News Archive

Biggest Parade of Planes ever at AOPA Expo in Palm Springs

On Wednesday, November 8, AOPA will give new meaning to that old speeders' joke about "flying low," when it hosts the Parade of Planes in Palm Springs, California.

More than 100 aircraft will taxi from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) through the streets of Palm Springs to the Palm Springs Convention Center. They'll then ring the center for the biggest static display to ever grace an AOPA event. AOPA Expo 2006 runs from November 9 through 11.

"Palm Springs is the only Expo location where we can host a parade of planes through the city streets," said AOPA President Phil Boyer. "We're thrilled to return to this venue, and we encourage the public to come out and enjoy the parade."

The parade starts at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, November 8, when the planes will exit the airport onto Alejo Road, head west to N. Sunrise Way, turn left onto Sunrise to E. Amado Road, turn right onto Amado, then proceed five blocks west to the convention center.

The general public is encouraged to come out, enjoy the parade, and see what general aviation is all about.

"Spectators will get to see the wide variety of aircraft that make up general aviation," said Boyer. "We're going to have everything from little two-seat light sport aircraft — the newest segment of personal flying — through the propeller-driven planes most people have in mind when they think of small planes, right on up to the new very light jets, and even some typical business jets.

"And you'll be able to stand on the curb and see them pass an arm's length away."

September 27, 2006