Local Fly-Ins, National Aviation Events & Air Shows...

[AircraftOwner Online]

It has been a busy year of national and local aviation events most of which entertained us with an air show or two. What is your "must attend" aviation event of the year? Is it your airports local fly-in, is the world's largest gathering in Oshkosh or is it that dare devil pilot you seek out because they put on a show like no body else?  Share with us your favorite(s).

[Michael Taylor]

Great question! My “must-attend” event of the year is Sun ‘n Fun in Lakeland, FL (KLAL) for all the great things they are known for, but especially the Silver Wings Fraternity clubhouse. They are conveniently located behind the FAA building in the middle of the campus. Having your own clubhouse to crash at makes attending a large event like this much more pleasant. You can rest your feet in-between all your trips throughout the day. We have a burger/dog lunch for members, a clean restroom (no more porta-potties), golf carts to transport members, a large deck out back for relaxing with your friends, fresh-brewed Flying High Coffee, and many other benefits. We even have our own ham radio station!
You might meet such aviation notables as Corkey Fornof or an astronaut. There are several chapters around the US, including one near Tampa. Dues are only $25 per year. However, the biggest satisfaction members get is knowing that their Aviation Scholarship Program is helping young people get started in their aviation careers. That’s our way of helping alleviate the looming shortage of pilots, mechanics, controllers and others in aviation. Join us today and be a member of the Fraternity!
SILVER WINGS FRATERNITY is a charitable and educational [501(c)(3) not–for–profit applicant] membership organization founded in 1958 by aviation pioneers. Its membership consists of pilots who soloed more than 25 years ago, newer pilots, and others with a genuine interest in aviation, who endeavor to provide educational opportunities in aviation to young people, and who seek fellowship and camaraderie with aviators worldwide. It is best known for celebrating the aviation achievements of its members, for providing scholarship funds and mentoring opportunities to young people, and for hosting and maintaining its clubhouse at the annual Sun ‘n Fun International Fly–In & Expo in Lakeland, Florida. For more information, access their website at www.silverwings.org.