Elkhart Municipal Airport gearing up for 'War Bird Fly In'
Posted: Sep 28, 2011 2:05 AM EDT | Updated: Nov 6, 2014 9:24 AM EDT
ELKHART, Ind. -- The sounds of vintage war planes will echo over Elkhart on Saturday, Oct. 8, as over 40 different varieties of WWII aircraft will fly over in formation.
‘War Bird Fly In’ started last year, when pilot Chuck Marshall decided to gather up his friends and fellow war bird enthusiasts.
“The guys that are coming are from all walks of life, they love aviation, they’re all professional pilots in one sense or another,” said Marshall.
The Elkhart Municipal Airport Manager, Andy Jones, said the taste of history will be even sweeter this year, since the event will be open to everyone.
“Last year we had a tremendous turnout, and the public was there with their noses up against the fence, their hands wanting to come in, so we weren’t set up to accommodate the public,” said Jones.\\
Jones said the City of Elkhart is helping make this event possible.
Mayor Dick Moore told ABC 57 he is happy to help put on a good show for residents.
“It’s really exciting for us. So we appreciate everything they’re doing,” said Moore.
Gates will open at 7 a.m., with breakfast served. Flying starts at 10 a.m.
Organizers are asking for a $10 donation, or $30 per car, to help offset the cost of fuel for the aircraft.
Since this is not an airshow, organizers recommended attendees bring lawn chairs or blankets.