Photos courtesy of Long Beach Airport.
Vintage aircraft buffs and fans of modern aviation alike will have the chance to convene at the Long Beach Airport (LGB) during the third annual LGB Fly-In on Saturday, November 7 from 11:00AM to 3:00PM. Airplanes and helicopters old and new will be flown into LGB to stand as static displays for attendees to view them up close.
“Long Beach has such a proud and distinguished place in aviation history, whether it’s our contributions to the pioneering era of barnstorming or the crucial manufacturing of military and commercial aircraft,” said Mayor Robert Garcia in a statement. “The LGB Fly-In ’15 will be an important celebration of that legacy, and a fun way to inspire a new generation of local enthusiasts.”
The Fly-In ‘15 is all set to be a bigger and better event than its first two runs, thanks to a wide array of aircraft, exhibitors and vendors expected to attend, according to the release. Radio and television personality and longtime helicopter pilot, Commander Chuck Street, will serve as Master of Ceremonies during the event.
Some of the aircraft on static display will include a Catalina Flying Boats DC-3, Waco Biplane, Stearman Biplane and an Alon Aircoupe, according to the announcement.
“Bring your family out for a day of learning about and experiencing planes that have been a storied part of Long Beach’s aviation history,” said Councilwoman Stacy Mungo in a statement. “The annual LGB Fly-In is a wonderful community event designed for neighbors of all ages.”
For guests ages 21 and over, an adjacent beer garden entitled The Paradies Fly-In Festival will benefit Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach Auxiliary and Leadership Long Beach. Guests are also encouraged to bring canned goods to donate to local nonprofit Food Finders.
“We are so proud to once again welcome the community for this special occasion,” said Airport Director Bryant L. Francis, C.M., in a statement. “Aviation is our passion, and the opportunity to share that passion and excitement with our neighbors is one that we cherish here at Long Beach Airport.”
The Fly-In will be held on the west end of the airfield. Parking is free of charge and located on East Wardlow Road and Globemaster Way. Gourmet food trucks will offer lunch, available for purchase, alongside live entertainment, giveaways, pet adoptions courtesy of Long Beach Animal Care Services and more. Guests are encouraged to bring water and wear close-toed shoes. All ages are welcome. No pets will be allowed, except service animals.
Anyone interested in reserving a static display should contact Long Beach Airport at 562.570.2678. For more information, please follow Long Beach Airport on Facebook here or visit the website here.