MCBRIDE, Mo. – The Perryville Municipal Airport will host its second annual “Spring Fly-In” event beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, April 30.
The event will be a way for locals to learn about and celebrate the world of aviation.
“It’s an exciting day for our community, especially anyone who is curious about flight,” said Greg Gremminger, Perryville Airport Board Member. “We’ll have various types of aviation on site including airplanes, helicopters, ultralights, gyroplanes, RC model displays, and drones.”
A fly-in is when pilots, who arrive by air, gather for a showing of their planes similar to a car show. Unlike a typical air show, a “Fly-in” is a display of planes lined up. Visitors will be able to see the planes up close and talk with pilots.
“In addition to talking to pilots, we’ll have representatives from two flight schools (SIU-Carbondale School of Aviation and SEMO Flight School) to provide information on training to become a pilot as well as planning a career in aviation,” explained Gremminger. “The Civil Air Patrol will be here as will representatives from the Experimental Aircraft Association to tell youngsters about its Young Eagles program.”
Gremminger said besides showcasing the airport as a great community asset for Perryville, he hopes kids will come and enjoy the activities.
“We’re getting back to “grassroots” aviation with a paper airplane flying distance competition at 1:00 p.m., said Gremminger. “Youngsters between 6 and 12 are invited to bring their paper airplanes made at home or use the paper and instructions available at the Fly-in. First, second and third place winners will receive McDonald’s gift cards.
There will be some hangar exhibits, free refreshments (brats, hotdogs and chips), and drawings for helicopter rides courtesy of Cape Copters and other prizes.
“We want people to come check things out, get some food, meet the pilots and learn about the many fun ways we all enjoy the miracle of flight.”
Should the weather be inclement, the Fly-in will be held on Sunday, May 1.
