Balz Aviation

[Reno Box 77]

Does anyone know if Gunther Balz former unlimited pilot is the owner of Balz Aviation at Stead?

[Race5]

Re: Balz Aviation

Does anyone know if Gunther Balz former unlimited pilot is the owner of Balz Aviation at Stead?

He is not the owner.

[Desertdawg]

Re: Balz Aviation

I think Lester Salz is the owner?

[Big_Jim]

Re: Balz Aviation

Does anyone know if Gunther Balz former unlimited pilot is the owner of Balz Aviation at Stead?

Gunther, last time I chatted with him, was still happily living a more quiet retirement in Florida. He at one time was flying a Thunder Mustang, but I'm pretty sure he has long since sold it.

[sledge39]

Re: Balz Aviation

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BALZ OUT AVIATION, INC., Reno-Stead

https://www.nevada-register.com/207411-balz-out-aviation-inc

[sledge39]

Re: Balz Aviation

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... Reno '72 ...

[Desertdawg]

Re: Balz Aviation

Les purchased a T28 back in the late 80s and has had that hanger ever since.

[Lockheed Bob]

Re: Balz Aviation

I'm not sure but I think the hanger was a focal point when they raced the T28's. Was that where they had a regular door upstairs that had no stairs with a sign saying "Complaint Dept"? Photo anyone?

[John H]

Re: Balz Aviation

Yes not related at all. The name is cool though and I like how it ties in to the history.

[Fence Sence]

Re: Balz Aviation

Got to meet Les Salz today. As it happens, we go to the same barbershop. I overheard him talking about airplane stuff and couldn’t help jumping into the conversation. We talked all the way through his haircut and for 10 or so minutes after. It’s funny how airplane nerds can meet for the first time and carry on like two old friends.

[grampi]

Re: Balz Aviation

Gunther Balz used to fly a brown Bearcat out of the Kalamazoo, MI airport...used to fly over our house out in the country to do aerobatics in it...loved watching it!