Airplanes continuously took off Saturday at the Jerome County Airport for the annual Jerome County Appreciation Day and Fly-In.
The event is usually planned for June, but it was pushed back to July after Garth Baker became the new airport manager in May.
“What the Jerome County Airport is trying to accomplish is to reinvigorate — to reignite — the fire of general aviation and let general aviation in the Magic Valley and Idaho know they can come here. This is their spot,” said Baker.
The morning started off with a pancake breakfast hosted by the Jerome County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue. They served approximately 250 people, which is significantly more than last year.
Aviation companies brought their planes, helicopters, & other aviation vehicles from across the area and were also lined up for display along the ramp.
“Once you come here, you get surrounded by people who have flown. If you haven’t flown, you get airplane rides,” said volunteer Jolie Hopevatchi.
Shirts were also sold for $20 to benefit the airport, which also included a free plane ride to the canyon and back.
With a successful outcome, the staff is looking forward to a bigger event next year.
Baker says they look to start planning in November in hopes to have more aircraft and an air show.
Proceeds benefit the Jerome County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue.