The Fayette County Open House/Fly-In will make its soaring return this Saturday, Aug. 5 at the local airport.
Now in its fifth year, the Fly-In typically draws a crowd of more than 1,500 aviation enthusiasts as well as those just looking for some good, family fun.
“We’d love to have even more come this year,” said Jerry Van Dyke, the manager of the Fayette County Airport, located at 2770 State Route 38 Northeast, Washington Court House. “We invite anyone from the community and surrounding communities to come out. For anyone who enjoys aviation, I think they’ll really enjoy it. It’s been a fun event.”
The event will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with a 5K run beginning at 8 a.m. Sign-ups for the run begin at 7 a.m. and participants will receive a “swag bag” that will include a medal and t-shirt. Those interested in participating can also sign up early at Fayette County Travel & Tourism, Court House Fitness, 9 Round, the Fayette County YMCA, the Fayette County Airport, or online.
“We’re really excited about the 5K….it’s the second year we’ve held it,” said Jolinda Van Dyke, the executive director of Fayette County Travel & Tourism. “You can also sign up the day of.”
All proceeds from the run will go to Hospice of Fayette County – a local, non-profit agency that provides comfort management and physical, mental and spiritual support where there is a life-limiting illness – and Kamp Dovetail – a volunteer-run summer camp sponsored by Supplemental Assistance to the Handicapped (S.A.T.H.), a non-profit organization. The camp is for children with disabilities in Highland and surrounding counties, such as Fayette.
Also in the morning, a pancake and sausage breakfast will be available to all.
Bi-plane rides are always one of the biggest draws of this event and this year should be no different. These rides will begin at 9 a.m. and continue all day.
A sky-diving show, courtesy of Team Fastrax based in Middletown, will delight the crowd with three performances – 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., weather permitting.
“As always, lots of airplanes will be on static display throughout the day,” said Jolinda Van Dyke. Aircraft from World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and T 51 Mustangs will all be on display.
New this year is a Jeep display event organized by the Southern Ohio Jeepers Association. Trophies will be given out to the best Jeeps and each owner will receive a dash plaque.
Lunch will be available as well as kids’ activities, including face painting, bounce houses and an inflatable obstacle course.
“Bring the family out to the Fayette County Airport and enjoy the day,” said Jerry Van Dyke.
