Chilliwack Flight Fest

This year’s Chilliwack Flight Fest is presented by the RE/MAX Realtors of the Lower Mainland.  Check HERE for all the information on this years event.

An action packed weekend was planned for aviation enthusiasts young and old to celebrate the Annual Flight Fest held at Chilliwack Municipal Airport. The celebrations had begun with a Hangar Dance and Twilight Show on the Saturday evening followed by a packed day of events on the Sunday including an early morning Pancake Breakfast and the eagerly anticipated Air show in the afternoon. This was when we arrived, in the blistering heat not really knowing what to expect. We soon realised that we most definitely had not planned or researched well enough for the day. It was by far, one of the hottest days of the summer and we were ill prepared for the scorching heat. We also arrived with puppy in tow only to realise that dogs were not permitted onsite.  Therefore we took it in turns to ‘puppy sit’ outside the main gate.

There were a large number of magnificent aircraft on display, lovingly cared for and maintained by their dedicated custodians.  The male members of the family took great delight exploring the cockpit of an ‘air sea rescue’ helicopter, marvelling at the vast complexity of the instrument panel and grilling the on hand crew member for tales of intrepid rescues.  For those patrons wishing to get a more ‘hands on’ experience a flight simulator was on site to satisfy their need for speed.  The Air show started with all eyes directed to the four parachutes descending from the sky, where we were treated to the breathtaking sight of smoke trails and patriotic flags billowing from the legs of the daring parachutists. Aircraft of different varieties then proceeded to wow the crowd with jaw dropping displays of amazing skill and bravery. Such a delight to see so many aircraft that are only normally seen in old films and history books, take flight and dazzle the crowd.

For an admission free event Chilliwack Annual Flightfest was truly worth a visit, especially for those with an interest in aviation. Chilliwack Municipal Airport is easy to find simply head out of the city on Young Road and turn left into Airport Road. Parking is available on site and also along Airport Road. For those not wishing to drive buses were provided from the UCFV Campus. So for a great day out pack a picnic, bring the folding chairs, slap on the sunscreen, leave the dogs at home and head for the airport.

Julie and Family attended the 2009 Flightfest. Watch for the 19th Annual edition coming in August 2010!