Frenchville Air Show sure to be a soaring success
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
FRENCHVILLE — The St. John Valley Aero Club, in conjunction with the Northern Aroostook Regional Airport, will be hosting the third annual Fly-In and Air Show Aug. 18-19 at the Frenchville airport.
“The annual fly-in and premier of a two-day air show is the first and largest of its kind in Aroostook County in more than 20 years, since before the closure of Loring Air Force Base, Limestone, in 1994,” said Randy Harper, a Presque Isle pilot and event promoter.
“No coolers, pets, alcohol or glass containers will be allowed,” noted Harper.
Three major aerobatic performances will be featured both days of the event. Other activities include: airplane and helicopter static displays; military, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol and Maine Warden Service demonstrations and fly-bys; airplane rides; remote-controlled aircraft demonstrations; candy drop for children; music; entertainment; and various food vendors. Emergency medical support and restrooms will be present on site.
“Acadia Air Tours will provide rides in a Waco, open-cockpit, bi-plane at a cost of $60,” said Harper.
The main aerobatic events for both days are: Dan Marcotte, competitor of the Reno Air Races and other land-speed competitions, flying an Ultimate 10-200 bi-plane (www.danmarcotteairshows.com); and Jimmy Parker, in two unique routines — one in the ‘Claire de Lune’ glider and the other in a Pitts (Special) S-2B, self-narrated ‘Aerobatics 101,’ performing while narrating his maneuvers to the crowd below (www.jimparkerairshows.com)” explained Harper.
Sunday’s show highlights the renowned Texas Flying Legends, arriving at approximately 10:30 a.m. in five of their museum’s vintage World War II aircraft.
“They are on annual summer tour throughout New England to honor and inspire awareness of military veterans and their sacrifices during that great conflict,” said Harper.
Aerial demonstrations and up-close static displays include a B-25 (Mitchell) Bomber, Japanese Zero, P-51 Mustang, (Curtiss) P-40K and FU4 Corsair.
“The museum team is flying in at their own expense to contribute to the event,” he said. More information is available at www.flyingfreedom.us.
Saturday morning’s show will kick off with an aircraft flying parade over the St. John Valley. The weekend will close Sunday with a grand finale by the Texas Flying Legends over Long Lake on their 4 p.m. departure.
Personal and business aircraft fly-ins are welcome before the air show, on Friday, Aug. 17; during the air show hours of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., pre-coordination is required. Organizers recommend checking the website for guidance and be aware of scheduled traffic and landing restrictions due to ongoing flight activities.
“Also check NOTAMs (Notice to Airman) before departure and call Frenchville Unicom frequency (122.7) 10 miles out,” said Harper.
A campsite on the airport grounds is available for pilots and support crew (only) flying in for the event.
Gates will be open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and teens, free to children under 12 and senior citizens over 60.
The Northern Aroostook Regional Airport is located at 74 Airport Avenue, Frenchville. Follow airplane/airport signs posted on Route 1, between Madawaska and Fort Kent. The airport is approximately three miles south from the intersection from Route 1. Turn onto Starbarn Ave., then right on Cleveland Ave., then turn left on Airport Road.
For more information, visit the public website at www.SJVAeroClub.org, call the airport at 543-6300 or e-mail pchasse@sjvaeroclub.org or randall.w.harper@maine.gov.
