Massive fly-in slated for Polson

On July 27, pilots of powered hang gliders, otherwise known as “trikes”, from all across the United States, will converge at the Polson Airport for North America’s largest fly-in of this type of aircraft. Anyone interested in light-sport flight is welcome to visit the airport, view the aircraft, take introductory flight to experience the thrill and beauty of open cockpit flight, or sign up for lessons to become a licensed pilot.

Forty aircraft along with their pilots and crew are expected for the five-day fly-in. These colorful birds will be flying each day around Polson, Flathead Lake and up into Glacier National Park. Many participants will camp out near the runway.

While the Federal Aviation Administration regulates this category of aircraft and crew, pilots will be expanding their knowledge at safety and neighborly consideration workshops.

Several certified flight instructors, including Todd Ware from Air Therapy Aviation in Bigfork, will be offering discounted discovery flights. Veterans, firemen and police officers will receive an additional $10 discount.

On Saturday and Sunday a veteran to veteran support group from Missoula’s “Xsports 4 Vets” will bring groups of veterans up to Polson for a day of therapeutic flight lessons.

The airport is one mile west of Polson off U.S. 93.