Aviation & Education Expo

The annual Copperstate Fly-In has become a popular fall destination for aviators across the southwest U.S. since its inception in 1973. For 2016, the Fly-in moved north from Casa Grande Municipal Airport (KCGZ) in Arizona to Falcon Field Airport (KFFZ) in Mesa, Arizona and took place on October 28 and 29.

The Copperstate is the largest Fly-In of its type in the western United States and the third largest in the U.S. It attracts recreational and general aviation enthusiasts from across the southwest. The Fly-In promotes recreational and general aviation for all through scholarships and public education.

Aircraft from over 20 states were present, including warbirds, ultralights, gyrocopters, home-builts, small jets, and some helicopters. Aircraft and non-aircraft exhibitions along with a drone room were also part of the event. In addition, there were educational workshops and seminars for pilots, business information booths, and youth activities that promote aviation, youth aviation, and learning new skills.

The Fly-In headquarters was inside the Falcon Warbirds hangar at the airport, and the Warbirds’ planes were a big part of the show. Attendees were able to book a ride on WWII Warbirds, a vintage Stearman, the C-47 “Old Number 30,” and a red 1930 New Standard biplane named “Stanley,” which was originally built for barnstorming by Ivan Gates of “Gates Flying Circus” and Charles Healy Day

The Copperstate Fly-In fosters curiosity and helps build a solid foundation in educating youths on aviation though various educational activities and a scholarship program. It was free to anyone 18 and younger because the Copperstate encourages young people to learn about aviation and careers in the industry.

I stopped by the relaxed 2-day event early Saturday morning and captured the following photographs.

For additional Copperstate Fly-In information:
https://www.copperstate.org/

Fly safely and have fun.

Denny D