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Golden-Hued Memories of a Late Summer Fly-In

Like sampling a fine wine, one can slowly mosey around the airport, have relaxed conversations, take in the vintage airplanes, and lazily discuss plans.

Sweeping skies, great weather, and a light breeze set the stage for a fantastic local fly-in. [Credit: Jason McDowell]
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • After a period of extensive maintenance, the author rediscovered the joy of airplane ownership by attending a relaxed vintage aircraft fly-in in Brodhead, Wisconsin.
  • The smaller, local fly-in provided a wonderfully calm atmosphere for enjoying antique planes and engaging in unhurried conversations, contrasting favorably with larger, more intense events like AirVenture.
  • The experience, from the serene fly-in to the peaceful flight home in the golden sunlight, highlighted the unique pleasures of private aviation.
  • These cherished memories of perfect days are deemed vital for enduring future challenges, such as Wisconsin's harsh winters or inevitable aircraft setbacks.
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Living in Wisconsin has pros and cons. My dad, a resident of sunny San Diego, enjoys reminding me of the con that is long, harsh winters. Without fail, I can expect to receive a video clip from him in the frigid depths of January or February showing him splashing barefoot through the warm surf and mocking me for the sub-zero maelstrom of snow and ice with which I’m inevitably contending. 

I’ve since learned that a quick screen capture of Midwestern real estate listings can effectively shut him up for the season. But this year some of the beautiful summertime scenes I’ve enjoyed from aloft may prove even more effective. This is what I was thinking about on a recent picture-perfect Saturday filled with antique aircraft, good friends, and sweeping rural vistas in the waning, golden sunlight.

Jason McDowell

Jason McDowell is a private pilot and Cessna 170 owner based in Madison, Wisconsin. He enjoys researching obscure aviation history and serves as a judge for the National Intercollegiate Flying Association. He can be found on Instagram as @cessnateur.

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