Small Town, Big Heights
Aviation Day is Back at the Greene County Fairgrounds
By Olivia Kiger
Fly high above Greene County, Pennsylvania, on Aviation Day at the Greene County Airport. On Saturday, August 16, 2025 from 10am to 4pm, enjoy a day of planes, food, and community. This annual event offers something for everyone, from historic aircraft displays and flyovers to hands-on activities for kids. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or just looking for a fun day out with family and friends, Aviation Day is the perfect way to experience the thrill of flying.

Soar with Young Eagles Rides
Young Eagles Rides will be available during Aviation Day for children ages 8 to 17. This unique experience offers kids the chance to step into the world of aviation with hands-on learning, including instruction on pre-flight checks and the opportunity to take to the skies themselves!
Once airborne, participants will get a breathtaking view of their world from above, a memory many will never forget.
Offered in partnership with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) and EAA Chapter 842, the Young Eagles Program has been inspiring future aviators since its founding in 1992. It’s a fun, educational experience that sparks curiosity and passion for flight in the next generation. Space is limited – register online today for your free Young Eagles Ride!
Historic Aircraft
Experience aviation history firsthand with four historic aircraft representing different eras. Throughout the day, explore the evolution of flight as these planes showcase the advancements and stories that shaped the skies from the past to today.

The Beach City Baby, operated by Vintage Wings Inc., is a 1942 Douglas C-53-DO Skytrooper and one of the featured aircraft at this year’s Aviation Day. This historic plane was still on the factory floor in Santa Monica, California, when the attack on Pearl Harbor occurred, marking the beginning of its remarkable journey.
Early in its service, the Beach City Baby was deployed around the world, supporting missions from North Africa to the Invasion of Sicily during World War II. After returning to the United States, the aircraft was stationed in Ohio, where it served for two decades as the official state transport for the Governor under the name Buckeye One.
Following its retirement, a dedicated two-year restoration effort began to return the aircraft to flight. Crews worked on it year-round, and in October 2018, the fully restored C-53 proudly landed in Franklin, Pennsylvania and ready to share its legacy with new generations.

The “Spirit of Freedom,” a Douglas C-54D, is a living exhibit dedicated to commemorating the Berlin Airlift of 1948–1949. This historic aircraft, which first took flight in 1945, served in various roles including support during the Korean War. After its military service, it was acquired by the United States and eventually retired.
On August 15, 2020, the plane entered a new chapter when it was purchased by the Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation. Now restored and repurposed, the “Spirit of Freedom” serves as a traveling museum, bringing history to life through a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and other items related to the Berlin Airlift.
Its mission is to educate the public around the world, honoring the legacy of those who served and supported the airlift. The acquisition of this aircraft marks an important step forward for the Berlin Airlift Historical Foundation, expanding its commitment to history, education, and remembrance.

T-6 Texan Warbird
The T-6 Texan, one of the many iconic aircraft produced by North American Aviation, played a vital role in shaping World War II aviation history. Step back in time as you explore this legendary trainer aircraft, one of over 15,000 Texans built during its production run. A T-6 Texan will be proudly featured at this year’s Aviation Day.
Though designed as a trainer, the T-6 was far from ordinary. It was equipped with specialized features to prepare military pilots for combat, simulating the flight characteristics of frontline fighters. This particular T-6 once served in the Mexican Air Force, adding a unique chapter to its legacy of international service and aviation excellence.

Travel Air Biplane
The Travel Air Company was founded in 1925 in Wichita, Kansas, by Walter Beech, Clyde Cessna, and Lloyd Stearman. They built popular three-seat biplanes, including Miss Marianna, delivered in 1928 to J.L. Parker of Kansas City and he flew it extensively around the U.S.
The plane changed owners several times, served in the 1938 National Air Mail Week, and later worked as a crop duster in Texas. Restored in the 1960s by Wayne Delp, it flew in airshows until the 1990s. After another restoration, it returned to flight in 2019 and continues to take flight today.

Celebrating Aviation Day
Aviation Day at the Greene County airport is more than an event, it’s a celebration honoring the development of aviation. It offers ways to connect and acknowledge the big beautiful planes that have circled the sky for many decades. Whether you’re just there to watch, or if you’re a child taking the steps onto their first plane ride, memories at Aviation Day are unforgettable, and the sky is only the limit.







