75th Anniversary Celebration at Queen City Airport

June 14th, 2018 | Airport News

Free admission to this family event on Saturday, August 25th

Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority (LNAA) has announced plans for a summer celebration to commemorate the 75^th Anniversary of Queen City Airport (XLL). This event is FREE to the public on Saturday, August 25th and runs from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. A fireworks show is scheduled for 9:00 p.m.

Originally dedicated as Convair Field in October 10, 1943, Queen City Airport received an order to build 1,100 TBY-2 Sea Wolves for use in World War II. Additionally, in 1948 the Pennsylvania Air National Guard signed a lease to take over the aviation facilities for flight training in support of the 148th Fighter Squadron at Reading Airport. During the 1950s, a series of training exercises were carried out at Convair Field before the squadron was inactivated.

The Airport Authority will recognize and honor veterans of World War II and all veterans in attendance, while also highlighting the rich aviation history of XLL in the Lehigh Valley.

“This milestone for Queen City Airport is an amazing accomplishment, especially when you look at the history behind the facility and how it remains a significant asset to the region,” said Thomas R. Stoudt, Executive Director, Lehigh-Northampton Airport Authority.

Aviation activities include a static aircraft display along with airplane rides provided by Gateway Aviation and helicopter rides provided by Vertivue – an FAA-approved helicopter Air Tour Operator based out of Queen City Airport.

Among the more popular attractions, the helicopter tours over the Lehigh Valley are six-minutes in length and available on a first come, first serve basis. The cost per ride is: $40. Two to three passengers will be able to ride at a time, as determined by weight limits for safety. To learn more about Vertivue, visit www.vertivue.com or the company’s Facebook page, www.facebook.com/vertivue.

If you’re crazy for cars, take a trip back in time during the “Flying Forties” Car Show. Don’t miss your opportunity to get an “up close” view of these antique automobiles from 4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on the airfield.

Other special events include performances by The SwingTime Dolls musical group, historical artifacts of Queen City Airport (XLL), food trucks and plenty of family entertainment.

The LNAA will be accepting donations to support the Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors, Inc. – a non-profit (501-C) that provides immediate financial support to help Pa. wounded warriors and veterans at risk with housing, utilities, transportation and medical expenses for necessary comfort.

“We are receiving more and more requests for assistance from the 100,000 veterans living in Pennsylvania, and we are grateful to all organizations who think of us when they are having an event like this one that can raise money to assist us,” said Brigadier General (Pa., Ret.) Marsha Mills Davis, Board Member, Pa. Wounded Warriors, Inc.

If you are interested in donating to the Pennsylvania Wound Warriors, Inc., simply text: PAWW to: 91999.

*No pets, alcohol or coolers are permitted. All bags are subject to search before entering the Airport.

More information about the 75^th Anniversary Celebration at Queen City Airport (XLL) is available at www.flyabe.com