Squamish is home to an aeronautical gem that's quietly becoming a part of an endangered species, says an aviation enthusiast.
Squamish's down-to-earth airport is just that. People can walk up to the airplanes, touch them and sit in a park within the grounds to watch the machines land and take off. There's no patrolling security, scanners or bag checks. It's a place where those who love to fly and those who dream of it are welcome.
"There are not a lot of grassroots airports out there where you get up close to airplanes," said Colette Morin, owner of Glacier Air and a member of the Squamish Flying Club.
On Sunday (Aug. 25), the flying club and airport businesses are inviting the community to come and learn about the facility. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. the airport will host its version of a Show and Shine. Pilots from across the province will drop by and display their aircraft, while Squamish residents are encouraged to check them out.
Last year 28 aircraft from Pitt Meadows, Kamloops, Nanaimo and other towns made the flight to Squamish. Besides the visitors, the airport is home to 20 planes.
Started by the flying club three years ago, Squamish Community Airport Day marks the first event for the general public since the '80s, Morin said. Club members hope the festivities will peel back aviation's mysteries and get people interested in flying.
"There are people that aren't aware that we have an airport here," she said.
Traffic at Squamish's airstrip is constant, Morin said. It services pilots from all over North America.
"We've had people stop here on their way to Alaska," Morin said.
The Lions Club will serve hot dogs at the event. There will be prizes and 50/50 draw. A live band will strike up some tunes. For more information visit www.squamishflyingclub.com.
