Fliers, Fans Flock To LITH Airport Expo

Area aviation buffs had a chance to to fly, drive and walk in to see what's going on in private aviation these days at the Village of Lake in the Hills second Aviation Expo at LITH Airport.  Seven local aviation businesses, Civil Air Patrollers and Airport staff were on hand to promote 3CK, the Airport's official designation.

Airport Manager Manny Gomez said thanks to a downdraft in general aviation the Airport's in a tough competitive situation right now.  That was amply demonstrated by the simultaneous staging of nearby DuPage Airport's Community Days Weekend. (Both were somewhat complicated by temporary flight restrictions for the President's birthday visit to Chicago).  "Several years ago there was a waiting list to get a hangar here," he said.  "That's not the case, anymore."

Gomez said part of the answer is increasing general interest in flying citing the local Young Eagles Rally of free small plane rides for kids aged 8 to 17.  Three Rally days are left at the Airport this year, this coming Saturday, Sept. 8 and Oct. 13, all from 9 am. to Noon.  Details are located here: http://www.790.eaachapter.org/youngeagles.htm or call Airport Secretary, Mary Anne Basak at 815-479-7960 or 847-960-7500.