Groton-New London Airport to Host 5th Annual National Aviation Day Celebration

Event is free and open to the public

The Connecticut Airport Authority, Mystic Jet Center and the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce are pleased to invite the community to the Groton-New London Airport’s 5th Annual Open House and Walking Tour.

The event will be held on Sunday, August 19, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Groton-New London Airport in celebration of National Aviation Day 2018.

Aviation fans and aspiring aviators alike will have the opportunity to visit Groton-New London Airport’s businesses and operations, view aircraft displays on the airport ramps, enjoy scenic flight tours by helicopter, explore aviation-related careers and, brand new this year, watch outdoor drone flying demonstrations (weather permitting).

The open house and walking tour is a free, family-friendly annual event, celebrated on the anniversary of aviation pioneer Orville Wright’s birthday.  It’s an ideal opportunity for all to have fun while learning about the airport’s contribution to the region including aviation-related jobs.

“The Connecticut Airport Authority thanks the Mystic Jet Center and the Greater Mystic Chamber of Commerce for their partnership in making this event possible,” said Kevin A. Dillon, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Connecticut Airport Authority. “Groton-New London Airport has a lot to offer to the region and we’re proud to showcase it to the community.”

“Businesses at the Groton – New London Airport, such as Mystic Jet Center, are a great place to jump start your career in aviation. Many personnel have grown from Mystic Jet Center to become pilots, mechanics, flight dispatchers and more!” said Mystic Jet Center’s Customer Service Manager Stacy Ritchotte.

The fun isn’t limited to those who want an introduction to aviation. Hangar & aircraft visits, and entertaining live and simulated presentations will be offered, as well as scheduled tours of the airport’s daily operating facilities.

Visitors will get up close to various model airplanes and have the opportunity to speak with pilots, crew, airport personnel and guest aviation and aerospace organization representatives. Returning again are the popular local helicopter rides, which will be available for purchase.

This event is now in its fifth year and is known to attract more than 500 visitors each year.

 Participating in the Airport Open House and Walking Tour are:

 

ON AIRPORT BUSINESSES/TENANTS

Action Airlines

Café 511

Coastal Air Inc. – Flight School

Connecticut Army Reserve National Guard 1109th TASM-G

FAA Pilot Flight Examiner

Lanmar Aviation

Mystic Jet Center and Columbia Air Services

Survival Systems Inc.

U.S. Air Force Auxiliary Civil Air Patrol-Thames River Squadron

Private Pilots with their aircraft static displays

GUEST EXHIBITORS

ACE Academy (Aviation Careers Education Summer Camp)

Aerial Imaging Solutions

Birds Eye View Helicopters (Aerial Scenic Flights for Purchase)

Black Pilots of America – CT Chapter

Connecticut Department of Transportation – Bureau of Engineering and Construction

Connecticut Passport Agency

Groton, Town of – Office of Planning & Development Services

New England Air Museum

Ninety-Nines Inc. (International Association of Women Pilots)

R/C Propbusters Model Aircraft Club

Stratford, Town of – Eagle One Police Helicopter

U.S. Coast Guard International Ice Patrol

U.S. Coast Guard Research & Development Center – Aviation Branch

The Williams School Student Drone Club

 

Groton-New London Airport is located on 155 Tower Avenue in Groton.