Saturday marked the second consecutive re-invigorated fly-in at the Watonga Regional Airport. As if to cheer on the event, the day dawned clear and bright with no clouds on the horizon until late afternoon.
The air was filled by 8 a.m. with planes coming in to take advantage of the breakfast being cooked and served by firefighters and members of the city government.
“We were astonished by the overwhelming support and turnout of the event. The interest in Watonga Regional Airport from our community and flying partners was tremendous and appreciated. We look forward to next year's event,” said Watonga City Manager Karrie Beth Little.
As diners lined up for pancakes, sausage, bacon and eggs, kids ate quickly and made a beeline for the bounce house. Friends and relatives and just plain folks from around town sat, drank coffee, ate and visited. Others – about 75 – signed up for discovery flights, an introduction to aviation that might help them decide if they wanted to become airplane pilots through training. Those flights carried some 150 occupants, since each flight could carry more than the 75 persons who signed up.
In addition to those from Watonga, some 25 planes and pilots came in from Midlothian, Texas, Pratt, Kansas, Alva, Enid, Guthrie, Hydro, Okeene, and Thomas. Although these cities are known, there are likely many others that are unknown. The city estimated more than 500
visitors came through the hangar.
Although the meal was free of charge, donations were accepted.
“We received over $350 in donations toward next year's event. We are grateful to Mike Wrenn with Wrenn Aviation and pilots Tim Velasquez, Mikael Ohman and Tiffany Ohman for their donation of time, planes and patience. Thank you, Noe Aviation, for the fuel donated to the aircraft. Without all of their unwavering support, the event would not have happened,” Little added.