Montrose, COLO.—The Fifth Annual Tribute to Aviation, the signature event hosted by the Montrose Regional Airport, kicks-off this Saturday with a static display that promises to entertain and inspire. The historic World War II bomber, the B-17, landed at KMTJ yesterday in anticipation of the Tribute to Aviation. This is just the first of several aircraft that will be descending on the area over the next several days. The event is proudly presented by Montrose Regional Airport, Atlantic Aviation, Pepsi Beverage Company, Horsefly Brewing Company, and Montrose County, the Tribute to Aviation is a static display of some of the nation’s top military and civilian aircraft. A static display of aircraft is a unique event where spectators have the opportunity to tour aircraft, meet and talk with the pilots and crew, and get up close and personal with nearly every aircraft in the military's fleet.
“This is my favorite time of year," said Director of Aviation Lloyd Arnold. "This weekend is a celebration of achievements in aviation and I'm excited for the public to see this year's aircraft on the ramp. From tankers to fighter planes to helicopters to vintage aircraft, there will be an aircraft for every generation. Each year we try to offer a new educational opportunity and staff have created a history in flight display to entertain attendees when they enter the terminal."
This year, the Air Force Special Ops "Air Commando Experience" sponsored by the Air Force Recruitment Services will provide visitors a virtual reality experience inside an air-conditioned trailer. Attendees will be able to experience the sights and sounds of what it's like to be a part of one of the most elite teams in the U.S. Air Force.
Another new feature for this year's event is the addition of the Ultimate Skydiving Adventures talented team of world-class skydivers. The team of local skydivers will bring down the American and the state flag each morning at 10am.
The Commemorative Air Force will also be present with both the SoNoran Beauty SNB-5 and the B-17G. Both aircraft offer short flights around the area in group or single purchase options. For more information on the SNB-5, please visit their website; for more information on B-17G flights, please visit www.azcaf.org.
Some of the unique aircraft coming include: B-17G, F-18 Hornet, C-130, and the Chinook CH-47.
The Tribute to Aviation takes place on September 14 and 15 from 9 am to 4 pm each day. The event is free to the public and includes free parking for the event as well as a free commemorative gifts for children (while supplies last). Several food, beverage, and specialty item vendors will also be present. For more information and a complete list of aircraft attending, please visit tributetoaviation.com or fb.com/montroseregionalairport. In addition to the presenting sponsors, the Tribute to Aviation is also supported by sponsors Del-Mont Consultants, Inc.; Peak Aviation Medical; Corgan; Republic Parking Systems; and Montrose Forest Products, LLC. Overflow parking with shuttle service will be available on the north end of the airport; please follow the signs. The Montrose Regional Airport is located at 2100 Airport Rd, Montrose, CO 81401. Please be advised that commercial flights scheduled during this time will occur as normal; travelers are encouraged to arrive earlier than usual to accommodate the event traffic. Also, with the increase in air traffic on Thursday and Friday, please expect significant aircraft noise as these large planes arrive at KMTJ.