I just wanted to let all my friends at Cutter Aviation know that I am retiring from professional flying. Appropriately, I finished my last flight, arriving at Cutter in an Eclipse the night of February 2, 2019.

I have been a licensed pilot for 64 years and have flown in the military and as a professional pilot for 59 years, and now it’s time that I spend a little more time with my wife of 59 years. It’s been a “great ride,” because I love flying, and because of all the great people I have known and worked with in aviation.

In particular, I want you and all the employees at Cutter to know how much I appreciate your professionalism and friendship. Please pass on my personal thanks for their making my time in aviation in Albuquerque most enjoyable. As the saying goes, they have made “the worst day of flying better than the best day of real work.”

While I’m retiring from professional flying, I will not be gone. You will still see me around the airport in my Mooney!

My ex-wife was from ABQ so I have visited Cutter ABQ more times than I can count. (The logbook says 70.) I even proposed in their conference room. (Hey, it was romantic for me!) Still, I have always considered Cutter ABQ the "gold standard" when it comes to FBOs. It doesn't matter if you arrive in a G5 or a 50-year-old Prop, the staff consistently provides friendly and helpful first-class service. They don't charge egregious fees and the ones they do have are usually waived with a fuel purchase. They even gave me a fuel discount for being an AOPA member. If your travels take you to or through ABQ, remember these three words: "Taxi to Cutter!"

Arrived mid day in my Bonanza BE36. Was meet by staff and marshaled into a parking spot in from of the entrance door. They brought a baggage cart and water. I took on 40 gallons (a bit high priced at $6.14) but no other charges (with 20 gallons or more). Got a ride to a hotel right away in a nice cool van. Next morning the plane was waiting right out front ready to go. Very pleased. Will use next time.

Cutter definitely sets a high standard for FBO services. Been about a year since we were here last, but it was like returning home. Jeff parked, greeted & helped with luggage. Promise arranged hangar, hotel & transportation almost before we could down the bottle of water they provided. Next morning plane was out and fueled on time & Kerrie helped with luggage and marshaling us out. Nice people here. I was particularly impressed at how courteous all the staff were, even when dealing with a couple crews that must not have had a good day. Thank you!