9th Annual Fly-In, Cruise-In at Cross City Airport coming April 15

By Tami Stevenson

Cross City, Fla., – Don’t miss the 2023 Fly-In Cruise-In Business Expo in Cross City on April 15, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. It is the 9th annual family friendly hometown celebration to show off aircraft, the history of aircraft, and the local area.

Visitors will be allowed on the flightline to take rides on various aircraft as early as 9 a.m., weather permitting.
The Friends of Army Aviation, a veterans group based out of Ozark, Alabama, will return offering the ever popular combat inspired ride in a restored Vietnam era UH-1 “Huey” helicopter for $75. For more information, visit www.friendsofarmyaviation.org.

A very special opportunity to ride in an open cockpit plane where most WWII pilots were trained, will be available. Take a ride in a 1940 Stearman open cockpit biplane based out of St. Petersburg, Florida. As fuel prices keep moving up, they are doing their best to keep the rides as reasonable as possible. Visit www.clearwaterseaplanes.com/biplane-rides for more information.

Tallahassee Helicopters is returning as well, and can take up to three people at a time in a Robinson R-44. This is a great way to see the area from above or take that first flight in a more domestic helicopter. They do not have a firm price due to fuel prices, last year it was $45 per person. Visit www.tallahasseehelicopters.com for more information.

The opening ceremonies will begin at 10 a.m. Central Florida Skydiving, based out of Dunnellon, will feature a skydiver bringing the flag, during the National Anthem (www.centralfloridaskydiving.com).

Visitors will enjoy watching featured aircraft like The Lima Lima Flight Team which is six privately owned T-34 military trainers from the1950’s. Since the late 1970’s various team members known for their precision formation flying have preformed at hundreds of airshows. Often with the best military flight teams in the world. Long time member and team leader Skip Aldous lives at Cannon Creek Airpark in Lake City.

“Often appearing at the same shows is the Red Star Pilot Assn. who fly a variety of eastern block aircraft such as Nanchang CJ-6A’s and Yak-52’s. Another group of very accomplished pilots who we are very privileged to have at our event. This is a unique chance to see both groups perform, then meet and talk with the pilots,” said Dana Sheffield, Dixie County Chamber of Commerce volunteer and event organizer. Visit www.flyredstar.org for more information.

Sheffield also said they expect all types of civilian and military aircraft from the 1920’s thru today’s latest designs displayed in the air and on the ground.

Always a crowd favorite, the remote control pilots will amaze with their aircraft’s capabilities and flying skills.
Once more they are having a non-judged cruise-in that’s open to classic, custom and special interest vehicles.
Sheffield said, “In addition to beautiful show cars, trucks and bikes, we’ve had pulling tractors, wild swamp buggies, monster trucks, sleek race cars and custom boats, a variety of fire trucks and more. If you have a special vehicle that is show worthy please add it to the cruise-in.”

The last couple years just over 100 vendors helped make the business expo a popular portion to explore. Business’ big and small, organizations, clubs, arts and crafts, healthcare, education and of course FOOD!
Sheffield added, “There are many things for children to experience all day, including the helicopter candy drop for the little ones. Thanks to the wonderful vendors and sponsors that keep it family affordable with NO parking admission or entry fees.”

The 2023 Fly-In Cruise-In at the Cross City Airport is sure to be a great opportunity for children and adults to experience aviation history and enjoy a fun day with the community.