Airport hosts Hot Springs Aerospace Day this weekend

Hot Springs Memorial Field, Springs Metro Partnership and the Arkansas Economic Development Commission will host Hot Springs Aerospace Day from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on Saturday, April 28 at the airport. Admission and on-site parking is free.

The family-friendly event will highlight the current availability of well-paying local jobs in the aerospace industry. Those wanting to change careers, as well as graduating high school students who are considering career options, are encouraged to attend.

Aerospace company displays will include AAR, CMT, Triumph Fabrications and Triumph Airborne Structures.  Tours of AAR will be offered.  Aerospace training providers including National Park Community College, Pulaski Technical College, Southern Arkansas University and Henderson State University will also staff displays.

Main attractions include the display of two World War II vintage aircraft, the Mitchell B-25 Bomber and the TBM Avenger. Private rides on the B-25 will be offered for a fee, along with the opportunity to get a photograph made inside the plane, and credit cards will be accepted.  A T-34 World War II trainer and additional vintage aircraft will be on static display, as will a Blackhawk helicopter.  The Forestry Service will demonstrate a water drop to show its firefighting capabilities. 

Members of the Experimental Aircraft Association will offer free flights to youths ages 7 to 17 during the event, to promote interest in aviation.  The event will also feature booths by military recruiters, a flight simulator from Henderson University, and a late-afternoon appearance by Spa Force One, Visit Hot Springs’ hot air balloon.  Concessions will be available. Some activities during the event will be governed by current weather conditions.  For information, contact George Downie, 321-6750.