The 1960’s marked many significant events at the airport. The Cumberland Soaring Group was formed. Its members utilize the western Knobley Mountain range to practice their craft and this Group has remained active to this day. On almost all fair weather weekends glider pilots gather at the Cumberland Municipal Airport. Also the Alleghany Flying Club was formed which has continued its flight operations to the current time. Both of these flying clubs have an admirable safety record during their long existence.
The crash of a B-52 bomber during this period was a most unfortunate accident with loss of life. Local individuals were involved in the search and rescue. The removal of the two nuclear weapons by military personnel was of great interest. This accident brought the seriousness of the Cold War close to home and made a lasting impression.
John Twigg and Gus Graf are two notable pilots from this period.
The beginning of the Nicholson family operation at the local airport is also noted. Although the Nicholson Air Service could in some ways be termed a monopoly, it could likewise be stated that this air service filled a void and over the next two and one-half decades contributed soundly to our local economy. Overall flying activity, both sport flying and business, remained rather stable during this time.
Wings Over Cumberland 