March 26, 2008 Flying And Alcohol - No. Hangars And Beer - Yes!

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By Mary Grady, Contributing editor

All pilots know that eight hours bottle-to-throttle is an absolute minimum rule, but luckily there is no rule about how soon after landing you can tip back a cold one. Taking advantage of pilots' affection for a tasty brew, some folks in Redlands, Calif., have opened up a microbrewery right next to the airport, in the former headquarters of a missionary flying group. The brewery is named Hangar 24, in honor of a favorite hangout of the owner, Ben Cook, who started brewing beer at home and sharing it with airport friends after the day's flying was done. The beer labels and logo designs feature vintage aircraft and wooden propellers.

The beer can be bought only when you're in the local Redlands area, but anyone can shop at the Web site for an aviation-themed T-shirt or beer glass.