From April 14-19, Lakeland International Airport hosted the Sun n’ Fun Aerospace Expo, known as “Aviation’s Season Opener,” to over 200,000 visitors.
Founded in 1974, the six-day event showcased World War I propeller planes, fighter jets, and other aircraft in elaborate aerial displays. More than 550 exhibitors participated in the expo, where the theme was “Red, White and Blue 52,” to celebrate 250 years of American independence.
“You can’t hide yourself in a P-51 because everyone hears the Merlin engine,” said pilot Ray Fowler, who flew one of the legendary World War II fighter jets at the event. “I grew up with all the World War II veterans, and those were the true heroes. I’m just the guy lucky enough to get to go fly it.”
The expo also included hands-on workshops to teach building and maintenance skills, forums that educate pilots and others about safety and other topics, and family-friendly STEM activities.
Sun ‘n Fun will return to Lakeland next April, but South Florida enthusiasts can look forward to the Miami Beach Air and Sea Show on May 23 and 24.
