EAA Chapter 229 — Winter Haven, FL
About Our Chapter
At EAA Chapter 229, aviation is more than a hobby — it’s a community. We bring together pilots, builders, restorers, and dreamers of all experience levels, united by a shared passion for flight and a commitment to inspiring the next generation of aviators.
From Young Eagles flights that give kids their first taste of the sky, to fly-ins, hands-on building workshops, and IMC/VMC Club sessions that keep every pilot sharp — there’s always something happening at KGIF. Join us any first Saturday and see for yourself.
Our Story
EAA Chapter 229 was chartered in 1965 and has been part of the Winter Haven aviation community ever since. Based at KGIF Gilbert Field, we serve pilots, builders, and aviation enthusiasts across Polk County and Central Florida — welcoming everyone from first-time dreamers to seasoned airmen.
As an official EAA chapter, we are part of a worldwide network of over 900 chapters united by a common belief: that aviation makes people and communities better. Everything we do — from monthly meetings and VMC/IMC Club sessions to Young Eagles flights — reflects that belief.
EAA Chapter 229
Chapter Leadership
Elected officers serving the 2025–2026 term.
President
Rick Decker
Private Pilot
Vice President
Norm Isler
Private Pilot · Aircraft Builder · AOPA Ambassador
Secretary
Elise Isler
EAA Member
Treasurer
Walt Dix
EAA Member
VMC/IMC Club
Curt Stoltz
EAA Member
Our Hangar
Chapter 229 calls Hangar 100 home — right on the flight line at KGIF Gilbert Field in Winter Haven. It’s more than a building. It’s where conversations happen, projects take shape, and friendships are built over a shared love of flight.
Stop by on any first Saturday and you’ll find members gathered around aircraft, trading stories, sharing technical know-how, and welcoming anyone curious about aviation. Whether you’re a seasoned pilot, a first-time builder, or simply fascinated by what makes things fly — you belong here.
Member Support
Technical Counselors
EAA Technical Counselors are FAA-recognized volunteers who inspect homebuilt aircraft projects and provide expert guidance to builders — free of charge and in strict confidence. The goal is to help members present a “zero defect” aircraft at final FAA inspection.
If you are building or restoring, tap into this benefit early in your project to save time, money, and aggravation.
Chapter Technical Counselor
Mike Bauer
Member Support
Flight Advisors
EAA Flight Advisors are FAA-recognized pilots who provide free first-flight and transition flight guidance for homebuilt aircraft — helping ensure every test flight gets off on the right foot.
Whether you’re preparing for a first flight or transitioning to a new homebuilt type, our Flight Advisors are here to help you fly safely and confidently.
Chapter Flight Advisors
Steve Watson
Dalmar Abshir
Visit Us
Visitors are always welcome and we strongly encourage new membership in our organization.
Address
KGIF — Gilbert Field, 3000 21st St NW, Hangar 100, Winter Haven, FL 33881
Hangar 100 is on the southeast side of the field. Access through Gate 14E on Riddle Rd NW.
Member Meetings
We meet on the first Saturday of each month at 9:00 AM. Please check our Chapter Calendar to confirm meeting dates.
Questions?
Contact Rick Decker, Chapter President
863-206-2842
contact@eaa229.com