Our chapter is a part of the worldwide network of EAA chapters. EAA embodies the spirit of aviation through the world's most engaged community of aviation enthusiasts. EAA's 170,000 plus members enjoy the fun and camaraderie of sharing their passion for flying, building, and restoring recreational aircraft.
Gateway EAA Chapter 1401 was formed in 2004. That summer, a local builder of a Van's Aircraft RV-8 decided to test the waters in the Merced area for interest in forming an EAA chapter. Dwindling numbers at the annual Merced Antique Fly-In, a determined need for local builder support, and a desire to bring renewed energy and hope to the Merced Municipal Airport were primary motivations. After conferring with EAA's national office in Oshkosh, Scott Chastain disseminated over fifty invitations for a formational meeting to be held on Saturday, September 11, of that same year. A minimum of ten current EAA members were needed to create a chapter. remarkably, exactly ten people showed up at that meeting, and an interim Board of Directors was hastily elected for the application process. Insurance and application fees were sent to Oshkosh the following week, along with the required ten signatures.
On September 23rd, 2004, the number 1401 was assigned to the chapter with certain provisions, namely, that chapter by-laws be adopted along with articles of incorporation. Over the course of three months, the interim Board of Directors revised these documents to suit the needs of the chapter and then sent them to the California Secretary of State for adoption. It was during this time that meetings at the Hangar Café continued monthly, and members attended introductory forums on basic aircraft sheet metal design and construction. Additionally, the chapter members voted to assign a permanent name to the organization: Gateway EAA Chapter 1401.
Gateway EAA 1401 is committed to serving Merced and the surrounding area in order to promote the advancement of educations in recreational, sport, and general aviation and related activities.
Note: Due to Covid-19 safety precautions, our monthly are now being held at our hanger at Merced Yosemite Airport. For safety sake we do ask that you wear a facemask and observe social distancing.