PERRYVILLE — Approximately 38 airplanes, three helicopters, two gyroplanes and close to 400 people turned out for the 2nd Annual Perryville Airport Spring Fly-In Sunday.
There were also 17 contestants, ages 6-12, who participated in the Great Paper Airplane Distance Throwing Contest.
Eleven-year-old Easton Blechle of Perryville threw his airplane the farthest at 60 feet.
Ten-year-old Wyatt Holt of Perryville and 11-year-old Bentley Graham of Ste. Genevieve tied with a 55-foot launch each, so a “throw off” was held. Wyatt took second and Bentley came in third.
The Perryville Airport Board, event sponsors, would like to thank the many area businesses who donated door prizes for the event; Paul Salmon of Cape Copters who provided 10 free helicopter rides; and vendors–Wicks Aircraft Supply, the United States Air Force, SIU School of Aviation; EAA Young Eagles, RC Model Airplane enthusiasts from Ste. Genevieve and Chester; Bob Lockhart with his synchronized machine gun (that shot nerf balls), the Civil Air Patrol, Air Evac and grillers Charlie Thomas and company for their participation.
The event was held to showcase the exceptional asset that the airport is to Perryville and the surrounding communities.