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2018 Sun ‘n Fun Fly-In Opens its Gates

The skies over the Lakeland Linder Airport were gloomy as the Sun ‘n Fun fly-in opened the gates. Better weather is promised for the rest of the week. Pia Bergqvist
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Sun 'n Fun International Fly-In and Expo began strongly despite a torrential downpour, reporting record-high presale tickets, capacity-filled camping areas requiring expansion, and improved showgrounds.
  • The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds canceled their performance following a tragic crash, but the Air Force will send replacement aircraft, and many other acclaimed aerobatic teams and performers are still scheduled.
  • Beyond the air displays, the event offers extensive educational forums, workshops, hundreds of vendors, and numerous youth activities, leveraging its role as the year-round Aerospace Center for Excellence.
  • The weather forecast is favorable for the remainder of the week, including a planned hot-air balloon launch on Saturday morning.
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The skies over Lakeland Linder Regional Airport (KLAL) opened up with a torrential downpour as Sun ‘n Fun International Fly-In and Expo began this morning. But the gray skies didn’t stop Sun ‘n Fun president John “Lites” Leenhouts from smiling. Leenhouts said presale tickets are at the highest they’ve ever been and the organization was forced to open a new area for camping as the main area was filled to capacity. The showgrounds have been improved, giving it a cleaner look.

Pia Bergqvist

Pia Bergqvist joined FLYING in December 2010. A passionate aviator, Pia started flying in 1999 and quickly obtained her single- and multi-engine commercial, instrument and instructor ratings. After a decade of working in general aviation, Pia has accumulated almost 3,000 hours of flight time in nearly 40 different types of aircraft.

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