Dozens of planes landed at the Airport in the Sky on May 25 to celebrate 60 years of general aviation on the island.
More than 50 planes taxied on the newly-repaired runway at ACE Clearwater Airfield. Catalina Island Conservancy hosted the celebration, where pilots, Conservancy Aero Club members and the community grooved to music from Hedgehog Swing. Tiger Squadron performed a precision flyover, with six Nanchang CJ6As demonstrating incredible skill.
The DC-3 Grill featured specials including a throwback menu with the original Sky Burger, a quarter-pound hamburger on pumpernickel bread. Attendees participated in an opportunity drawing for prizes such as commemorative Catalina Air Show artwork, Scheyden Precision Eyewear, limited edition ACE Clearwater Airfield hats, a gift basket donated by Catalina Island Museum, and more. The Conservancy hosted naturalist-led hikes of the Airport Loop Trail, pointing out unique plants, animals and landmarks.
The repaired runway at Airport in the Sky is getting a lot of use, with an average of nearly 20 personal planes landing per day at ACE Clearwater Airfield. Visiting aircraft have ranged in size from a Varieze (max weight 1,000 pounds) to a DC-3 (max weight 25,000 pounds). Catalina Island has long been a favorite destination of aviation enthusiasts.
With a refurbished runway and lots of activity opportunities at the airport and beyond, that storied tradition is primed to continue for years to come.
Aero Club Membership includes landing fees for an entire year. With membership, pilots are also able to participate in the Club’s second Saturday Fly-Ins.
For more information, call 562-437-8555.
