Flights of Our Fathers Fly-In set for Sept. 19

TERRELL, TEXAS – The eighth annual Flights of Our Fathers Fly-In at the Terrell Municipal Airport (KTRL) takes off Saturday, Sept. 19, for a day of aerobatics, displays of military and vintage aircraft, World War II re-enactors, a car and motorcycle show, barbecue cook-off, kids’ activities, guest speakers, and more.

“We’ve really stepped up our game this year, thanks to our sponsors,” said Don Thurman, chairman of the board of directors of the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum, the beneficiary of proceeds from the fly-in. “We’ve added two aerobatic performers – Randy Ball in his “Check-Six” MiG-17F and Adam Baker flying his Extra 330 LX – who will thrill crowds with their daredevil flying.”

The annual event draws thousands of aviation enthusiasts. After the British and American flags are posted at 8:15 a.m., the fun begins with a pancake breakfast ($5) from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. benefiting the Civil Air Patrol Black Sheep Squadron. Visitors can enjoy the static displays of vintage and military aircraft, visit a World War II re-enactor camp, or stop by the car and motorcycle show throughout the morning. The performers take to the skies around 10 a.m. and again around 2:30 p.m. for an airshow.

Two formation flight teams – the Texas V-Tails and Falcon Flight – begin the airshow, followed by Pat Tuckey flying his home-built RV-8 aircraft doing the “Tuckey Twosome.” Dave Honaker’s Super Decathlon, Russell Husbands in a Pitts and Carl Best’s T-6 trainer will also take to the skies.

Baker, flying his Extra 330, will race a Corvette Grandsport down the runway as part of his performance. Up next is Ball flying a restored MiG-17F, the primary enemy aircraft of the Vietnam War.

Visitors can also purchase rides in some of the aircraft on display, including Commander Phil Webb’s Stearman biplane, one of the aircraft actually used at Terrell to train RAF pilots during World War II, and the Commemorative Air Force’s B-25.

Educational activities and crafts will be offered throughout the day in the Kids’ Zone, housed in one of the hangars.

Tickets are $7 per person or $15 per carload.