18th Annual Get-Together Comes On 'Airport Appreciation Day'

It's almost time! The Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) will hold its annual Fly-In and Open House on Saturday, June 7, at the association’s headquarters on the Frederick Municipal Airport in Frederick, MD.

"We look forward to meeting our members and also telling the general public about our industry," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "Our building will be open for self-guided tours and staff will be on-site throughout the day to interact with members and answer questions."

AOPA will debut its "Discover Flying" seminar at Fly-In, to discuss flight training with non-pilots and answer their questions about how to get started. Pilots are encouraged to bring prospective pilots to Fly-In to attend the seminar and see what general aviation is all about.

Thousands of people annually attend the AOPA Fly-In, now in its 18th year. On a nice flying day, the event attracts hundreds of aircraft that fly in for the day, making Frederick Airport one of the busiest airports in the country. A temporary air traffic control tower will be in place to handle the increase in traffic.
Aircraft display

The AOPA 2008 "Get Your Glass" Sweepstakes airplane will be showcased at the aircraft exhibit area on the ramp. The 1976 Piper Archer is undergoing refurbishments throughout the year and will be awarded to a lucky pilot early in 2009. The Archer's new paint job and new interior -- first seen at Lakeland 2008 -- will be complemented by the public unveiling of a completely upgraded, state-of-the-art glass panel at the Fly-In.

Dozens of aircraft will be on display for the Fly-In. Everything from small single-engine planes to the latest in business jets will be on the ramp for all to enjoy.

One hundred vendors will be exhibiting under the tent behind the AOPA headquarters building. Pilots can browse the aisles for a variety of goods, such as avionics, insurance, and safety information. Prospective pilots will find books, headsets, and valuable information to get their flight training started on the right foot. Additional exhibits of AOPA products will be displayed throughout the building.

June 7 is also Airport Appreciation Day. Airport staff will be on-site to speak about the facilities and meet visitors. In addition, flight instructors at Frederick Flight Center will be available to answer questions and show off the aircraft in their fleet.

FMI: www.aopa.org/fly-in