Bound for Buckeye

Located just 35 miles from Phoenix, Buckeye is a fast-growing area, and its annual event is highly anticipated. It’s an exciting event that draws more than 30,000 visitors each year. AOPA will join the show with seminars, exhibitors, and informative presentations from senior staff.

Beyond the basics

Airshow fun at Buckeye

AOPA is joining forces with airshow events around the country for its 2023 slate of fly-ins. “We are joining established airshows to partner what we do best—aviation—with what they do best—put on an airshow,” said Elizabeth O’Connell, AOPA director of outreach and events. “Members told us they want to see more aerial acts, so we will provide the basics you’ve come to expect—aviation, safety, and industry—with the excitement of a local airshow.”

The Buckeye Air Fair features airshow performances on Saturday and Sunday, military aircraft displays, airplane rides, and a kids’ zone. Featured performers have included Jon Melby, Brad Wursten, and the Vanguard Squadron. AOPA will present its informative safety seminars, hands-on aircraft displays, and industry experts as well as representation from some of the leading manufacturers in aviation. There will be a dedicated section of the airshow that is AOPA-focused. Visitors will also hear from AOPA President Mark Baker as well as other senior staff.

“This provides us the opportunity to be seen by the general public,” O’Connell said. “We will have a strong presence from our You Can Fly team who will be able to introduce the excitement of aviation to a new audience, bringing them the information they need to take their interest in the airshow beyond the event. Who knows, maybe we’ll meet a whole new group of people who never knew they too could be aviators.”

Volunteers needed

Airside Operations

Marshalling and parking aircraft; greeting pilots and passengers; assisting in taking fuel orders. Must be a certificated pilot or student pilot.

Showside Support

Registering and greeting exhibitors and attendees; assisting with exhibitor move-in and load-out; assisting with safety and cleaning protocols.

Important: All volunteer roles will involve long periods of being on your feet, some lifting, and being in the sun. Please consider your physical capabilities for this service.

Lunch will be provided, as well as a volunteer event T-shirt.

aopa.org/community/2023/volunteer