrior aircraft.

Caleb and Jim’s willingness to volunteer for this tribute highlights the strength and compassion of our aviation community. We are incredibly lucky to have them as part of the Monadnock Choppers team.

Monadnock Choppers CFI, Caleb, and his trusty pup Willie volunteering their time for the flyover.

Formation flyover.

Champin' at Alyson’s Orchard Summer Festival

This July, Monadnock Choppers had the opportunity to be part of Alyson’s Orchard Summer Festival. The Orchard is known for its beautiful landscapes, apple picking, the Orchard Tavern, and vibrant community. It was the perfect day and we were thrilled to add a unique touch of excitement by flying in and staging our Champ airplane.

The Aeronca Champ, officially known as the Aeronca 7AC Champion, was first introduced in 1945 by the Aeronca Aircraft Corporation. Designed as a light, two-seat, single-engine aircraft, the Champ quickly gained popularity for its simplicity, affordability, and excellent flight characteristics. The Aeronca Champ boasts a classic high-wing, tailwheel configuration, which contributes to its distinctive and nostalgic appearance. Monadnock Choppers offers tailwheel flight training in the Champ and it is a great way to master tricky landings and perfect your aircraft control.

Our team had a great time at the Summer Festival connecting with our community and sharing our love of aviation. The festival gave us an opportunity to excite future young aviators about the exploring the skies. Follow us on social media and stay tuned for more exciting events!

Taking Flight for a Cause: Kurn Hattin Homes Golf Classic

Last year, Monadnock Choppers supported Kurn Hattin Homes for Children by facilitating the golf ball drop at the John A. Hubbard Memorial Kurn Hattin Homes Golf Classic.

Originally scheduled as part of the Golf Classic, the Helicopter Golf Ball Drop had to be postponed due to inclement weather. Thanks to the swift action of our own Kevin Provost, owner of Monadnock Choppers, the event was rescheduled and executed flawlessly on the Kurn Hattin Homes campus. Kevin took to the skies with Adam Hallock, the Homes’ Director of Maintenance, in the co-pilot seat. Together, they released 100 golf balls over the target pin, cheered on by the children and staff below. The winning ball, #54, belonged to John Willette of Swanzey, NH. In a heartwarming gesture, John declined the $2,500 prize and donated it back to Kurn Hattin Homes in memory of Peter Johnson, event co-chair and sponsor. This act of generosity underscored the spirit of the event and the profound impact of community support.

Monadnock Choppers was thrilled to be able to support our community in this memorable event. You can read the full article here:
https://kurnhattin.org/kurn-hattin-homes-golf-classic-scores-big-extends-thanks-to-sponsors-and-players/

Elevating Your Training at Monadnock Choppers: Introducing Our New Airplane Flight Instructor!

We are thrilled to announce a new addition to our Monadnock Choppers Team! Please join us in welcoming our new airplane flight instructor, Caleb Aplin. Caleb finished the majority of his flight training at Monadnock Choppers and we are proud of our first home grown flight instructor!

Caleb is not just a skilled pilot; he is also a dedicated educator. He takes the time to understand each student’s learning style, goals, and challenges. He ensures that every lesson is effective and engaging, helping students to build confidence and proficiency at their own pace. He fosters a positive, encouraging atmosphere where students feel comfortable seeking guidance and asking questions. Recognizing the importance of practical experience, Caleb emphasizes hands-on learning. He encourages students to actively participate in every aspect of flight training, from pre-flight to in-flight maneuvers and post-flight debriefings. This immersive approach helps students develop a deep, intuitive understanding of flying. Caleb is a model for lifelong learning, he stays in tune with the latest advancements in aviation technology and training methodologies, ensuring that his students benefit from current knowledge and best practices. Above all, Caleb prioritizes safety. He instills a strong safety culture in his students, teaching them to respect the aircraft, the environment, and the principles of safe flight operations. His meticulous attention to detail and thorough training protocols ensure that students are well-prepared to handle any situation confidently and safely.

Caleb’s passion for aviation and his commitment to excellence in teaching make him an invaluable asset to Monadnock Choppers. We are confident that under his guidance, our students will not only become skilled pilots but also enthusiastic, responsible members of the aviation community. You will often find him with his trusty dog, Willie. Earn some brownie points at your first lesson by showing up with biscuits!

At Monadnock Choppers, we prioritize safety in every aspect of our flight training programs. To ensure our students receive the best possible education, we utilize some of the safest and most reliable training aircraft available: the Cessna 172 and Piper Cherokee. These aircraft, known for their stability and forgiving nature, are an ideal choice for beginners. The 172 offers upgraded avionics and autopilot capabilities, and both aircraft provide a solid foundation for students to develop their piloting skills.

For those looking to broaden their skills beyond basic flight training, Monadnock Choppers offers specialized training in both tailwheel and high-performance aircraft. Our training in the Aeronca Champ is designed for pilots seeking to master the unique challenges, precision and control required of a tailwheel aircraft. Additionally, our high-performance training in the Beechcraft Bonanza provides an opportunity to experience a more advanced aircraft. Known for its speed, power, and complex systems, the Bonanza is perfect for pilots aspiring to tackle more demanding flight conditions and elevate their aviation capabilities.

Our training aircraft are meticulously maintained to the highest standards, ensuring a safe and smooth training experience for all our students.