Midwest Community Experiences Aviation at Sullivan Regional Airport Fly-In

By Carmelo Turdo

The community of Sullivan, Missouri, located about 70 miles southwest of St. Louis, was treated to a day of classic Midwest aviation experiences at the Sullivan Regional Airport Fly-In Saturday.  A wide variety of non-aviation activities were available for the visitors, including a car show, craft booths, and dance performances, but the main attractions were in the air and on the ramp.  The local EAA Chapter flew over 80 Young Eagles - youth from 8-17 years old received their first flights in a variety of aircraft.  Robinson R-22 helicopter rides were given all day by Tom Cline Helicopter, and two rescue helicopters were on display, a BK-117BA-4 from Arch (Air Methods) and a Bell Helicopter 206L-1 Long Ranger II from Air Evac Life Team.  Various general aviation aircraft were also open for viewing: a Pitts Special, an Ercoupe, home-builts and Cessna 172s among others.  The stars of the day were the Missouri Commemorative Air Force aircraft: B-25J "Show Me," L-3 "Lil' Show Me," and the TBM Avenger named for former President George H.W. Bush who flew this type of torpedo bomber as a young Naval Aviator in World War II.  The B-25 delighted the visitors as it flew several times during the day with passengers receiving the ride of a lifetime.  The Aero Experience contributors Carmelo Turdo, Fred Harl and Leo Cachat were on hand to enjoy this Midwest community aviation event, and we encourage all who were not there to make plans to attend next year.  Fred's photos can be seen at the EAA Chapter 1424 website.  Here are some views from the day's activities:

Young Eagle Flights:

Tom Cline Helicopter Robinson R-22 Rides - Fred Harl soars with his camera:

  




Arch and Air Evac Life Team medical helicopters:

General Aviation aircraft on display:

The Missouri Wing Commemorative Air Force B-25J, TBM Avenger and L-3: