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This year SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo celebrated its 50th Anniversary. This event began in 1974 and was a fly-in for aviation pursuers. Over the years it has grown to become an infamous event that pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike come to experience. People travel from all around the globe just to experience this yearly occasion. SUN 'n FUN has evolved into a gathering where both pilots and aviation admirers unite, coming together to genuinely revel in the awe-inspiring world of flight.The community that people have the opportunity to be a part of is parallel to no other. People of all ages are present and surrounded by something they are passionate about. Everyone takes time out of their busy lives to come and experience this weekend. There is so much joy and comradery in its entirety. Friends fly into the event together, and families camp alongside the taxiways. There are hosted movie nights for the families and hangouts across the grounds. Young girls have the opportunity to see other successful and professional female role models to inspire them. Young adults are exposed to the many paths one can take in aviation, varying from professional pilots to ground operations, air traffic controllers, maintenance personnel, military, and so much more.
This year there were over 560 exhibitors who attended and participated in the weekend. Over 130 of those were new to the expo. With that many different organizations, there is truly something for everyone! Geared towards the younger generation was the "Future in Flight" exhibition. Focused on the 7-17-year old group, this exhibition aims to provide hands-on learning and experiences. The career fair was also active all six days of the airshow. The career fair hosted an array of different occupations in the aviation industry. Representing airline companies such as Endeavor Air, Frontier Airlines and GoJet Airlines. Also present were part 135 companies such as PlaneSense and flight academies such as Skyborne Airline Academy. In the high school located on the grounds, they hosted classes for individuals to come and learn more differing topics in aviation. Individuals spoke on personal experiences and got to offer advice to other pilots. The topics covered included aeromedicals, flying internationally, understanding the avionics in your aircraft, and discussions on how to best use ForeFlight.
SUN ‘n FUN, is the second largest airshow in the U.S. and began its week on Tuesday and lasted through Sunday. Tuesday and Wednesday both set records for the most amount of people attending the event. Thursday was rained out, but that did not dampen people's spirits. The crowds flocked the grounds early Friday morning to participate in all SUN ‘n FUN has to offer. The airshows across the week hosted aircraft such as the F-18, F-33C Bonanza, various Warbirds, a T-6 squadron, the Polaris Ghost Squadron with the Mig 29, Alpha Jet and L-39. Performers such as the infamous Patty Wagstaff, Lee Lauderback and the United States Air Force's Thunderbirds took to the sky.
The oldest performer demonstrated his incredible flying capabilities during the night show. Manfred Radius graciously controlled the glider that danced along the night sky. There were streaming fireworks that displayed off his wing tips and an awe-deafening silence overtook the crowd. The display of the glider was a moment of peacefulness and tranquility. Radius had performed in numerous airshows throughout his life, and at 80 years old, this was the display of his retirement. As he landed and opened the hood of his glider, the crowd cheered with pride. That moment was a true testament to the community aviation provides an individual.
Following his retirement performance, the drone show was initiated. An incredible display of the advancement in technology sparkled across the sky. Simultaneously, fireworks lit across the viewing and lasers were performing a light show towards the crowds. In short, that night show is going to be incredibly hard to top. Every single person admired the creation and execution displayed that evening.
All of this would not have been possible without the dedication and sacrifice of the volunteers. This year alone there were more than 2,900 people who gave their time so that this event could thrive. Over the past 50 years, they have had over 20,000 individuals on record who have volunteered and supported. Many of these individuals attend year after year, just looking to give back to the aviation community.
The SUN 'n FUN Aerospace Expo celebrated its monumental 50th Anniversary, marking a half-century of aviation enthusiasm and camaraderie. Even though it began as a modest fly-in for aviation enthusiasts, it has blossomed into a globally renowned event, drawing pilots and admirers from all corners of the world. This yearly gathering has evolved into much more than just an airshow; it's a vibrant community where people of all ages come together to share their passion for flight. From thrilling aerial displays to hands-on learning opportunities for the younger generation, the expo offers something for everyone. This year's event saw record-breaking attendance, despite weather challenges, showcasing the unwavering dedication of participants and volunteers alike. The highlight of the week was undoubtedly the mesmerizing night show, featuring awe-inspiring performances and cutting-edge technology, a testament to the spirit of innovation within the aviation community. As SUN 'n FUN continues to thrive, fueled by the commitment and sacrifice of its volunteers, it stands as a shining example of the inclusive and supportive nature of aviation lovers worldwide.
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