Though there was a bit of a chill in the air and the sky was overcast, the attendance on Saturday at AirVenture Museum’s Family Flightfest was near or above record. The forecast for Sunday was not pleasant so many may have opted to go versus wait a day. Unfortunately I didn’t make it down on Sunday either so I’m glad I was there on Saturday.

Scale modeling was very well represented. Several of us from the regions IPMS Chapters were represented…IPMS-Steve Wittman, IPMS-RI Bong and IPMS-Lakes Region. The single largest exhibit goes to John Frevele who filled several tables with his collection of 1:48 scale masterpieces.

Two things that make participating in this event rewarding for me are the expressions on the kids faces and the military veterans. The kids glow with excitement and wonder. The Veterans, well they seem to remember the pleasant times of being around the aircraft being displayed. One Vet told me that he never got to see an F-105 up close, but he owes his life to them and the guys who flew them during the Vietnam War. He stared at John’s with a sense of fondness even though it reminded him of one of the worst times of his life.

This event allowed us as modelers to share with others not only our building accomplishments, but also to give them some insight as to the process itself. Several of the guys were building while they watched over their tables. Some of the kids and even a few adults grab first then ask so one has to keep an eye peeled!

There was more than paper and plastic scale models too! The kids were able to fly simulators, aerospace puzzles, egg drop parachute competitions, coloring, face painting, paper airplane making, balsa gliders, airplane peddle cars and make their own flying goggles too. Oh I forgot to mention the fine collection of aircraft and exhibits EAA has on display!

The local R/C clubs also were on hand to provide flight demonstrations of their indoor flying skills. Electric airplanes and helicopters of all sizes and shapes took flight in two separate areas of the facility. There were also those who flew gliders and free flight models. Some of the smallest little rubber band powered planes took long flights soaring high towards the ceiling of the Eagle hanger. Even a couple of airships buzzed around the inside of the hanger.

Here are a few images from the event:

See you there next year! I’ll keep you posted about the dates for Family Flightfest 2010.