By JC “SMITTY” SMITH
As first-timers to the annual Texas Antique Airplane Fly-In Fall Festival of Flight at the Gainesville Municipal Airport (KGLE) in Gainesville, Texas, we were amazed at the massive number of antique aircraft that flew in.
As they taxied into the static area, they were directed to one of several rows of distinctive aircraft.
But they were not the only aircraft there.
A huge throng of general aviation aircraft and warbirds also arrived at the event, not to mention the jammed airport parking lot of people who drove from miles around to come to the event.
It was indeed a family friendly get-together. Great food, flying and gracious hosts made for a great outing for the whole family. There were even activities for the kiddos, which included educational seminars and a cool homemade airplane train ride.
Conversations were often interrupted by the glorious sounds of vintage aircraft engines, but no one seemed to mind. In fact, they moved en mass to see what plane was offering up the propeller music. Several flew in and out, with the radial engines singing out a tune from years past.
I would dare say that anyone, whether they have an interest in aviation or not, would have thoroughly enjoyed being there. Next year’s event — the 54th — is slated for Oct. 7-8, 2016.
