Fly-In/Drive-in set for this weekend

The sky’s the limit at Shoshone County Airport as it hosts aviation eye candy of various persuasions at the Silver Valley Fly-in/Drive-in today and tomorrow.

Dust off that old taildragger, air out that old hangar queen or just play tourist for two days of airport and community activities, ranging from airplane rides to bike excursions.

This event is another occasion for the Silver Valley to showcase its role as an outdoor adventure and aviation playground.

“This is a great area. This event could really put us on the map,” Shoshone County Airport manager Richard Abers said.

Among the many fly-in related activities, the airport hosts a breakfast and lunch today.

Throughout the weekend, featured activities include: airplane rides, static displays including MUAV drones, a bi-plane and other equipment; historic, zip line, fishing, golf, hiking, biking and other tours; food, music and arts and crafts; gondola rides and hiking adventures.

Among various officials and representative expected are from the Honor Point Military & Aerospace Museum, the Northwest 99s, Shoshone County Fire Protection District, Life Flight, Civil Air Patrol and other aviation organizations.

Free shuttle service to and from the airport throughout the valley is also available at this event.

“There has never been a fly-in at the airport since I’ve been here. And I’ve talked to other people who said they didn’t even know there was an airport,” Silver Valley Chamber of Commerce coordinator Colleen Rosson said.

“It’s a great opportunity to see one of the most amazing airports in our state.”

What the fly-in will help to do is to introduce visitors, public and potential investors to the many existing and potential airport amenities and services available at the airport as a tourism, aviation and business hub. Such factors will help address the area’s struggling economy, Abers said.

“Sometimes, I think people don’t know what we have,” Abers said, explaining the airport’s scenery, tourism proximity, VFR visibility and runway length are all contributing factors to the airport’s local, regional and statewide importance as it continues to grow as a destination airport.

“I’ve seen a lot of airports throughout the area… and nobody gets close to what this valley offers,” said Abers.

Come check out the Fly-in/ Drive-in today and tomorrow at the Shoshone County Airport, located at 926 Airport Road in Smelterville.