Move Was Nearly 10 Years In The Making

Colorado's Spirit of Flight Center has made a move to a new facility at the Erie Municipal Airport (EIK) in Erie, northwest of the Denver metropolitan area. The move gives the collection three times more square footage than the previous facility provided and now allows for aircraft to fly in to tour the mostly WWII items.

"We have been patiently waiting for nearly 10 years to move the Spirit of Flight Center, but the timing and location just never worked out," said Gordon Page, President of the Spirit of Flight Center. "This move must be meant to be since we were able to pull off a purchase in the economic environment we are in" added Page.

The Spirit of Flight Center had hundreds of visitors in the first few days just by word of mouth that it had settled in at the new location. If the initial reviews and comments are any indication, the new facility will be a destination for aviation history enthusiasts for years to come.

Erie Airport Advisory Board president Bruce Morehead said "I can't believe how much better the new Spirit of Flight facility is over the old one. There is a ton more room, not just for people, but to expand the collection. I can't wait to see what this place looks like when I come in again, which will be often."

The non-profit Spirit of Flight Center facility features over 1000 aviation artifacts from the past, present and future of flight including a Messerschmitt Bf-109, P-51 Mustang and a rare PT-19 which was operated by the famed Tuskegee Airmen. Displays in the museum include tributes to US veterans, Women Air Force Service Pilots, a full size Amelia Earhart bronze statue, and many restored aircraft engines. The new facility is ideal for special event rental and features a spectacular garden which includes a rock wall water feature.

The Spirit of Flight Center is currently seeking tax deductible donations and corporate sponsors for the new facility. An official grand opening for the new center is planned in early 2009.

FMI: www.spiritofflight.com