The Sedona Airport will host its Airport Day 2017 on Saturday, Sept. 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for the community to enjoy.
On display will be a variety of aircraft from old military, antiques and restored aircraft, to new, modern, state-of-the-art aircraft with full glass cockpits. In addition, the Sedona Car Club’s annual classic car show with over 100 classic autos and trucks from around the state will be on display. All will be competing for prizes and awards for best of their category of vehicle.
This year Sedona Airport is hosting the PB4Y Privateer, a World War II-era four-engine aircraft built from the
B-24 bomber platform from Casa Grande. The Privateer is the last of its kind still in airworthy condition. The aircraft will be on static display for the public, and the crew will be present to answer questions and teach visitors the history of this iconic World War II aircraft.
Back for a second year is the Young Eagles program, where Arizona pilots fly children ages 8 to 17 in their own personal aircraft at no charge to the children or their parents. This is part of a national program celebrating its 25th year that has seen over 2 million children experience flying with a dedicated pilot.
The goal is to encourage young people to consider becoming a pilot when they are older. Those who have an interest will need to be at the airport early to sign up on a first come, first served basis. Written permission from a parent or guardian is required. Learn more about the Young Eagles program at EAA.org.
During the airport open house, visitors, especially children, will be able to walk and talk with pilots and learn about the modern world of aviation. Students from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott will be on hand to talk about aviation education and careers. Representatives of new aircraft companies will be on hand to demonstrate a brand new high-tech aircraft and talk about their space-age avionics and controls.
The Sedona Modelers, a group of avid aviation enthusiasts who fly model aircraft on weekends from their mini-airfield outside of Sedona, will be sharing their love of flying their planes. Some of their radio-controlled aircraft have wingspans in excess of 6 feet. Solar viewing telescopes will also be set up to safely view solar activity adjacent to the modelers.
Check out the emergency helicopter on display and listen to personnel who will explain their operational systems and procedures. Sedona Airport’s fire department will also be present with its modern fire and rescue trucks and motivated and skilled firefighters.
There is no fee for parking or entrance. The entire event is funded by Sedona Oak Creek Airport Authority and is supported by sponsorships from Sedona businesses including Red Rock Aviation, World Fuels, Phillips 66, Guidance Aviation, Sky Ranch Lodge, Mesa Grill, Sedona Red Rock News, Sedona Flying Club, Safari Jeep Tours and many generous donations from aviation supporters in the community.
Don’t miss out on festival food like kettle corn, hot dogs and burgers, barbecue sandwiches, and snow cones that will satisfy all who love community gatherings.
