Family Day Activities set for Sept. 17 at Skagit Regional Airport

Young people will have a chance to explore the world of aviation and earn a free airplane ride when the Port of Skagit hosts a family day, “Flying into the Future,” at Skagit Regional Airport (BVS) in Burlington, Wash., from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sept. 17.

Co-sponsored by the Skagit Airport Support Association, the event will combine education, career counseling and fun activities while showcasing the airport as a valuable community asset, according to organizers. The program revolves around four units:

• Airports 101 – Participants will be able to “taxi” and “take off” on foot around an indoor model of the Skagit Regional Airport layout, under direction by radio from an air traffic controller.
• Airplanes 101 – A variety of aircraft will be on static display, with volunteers standing by at each plane to tell about them and answer questions.
• Bird Flight – This activity will make the connection between birds and airplanes, explaining the similarities and differences in how they fly.
• Flying Gizmo Show – Operated by Seattle’s Museum of Flight, this assembly-style program is designed to help participants discover the science and history of flight through the use of flying toys and models (pictured). Its toy collection includes a flapping-winged bird, kites, parachutes, gliders, stomp rockets, and many others.

Youth ages 8 through 17 who complete at least three of the units will be eligible for a free airplane ride, provided by members of Bay View Chapter 818 of the Experimental Aircraft Association, through the EAA’s “Young Eagles” program. A parent’s signature is required on a release form.

Representatives of several aviation schools and the armed forces will be on hand to explain career options, and the U.S. Navy is tentatively scheduled to display a Knighthawk rescue helicopter. Radio-controlled model aircraft will be on display, and the Mount Vernon Children’s Museum will have activities for younger children. Food and drink vendors round out the offerings.

For more information: 360-757-0011 or PortOfSkagit.com