MIDDLETON, WIS. – Fly-in breakfasts provide a festive atmosphere for both pilots and the non-flying public. Upon his arrival to Middleton-Morey Airport (C29), July 11, 2010, for its annual EAA Chapter fly-in breakfast, one pilot was approached by a mother and her grown son who explained that they had never been to the fly-in before, and came for an airplane ride. They were as excited as any of us the first time we went to the local airport to fly in a general aviation airplane. They wanted to experience the thrill and sights we pilots now take for granted.
Later while having breakfast in the hangar with friends, the pilot described that positive encounter and asked why it is that we in aviation find ourselves always on the defense, when everyone seems to enjoy flying, whether it is in general aviation aircraft or on the airlines to go on vacation. A Delta Airlines pilot responded, “we in the airlines are trying our best to change that (positive image of flying).”
Some 990 breakfasts were served, down a bit from the all-time record of 1,182 in 2009, according to EAA Chapter 1389, sponsors of the fly-in. All proceeds go to chapter activities intended to make a contribution to aviation, especially in the form of EAA Young Eagles rides.
The chapter has learned that in order to attract a good crowd and a lot of fly-in aircraft, they have to serve a good breakfast, and they did. Not just pancakes, but your choice of fried or scrambled eggs, sweet rolls, juice, white and chocolate milk, and coffee – all for $6.00 a plate.
Watching planes land and takeoff was thoroughly entertaining for aviators and non-aviators alike, and the variety of airplanes on the ramp, interesting.
The largest plane was a T28A Trojan owned by Ron Grosso of Cottage Grove, Wisconsin. Chuck Knutson of McFarland, Wisconsin, was the crew chief. Grosso and Knutson encouraged visitors to ask questions and sit in the cockpit.
Winning the most “colorful” aircraft of the day was an Acro Sport II owned by Bobby Davis of Madison, Wisconsin, not to be confused with air show performer, Bob Davis of Woodstock, Illinois. Bobby was especially “kid friendly,” and helped dozens of children into the cockpit of the aerobatic biplane.
Jay Martin of Madison, Wis., displayed his pride and joy – an RV-8A – and there were plenty of modern and vintage Cessna, Piper, Beech and Cirrus aircraft on the ramp, as well as light sport aircraft.
Aside from the flying attractions at the fly-in, the new “Confectionique” gift shop, located in the main terminal building at Middleton-Morey Airport, gave many people a different reason for attending the fly-in.
Anastasia Korbitz and Jessica Regele are two crafting sisters dedicated to finding forgotten vintage trinkets and crafting them into handmade treasures with a European vintage flavor. Besides their own craft-pieces, Confectionique features crafts of other crafters and artists. Call ahead for hours and special events: 608-206-4590 (www.Confectionique.com).
Parking and spectator safety remains a high priority for EAA Chapter 1389 members.
