SEATTLE — The Washington Seaplane Pilots Association (WSPA) will host its annual Grounded Hogs Gala on Feb. 21, 2025, at the Museum of Flight’s T. A. Wilson Great Gallery.
This year’s keynote presentation, “Men on Mars,” will feature Martin Mars pilots Peter Killin and Rick Matthews of Coulson Aviation, who flew the Martin Mars water bombers on firefighting missions for decades. They will share stories from the cockpit, as well as the history of these legendary aircraft.
The evening kicks off with a social hour and silent auction, followed by a recap of WSPA’s accomplishments and initiatives over the past year, according to association officials. The event concludes with the Grounded Hogs raffle, featuring aviation gear, flight experiences, and other prizes.
The Washington Seaplane Pilots Association is dedicated to preserving and expanding access to Washington’s waterways for seaplane operations. Since its founding in the 1970s, WSPA has played a role in advocating for pilots’ rights, fighting against restrictions on water access, and working with regulators to ensure safe and responsible seaplane operations. Recent successes include the establishment of new seaplane bases in Olympia and Lake Curlew, as well as continued efforts to protect access to key aviation-friendly lakes across the state.
Tickets for the Grounded Hogs Gala are available at GroundedHogs.com. Early registration is encouraged, as the event often sells out, officials noted.
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