Homebuilt Gyroplanes, Helicopters Hold Annual Convention In Mentone
Posted
Staff Report-
MENTONE - Gyroplanes, helicopters and autogyros, built and flown by their owners, will gather at the Mentone Airport on Aug. 1-5 for the 45th annual convention of the Popular Rotorcraft Association.
This is an opportunity to see these flying machines, talk to the builders and kit manufacturers, and see them fly. The rotorcraft will range from simple open-frame ultralight gyroplanes and helicopters to multi-seat enclosed cross-country rotorcraft.
This event is devoted exclusively to homebuilt rotorcraft, and has been presented every year for more than four decades. In recent years, it has been held at the Mentone Airport, owned by the Popular Rotorcraft Association.
Fixed-wing visitors are welcome to fly in, and a control crew will work to blend fixed-wind and rotary-wing traffic. The airport has on-site space for tent camping, and has hookups for water and electricity for campers. A concession stand provides food and beverage service. Local motels are available.
Visitors will see daily flight demonstrations of rotorcraft and open flying continuing throughout each day. A special feature is a builder's workshop, where a gyroplane will be built and flown during the event.
Forums will be presented daily, discussing many aspects of building and flying gyroplanes and helicopters. Convention visitors may visit the on-field Archimedes/LeRoy Hardee Museum of Homebuilt Rotorcraft.
For more information about PRA and its activities, visit online at www.pra.org or call 574-353-7227.
