I’ve heard about this event for several years now, but hadn’t been able to make it. Since the Oregon Aviation Historical Society is where I’m doing the majority of the research on my book project, I was determined to make it this year.

It was well worth the trip. Wildfires in the Northwest prevented some of the pilots from making it, so there weren’t as many planes to look at as hoped. Still there was a good selection of planes to look at. Furthermore, the smoky haze in the early morning air did make the sky look kind of ugly, but the light on the planes was amazing for photography. Smoke can actually make for beautiful light, if it doesn’t get too thick.

The atmosphere was casual and friendly. One of the best parts of the event was conversation with friendly folks.

All in all, I’d say this was an event I intend to make in the years going forward. I hope next year the weather will allow more pilots to get through.

Click on the link get a closer look at my images of the 36th Annual Jim Wright Memorial Stearman Fly-In, or take a look at my aviation portfolio.