Port of Whitman Business Air Center hosted EAA Chapter 328 Colfax Fly-In

Over 220 community members and aeronautical enthusiasts visited the Port of Whitman Business Air Center Saturday, September 23 for the eighth annual Colfax Fly-In. Displays of 45 antique, military and experimental aircraft were complimented by a pancake, sausage and egg breakfast served by the Colfax Rotary Club. 

A myriad of aircraft displays offered visitors of all ages an up-close view of restored war-era planes, light single-engine aircraft and amphibious planes capable of taking off on water and solid ground. Local pilots took home awards for people’s choice plane, youngest and oldest pilot and longest distance flown to the fly-in. 

Jon Ball flew an impressive 175 miles from Yakima in a Widgeon, earning the award for longest distance flown. The dual engine plane flown, which was powered by its original Ranger engines, returned home to Yakima with the people’s choice award. 

Father-son duo Cameron and Braden Donough flew in unison from Mead to Colfax in two single-engine planes. 16-year-old Braden commemorated his first solo fly-in by being granted the youngest pilot award. Braden plans to join the Air Force and later fly commercial jets. 

Art Sager, president of the Washington Flying Farmers, was awarded the oldest pilot award. The 83-year-old from Dusty flew a small, single engine plane into this year’s fly-in. 

Among the planes on display were two military service planes, one of which served in the Korean and Vietnam wars as a forward control and support aircraft. 

Several pilots joined the fly-in in experimental aircraft, showcasing the skill of building or restoring airplanes at home.

Guests of the fly-in had opportunities to learn about the airport and local aeronautical groups through displays provided by the Port of Whitman, Experimental Aircraft Association, Washington Flying Farmers, Washington Pilots Association and the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association.

Barney Buckley, Colfax Fly-In event coordinator, said the event was a success and appreciates the support of the event sponsors, Port of Whitman, Colfax Rotary Club, Joseph’s Grainery, Jones Truck and Implement and Darrell and Linda Fender. 

We will see you at the Fly-In next year!