The Ninety-Nines, the International Organization of Women Pilots, continues the tradition of airmarking to share their love of aviation, provide fellowship among the aviation community, and continue the passion for flying while preserving the history of women in aviation. Ninety-Nines’ members volunteer their time to paint Compass Roses, airport names and frequencies, and other identification based on the needs of the airport community.
Los Angeles chapter member Wilma Fritschey designed the International Ninety-Nines’ Compass Rose logo and monogram in 1939. The Compass Rose is a directional piece of navigation used by pilots with both historical and functional significance. The unique physical characteristics of the Compass Rose helps pilots identify airports from above by providing a familiar visual feature. The Compass Rose also provides a unique, significant, and historical ground feature as pilots traditionally calibrate their compass according to the orientation of the markings on the ground. The center of the Compass Rose features the Ninety-Nines logo is prominently featured as it has been for almost a century.
The Alabama Chapter of the Ninety-Nines will be painting an 80’ Compass Rose at Huntsville Executive Airport (MDQ) in Meridianville on Saturday, June 5. Painting of the 80’ Compass Ross begins at 9 am. Everyone is welcome to come out and help with this historical event, along with visiting your local general aviation airport.
Along with the Compass Rose painting, the Alabama Ninety-Nines will be hosting a Chili Lunch to help raise funds for the Minnie Wade Memorial Scholarship starting at 11 am. The lunch is free, but donations are accepted. The Minnie Wade Memorial Scholarship provides funds to help women continue working toward their aviation dreams. The Alabama Ninety-Nines award this $1500 aviation scholarship every year in January. If you are interested in learning more about the Minnie Wade Memorial Scholarship or the Compass Rose painting, please contact Alabama 99s Chapter Chairman Ramona Banks at Ramona.Banks@Alabama99s.org.