The annual Gator Fly-In and Armed Services Appreciation Day is on tap for Saturday, March 22, at the University Air Center at Gainesville Regional Airport.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4701 NE 40th Terrace in Gainesville (General Aviation Entrance on Waldo Road). Admission and parking are free, with a complimentary shuttle available.
This year’s event will celebrate “Gators in Space,” highlighting UF’s contributions to aerospace. This year’s featured guests include UF molecular biology professor and Astraeus Space Institute director Rob Ferl, along with U.S. National Aerobatic Champion Patty Wagstaff.
The day will feature a “Flown West” Missing Man ceremony to honor fallen aviators, a color guard presentation and military flyovers.
In addition to aircraft on static display, including military, law enforcement, and privately owned planes, attendees can enjoy live music by The Treetop Flyers, classic car displays, kids’ activities, such as face painting and toy airplanes, arts and crafts vendors and food trucks serving throughout the day.
The third annual “Col. Joe ‘Pamcake’ Breakfast,” honoring Gator Aviator Col. Joe Kittinger, will take place from 8:30 to 11 a.m.
For a fee, visitors can purchase helicopter and airplane rides, including “Swamp Tours” over UF’s Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.
Event Schedule:
- 7:00 a.m. – Vendor setup
- 8:30 a.m. – Col. Joe ‘Pamcake’ Breakfast
- 9 a.m. – Aircraft arrivals and parking (all aircraft parked by 9:30 a.m.)
- 10 a.m. – Public arrival; helicopter and airplane rides begin
- 11 a.m. – Opening Ceremony
- 11:15 a.m. – “Flown West” Ceremony
- 11:20 a.m. – Guest speakers begin
- Noon – Live music and food trucks open
- 2 p.m. – People’s Choice and Best of Show Aircraft Contest winners announced
- 3 p.m. – Closing remarks and aircraft departures