Take a step back in time or look to the future as the third annual Barnstorming Carnival returns to Springfield Beckley Airport Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17.
Admission to this event continues to be free and is open to the public. A change this year will be the Pancake Breakfast on both days which begins at 8 a.m. and ends at 11 a.m.
The term barnstorming came about after World War I when ex-military pilots wanted to find a way to stay in the field of aviation and earn a living. They purchased used military aircraft from the United States and European Governments at reasonable costs. Participating in aircraft races and performing stunts became part of their routine. Because many of the “air shows” were held on farms, the audience would gather near the barn to watch the show. The public display of aerobatics was popular from the late 1920’s to the mid 1940’s. Today pilots continue in the tradition of the old time shows, but many simply bring their vintage aircraft to be placed on static display for aviation fans to admire.
Antique biplane rides are planned again this year, weather permitting from 8 – dark both days. In addition to the vintage aircraft, visitors can also watch model airplanes and helicopters in demonstrations.
At 2 p.m. there will be a kid’s model rocket build for ages 7 – 13 which will take about one and a half hours. If you would like additional information, contact Steve at steve@templefinancialgroup.net. Paper rocket building from 12 – 2 will take place both days. New this year will be an Intro to preflight which is advertised to be “good for all ages”.
Each year the planes increase so you never know who will show up to display their wonderful antique planes that fly in for the occasion from places far and wide including Virginia, North and South Carolina and more. The barnstormers will move west to Indiana and north to Wisconsin for two weeks following the local event.
You can learn more about this fun event in our area by visitingwww.barnstormingcarnival.com.
http://www.newcarlislenews.net/index.php/local-news/events/1695-barnstormers-return-to-local-airport